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From: mwf@mtgzz.UUCP (m.w.field)
Newsgroups: net.micro.pc
Subject: Re: software protection - dongles
Message-ID: <922@mtgzz.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 12-Jul-85 20:32:25 EDT
Article-I.D.: mtgzz.922
Posted: Fri Jul 12 20:32:25 1985
Date-Received: Sat, 13-Jul-85 16:31:17 EDT
References: <566@alberta.UUCP> <10800011@uiucdcsp>, <176@entropy.UUCP>
Organization: AT&T Information Systems Labs, Middletown NJ
Lines: 23


Remote Systems Inc of VA make a line of devices called secureware
for the PC. These consist of a (in ADAPSO terminology) a keyring,
a carrier that communicates to your serial or parrallel port
into which you plug keys. The key is some kind of device that
has your serial number on it. (Call Arly Wright (703) 734 8250)

Another version plugs directly into an expansion slot.

I am not very impressed with the security offered by these (expensive)
devices. I think a programmer armed with DEBUG could defeat them
given a little time. They do offer the user the ability to make
back up copies though.

I am not sure which gives me more more pain using this device or
having software copied.

A recent report I read said that the only effective hardware security
device was something that was an integral part of the program, such
as a mouse controller used because your software uses that kind of
device.

Life is unfair things are much easier for hardware manufacturers.