Anti-pirating system

Abstract

A software distribution system which uses a removable medium for distribution of software programs. In the preferred embodiment, a primary software program and a secondary software program are used. The secondary software program is used to establish an identifier and then to erase the secondary software program from all files. This identifier is used by the primary software program to assure it is running on the proper computer; if the identifier is not there, then the software program terminates. In alternative embodiments, the identifier is established using a downloaded secondary software program or by a download of the identifier from the manufacturer of the primary software program. In some embodiments, the identifier is stored on a removable medium, thereby forming a “key” which used when the primary software is to be operated.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.