Abstract: A system is provided for retrieving a selected one of a plurality of encrypted software products stored in at least one storage device, such as a CD-ROM. Each software product is decryptable by a unique decryption key. The CD-ROM storage device is coupled to a end-user station having a unique serial number and a processor that is responsive to an application program stored therein. The user can select a software product to decrypt upon receipt of the corresponding decryption key. A remote vender station, having a unique password, is selectively coupled to the end-user station, via a network, to receive a request for the decryption key corresponding to the selected software product. Further, the vender station receives the serial number from the end-user station. A remote server is connected to the vender station, via a network, when the password transmitted from the vender station is validated.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 10, 1996
Date of Patent:
July 21, 1998
Assignee:
ProtoCall Technolgies, Inc.
Inventors:
Michael S. Blumenthal, Daniel J. Barthel, Bruce Newman, Brenda S. Newman