As a dedicated member of both the Open Source Initiative and the Linux Foundation, we are excited to announce our transition from Terraform to OpenTofu. This isn’t just a change in the tools we use; it’s about upholding our belief in open, free software, and making sure we use the best and most reliable tools available. Let’s dive into what this means and why it’s a significant step for us.
What is Terraform?
Simply put, Terraform is a tool for building, changing, and versioning computer infrastructure efficiently. It allows users to define and provide data center infrastructure using a declarative configuration language. It has arguably become the defacto standard in the “Infrastructure as Code” space.
Why Did the Linux Foundation Fork Terraform?
In August 2023, HashiCorp, the creators of Terraform, shifted the tool’s license from the open-source Mozilla Public License to the Business Source License, a non-open source license. This change posed a risk to the entire Terraform community and ecosystem, which had flourished over the years. The Linux Foundation stepped in to maintain the open-source integrity of Terraform, leading to the creation of OpenTofu.
The Benefits of OpenTofu Over Terraform
OpenTofu, maintained by the Linux Foundation, promises to stay true to the open-source ethos. It’s designed to be:
- Truly Open Source
OpenTofu is under a stable, widely-accepted open-source license, ensuring longevity and trust. - Community-Driven
With a focus on the community, OpenTofu encourages active participation and values contributions based on merit. - Impartial and Modular
OpenTofu remains neutral and is structured to foster a vibrant ecosystem of tools and integrations. - Backwards Compatible
This ensures that existing Terraform codebases remain valuable and functional.
Transferable Skills from OpenTofu to Terraform
The good news is that skills in OpenTofu are highly transferable to Terraform-driven estates. Given its roots and compatibility with Terraform, learning and working with OpenTofu equips you with the knowledge and experience to handle Terraform environments as well.
The Importance of Supporting Libre Software
At Geek.Zone, our commitment to Libre Software is more than just a technical choice; it’s a stand for freedom, innovation, and community collaboration. By supporting OpenTofu and other open-source projects, we contribute to a healthier, more sustainable digital ecosystem.
Embracing OpenTofu aligns with our values and vision for a future where technology is accessible, transparent, and community-driven. Let’s continue to innovate and grow together in this exciting new chapter! 
