Abstract: A method, an apparatus, and a computer program are provided to secure diagnostic software from a software or hardware manufacturer for a computer. Traditionally, diagnostic software was distributed to professionals and other personnel in limited numbers. However, it was still possible to obtain unauthorized copies of the diagnostic software. Therefore, to alleviate the possibility of having unauthorized copies, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory device containing identification number can be used and a hidden partition that is inaccessible by an end-user where an encrypted version of the identification number is stored. In order to use diagnostic software, the specific USB memory device must be physically interfacing a computer. Hence, by limiting the number of USB memory devices, unauthorized copies can be prevented.

Abstract: A method of transferring digital certificates from a digital-certificate transferring apparatus to a communications counterpart. The method includes authenticating the communications counterpart using a common certificate and transferring a normal certificate to the communications counterpart when the authenticating succeeds. The method further includes receiving a first normal certificate at an address from said communications counterpart, and when, it is determined to be necessary, transferring to the communications counterpart a second normal certificate along with the information identifying the communications counterpart and an address corresponding to a second normal certificate. The second normal certificate is of a different type than the first normal certificate.