3.2 The CodeMeter Concept
Many different software developers can store license entries in a CmStick, or in an activation file. Up to 4,000
license entries can be stored inside the CmStick and the number of licenses in the activation file is limited only
by end-user disk space. These license entries consist of a FIRM CODE (FC), a PRODUCT CODE (PC), and separate
feature-set parameters. The FIRM CODE is assigned by WIBU-SYSTEMS and the PRODUCT CODE is freely defined by
the software developer.
Each unique FIRM CODE is assigned once by WIBU-SYSTEMS, and is bound to a master dongle, the so-called FIRM
SECURITY BOX (FSB).
In this way, WIBU-SYSTEMS ensures that only you, as the owner of the FIRM SECURITY BOX, are able to program
CmSticks or generate an activation files using your unique codes. Programming or activation is protected by
cryptography. The encryption keys needed are safely stored in your unique FSB.
Figure 3: Programming a CmStick
For a better understanding of the CodeMeter architecture, think of each CmStick as a very tall file cabinet. Each
software developer has access to one drawer in the cabinet into which he can add as many folders as he likes.
Each license entry can be thought of as a folder in the developer’s drawer. Each folder contains the (same) FIRM
CODE, a unique product code and option codes. In our CodeMeter documentation, the file drawer is called a
“FIRM ITEM” (in the sense that Firm = Company). Each “folder” or license entry is called a PRODUCT ITEM.
A CmStick is able to simultaneously hold license entries from many different software or content developers.
Thus, several development companies can share one CmStick, saving hardware and shipping expenses. At the
same time, the end-user benefits by having only one dongle to store all licenses. This gives the end-user the
important benefit of license portability and also provides a way to securely backup and restore his important
licenses.
Needless to say, in the case of CodeMeterAct, several license files from different developers may be installed
simultaneously.
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