JP2007012087A - Information processing device, information processing method, information recording medium, and information processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To determine whether software recorded in an information recording medium is processed by an information processing terminal carried by the information recording medium itself, and to realize a means which changes a software process content on the basis of the determination result with a simple constitution. <P>SOLUTION: The information processing terminal sends a first to a third identification information to a sever connected to the information processing terminal through a network when running a software, and requires the server to confirm registration conditions. When the first to the third identification information is identical with registration information controlled by the server, the information processing terminal runs the software under a regular operating environment. When the third identification information is not registered in any other information processing terminals but is registered in the information processing terminal normally, the information processing terminal runs the software under the regular operating environment. When the third identification information is not registered in the information processing terminal normally, the information processing terminal runs the software under a restricted operating environment. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus such as a game apparatus. In particular, the processing contents of a program stored in an information recording medium such as game software is changed under predetermined conditions (for example, the same information recording medium is selectively made to function as a demo version or a product version) The present invention relates to a security system that implements means with a simple configuration and effectively prevents unauthorized use by a third party.

The game software used for the game device is recorded on a portable information recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a game card ridge and distributed in the market. The purpose of this game software is to introduce the game outline to the user by giving the user a license to use the licensed product version and some restrictions on the game processing content. There is a demo version (sample version). By distributing such a demo version to the market, the user can try the demo version of the game software and, if he likes it, obtain a license from the licensor and enjoy the regular product version.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-53183

  However, in the past, since a demo version was separately prepared in addition to the regular product version, two types of information recording media had to be manufactured for the same game software. For this reason, the amount of products in stock has increased and the manufacturing cost has increased. In addition, it is necessary to store two types of products, the product version and the demo version, and there is a problem that it takes time until the product version reaches the user after the user purchases the demo version. In view of such circumstances, it is desired to realize means for selectively functioning the same game software as a product version or a demo version. In this case, in particular, it is desired to realize means that can effectively prevent the use of the game software as a product version by unauthorized use by a third party.

  In addition, the applicant of the present invention disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-53183 (Patent Document 1) is that the game recording medium is used in a game device owned by the player or is used in another game device. A technique for determining whether or not there is, and changing the setting of the processing content of the game program based on the determination result is proposed. According to this technique, it is possible to distinguish between the game recording medium used in the game device owned by itself and the game recording medium used in another game device, and to give a difference in the operating environment. It is possible to increase the value of the game recording medium used only in the game device.

  However, in this technique, a writable area is provided on the game recording medium in order to determine whether or not the game recording medium is used in a game device owned by the player, and the recording medium is identified in this area. The determination process is performed by writing information (for example, an ID number). For this reason, this technique cannot be applied to read-only media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs due to the difficulty of providing a writable area. Further, in the above prior art, there is a possibility that the identification information written on the game recording medium may be rewritten by unauthorized means in order to use it in another game device.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an information processing apparatus that changes the processing content of a predetermined program stored in the same information recording medium under a predetermined condition, and provides this information processing method and information recording medium with a simple configuration. Let it be the first problem.

  A second object is to provide an information processing apparatus that can prevent unauthorized use by a third party, and an information processing method and information recording medium.

  Furthermore, the present invention determines whether or not the software recorded on the information recording medium is processed by the information processing terminal owned by the information recording medium without providing a writable area on the information recording medium. It is a third object to provide an information processing system that realizes means for changing the processing contents of software based on the results with a simple configuration, an information processing terminal that can be applied to the information processing system, and a server.

  Still another object of the present invention is to provide a recording medium recording a procedure for causing a computer to function as the information processing terminal or server.

  A first object of the present invention is to provide first storage means for storing first identification information unique to an information processing apparatus, means for reading second identification information unique to an information recording medium, and an information recording medium. Second storage means for storing predetermined information including operation restrictions, third identification information unique to any information processing apparatus, and fourth identification information unique to any information recording medium; When the identification information and the third identification information match, and when the second identification information and the fourth identification information match, the operation content of the information recording medium is limited based on the predetermined information, If the second identification information and the fourth identification information do not match, the operation content of the information recording medium is determined under a predetermined condition. It is solved by an information processing device comprising means for limiting. In particular, the predetermined information including the operation restriction of the information recording medium is information (hereinafter referred to as “license content information” in this specification) that defines the usage period, usage conditions, and the like of the information recording medium.

  With such a configuration, information including the license content information, the third identification information, and the fourth identification information (hereinafter referred to as “license information” in this specification) is provided from the licensor to the user. This license information is stored in an appropriate recording medium, for example, a portable storage medium such as a backup memory.

  When the information processing apparatus according to the present invention executes a predetermined program (for example, a game program) recorded on the information recording medium, whether or not the information recording medium is licensed according to a predetermined algorithm is determined. Judgment (hereinafter referred to as “license verification” in this specification). If it is determined that the information recording medium is licensed as a result of the license verification, the information processing apparatus processes the information recording medium as a product version and determines that the license is not licensed. In this case, by imposing a predetermined restriction on the program stored in the information recording medium, the same information recording medium can be selectively made to function as a product version or a demo version.

  The second problem of the present invention is solved by transmitting license information from a predetermined terminal device to an information processing device via a communication line. In particular, the license information is preferably transmitted after being encrypted. With such a configuration, unauthorized leakage of license information by a third party can be prevented.

  The second storage means is a portable recording medium external to the information processing apparatus, for example, a backup memory. By preparing license information for each individual information recording medium for each portable recording medium, it is not necessary to store the license information in the information processing apparatus.

