# AutoOpts > add-on package distributed with GNU AutoGen **Wikidata**: [Q116124876](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q116124876) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/autoopts ## Summary AutoOpts is an add-on package distributed with GNU AutoGen, specialized for the maintenance and documentation of program options. It is free software, distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License version 3.0 or later and the 3-clause BSD License. ## Key Facts - AutoOpts is an **add-on package** for GNU AutoGen. - It is designed for **maintenance and documentation of program options**. - AutoOpts is classified as **free software**. - It is part of the **GNU AutoGen** project. - Creator: **Bruce Korb**. - Maintained by: **Bruce Korb**. - Copyright holder: **Bruce Korb**. - Licenses: - GNU Lesser General Public License, version 3.0 or later - 3-clause BSD License - Programming language: **C** (as inferred from context). - Instance of: **free software**, **computer program**. - Website: [https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html](https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html) - Part of: **GNU AutoGen** - Wikidata description: **add-on package distributed with GNU AutoGen** - Free software directory entry: **AutoOpts** ## FAQs ### Q: What is AutoOpts used for? A: AutoOpts is used for the maintenance and documentation of program options. It is an add-on package for GNU AutoGen that simplifies handling command-line options in programs. ### Q: Who created and maintains AutoOpts? A: AutoOpts was created and is maintained by Bruce Korb. ### Q: What licenses is AutoOpts distributed under? A: AutoOpts is distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, version 3.0 or later, and the 3-clause BSD License. ### Q: What is the relationship between AutoOpts and GNU AutoGen? A: AutoOpts is an add-on package included with GNU AutoGen, specifically tailored for managing program options. ### Q: Where can I find official documentation or the project website for AutoOpts? A: The official website for AutoOpts is [https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html](https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html). ## Why It Matters AutoOpts plays a critical role in simplifying the process of handling command-line options in programs. As part of the GNU AutoGen suite, it enables developers to automate and standardize the generation of option parsing code, reducing errors and improving maintainability. Its dual permissive and copyleft licensing ensures it can be integrated into both free and proprietary software projects. By being part of the GNU ecosystem, it supports the broader goals of the free software movement while offering practical utility to developers. ## Notable For - Being an **add-on package** for GNU AutoGen. - Specialization in **command-line option maintenance and documentation**. - Dual licensing under **GNU LGPLv3+** and **3-clause BSD License**. - Being part of the **GNU project** ecosystem. - Maintained by **Bruce Korb**, who is both creator and copyright holder. - Inclusion in the **Free Software Directory**. ## Body ### Overview AutoOpts is a specialized add-on package for GNU AutoGen, designed to simplify the maintenance and documentation of program options. It automates the generation of option parsing code, reducing the burden on developers and increasing code consistency. ### Licensing and Legal Status AutoOpts is distributed under two licenses: - GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL), version 3.0 or later - 3-clause BSD License These licenses allow for broad compatibility with both free and proprietary software projects. The software is copyrighted by Bruce Korb, who also serves as the maintainer and original creator. ### Creator and Maintainer - **Bruce Korb** is the creator, maintainer, and copyright holder of AutoOpts. - His role ensures continuity and consistency in development and integration with GNU AutoGen. ### Integration with GNU AutoGen AutoOpts is included as part of the GNU AutoGen distribution. AutoGen itself is a tool designed to ease the process of generating programs that contain large amounts of repetitive text, particularly in option processing and configuration. ### Programming Language and Technical Context AutoOpts is implemented in the C programming language. It generates C code for parsing command-line options, making it suitable for integration into C-based software projects. ### Website and Documentation The official website for AutoOpts is located at: [https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html](https://www.gnu.org/software/autogen/autoopts.html) This site provides documentation and resources for developers using AutoOpts. ### Free Software Classification AutoOpts is classified as free software, aligning with the principles of the free software movement. It grants users the freedom to run, study, modify, and redistribute the software. ### Related Projects and Ecosystem AutoOpts is part of the GNU project ecosystem and is closely tied to GNU AutoGen. It supports the broader suite of tools that promote automation and standardization in software development. ### Inclusion in Free Software Directory AutoOpts is listed in the Free Software Directory, affirming its status as a recognized free software project. ### Community and Maintenance As a component of GNU AutoGen, AutoOpts benefits from the oversight of the GNU project and the personal stewardship of Bruce Korb. This ensures that it remains up-to-date with current development practices and standards. ### Use Cases AutoOpts is particularly useful in: - Command-line utility development - Large-scale software projects requiring consistent option handling - Projects that benefit from automated code generation for option parsing Its design supports both novice and expert developers by abstracting the complexity of option parsing while remaining customizable. ## References 1. [Source](https://git.savannah.gnu.org/cgit/autogen.git/tree/autoopts/autoopts.c) 2. [Source](https://metadata.ftp-master.debian.org/changelogs//main/a/autogen/autogen_5.18.16-4_copyright) 3. GNU Guix