[AccessD] Developer Extensions and Product Code - Installation Key

Hi Julie,

The way that I have handled restricting the number of installations is
by using a start up form that requires the user to enter a serial number
that we provide, then register the software on our website through the
software, the website kicks back an unlock code that is generated
through an algorithm that takes incorporates the serial number.  The
website only allows registration of each serial number once.  I use
registry settings to track date of install, serial number, etc.  All of
that is set during the installation.

As I have seen from the way that major software manufacturers deal with
piracy, there is no easy way to restrict the number of installs.
Microsoft themselves has spent years and a lot of money to come up with
their authentication scheme - which most high school kids can get
around.  The best we can do is make it difficult.  I do this with serial
numbers and required website registration through the software.

Also, as an aside, I stopped using Microsoft's packaging for
distribution with Access 97.  I now use SageKey scripts with Wise
Installer.  I haven't even bothered to try Microsoft's scripts since I
found SageKey.  They do a fantastic job, installing minimal extra stuff
(like the mandatory Internet Explorer install that is required to
distribute A2K runtime - Microsoft installs IE automatically and makes
it the default browser, while SageKey checks to see if any IE is already
installed, and if not, installs IE 3 I think, a very small installation,
and does not change the default browser)  www.sagekey.com  

Jennifer

-----Original Message-----
From: accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com
[mailto:accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com] On Behalf Of Julie Reardon
Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 10:03 AM
To: accessd at databaseadvisors.com
Subject: [AccessD] Developer Extensions and Product Code - Installation
Key



With the Developer Extensions, you are given a product key when you
package 
an Access application.  The product key is embedded in the Setup.ini
file.   
I want to control how many copies the user can install at their office.
I 
have included the license agreement in the installation of the software,
but 
cannot figure out how to control how many copies the user is able to 
install.

With the wizard, the product key is automatic.  I want to only allow the

user to install one copy with one product key.  Is this possible with
the 
developer extensions?

I cannot find any documentation on this.






Julie Reardon
PRO-SOFT OF NY, INC.
44 Public Square Suite #5
Watertown, NY 13601
Phone: 315.785.0319
Fax: 315.785.0323
www.pro-soft.net
NYS IT Services Contract CMT026A
NYS Certified Woman-Owned Business

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