  As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the information recording medium stores a game program.

  An information processing method for solving the problems of the present invention executes each processing step performed in each means of the information processing apparatus of the present invention.

  An information recording medium for solving the problems of the present invention stores a program for causing an information processing apparatus to execute the information processing method of the present invention.

  The information recording medium referred to here is information in which information (for example, a game program) is recorded in a recording area of the information recording medium by some physical means, and is stored in an information processing apparatus such as a game apparatus. A predetermined function, for example, a game program can be executed. In addition to the game program, information such as CD music data and LD video data may be recorded. In short, any means may be used as long as it downloads a program to a computer and executes a predetermined function by any means, or allows a computer to reproduce music data and moving image data.

  For example, information recording media include CD-R, game cartridge, floppy (registered trademark) disk, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, ROM cartridge, and RAM memory with battery backup. Cartridges, flash memory cartridges, non-volatile RAM cartridges and the like.

  In addition, a communication medium such as a wired communication medium such as a telephone line and a wireless communication medium such as a microwave line is included. The Internet is also included in the communication medium here.

  The information processing system of the present invention that solves the third problem described above reads a predetermined software recorded in an information recording medium, executes a plurality of information processing terminals, and the information processing terminal via a network And a server for managing the operating environment of processing in the information processing terminal, the server includes first identification information uniquely assigned to each information processing terminal and each type of software. Registration information including second identification information assigned in advance and third identification information assigned so as not to overlap each information recording medium for the same type of software is stored in association with each other. The information processing terminal transmits the first identification information and the second identification information to the server when executing the software recorded on the information recording medium. Together, the registration status confirmation request. The server that has received the registration status confirmation request searches the registration information, and if the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information, the first verification result If the combination does not exist, the second matching result is transmitted to the information processing terminal. The information processing terminal that has received the first verification result executes the software under a normal operating environment, and the information processing terminal that has received the second verification result transmits the third identification information, A request for registration of the third identification information is made to the server. The server that has received the registration request searches the registration status again, and when the third identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal, The third identification information is registered in association with the information processing terminal, the first registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal, and the third identification information is associated with any other information processing terminal. When registered, or when there is an abnormality in at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third identification information (for example, the identification information is obtained by an unauthorized means. When there is a suspicion of being obtained or when the number of times of input of identification information is more than necessary, the second registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal. The information processing terminal that has received the first registration result executes the software under a normal operating environment, and the information processing terminal that has received the second registration result receives the software under a restricted operating environment. Execute.

  With such a simple configuration, it is determined whether or not the software recorded on the information recording medium is processed by the information processing terminal owned by the user without providing a writable area on the information recording medium. The processing contents of the software can be changed based on the determination result. In particular, since the registration information of all information processing terminals is managed by the server, it is possible to prevent unauthorized acts due to alteration of identification information, etc., and to change the setting of the operating environment on each information processing terminal by rewriting the registration information be able to.

  As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the information processing terminal reads the software recorded on the information recording medium and executes the software, and executes the first identification information, the second identification information, and the server. The third identification information is transmitted and a registration status confirmation request is made. The server that has received the registration status confirmation request searches the registration information, and if the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information, a matching result to that effect If the combination does not exist and the third identification information is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal, the third information The identification information is registered in association with the information processing terminal, the first registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal, and the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal. If there is an abnormality in at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information, the second registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal. The information processing terminal that has received the verification result or the first registration result executes the software under a normal operating environment, and the information processing terminal that has received the second registration result is under a restricted operating environment. To execute the software.

  In the above example, when the first identification information and the second identification information match, processing as a registered user (execution of software under a normal operating environment) is performed. When the identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information all match, the process as a registered user may be performed. By comprising in this way, it can determine more correctly and reliably whether software is what was used only by the user's information processing terminal.

  The information processing terminal may be configured to read the third identification information stored in the external memory in advance and transmit the third identification information to the server when transmitting the third identification information to the server.

  An information processing terminal of the present invention that solves the third problem is an information processing terminal that reads and executes predetermined software recorded on an information recording medium, and is uniquely assigned to the information processing terminal. The first identification information, the second identification information assigned in advance for each type of software, and the third type assigned to the same type of software so as not to overlap for each information recording medium When the registration information including the identification information is stored in association with each other and the software is executed on the server connected to the information processing terminal via the network, the first identification information and the second identification information are stored. It sends identification information and requests registration status confirmation. When the collation result that the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information matches the registration information managed by the server is received, the software is executed under a normal operating environment, and the combination Is received, a third identification information is transmitted and a request for registration of the third identification information is made to the server. If the registration result indicating that the registration was successful is received, the software is executed under the normal operating environment. If the registration is not successful, the restricted operating environment is Run the software below.

  As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the information processing terminal executes the software on a server connected via a network, the first identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information It sends identification information and requests registration status confirmation. When a collation result indicating that the combination of the first identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information matches the registration information managed by the server is received, the software under normal operating environment And when the third identification information has not been registered for any information processing terminal and the registration result indicating that the third identification information has been registered successfully is received. Executes the software under a normal operating environment, and if it receives a registration result indicating that the registration has not been performed normally, executes the software under a limited operating environment. .

