• 3 min read

Redis license update: What you need to know

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At Microsoft, our commitment to empowering developers and advancing technology remains steadfast. We understand the importance of open-source projects in driving innovation, which is why we actively support and contribute to initiatives like Redis.

Overview 

Today, Redis, a leading provider of in-memory data store solutions, announced a transition in its open-source licensing approach. Redis is moving away from the BSD 3-Clause License to a dual-license model, offering developers the choice between the Redis Source Available License version 2 (RSALv2) or the Server-Side Public License version 1 (SSPLv1).

Azure Cache for Redis

Distributed, in-memory, scalable solution providing super-fast data access.

With the introduction of the RSALv2 and the SSPLv1, Redis is offering developers a choice that aligns with their specific needs and preferences. This dual-license model provides greater clarity and flexibility, empowering developers to make informed decisions about how they utilize Redis technologies in their projects. 

The future of Azure Cache for Redis 

At Microsoft, our commitment to empowering developers and advancing technology remains steadfast. Through our partnership we will continue to provide our customers with integrated solutions like Azure Cache for Redis, ensuring they have access to the latest features and capabilities. 

Our ongoing collaboration ensures that Azure customers can seamlessly utilize all tiers of Azure Cache for Redis. There will be no interruption to Azure Cache for Redis, Azure Cache for Redis Enterprise, and Enterprise Flash services and customers will receive timely updates and bug fixes to maintain optimal performance.   

Moreover, our Enterprise and Enterprise Flash offerings will continue to evolve, providing innovative features and supporting the latest releases of Redis Enterprise. This ensures that our enterprise customers have access to the latest and greatest updates to drive their business forward. 

“As our business adapts to better meet the demands of our customer and the broader market, our long-standing partnership with Microsoft will continue to support organizations around the globe in building stronger, more performant applications. Together, we’ll continue to innovate around integrated solutions like Azure Cache for Redis and provide unmitigated access to the latest technologies built to serve the long-standing and emerging demands of the developers we serve.”

Rowan Trollope, Chief Executive Officer, Redis

We are excited about the future and the innovative solutions our customers will develop using Azure Cache for Redis. Together with Redis, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and empowering developers to build and scale powerful applications. 

FAQs 

What actions do I need to take as an Azure Cache for Redis user? 

Where can I learn more about this announcement? 

What is RSALv2? 

  • RSALv2, or Redis Source Available License 2.0, is a permissive, non-exclusive, royalty-free license granted by Redis. for the use, distribution, and modification of certain software components designed to work with Redis, subject to specific limitations and conditions outlined in the agreement. 

What is SSPLv1? 

  • SSPL is a derivative of the GNU Affero General Public License (AGPL) with a modified Section 13. It requires that any entity offering SSPL-licensed software as a service must release the entire source code of the service, including management, user interfaces, APIs, automation, monitoring, backup, storage, and hosting software, enabling users to run their own instances using the provided source code. 

Is Azure Cache for Redis now also covered by the RSALv2 and SSPLv1 licenses?

  • No, Azure Cache for Redis is offered to customers under the Microsoft terms of service. The RSALv2 and SSPLv1 licenses do not apply to your use of Azure Cache for Redis. 

Will my Azure Cache for Redis instance continue to receive patches and bug fixes? 

  • Yes, Azure Cache for Redis, Azure Cache for Redis Enterprise, and Enterprise Flash will continue to receive patches and bug fixes even after the licensing announcement described above. 

Will Azure Cache for Redis change the version of Redis that is being offered? 

  • Azure Cache for Redis, Azure Cache for Redis Enterprise, and Enterprise Flash will continue to operate on the standard community versions of Redis and Redis Enterprise. 

What do I need to do as an Azure Cache for Redis customer in response to this licensing announcement?

  • Currently, there is no action required for our Microsoft and Azure customers regarding the licensing announcement. 

Azure Cache for Redis Licensing updates

To learn more about Azure Cache for Redis, please see the following links below.