Apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized use of computer programs

Patent 4458315 Issued on July 3, 1984. Estimated Expiration Date:

February 25, 2002. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

3544777

3806882

System and method for programmable sequence control
Patent #: 3978454
Issued on: 08/31/1976
Inventor: Willard

Programmable controller with hardwired backup connecting terminals and related control system using programmable controller and hardwired backup
Patent #: 4117317
Issued on: 09/26/1978
Inventor: Dooley, Jr. , et al.

Program protection module for programmable controller Patent #: 4118789
Issued on: 10/03/1978
Inventor: Casto , et al.

Inventor

Uchenick, Gordon

Assignee

Penta, Inc.

Application

No. 06/352291 filed on 02/25/1982

US Classes:

726/30, By authorizing data705/55Requiring a supplemental attachment or input (e.g., dongle) to open

Examiners

Primary: Zache, Raulfe B.

Attorney, Agent or Firm

Pollock, Vande Sande & Priddy

International Class

G06F 21/00 (20060101)

Abstract

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.