  A server that solves the third problem of the present invention reads predetermined software recorded on an information recording medium, connects to a plurality of information processing terminals that execute the software, via a network, and the information processing terminal Is a server that manages the operating environment of the processing, and the first identification information uniquely assigned to each information processing terminal, the second identification information assigned in advance for each type of software, and the same type Registration information including third identification information assigned so as not to be duplicated for each information recording medium is stored in association with software, and the information processing terminal as a pre-processing step of software execution A registration status confirmation request including the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted to the server is received. If the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information as a result of the registration information search, The first verification result indicating that the software is to be executed is transmitted, and when the combination does not exist, the second verification result for requesting the information processing terminal to register the third identification information is Send to the information processing terminal. When the registration request for the identification information is received together with the third identification information, the registration status is searched again, and the third identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal is sent to any other information processing terminal. If not registered in association, the third identification information is registered in association with the information processing terminal, and the software is to be executed on the information processing terminal under a normal operating environment. 1 registration result is transmitted and the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal, or the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third If at least one of the identification information is abnormal, the information processing terminal transmits a second registration result indicating that the software should be executed under a restricted operating environment.

  As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the server includes first identification information, second identification information, and third identification information that the information processing terminal transmits to the server as a pre-processing step of software execution. When a registration status confirmation request is received and the combination of the first identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information as a result of searching for registration information Transmits a verification result indicating that the software should be executed under a normal operating environment to the information processing terminal, and the combination is not present, and the third identification information is any other If the information processing terminal is not registered in association with the information processing terminal, the third identification information is registered in association with the information processing terminal and the information processing terminal is registered under a normal operating environment. When the first registration result indicating that the software is to be executed is transmitted and the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal, or the first identification If at least one of the information, the second identification information, or the third identification information is abnormal, the software should be executed under a restricted operating environment for the information processing terminal The second registration result to that effect is transmitted.

  The recording medium of the present invention that solves the fourth problem is a terminal recording medium or a server recording medium that records a procedure for causing a computer to function as the information processing terminal or server of the present invention.

  According to the information processing apparatus and the information processing method of the present invention, the processing contents of programs stored in the same information recording medium can be changed with a simple configuration. Therefore, it is not necessary to manufacture the information recording medium for each function, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Further, unauthorized use of the information recording medium by a third party can be effectively prevented.

  Furthermore, according to the information processing system, the information processing terminal and the server of the present invention, whether or not the software recorded on the information recording medium is processed by the information processing terminal owned by itself with a simple configuration. The processing contents of the software can be changed based on the determination result. In particular, since the registration information of all information processing terminals is managed by the server, it is possible to prevent unauthorized acts due to alteration of identification information, etc., and to change the setting of the operating environment on each information processing terminal by rewriting the registration information be able to.

  Further, according to the terminal recording medium or the server recording medium of the present invention, the computer can function as the information processing terminal or server of the present invention.

Embodiment 1 FIG. The present embodiment relates to a technique for changing the processing content of a predetermined program stored in the same information recording medium as a result of license verification (for example, changing the processing content as a product version or a demo version). Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
[Configuration of Game Device] The configuration of the game device 1 will be schematically described with reference to FIG. The game apparatus 1 includes a main CPU 101, a RAM 102, a ROM 103, a CD I / F 180, cartridge I / F 1a and 1b, and a PAD I / F 2a. When the game apparatus 1 is activated, an initial program for initialization processing stored in the ROM 103 is activated. An ID memory area 103 a is secured in a predetermined storage area in the ROM 103. Identification information of the game apparatus 1 (for example, information unique to the game apparatus 1 such as a serial number) is stored in the ID memory area 103a. The main CPU 101 is connected to the RAM 102 and the ROM 103 through the internal bus 105, and performs various control operations and arithmetic processing. The main CPU 101 reads and executes a game program stored in the CD-ROM 3 via the CD I / F 180 and the internal bus 105. Here, the CD I / F 180 is an I / O interface of the CD-ROM 3. The main CPU 101 uses the RAM 102 as a work area and executes a game program based on input data supplied from the control pad 2b via the PAD I / F 2a. The roles of the backup memory 4 and the modem cartridge 7 according to this embodiment will be described later.

  Next, the configuration of the game apparatus 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The game apparatus 1 includes a CPU block 10 that controls the entire game apparatus 1, a video block 11 that controls display of the game screen, a sound block 12 that generates sound effects and the like, a subsystem 13 that reads out the CD-ROM 3, and the like. Composed.

  The CPU block 10 includes an SCU (System Control Unit) 100, a main CPU 101, a RAM 102, a ROM 103, a cartridge I / F 1a, a sub CPU 104, a CPU bus 105, and the like.

  The main CPU 101 controls the entire apparatus. The main CPU 101 has an arithmetic function similar to that of a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) inside, and can execute application software at high speed. The RAM 102 is used as a work area for the main CPU 101. The ROM 103 is divided into an ID memory area 103a described with reference to FIG. 1 and an area in which an initialization program for initialization processing and other programs for executing various controls are stored.

  The SCU 100 smoothly performs data input / output between the main CPU 101, the VDP 120, 130, the DSP 140, the CPU 141, and the like by controlling the buses 105, 106, and 107. Further, the SCU 100 includes a DMA controller therein, and can transfer sprite data during the game to the VRAM in the video block 11. Thereby, application software such as a game can be executed at high speed. The bus 106 is connected to the cartridge I / Fs 1a and 1b. The modem cartridge 7 acquires license information from the host terminal 6 on the licensor side by connecting to the cartridge I / F 1a. Under the control of the SCU 100, the license information is stored in the backup memory 4 via the bus 106 and the cartridge I / F 1b.

  In addition to the cross key, the control pad 2b includes an ABC key and an XYZ key. The sub CPU 104 is called SMPC (System Manager & Peripheral Control), and has a function of collecting output data such as an ABC key from the control pad 2b via the PAD I / F 2a in response to a request from the main CPU 101. ing.

  In addition to the control pad 2b, an arbitrary peripheral such as a joystick or a keyboard can be connected to the PAD I / F 2a. Further, the sub CPU 104 has a function of automatically recognizing the type of peripheral connected to the PAD I / F 2a (main body side terminal) and collecting peripheral data or the like according to a communication method corresponding to the type of peripheral.

  The video block 11 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) 120 that draws characters and the like made of polygon data of a video game, and a VDP 130 that draws a background screen, synthesizes polygon image data and background images, and performs clipping processing. Yes. The VDP 120 is connected to the VRAM 131 and the frame buffers 122 and 123. Polygon drawing data representing the character of the video game device is sent from the main CPU 101 to the VDP 120 via the SCU 100 and written into the VRAM 121. The drawing data written in the VRAM 121 is drawn in the drawing frame buffer 122 or 123 in a 16 bit / pixel format, for example. The drawn data in the frame buffer 122 or 123 is sent to the VDP 130. Information for controlling drawing is provided from the main CPU 101 to the VDP 120 via the SCU 100. Then, the VDP 120 executes drawing processing according to this instruction.

  The VDP 130 is connected to the VRAM 131, and image data output from the VDP 130 is output to the encoder 160 via the memory 132.

  The encoder 160 generates a video signal by adding a synchronization signal or the like to the image data, and outputs the video signal to the TV receiver 5.

  The sound block 12 includes a DSP 140 that performs speech synthesis in accordance with the PCM method or the FM method, and a CPU 141 that controls the DSP 140 and the like. The audio data generated by the DSP 140 is converted into a 2-channel signal by the D / A converter 170 and then output to the speaker 5b.

  The subsystem 13 includes a CD-ROM drive 1b, a CD I / F 180, a CPU 181, an MPEG AUDIO 182 and an MPEG VIDEO 183. The sub-system 13 has functions for reading application software supplied in the form of a CD-ROM, reproducing moving images, and the like. The CD-ROM drive 1b reads data from a CD-ROM. The CPU 181 performs processing such as control of the CD-ROM drive 1b and error correction of the read data. Data read from the CD-ROM is supplied to the main CPU 101 via the CD I / F 180, the bus 106, and the SCU 100, and used as application software. MPEG AUDIO 182 and MPEG VIDEO 183 are devices for restoring data compressed by the MPEG standard (Motion Picture Expert Group).

By restoring the MPEG compressed data written in the CD-R2 shown in FIG. 1 using these MPEG AUDIO 182 and MPEG VIDEO 183, it is possible to reproduce a moving image on the TV receiver 5.
[Description of Operation of Game Device] Next, the operation of the game device 1 will be described. When a CD-ROM 3 attached to an appendix of a magazine purchased by a user is inserted into the game apparatus 1 and used, the CD-ROM 3 functions as a demo version first. If a user who has enjoyed a game with the demo version of the CD-ROM 3 wants to use it as a product version, he / she asks the licensor for a license. At this time, the user transmits the serial number unique to the game apparatus 1 and the product number of the game software to the licensor and completes the necessary settlement. Also, the usage period, usage conditions, etc. of the game program (for example, the restriction conditions of the game program processing when the game software functions as a product version) are defined in the contract. Then, license information is provided to the user from the licensor. The license information includes information (license content information) for determining the usage period and usage conditions of the game program used by the user, in addition to information indicating that the license for use of the game software is permitted. The game apparatus 1 restricts the use period and use conditions of the game program based on the license content information. The license information is uniquely determined from a combination of identification information unique to the game machine 1 and identification information unique to the game software, and different license information is given to different game devices even with the same game software. . That is, the license information differs for each game device and also for each game software.

  The license information is stored in the backup memory 4 by the user's operation of the control pad 2b. However, since there are as many types of license information as the number of combinations of the game apparatus 1 and the CD-ROM 3, the amount of information may be enormous. Therefore, the license information can be stored by the user himself / herself in the backup memory 4 by operating the control pad 2b, or can be input from the host terminal 6 of the licensor via the communication line and the modem cartridge 7. It is desirable that such license information be transmitted after being encrypted in order to prevent unauthorized use by a third party. The user can also transmit the identification information of the game apparatus 1 and the identification information of the CD-ROM 3 to the licensor via the communication line. At this time, by encrypting the identification information of both, the identification information can be transmitted to the licensor without the user knowing the identification information.

  The backup memory 4 can be used to save game data in addition to license information.

  On the other hand, the CD-ROM 3 stores in advance a license information authentication program in addition to the game program. This license information authentication program causes the CD-ROM 3 to function as a demo version based on the identification information unique to the game apparatus 1, the identification information unique to the CD-ROM 3, and the license information provided by the licensor, or as a product version It is a program for determining whether to function. As identification information unique to the game apparatus 1, for example, a serial number can be used. In this case, a numeric code having an arbitrary number of digits can be used as the identification information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a combination with an arbitrary character code may be appropriately used. The same applies to identification information unique to the CD-ROM 3.

