Abstract: Upon execution of the protected software, a random number is generated by the software and displayed to the user. The user inputs this number into a conversion device. This device utilizes a algorithm to obtain a unique output value. The user enters this response value into the software program. A code segment in the software compares the random number originally generated with the response value and determines if the proper algorithm has been applied. If the algorithm is verified the protected portion of the program is initiated. If the algorithm is not verified the software provides the user with a menu of one or more options but does not grant access to the protected portion of the program. Options would include 1) The use of a pay-per-call phone service to provide the unique output valued provided by the algorithm, 2) A toll free number by which a conversion device can be purchased, 3) Limited access to a demonstration version of the protected portion of the program.