Method and apparatus for enabling trial period use of software products: method and apparatus for generating a machine-dependent identification

A method of distributing software objects from a producer to a user, comprising the method steps of:

• encrypting a software object utilizing a key;
• recording said software object onto a computer-accessible memory media;
• shipping said computer-accessible memory media from said producer to said user;
• loading a file management program into a user-controlled data processing system;
• utilizing said file management program to derive a numerical machine identification based upon at least one attribute of said user-controlled data processing system;
• reading said computer-accessible memory media with said user-controlled data processing system;
• generating a temporary key based at least in part upon said numerical machine identification and a prescribed interval;
• utilizing said file management program by executing it with said user-controlled data processing system to restrict access to said software object for said prescribed interval defined by said temporary key;
• and
• utilizing a key generator in said user-controlled data processing system to provide said key in response to receipt of at least said temporary key.