Certify your software on Ubuntu
An official endorsement of a software product, backed by a validation and testing process conducted by Canonical to ensure compatibility with Ubuntu. We certify that the software is available in a format that will install and uninstall effectively within the Ubuntu package management framework.
Benefits
- Ubuntu Affiliate Software Partner status
- Ubuntu Certified logo rights
- Preferred listing in Ubuntu Software Repository
- Compatability assured for 2 Ubuntu releases (if the package uses the Ubuntu installer)
- Access to paid engineering services to ensure compatability for future Ubuntu releases, and free recertification
- Press release announcing certification
Description
In general, certified software should be available as a native Ubuntu .deb package, either from the Ubuntu package archives or from the vendor directly. The software will correctly specify its dependencies and will use Ubuntu system libraries where they are available, rather than built-in versions or application specific versions of those libraries.
The Ubuntu certification commitment will ensure that the software will install on the certified Ubuntu release. For packages and products that are installed through the Ubuntu software installer, then the certification will also cover the provision of a certified package for a subsequent Ubuntu release.
Some, more complex software (such as databases) may require the use of its own native installation system and packaging format. In this case the Ubuntu certification only ensures the installation and uninstall on a specific version of Ubuntu. Such certifications will only be for a single release of Ubuntu, with no commitment made as to compatibility with subsequent releases of Ubuntu.
Software can be certified with or without an open source licence, but proprietary applications will never become part of the core Ubuntu distribution.
Open source and proprietary applications that are freely available and redistributable may be included in the Ubuntu network repository and network of mirror servers, at no cost, provided that this is acceptable to the vendor and that the software does not infringe copyright or patent claims in any country in which Ubuntu is mirrored. It is the responsibility of the software vendor to deliver correctly functioning products packages, as Canonical does not have the skills or experience to functionally test all software.
Services offered
If required, Canonical and Ubuntu staff are available to provide the relevant professional services. This chargeable service is to assist with the packaging of software to ensure that it fully supports Ubuntu package management features.
Simple Tested Package Service
- Provides report on packaging
- Requires packaging source in a buildable format
- Provides a maximum of 5 updates over a 12 month period (2 release cycles)
Complex Tested Package Service
- Provides complete packaging service
- Provides a maximum of 10 updates over a 12 month period (2 release cycles)
For an additional fee, Canonical will provide Software Partners with a raw image which will install only the core parts of Ubuntu needed to run their application, along with their software. This allows Software Partners to offer a single-CD/DVD installer or virtual appliance for both the operating system and their application.
To apply
For more information or to apply for software certification, please contact us.