Next, the procedure for generating / decrypting license information will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a procedure for generating license information in the public key cryptosystem, and FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a procedure for decrypting the license information and verifying the license.
(License Information Generation Procedure) As described above, a licensor that issues a license determines license contents such as a usage period and usage conditions of a game program in a contract with a user. Corresponding to this license content, license content information (32-bit binary data) is defined. As the data structure of the license content information, for example, the game program usage period is defined in the upper 32 to 29 bits, and the license content such as the game program usage conditions is defined in the remaining 28 to 1 bits. It is decided in.

  To generate the license information, as shown in FIG. 3, the identification information (32 bits) of the game apparatus 1, the identification information (32 bits) of the CD-ROM 3 and the license contents information (32 bits) are combined. 96-bit information (hereinafter referred to as “joining information”) is generated. Although this combined information can be sent directly to the user, it is preferable to send it in encrypted form in order to ensure the confidentiality of the license information. In the present embodiment, the combined information is encrypted with the RSA cryptosystem secret key to obtain license information. The license information obtained in this way is transmitted to the game apparatus 1 through a communication line or the like.

  If the combined information is plaintext M and the license information is ciphertext C, the secret key and the public key can be obtained as follows.

Two large prime numbers p and q are selected, and the product n = pq is obtained. (P-1) (q-1) or less, an integer e that is relatively prime to (p-1) (q-1) is selected, and e × d≡1 mod ((p-1) (q-1))
Find an integer d that satisfies. Then, (e, n) is a public key and (d, n) is a secret key.

To obtain the license information (ciphertext C) by encrypting the combined information (plaintext M) with the secret key, the calculation of C = Mdmodn is performed. On the other hand, in order to obtain the combined information (plain text M) by decrypting the license information (cipher text C) with the public key, an operation of M = Cemodn is performed. In the present embodiment, the public key is recorded in advance in the ROM 103 or the CD-ROM 3 of the game apparatus 1, and the secret key is secretly held by the licensor. In order to obtain a secret key from a public key, it is necessary to factor n to obtain p and q. However, since p and q are actually determined to be several hundred bits, such a large number is required. Since the prime factorization of cannot be performed in a realistic time at present, it is almost impossible to obtain a secret key. As a result, illegal leakage of license information can be effectively prevented.
(Decryption Procedure of License Information) As shown in FIG. 4, the license information is decrypted with the public key recorded in advance in the ROM 103 or the CD-ROM 3 of the game apparatus 1. By this decoding, the combined information is restored. The identification information of the game device 1 is stored in the upper 96 to 65 bits of the restored combined information, the identification information of the CD-ROM 3 is stored in the middle 64 to 33 bits, and the lower 32 to 1 bits. Stores license information. Based on these pieces of information, license verification is performed.
(License Verification Procedure) The license verification procedure will be described with reference to FIGS. The CD-ROM 3 storing the game software is inserted into the game apparatus 1 (step A1). The main CPU 101 detects that the CD-ROM 3 has been inserted via the CD I / F 180, and reads the contents of the backup memory (step A2). It is determined whether or not the license information is written in a predetermined storage area of the backup memory (step A3). If the license information is written (step A3; YES), the license is verified (step A4). As a result of the license verification, if it is determined to function as the product version (step A5; YES), the main CPU 101 causes the CD-ROM 3 to function as the product version (step A6).

  Here, each processing step of the license verification in step A4 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the identification information stored in the ID memory area 103a of the game apparatus 1 is compared with the information stored in the upper 96 to 65 bits of the combined information restored with the public key (step B1). Next, the identification information recorded in the predetermined recording area of the CD-ROM 3 is compared with the information stored in the middle 64 to 33 bits of the combined information (step B2). Next, the license information stored in the lower 32 to 1 bits of the combined information is read and interpreted (step B3).

  In step A5, the following determination is made based on the execution results of these processing steps (step B1 to step B3). When the identification information of the game apparatus 1 and the identification information of the CD-ROM 3 match, the CD-ROM 3 is caused to function as a product version according to the license content information. On the other hand, when the identification information of the game apparatus 1 and the identification information of the CD-ROM 3 do not match, or information indicating that the license contents information is restricted to the execution of the game program (for example, functioning as a demo version) When (information) is written, the CD-ROM 3 is caused to function as the demo version (1) (step A7: first restriction process). The contents of the first restriction process include various restrictions such as, for example, restricting the number of stages of the game program, restricting the number of characters appearing, restricting the character action process, and restricting the game time. What is necessary is just to set suitably.

  On the other hand, when the license information is not written in the backup memory 4 (step A3; NO), the main CPU 101 causes the CD-ROM 3 to function as the demo version (2) (step A8: second restriction process). This second restriction process is performed, for example, when the user purchases the CD-ROM 3, inserts it into the game apparatus 1 for the first time, and executes the game program. As described above, the first restriction process and the second restriction process may be different processes, but the same processing content may be used.

  The license information authentication program may be stored in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 103 for each game program in addition to being stored in a predetermined recording area of the CD-ROM 3.

  In addition to RSA ciphers, public key ciphers include Macleas ciphers that utilize the difficulty of codes for error correction, Elgamal codes that utilize the difficulty of logarithmic computations such as remainders, and multivariate multiple simultaneous equations. It is also possible to use MI encryption using difficulty, elliptic encryption that reconstructs RSA encryption based on operations defined on elliptic curves, and the like.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the same information recording medium can function as a product version based on the license information, or can function as a demo version. There is no need to create a demo version, which can reduce manufacturing costs. Furthermore, since it is not necessary for the licensor to organize the inventory separately between the product version and the demo version, inventory management becomes easy. The user also has an advantage that the demo version of the game software can be immediately used as a product version by acquiring the license information. That is, it is not necessary to wait for delivery of the product version.

