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Linux Systems Field Manual

Do Not Copy Register

Imported from _research/manual-study-linux/do-not-copy-register.md.

Do Not Copy Register

The Linux source tree is GPL-2.0. This workspace exists for implementation fluency, architecture study, and design translation. Do not copy Linux source code into Nova or another non-compatible project.

Allowed

  • Summarize implementation patterns in original language.
  • Record file paths, symbol names, and high-level data flow.
  • Compare design tradeoffs.
  • Write Rust translation guidance from first principles after understanding the source.
  • Link to Linux files and documentation as evidence.

Not Allowed

  • Copy non-trivial Linux code into product source.
  • Translate C functions line-by-line into Rust product code.
  • Preserve Linux comments as product comments.
  • Reuse GPL-only architecture-specific code as implementation text.
  • Treat source notes as license clearance.

Special Attention

  • rust/kernel/** is still part of the Linux tree and must be treated under the same licensing caution.
  • Documentation may include process requirements for AI-assisted contribution; keep those requirements in the dossier but do not treat them as product code.