Abstract: A computer readable storage medium for providing repeated contact with computer software or a software user to transfer information which may include advertising, promotional, or marketing information includes repeatedly contacting the software manufacturer or third party representative or agent for continued use of the software. The invention provides for automatically obtaining authorization information in addition to marketing, advertising, and/or promotional information prior to expiration of each authorization interval or period. The user and/or software contacts an authorized representative of the software to obtain authorization information which may be downloaded directly to the software or provided to the user for entry. Authorization intervals may vary depending upon the particular application.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing repeated contact with a software user to transfer information which may include advertising, promotional, or marketing information include repeatedly contacting the software manufacturer or third party representative or agent for continued use of the software. The invention provides for automatically obtaining authorization information in addition to marketing, advertising, and/or promotional information prior to expiration of each authorization interval or period. The user and/or software contacts an authorized representative of the software to obtain authorization information which may be downloaded directly to the software or provided to the user for entry.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing software to reduce unauthorized use include associating a password or series of passwords with each copy of group of authorized software and requiring entry of a first password obtained from the developer or authorized representative of the software after exchanging registration information. The method and apparatus may also subsequently require entry of a second password from the series associated with the software to continue using the software. A password or authorization code series may be associated with each authorized copy or with a group of copies such as those distributed to a particular organization or site. Preferably, subsequent passwords or authorization codes are obtained from an authorized software developer, manufacturer, or distributor which gathers current information from the user to monitor compliance with licensing restrictions.