  Furthermore, since the license information differs for each game device and also for each game software, even the same game software cannot be used for a game device that is not licensed. It is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the wear. That is, by using the identification information of the game device for license verification, unauthorized use by a third party due to unauthorized copying of license information can be effectively prevented.

  Also, by writing the license information to an external backup memory, different backup memories can be assigned to different game software, and can be used integrally with the game software. This eliminates the need for the game device to store license information for each game software, and can effectively use hardware resources. This is particularly effective when the amount of license information is large. In addition, game data can be saved in the free space of the backup memory.

  Further, the confidentiality of the identification information can be ensured by transmitting the identification information encrypted when transmitting the identification information of the game device and the game software to the licensor. That is, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to construct a security system that prevents unauthorized use of game software.

  The information recording medium on which the game software is recorded is not limited to a CD-ROM, but a game cartridge, CD-R, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, ROM cartridge, magneto-optical disk, magnetic tape, and RAM cartridge with battery backup. A flash memory cartridge, a non-volatile memory cartridge, or the like can be used. Further, a communication medium such as a wired communication medium such as a telephone line or a wireless communication medium such as a microwave line may be used. The Internet is also included in the communication medium here.

  In this embodiment, a game device is described as an example of the information processing device. However, the present invention is not limited to the game device, and can be applied to a CD playback device, an LD playback device, a video playback device, and the like by appropriately changing the design. Can do.

  Embodiment 2. FIG. This embodiment uses a communication system, and a correspondence relationship between a game device (information processing terminal) and a game program (a game program recorded on a game recording medium, also simply referred to as software or application). The server centrally manages the game recording medium to determine whether the game recording medium is used on its own game device or used on another game device. This relates to a technique for changing the setting of processing contents of a game program based on the above. Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of the entire information processing system (also referred to as a security system). The game apparatus 1 is connected to a server 9 via a modem cartridge 7 and a network 8. The game apparatus 1 and the modem cartridge 7 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment. The network 8 is a communication network including a dedicated line such as an ISDN line or a public line. The server 9 is connected to the network 8 via a modem 71 and is configured to be able to communicate with a plurality of game apparatuses 1 via the network. Further, the server 9 has a large-capacity database 20, and based on various registration information registered in the database 20, whether or not the game recording medium is processed only by the game device owned by the user. Is determined, the operating environment of the game apparatus 1 is managed, and further, the operating environment is set. Details of the registration information will be described later. Further, the server 9 can execute the above determination for each game device 1 by communication with the plurality of game devices 1.

  The game apparatus 1 includes a main CPU 101, a RAM 102, a ROM 103, a CDI / F 180, cartridge I / Fs 1a and 1b, and the like. The game apparatus 1 reads game software and other various image processing data from a CD-ROM 3 (also called a game recording medium or simply an information recording medium) via the CD I / F 180, and executes the game. A software ID and a software SN (Serial Number) are pre-assigned to the game program stored in the CD-ROM 3. In this specification, the software ID is defined as identification information assigned to each game title (for each type of game software). For example, the software ID for game A is assigned to “001011”, the software ID for game B is assigned to “110010”, and so on. Thus, even if the game recording media are different, the same game ID is assigned if the game title is the same. The software SN is defined as identification information assigned to each game recording medium in a game with the same title. Accordingly, there are as many soft SNs as game recording media. For example, for a game of a certain title, the software SN of the game software recorded on the game recording medium A is “10110111”, the software SN of the game software stored on the game recording medium B is “10111000”, and so on. Assigned to. Further, as already described in the first embodiment, identification information unique to each game apparatus 1 (hereinafter referred to as a game apparatus ID in the present embodiment) is stored in the ID memory area 103a of the ROM 103. . Arbitrary character codes such as numerals, alphabets, and symbols can be used as the identification information.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the database 20 of the server 9, software IDs and software SNs of game programs for which game execution processing has been performed in each game device are associated with each other and registered in a table format. This table 21 is defined as registration information. In the registration information, play data may be linked and registered for each game program. The play data refers to various setting information when the user plays the game, for example, information such as the number of stages cleared by the user, acquired points, play time, and the like.

  Next, the processing steps of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. This figure shows processing steps performed by each of the game device and the server. When the game apparatus 1 is turned on and the game apparatus is activated, the game apparatus 1 is connected to the server 9 according to a preset procedure (step C1). At this time, the server 9 is in a registration information confirmation mode and is waiting for external input. When the connection is completed, the game apparatus 1 reads the game apparatus ID from the ID memory area 103a and reads the software ID from the game recording medium. Then, the game device ID and the software ID are transmitted to the server 9 and a confirmation request for registration information is made (step C2). The registration information confirmation request refers to inquiring of the server whether or not the game device ID and the software ID match, and the game program recorded on the game recording medium is used only on its own game device. Or whether it is used in another game device. The server 9 receives the game device ID and the software ID (step D1) and collates with the registration information registered in the database 20 (step D2).

  As a result of the collation, when the combination of the game device ID and the software ID transmitted from the game device 1 matches the registration information registered in the database 20 (step D3; YES), the collation result to that effect is used as the game device. 1 (step D4), and the registration information confirmation mode is terminated (step D5). On the other hand, when the combination of the game device ID and the software ID transmitted from the game device 1 is not registered in the database 20 (step D3; NO), a matching result to that effect is transmitted to the game device 1 (step D6). ).

