Abstract: A method and apparatus for printing a shipping label. The method includes transmitting request signals from a processor, via a network, to a remote electronic storage location, such as a database or a server. The request signals specify particular label requirements for a label. The label specification data is transmitted from the remote electronic storage location that meets the requirements of the request signals. The label specification data includes identifying data for a particular parcel carrier. The label specification data is transmitted from the processor to a selected printer and the printer prints a shipping label as a function of the label specification data, such that the identifying data is printed in a coded format. The contents of the remote electronic storage location are then updated.

Abstract: A system and corresponding method for unlocking options in already installed software. The software is provided with all of the options on an installation medium and when the software is first received only a basic version is installed. The options are requested by a user and the customer service system provides a key based on information about the user and about the options requested. The installation software constructs a key from the same information and compares the key received from customer service. If the keys match, the requested options are installed.