Distributed Ledger Software Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The management of license keys for software activation in large-scale OEM systems is cumbersome and prone to errors, theft, and inefficiencies, including the need for dedicated teams and complex procurement processes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a keyless license activation process using a distributed ledger (blockchain) protocol, where unique system identifiers are encrypted and stored on a blockchain, allowing for secure activation without the need for physical license keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional license key management is used for software activation in large-scale OEM systems, then software activation can be verified, but the management process becomes cumbersome and prone to errors, theft, and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the license key management function from the traditional activation process and replaces it with a distributed ledger system. The license key information is stored on a blockchain network rather than being managed through complex procurement and distribution channels, eliminating the need for dedicated teams to oversee license key management while maintaining verification reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed ledger acts as an intermediary between the software vendor and OEM customers, providing a trusted verification mechanism without requiring direct interaction between the parties. The blockchain network mediates the activation process by storing and verifying license key information, thereby simplifying the management process while maintaining security
2Productivity
If license keys are distributed to large numbers of OEM customers, then software can be activated across multiple systems, but the risk of theft and errors increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses cryptographic copying mechanisms where the license key information is replicated across multiple nodes in the distributed ledger network. Each copy is cryptographically secured and verified, allowing scalable distribution to numerous OEM customers while maintaining security through the immutable nature of blockchain technology
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of license key management by transitioning from centralized storage to distributed storage across a blockchain network. This parameter change enables scalable distribution to large numbers of customers while enhancing security through cryptographic verification and the immutability of the distributed ledger
3Ease of operation
If dedicated teams are assigned to oversee license key procurement and management, then license key distribution can be controlled, but operational overhead and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the distributed ledger automatically manages license key distribution and verification without requiring human intervention. The blockchain network autonomously handles procurement, distribution, and verification processes through smart contracts and automated validation, eliminating the need for dedicated teams while maintaining control over license key distribution
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for managing activation of software, e.g., an operating system, in an information processing system are provided. For example, a method comprises the following steps. A data object is obtained for a system having an un-activated computer program stored thereon. The data object comprises information about the system encrypted by a private value. The method then causes the data object to be securely stored on a distributed ledger for subsequent access during a process to activate the computer program.