Download YAFFS

Get the robust flash file system trusted in space and critical infrastructure. Choose GPL open source or commercial licensing.

Choose Your License

Same proven code—different licensing terms

GPL v2 License

100% Open Source & Free

You Get:

  • Full YAFFS source code
  • Same robust code used in NASA satellites
  • All updates and improvements
  • Community support via mailing list
  • 100% royalty-free

Requirements:

  • Must distribute your source code under GPL v2
  • Must include license and copyright notices
  • Derivative works must also be GPL
Best for: Open source projects, research, evaluation, GPL-compatible products
Download from GitHub

Read GPL v2 License

Commercial License

For Proprietary Products

You Get:

  • Same proven YAFFS code
  • Full source code access
  • NO requirement to disclose your source
  • Direct email/phone support
  • 100% royalty-free (one-time fee)
  • Commercial support and updates

Benefits:

  • Keep your application proprietary
  • No GPL obligations
  • Priority support from YAFFS experts
  • Integration assistance available
Best for: Commercial products, closed-source applications, when support is critical
Request Commercial License

View Sample License Agreement

License Comparison

Feature GPL v2 Commercial
YAFFS Source Code ✅ Full access ✅ Full access
Same Proven Code ✅ Identical codebase ✅ Identical codebase
Royalties ✅ None (it's GPL!) ✅ None (one-time fee)
Your Source Code ❌ Must disclose (GPL requirement) ✅ Keep proprietary
GPL Obligations Yes - must follow GPL terms ✅ No GPL obligations
Support Community mailing list ✅ Direct support from experts
Integration Help Self-service + community ✅ Available (additional services)
Cost ✅ Free One-time license fee (contact us)

Getting Started with YAFFS

1. Review Documentation

Start with the YAFFS Overview and integration guides to understand the architecture and requirements.

Browse Documentation →

2. Check Compatibility

Verify YAFFS works with your OS (Linux, VxWorks, eCos, bare metal) and flash hardware (NAND, NOR).

See Compatibility →

3. Download Code

Clone from GitHub (GPL) or contact us for commercial license. Both provide the same proven code.

GitHub Repository →

4. Follow Integration Guide

Use our step-by-step guides for Linux, RTOS, or bare metal integration.

Integration Guides →

5. Test Thoroughly

Use our test suite to validate your integration. Includes power-fail testing tools.

Testing Documentation →

6. Get Help if Needed

Community support via mailing list (GPL), or direct expert support (commercial license).

Support Options →

System Requirements

Flash Memory Support

  • NAND Flash: SLC, MLC, TLC
  • NOR Flash: SLC, MLC
  • Interface: Parallel or Serial (including SPI)
  • Page sizes: Flexible (typically 512B to 4KB+)

Operating System Support

  • Linux: 2.6.x and later
  • VxWorks: 5.x, 6.x, 7.x
  • eCos: Supported
  • Windows CE: Supported
  • Bare Metal: YAFFS Direct Interface (no OS required)
  • Other RTOS: FreeRTOS, ThreadX, etc. via porting layer

CPU Architecture

  • Tested on: ARM, x86, MIPS, PowerPC, 68000, ColdFire, DSPs
  • Endianness: Big-endian or little-endian
  • Word size: 32-bit or 64-bit (16-bit with some tuning)

RAM Requirements

  • Depends on filesystem size and configuration
  • Optimized for embedded systems with limited RAM
  • Typically much lower than alternatives
  • Configurable trade-offs between RAM and scan time

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I evaluate YAFFS before buying a commercial license?

Yes! Download the GPL version to evaluate YAFFS. It's the same code. When you're ready to ship a commercial product, contact us for a commercial license.

Is the commercial version different from the GPL version?

No—it's the exact same code. The difference is in the license terms, not the software. Commercial license removes GPL obligations and includes support.

Do I pay royalties per unit?

No. Both GPL (free) and commercial licenses are royalty-free. Commercial license is a one-time fee with no per-unit charges.

What if I need help integrating YAFFS?

GPL users can use the community mailing list. Commercial license holders get direct support. We also offer consulting services for both.

Can I use YAFFS in a medical device / aerospace application?

Yes. YAFFS is used in medical devices, satellites, and other critical applications. Commercial license recommended for regulatory and support reasons.

How do I choose between GPL and commercial?

Choose GPL if: Your product is open source or GPL-compatible
Choose Commercial if: You need to keep your source closed or want expert support

Ready to Get Started?

Download GPL Version Request Commercial License Talk to Expert