This project is designed to safeguard software from piracy, ensuring that only authenticated users can access and use the software. Software piracy has become a major issue on the internet, with hackers often using malicious codes to steal software and intellectual property. This system addresses the need for secure software access by enforcing strict protection mechanisms, guaranteeing that software ownership remains secure and that transactions are safe.
Key Features:
Online Registration:
- Users must first register in the system to create an account, ensuring that only authorized individuals can purchase and access the software.
Secure Payment Process:
- Users must make a secure online payment to purchase the software. After successful payment, users are granted access to download the software, and a unique serial key is provided for future use.
Download and Serial Key:
- Upon completing the payment, users can download the software along with a unique serial key that is required for activation.
PC ID Reader:
- The software captures the MAC address of the user's PC, providing a unique identifier specific to that system.
Unique Product ID Generation:
- A unique user ID is generated using an algorithm that applies to the MAC address. This ensures that each software installation is tied to a specific machine.
Serial Key Generation:
- Users can request a serial key by submitting the generated user ID. The system then generates an encrypted key based on the user ID and sends it back to the user.
Data Matching and Authentication:
- The admin uses encryption to validate the user ID, comparing the encrypted key generated by the system with the key entered by the user. If the keys match, the software is activated.
- Authentication Process: If the key matches, the software functions as a full version. If it does not match, the software remains locked.
Non-Transferable Key:
- The system ensures that the serial key is unique to the user’s PC. If the key is used on another PC, the MAC address (and thus the user ID) will be different, leading to a mismatch and preventing unauthorized use.
Technology Used:
- Front-End: ASP.NET
- Back-End: SQL Server 2005
- Development Environment: Visual Studio 2008
Software Requirements:
- Operating System: Windows XP, Windows 7 (Ultimate, Enterprise)
- Database: SQL Server 2005
- IDE: Visual Studio 2008
Hardware Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i3 or higher
- Storage: 5 GB Hard Disk or more
- Memory: 1 GB RAM or higher
Advantages:
- Prevents Piracy: This system prevents unauthorized copying and distribution, protecting the copyright and intellectual property of software creators.
- Revenue Protection: By ensuring that only paying users can access the software, the system helps preserve the vendor’s revenue and ensures that the company receives legitimate compensation for its products.
- Enhanced Security: The use of a unique serial key for each user, combined with the hardware-specific ID, adds a robust layer of security to prevent unauthorized use or sharing.
- Non-Transferable Keys: The system ensures that each serial key is tied to a specific machine, making it impossible to transfer the software to another device.
Disadvantages:
- Time-Consuming Approval Process: The admin must manually review and match user details, which could take time, especially with a large number of users.
- User Inconvenience: Users must ensure that they save and correctly enter the unique serial key to activate the software, which may be cumbersome for some.
Applications:
- This system is ideal for online software vendors and dealers who want to protect their products from piracy and unauthorized use.
- It can also be used by organizations and businesses that want to protect their proprietary software, ensuring secure usage and compliance with licensing terms.
- The system serves as an excellent tool for promoting software products while ensuring that copyright ownership remains intact.
