Basilisk Browser Redistribution and Branding Guidelines
The Basilisk web browser, developed by the Basilisk Development Team, is based on the UXP platform. It is available in two branding configurations: official branding and unofficial branding. The usage and distribution of each are subject to specific guidelines as outlined below:
Official Branding
Official branding refers to the use of the Basilisk name and logo in association with the web browser. The official branding is strictly controlled and subject to the following conditions:
- Controlled Environment: The Basilisk browser with official branding is built and distributed only within a controlled environment by trusted individuals who are authorized by the Basilisk Development Team. This ensures the integrity and authenticity of the official builds.
- Trademark Restrictions: The Basilisk name and logo are registered trademarks of the Basilisk Development Team. They may only be used in conjunction with officially-built, unaltered, and officially-endorsed application software. Any use of these trademarks in software that is not explicitly authorized is strictly prohibited.
- Prohibition of Modifications: Redistribution of modified binaries, altered versions, or alternate (pre-)configurations of the Basilisk browser with official branding is not allowed under any circumstances. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Recompiling or modifying the browser’s source code and redistributing it as an officially-branded version.
- Creating and distributing automated build systems or scripts that produce an officially-branded Basilisk browser.
- Altering configuration files or settings and redistributing these as part of an officially-branded browser package.
- Ban on Changed Default Preferences: Redistributing official Basilisk binaries with changed default preferences on any operating system is strictly prohibited unless otherwise noted on this page. This ensures that all official versions maintain the integrity and intended user experience as designed by the Basilisk Development Team. However, if there is a specific need to release a version with modified default preferences, users must obtain express prior written permission from the Basilisk Development Team. Please contact us on the Pale Moon Forum to discuss your requirements and request permission.
- Portable Versions: Creating portable versions of the Basilisk browser using official binaries is permitted for private use only. These portable versions may not be redistributed under any circumstances. Redistribution includes, but is not limited to, sharing through online platforms, peer-to-peer networks, or any other public or private distribution channels.
- Linux Distributions: Linux distributions are allowed to package the official Basilisk binaries without prior authorization. They are permitted to disable automatic updates but may not change any other preferences without prior authorization from the Basilisk Development Team. Additionally, Linux distributions are allowed to use the official logo files included with the binaries to create menu entries and desktop icons in their packages.
- Ban on Redistribution of Branding Files: Redistribution of any official Basilisk branding files, including the Basilisk name, logo, icons, images, or any other materials associated with the official branding, is strictly prohibited, except for the official logo files included with the binaries as permitted for Linux distributions.
- Ban on Bundling with Plugins and Extensions: The Basilisk browser may not be bundled with NPAPI plugins such as Shockwave or Adobe Flash, or with XUL extensions. While the browser can be used with these plugins and extensions, it may not be distributed with an unofficial installer that includes these files.
- Ban on Web Archives: Uploading any official Basilisk-branded binaries, executables, images, or other files to web archive sites, such as archive.org or any other similar services, is strictly prohibited. This measure is to prevent unauthorized distribution and ensure the control and integrity of the officially-branded versions.
- Permission Requirement: To distribute any build or provide build instructions that result in an officially-branded Basilisk browser, you must obtain express prior written permission from the copyright holder of the involved trademarks. Unauthorized use of the Basilisk branding without this permission is a violation of trademark law.
- No Implied Rights: No rights are granted to use or redistribute the Basilisk name, logo, or any other trademarked materials. All rights to the official branding are reserved by the Basilisk Development Team.
- Distinction from Pale Moon: Please note that while Basilisk was originally created and published by the same team as the Pale Moon browser, it does not come with the additional freedoms granted under Pale Moon’s redistribution license. The restrictions outlined here take precedence and must be adhered to at all times.
Unofficial Branding - “Snake”
Unofficial branding, known as Snake, refers to the use of a custom name, logo, and other branding elements that are distinct from the official Basilisk branding. Builds with Snake branding are subject to the following guidelines:
- No Restrictions: There are no specific restrictions on the use, modification, or redistribution of the Basilisk browser when using Snake branding. Developers and users are free to modify the source code, compile their own versions, and distribute them under the Snake name and branding or any other custom branding they choose, provided it is not the Basilisk name or logo.
- Clear Distinction: Any Snake-branded version of the Basilisk browser must be clearly distinguished from the officially-branded version. This includes removing all references to the Basilisk name, logo, and any other trademarked materials from the build.
- Compliance with Open Source License: While Snake builds are not restricted in terms of branding, they must still comply with the terms of the applicable open-source license under which the Basilisk source code is provided.
By adhering to these guidelines, you help ensure that the integrity of the Basilisk browser is maintained, and users can trust that they are using an officially-endorsed and supported version of the software. Thank you for respecting the rights and efforts of the Basilisk Development Team.
For any questions or to request permission for official branding or modified default preferences, please contact us on the Pale Moon Forum.