Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Hardware based digital rights management includes designating software for protection via a code or identifier associated with the software and detected by a hardware based authorized representative entity resident on a user computer, network, or device, remotely located relative to the user, or both. Representative hardware based implementations may be in the form of a chip, chipset, PC card, processor, and/or integral with a CPU, preferably supplied on an OEM basis. Authorized representative functions are programmable and/or hard coded. Software/digital content is self-activating/self-authenticating when used in conjunction with a resident authorized administrator. During the first use or transfer of content designated for protection, the authorized representative generates a password or authentication code at least partially based on registration information including user system information and links the code to the content. Registration information associated with the user/device remains within a trusted network associated with the user providing optimal user privacy.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim