Method for securing software to increase license compliance

Abstract

A method for reducing unauthorized software use includes supplying a first authorization code with the software. The first authorization code enables the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorized period upon entry by the user. The user is required to contact the representative for retrieval of an additional authorization code. The software is operable during a subsequent authorization period beyond the initial authorization period without further or continual communication with the representative following entry of the additional authorization code. The user chooses manual or electronic registration and provides registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the additional authorization code. The registration information includes computer specific information. The additional authorization code is communicated to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered or upon the registration information matching a portion of previously provided registration information.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization associating a first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information;

and communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

3. The method of claim 1 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

5. The method of claim 1 wherein:

the usage of the software is dependent upon execution time of the software on the computer.

6. The method of claim 1 wherein:

the usage of the software is dependent upon number of accesses to the software on the computer.

7. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

8. The method of claim 7 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

9. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software, supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including at least a plurality of computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

11. The method of claim 9 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

12. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

14. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being operable enabled during a the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

15. The method of claim 14 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

16. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

17. The method of claim 16 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

18. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative, to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software, supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

21. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

23. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being, based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information, and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

24. The method of claim 23 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

25. The method of claim 23 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

26. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

27. The method of claim 26 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

28. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period beyond without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

29. The method of claim 28 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

30. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

31. The method of claim 30 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

32. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

33. The method of claim 32 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

34. The method of claim 32 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

35. The method of claim 32 wherein the previously provided registration information is stored on a database associated with the representative.

36. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being, based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

37. The method of claim 36 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

38. The method of claim 36 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

39. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

40. The method of claim 39 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

41. The method of claim 39 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

42. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

43. The method of claim 42 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

44. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the ser during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

45. The method of claim 44 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

46. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

47. The method of claim 46 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

48. The method of claim 46 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

49. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

50. The method of claim 49 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

51. The method of claim 49 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

52. The method of claim 49 wherein the previously provided registration information is stored on a database associated with the representative.

53. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

54. The method of claim 53 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

55. The method of claim 53 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

56. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during a the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

57. The method of claim 56 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

58. The method of claim 56 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

59. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorized authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use b the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

60. The method of claim 59 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

61. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including, computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional, authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

62. The method of claim 61 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

63. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

64. The method of claim 63 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

65. The method of claim 63 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

66. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

67. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

68. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

69. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising;

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period beyond without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

70. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

71. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on usage of the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

72. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

73. The method of claim 72 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

74. The method of claim 72 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

75. The method of claim 72 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

76. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

77. The method of claim 76 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

78. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including at least a plurality of computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

79. The method of claim 78 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

80. The method of claim 78 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

81. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

82. The method of claim 81 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

83. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

84. The method of claim 83 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

85. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

86. The method of claim 85 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

87. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

88. The method of claim 87 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

89. The method of claim 87 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

90. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without further requiring communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

91. The method of claim 90 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

92. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

93. The method of claim 92 wherein communicating the at least one additional authorization code immediately follows providing registration information to the representative.

94. The method of claim 92 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

95. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

96. The method of claim 95 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

97. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

98. The method of claim 97 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

99. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

100. The method of claim 99 wherein at least a portion of information exchanged between the representative and the user is encrypted.

101. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

102. The method of claim 101 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

103. The method of claim 101 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

104. The method of claim 101 wherein the previously provided registration information is stored on a database associated with the representative.

105. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

106. The method of claim 105 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

107. The method of claim 105 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

108. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

109. The method of claim 108 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

110. The method of claim 108 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

111. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

112. The method of claim 111 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

113. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

114. The method of claim 113 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

115. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to selectively choose either manual or electronic registration and provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

116. The method of claim 115 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

117. The method of claim 115 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

118. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

119. The method of claim 118 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

120. The method of claim 118 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

121. The method of claim 118 wherein the previously provided registration information is stored on a database associated with the representative.

122. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

123. The method of claim 122 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

124. The method of claim 122 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

125. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

126. The method of claim 125 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

127. The method of claim 125 wherein the step of allowing includes allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative during installation of the software.

128. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

129. The method of claim 128 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

130. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

131. The method of claim 130 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

132. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being a enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information.

133. The method of claim 132 further comprising:

at least partially disabling the software if the registration information provided by the user to the representative indicates that the user is an unauthorized user.

134. The method of claim 132 wherein requiring the user to provide registration information includes allowing the user to provide the registration information to the representative by contacting the representative during installation of the software.

135. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

136. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

137. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

allowing the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

138. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

supplying the first authorization code with the software;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

139. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

transferring the first authorization code with the software;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

at any time during the initial authorization period, requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

140. A method for reducing unauthorized software use, the method comprising:

providing a representative to monitor software license compliance;

associating a first authorization code with the software, the first authorization code enabling the software on a computer for use by a user for an initial authorization period, the initial authorization period being based on a predetermined period of time;

requiring the user to enter the first authorization code to at least partially enable the software on the computer for use by the user during the initial authorization period;

requiring the user to contact the representative for retrieval of at least one additional authorization code to repeat the enablement of the software on the computer for use by the user during a subsequent authorization period after the initial authorization period and allowing the repeat of the enablement of the software to be performed prior to the expiration of the initial authorization period so the enablement of the software can be continuous from the initial authorization period to the subsequent authorization period, the software being enabled during the subsequent authorization period without requiring further communication with the representative following entry of the at least one additional authorization code;

requiring the user to provide registration information to the representative prior to retrieval of the at least one additional authorization code, the registration information including computer specific information; and

communicating the at least one additional authorization code to the software upon the registration information matching at least a portion of previously provided registration information or upon the registration information indicating that the software has not been previously registered.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for repeatedly contacting software end-users and providing information, such as software passwords to enable continued use, marketing, advertising, and/or promotional material.

2. Background Art

Software developers are often victims of illicit copying and unauthorized use of their software in violation of contractual obligations imposed by licensing agreements and subject to civil and criminal penalties under various domestic and foreign laws. Unauthorized entities range from a relatively small percentage of the total users to an overwhelming majority of illegal users. Such unauthorized use not only amounts to theft of the developers' intellectual property, but also reduces the number of programs sold and therefore the associated profitability of the developer. This may ultimately diminish the creative effort expended by the software developers due to the reduced financial incentive. The advent of the Internet has contributed to the proliferation of pirated software, known as "warez", which is easily located and readily downloaded.

Various strategies have been employed to make unauthorized duplication and use of software more difficult. One such approach is to provide a hardware "key" which is typically installed in the parallel port of the computer to provide a software interlock. If the key is not in place, the software will not execute. This method is relative