  When the game apparatus 1 receives the collation result transmitted from the server 9 (step C3), the game apparatus 1 determines whether the game apparatus ID and the software ID are registered or unregistered (step S3). C4). If registered, that is, if it is a registered user (step C4; YES), game processing is performed under a normal operating environment (step C9).

  On the other hand, if it is an unregistered one (step C4; NO), the game apparatus 1 requests the user to input the software SN, transmits the input software SN to the server 9, and the software SN. Registration request (step C5). When the server 9 receives the software SN (step D7), it registers it in the database 20 (step D8). At this time, if the software SN cannot be properly registered because the software SN has already been registered in another game device (step D9; NO), a registration result to that effect is transmitted to the game device 1. (Step D10), the registration information confirmation mode is terminated (Step D11). On the other hand, if the software SN can be properly registered in the database (step D9; YES), a registration result to that effect is transmitted to the game apparatus 1 (step D12), and the registration information confirmation mode is terminated (step D13). ).

  When the game apparatus 1 receives the registration result transmitted from the server 9 (step C6), the game apparatus 1 determines whether or not the registration is properly performed (step C7). If registration is performed properly, that is, if the user is a newly registered user (step C7; YES), the game process is performed under an operating environment set in advance for the newly registered user (step C10). Game processing under the operating environment set for newly registered users means, for example, that a message indicating that new registration has been performed is displayed on the screen, and that the game recording medium used in another game device is displayed on the own game. There are cases where the setting of the operating environment may be changed when used with the device, or processing such as displaying a message for warning that the user should not enjoy the game by obtaining software SN etc. by unauthorized means. Conceivable. Of course, such processing may be omitted and processing similar to the normal game processing (step C9) may be performed. On the other hand, if the registration is not properly performed (step C7; NO), the game process is performed under a restricted operating environment (step C8). The restricted operating environment refers to, for example, settings such as reducing the number of game stages, releasing sound effects, slowing down the action of the player character, shortening the play time, and the like. Further, as a limited game, a demo game prepared in advance may be executed.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the server manages the registration information of all the game devices, so that the game recording medium is used in the game device owned by the player or in another game device. Since it is possible to determine whether or not the game recording medium has been used, the game recording medium used by another game device is used only by its own game device by unauthorized means such as rewriting identification information. It is possible to prevent processing as if there is. In particular, in the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-53183, game recording media must be managed individually, and management of fraud is difficult, whereas according to the present invention, registration information stored in a database is stored. Can be used to easily manage all game recording media.

  Also, when a user uses a new game program, the game device ID, software ID, and software SN are automatically registered in association with each other, so that a game used by a third party on another user's game device When the device is used with its own game device, the registration information does not match on the server side, so that the game operating environment can be limited. Further, when redistributing so-called second-hand goods to the market, it is not necessary to rewrite the registration information registered in the database or to issue a new software SN. It is also possible to collect a fee from the user when rewriting the registration information.

  In the above description, the game device ID is used as the game device identification information. However, if the identification information is assigned to each user and is different from each other, for example, the server administrator issues it. It may be a user ID (user-specific number) or a telephone number.

  In the above example, the game apparatus 1 transmits only the game apparatus ID and the software ID to the server 9 when collating the registration information in the database. However, at this time, the game apparatus 1 may include the software SN. FIG. 10 shows each processing step executed by the game apparatus 1 and the server 9 at this time. The basic processing steps are the same as the processing steps shown in FIG. When the game apparatus 1 is activated, it connects to the server 9 according to a predetermined procedure (step E1). Then, the game apparatus ID, the software ID, and the software SN are transmitted to the server 9 and a confirmation request for registration information is made (step E2). The software SN that is directly input by the user when the game apparatus 1 is activated is used. The server 9 receives the game device ID, the software ID, and the software SN (step F1) and performs database collation (step F2). When collating the database 20, similar to the above-described example, the search may be performed using only the game device ID and the software ID, but the search / collation may be performed using a combination of the game device ID, the software ID, and the software SN. . As a result of the collation, when the software ID and software SN of the game recording medium match the combination of the game device IDs (step F3; YES), the collation result is transmitted to the game device 1 (step F6) and registered. The status confirmation mode ends normally (step F9).

  On the other hand, if the software ID or software SN is not registered for the game device ID (step F3; NO), it is registered in the database 20 (step F4). If the software SN is not registered in association with any other game device (step F5; YES), the software SN is registered in association with the game device 1, and the registration result to that effect is displayed in the game. If the software SN cannot be properly registered because the software SN is transmitted to the device 1 (step F7) and is registered in association with any other game device (step F5; NO) The registration result to that effect is transmitted to the game apparatus 1 (step F8), and the registration information confirmation mode is terminated (step F10).

  When the game apparatus 1 receives the verification result or registration result of the server 9 (step E3), the game apparatus 1 determines the verification result or registration result. If the combination of the game device ID, the software ID, and the software SN matches, that is, if it is a registered user (step E4; YES), the normal game process is performed (step E5). On the other hand, if the user is not a registered user (step E4; NO) and the software SN has been registered normally, that is, if the user is a newly registered user (step E6: YES), a new registration is made in advance. Game processing is performed under the operating environment set for the user (step E7). The game process under the operating environment set for the newly registered user is as described above, but may be the same as the normal game process (step E5).

