It might be better if kernel was only released in binary form (*.bin), and not the source. The binaries could also be signed so if there is a leak, you could tell who has leaked..

Binary distribution would also eliminate the problem with different Catalyst versions. For example current neoscrypt kernel only compiles properly on Catalyst 14.6, anything newer or older generates HW errors or very slow speed. Then again all scrypt kernels compile best on 13.12, compiling on 14.x works but gives perhaps 30% lower hashrate..

The compiled binaries can be moved around with no problem. I have used the 14.6 neoscrypt binary with 13.12, and it works fine with full speed. Recompiling it under 13.12 halves the hashrate..

Still the biggest problem is, some users have 200 gpus and some have only a few. If you are selling a kernel, the price should be different! It should be "per GPU" price, but it is impossible to control. If the price is fixed, some big rig owner can easily pay a few BTC to get the kernel, and then ruin the profits for all "hobby" miners.

I like to optimize these just for my own fun. And obviously it's good if you get some profit from your work. But at the moment it seems the best way to profit, is just keep the kernel to yourself and enjoy the increased hashrate.. Any wider distribution will just lower my own profit.