Abstract: A system is provided for retrieving secured electronic information stored in at least one storage device, where each storage device, such as a CD-ROM, is at least partially encrypted and is coupled to a user station. Each user station is coupled to at least one storage device, such as a CD-ROM, having electronic database files stored therein. At least one of the database files stores numerous decryption keys, each key corresponding to decrypting a predetermined data portion of the secured electronic information. Further, a metering device is coupled to each user station. When the metering device is valid, each respective user station is able to retrieve decryption keys for use in decrypting the corresponding selected data portion. In addition, a server that is selectably connected to each user station across a network controls whether the metering device is valid and operable so as to permit or deny the user station to retrieve the corresponding decryption keys.

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.