SoftLock allows the CD-ROM to be played normally on a PC at the end-user level. Once the original disc is removed from the CD-ROM drive, the end-user can continue to play it. It cannot restart by a previous copying of the data onto the hard disk drive, diskettes or CD-R.

SoftLock prevents copying by means of a commercial CD recorder. None of the currently available CD recorder can copy SoftLocked discs. SoftLock’s unique mastering process makes it practically impossible for pirate CD plants to re-master and reproduce copies of the original CD-ROM.

SoftLock is totally transparent to the end-user. No special codes are required and no time consuming procedures. As far as the end-user is concerned, installation of the CD is just as simple as loading any other commercial CD-ROM and the software can be reinstalled as many times as the user wishes. Due to the absence of hardware locking devices, the SoftLock protection cost is actually low.

It has a very high-level security and code to prevent software reverse engineering. Each CD-ROM title has a unique locking parameter, protection code and special mark.

SoftLock uses a combination of:

• Encryption software
• Unique serial marking on the CD made during mastering procedure.
• Special arrangement of files in TOC.

In order to make copying practically impossible, every CD-ROM application has a unique serial, signature, marking and code that provides complete protection against illegal re-mastering and reproduction.