Copy protecting my application

[Jon12345]

Are there any simple copy protection methods for my application. Doesn't have to be military strength or anything as I will only be having about 50 people use the application. But I want some protection rather than nothing!

Jon

[Hack]

Assuming you are talking about the source code for your program, I'm sure you can find an encryption algorithum on the web that would do the trick. Have you done an searchs?

[Jon12345]

I will create an exe file for my Visual Basic application. But when I give it to the end user, I don't want them copying the programming and selling it themselves or giving it to a friend. i.e. looking for normal copyprotection!

[Hack]

You could create a setup key much the same way as other commerical products have. I believe that is done through the actual installer itself (which rules out the Package And Deployment Wizard).

Check the Wise and InstallShield sites for information regarding what is available in this area with their product.

[moeur]

You could create a setup key much the same way as other commerical products have. I believe that is done through the actual installer itself (which rules out the Package And Deployment Wizard).

Actually, since the Setup program supplied by the package and deployment wizard is written in VB and MS gives you the source, you can add anything you want to the setup procedure.

[Hack]

Actually, since the Setup program supplied by the package and deployment wizard is written in VB and MS gives you the source, you can add anything you want to the setup procedure.

Really? Cool. I did not know that. Thanks.

[moeur]

MS calls it the Setup Toolkit
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/de...tupProgram.asp

One of the easiest changes to make is to modify the background graphics to add your company logo etc.