초록 ▼

An apparatus and method for detecting and preventing the unauthorized use of computer programs. The program to be protected is arranged to store first key information and a key means which is physically separate from the program is provided to the customer with each program which is sold. The key me

An apparatus and method for detecting and preventing the unauthorized use of computer programs. The program to be protected is arranged to store first key information and a key means which is physically separate from the program is provided to the customer with each program which is sold. The key means stores second key information, and is adapted for association with a computer in which the program is to be processed. Either the first program routine, or one which is performed before a significant part of the program, is arranged to access the first and second key information and to perform a comparison operation. If the first and second information bear a predetermined relationship to each other, then it is known that the appropriate key means has been deployed by the customer on the computer, and that the use of the program is authorized. However, if the first and second key information do not bear said predetermined relationship, it is concluded that use of the program is not authorized, and processing of the program may be terminated.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for detecting unauthorized use of a computer program having first key information stored therein, comprising, means physically separate from said computer program but which may be associated with a computer in which said program is to be processed, for storing second key information, me

An apparatus for detecting unauthorized use of a computer program having first key information stored therein, comprising, means physically separate from said computer program but which may be associated with a computer in which said program is to be processed, for storing second key information, means which is operable before substantial processing of said program has occurred for comparing said first and second key information, and means for generating an error signal if said first and second key information do not bear a predetermined relationship to each other.