Abstract: A method to create, distribute and install on an installation computer a uniquely customized instance of a software application that is authenticable and traceable to a particular user. A secure distribution agent resident on a distribution computer collects identifying information, and calculates a cryptographic signature of the software application and identifying information. The identifying information and cryptographic signature are embedded in the software application by the secure distribution agent. The software application with embedded data is transmitted via a distribution channel to the installation computer. A user installation agent resident on the installation computer manages the installation of the software application with embedded data on the installation computer. Prior to installation, the user installation agent may use the cryptographic signature to verify that the software application, and the identifying information are authentic and have not been tampered with.