What is MIT License?

The MIT License, originating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is a widely-used, permissive open-source software license that allows users to freely use, modify, distribute, and sublicense software, as long as the original license and copyright notice are included. Known for its simplicity and brevity, the MIT License does not require derivative works to be open-source, unlike the GNU General Public License (GPL) which mandates that modifications remain free and open. Variations of the MIT License, such as the Expat License and MIT No Attribution License, have emerged to address specific licensing needs. Although it offers no warranty or liability protection, its straightforward nature makes it attractive for both individual developers and corporations, facilitating open collaboration without complex legal constraints. The MIT License has significantly contributed to the growth of the open-source community, being adopted by numerous popular projects like Node.js and jQuery, and remains a popular choice due to its flexibility and ease of use.