Protection PLUS Product Components

LFEdit and Libraries
PLUS has two main parts. The Software Licensing toolkit is packaged as a library, callable from any language that can call Windows DLLs, ActiveX controls, .Net Components, or C/C++ static libraries. Also, a Windows-based application named LFEdit (pronounced L-F-Edit) is included to create encrypted, binary License Files and to generate Trigger Codes. These terms are defined below.

License Files
License Files contain many data fields that allow you to store information to control the flow of execution in your application. The fields can be initialized before sending your application using our Windows-based License File Editor application and/or can be manipulated by the application remotely using Trigger Codes. License Files may be stored in a regular file in any directory or the Windows registry. There are many character string, numeric/bit, and date fields in the License File. Data ranges from pre-defined fields such as serial number, expiration date, and number of allowed network users, to user-defined fields.

Trigger Codes - Adds Remote Licensing Control
The PLUS system has a mechanism to send one-time secure remote signals to your application while running on the Client's computer. The user contacts you and gives you 2 six to eight-digit numbers that are displayed on a dialog box on their computer. These numbers can be sent by phone, FAX, e-mail, etc. In our Windows-based License File Editor application, these two numbers are entered; and, depending on what function you want to perform on their application, you return them one of 50 six to eight-digit numbers. In addition to the remote signal sent, you can also send an encrypted number. The encrypted number can contain data such as the number of allowed workstations, number of pay-per-use events, etc.

Optional Copy Protection
When copy protecting your application, the PLUS system allows you to authorize a particular computer or network using different Computer ID number algorithms provided in the library. The PLUS system includes library functions that detect illegal copies of your application. Upon detection, you may convert to a demo, abort the program, etc. Unknowingly, illegal copies converted into demos become a new distribution channel for your application.

Payment / Rentals / Lease Option
For rented/leased applications or technical support clients, the PLUS system allows you to enforce periodic suspensions. This guarantees collection of payments due. If desired you can use the PLUS system to release your application from future expirations once the contract has been fulfilled. This feature can also be used to guard against fraudulent credit cards or 30-day money back guarantees. When the software is purchased, it can be activated but requires an additional authorization in 30 or 60 days. This way, if the software has been returned or the credit card used was fraudulent, you can rest-assured that the user will not have unlimited use of the application.