Importance

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Abstract

A system is disclosed for providing secure access and execution of application software by a first computer while a communication link is maintained between the first computer and a second computer. More specifically, a secure software rental system is disclosed. The system enables a user in a remote location using the first computer and a modem to connect to the second computer, transfer an application software either from the second computer or from a local storage device to the first computer, and execute the application software on the first computer while connected to the second computer. When the communication link between the second computer and the first computer is interrupted or terminated, the application software no longer executes on the first computer. This is accomplished by integrating header software with the application software. The application software stored in the second computer or in the local storage device is integrated with the header software to provide a security feature. The use of header software allows the user to execute the application software only while the user is continuously connected to the second computer. This prevents the user from copying the application software, and subsequently executing the application software after interrupting or terminating the communications link between the second and first computers.

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First Claim