User's Manual

18
In this connection, it is well to remember that protecting software entails problems and decisions similar to those of
theft insurance policies (" For what sum should I insure?", "What additional guarantees should I include in the insurance
package?", "What is the probability of theft?").
Here are some general considerations providing pointers to choosing an appropriate SmartKey model.
SmartKey FX is simple, rapidly implemented, and low-cost. It is suitable for protecting low-cost or packaged programs,
where there is no need to distinguish the different programs and the different software versions from each other. Bear in
mind that, in this case, the algorithmic protection mechanism is based on a unique personalized code assigned in the
factory (Id-Code), which can no longer be modified. Therefore, all the FX dongles of a single user have the same code.
SmartKey PR is, instead, the most cost-effective model, because, in addition to the unique Id-Code, it has an internal
memory, which can only be accessed through reserved, programmable codes. A software house can therefore program
each dongle according to its specific requirements. Each dongle can therefore be prepared for protecting a particular
program or a defined set of modules of the same program. The following can be written in the dongle: a serial number,
the customer's name or code, a date or any other information useful for the implemented protection mechanism. This
dongle is suitable for protecting most medium-cost software, because it offers high security at a reasonable price.
SmartKey EP is recommended for protecting costly programs, with the intent of discouraging not only attempts to copy
the software, but also attempts to 'break into' the protection mechanism itself, i.e. cracking the dongle or altering its
contents.
SmartKey SP and XM are required if your protection system needs a high capacity for storing the data inside the dongle.
With its user-programmable algorithm, it is suitable for the more sophisticated programs, ensuring a very high level of
security. To use it, more time and skills are required compared to the simpler models.
SmartKey NET is a must for local network programs, to avoid installing a dongle for every user.