Activation –
Definition:
Activation is the process by which software is validated with its manufacturer or licensor to confirm that it is genuine, properly licensed, and not being used in violation of the software’s terms of use. This process typically involves the use of a unique product key or license key that is entered by the user during or after installation.
Purpose of Activation:
- Prevent Software Piracy: Activation helps ensure that the software is not installed on more devices than allowed by the license.
- Verify Legitimacy: Confirms that the software copy is original and has not been tampered with or duplicated.
- Establish License Binding: Ties a specific license or product key to a particular hardware setup (device), often using a digital fingerprint of the system.
How It Works:
- Product Key Entry: The user enters a unique product or license key during installation or on first launch.
- Communication with Server: The software connects to the manufacturer’s activation server via the internet.
- Validation Check: The server verifies the key’s authenticity, checks that it hasn’t been used more than allowed, and confirms compatibility with the current hardware.
- License Binding: Once validated, the key is associated with that particular installation.
Types of Activation:
- Online Activation: Common method where the software connects to the internet to verify the product key.
- Offline Activation: Used when internet access is limited; involves exchanging activation codes manually.
- Automatic Activation: Occurs silently in the background during installation.
- Manual Activation: Requires the user to initiate the activation process.