  If the user is not a registered user (step E4; NO), the software SN is registered in another game device, or the software SN is suspected of being input by an unauthorized means (software SN). If the user cannot register the software SN in association with the game device ID of the game device (step E6; NO), the game process is performed under a restricted operating environment. (Step E8).

  In the above description, the software SN input by the user when the software SN is transmitted to the server 9 is used in the processing step of the game apparatus 1. However, the software SN, the software ID, and the game apparatus ID are stored in the backup memory in advance. In addition, the game apparatus 1 may be configured to read this and transmit it to the server 9. FIG. 11 shows processing steps of the game apparatus 1 in this case. When the game apparatus 1 is activated, the game apparatus 1 checks the backup memory 4 (step G1). When the game device ID, software ID schedule and software SN are not written (step G2; NO), the game device 1 writes the game device ID, software ID and software SN in the backup memory 4 (step G3), and the server 9 (step G4). On the other hand, when the game device ID, the software ID schedule, and the software SN are written (step G2; YES), the server 9 is connected (step G4). When the connection with the server 9 is completed, the data (game device ID, software ID schedule and software SN) in the backup memory 4 are transmitted to the server 9 and a confirmation request for registration information is made (step G5). Thereafter, the processing of Step E3 to Step E6 in FIG. 10 is executed.

  When the game device ID, software ID, and software SN are transmitted from the game device to the server, the identification information is previously encrypted using RSA encryption, Macleas encryption, El Gamal code, MI encryption, etc. You may comprise so that it may transmit.

  In this embodiment, a game apparatus is described as an example of the information processing terminal. However, the present invention is not limited to the game apparatus, and can be applied to a CD reproduction apparatus, an LD reproduction apparatus, a video reproduction apparatus, and the like by appropriately changing the design. Can do.

It is a schematic functional block diagram of the game device of this Embodiment. It is a detailed functional block diagram of the game device of the present embodiment. It is explanatory drawing at the time of producing | generating license information. It is explanatory drawing at the time of restoring license information. It is the whole flowchart when performing license collation. It is a flowchart of a license collation. It is a block diagram of the whole information processing system. It is a table of registration information managed by the server. It is a flowchart which shows the processing procedure of a game device and a server. It is a flowchart which shows the processing procedure of a game device and a server. It is a flowchart which shows the processing procedure of a game device and a server.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game device, 3 ... CD-ROM, 4 ... Backup memory, 7 ... Modem cartridge, 8 ... Network network, 9 ... Server, 20 ... Database, 21 ... Registration information

Claims (20)

A server installed on the licensor side of the software and a plurality of user-side information processing terminals that read and execute the software recorded on the information recording medium are connected to the server via the network, respectively. In an information processing system comprising a configured network connection means,
The server includes third identification information assigned so that the first identification information unique to each information processing terminal does not overlap with the second identification information assigned in advance to the software for each information recording medium. Remembers the registration information recorded in association with
When the information processing terminal executes software read from an information recording medium mounted on or connected to the information processing terminal, the information processing terminal sends a first unique to the information processing terminal to the server via the network. Sending the identification information and the second identification information assigned to the software to make a registration status confirmation request,
The server that has received the registration status confirmation request searches for registration information. If the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information, the first information is registered. If the combination does not exist, the second matching result is transmitted to the information processing terminal via the network.
The information processing terminal that has received the first verification result is allowed to execute the software under a normal operating environment,
The information processing terminal that has received the second collation result transmits the third identification information via the network and requests the server to register the third identification information.
The server that has received the registration request searches the registration status again, and if the third identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal. , Registering the third identification information in association with the information processing terminal, and transmitting the first registration result to the information processing terminal via the network,
When the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal, or at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third identification information If there is an abnormality in one of them, the second registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal via the network,
The information processing terminal that has received the first registration result is allowed to execute the software under a normal operating environment, and the information processing terminal that has received the second registration result An information processing system characterized by a limited operating environment. A server installed on the licensor side of the software and a plurality of user-side information processing terminals that read and execute the software recorded on the information recording medium are connected to the server via the network, respectively. In an information processing system comprising a configured network connection means,
The server includes second identification information in which first identification information unique to each information processing terminal is assigned in advance to software, and third identification information assigned so as not to overlap each information recording medium, Remembers the registration information recorded in association with
When the information processing terminal executes software read from an information recording medium mounted on or connected to the information processing terminal, the information processing terminal makes a first identification unique to the information processing terminal to the server via the network Information, second identification information assigned to the software, and third identification information unique to the information recording medium mounted or connected to the information processing terminal, and requesting registration status confirmation,
The server that has received the registration status confirmation request searches for registration information, and if the combination of the first identification information and the second identification information transmitted from the information processing terminal matches the registration information, this is indicated. Is sent to the information processing terminal via the network,
If the combination does not exist and the third identification information is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal, the third identification information is stored in the information processing terminal. In association with the registration, the first registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal via the network,
When the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal, or at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third identification information If there is an abnormality in one of them, the second registration result is transmitted to the information processing terminal via the network,
The information processing terminal that has received the verification result or the first registration result is allowed to execute the software under a normal operating environment, and the information processing terminal that has received the second registration result An information processing system in which the operating environment of software is limited.   The information processing terminal, when transmitting the third identification information to the server, reads the third identification information stored in advance in an external memory and transmits the third identification information to the server. The information processing system according to the first or second item. An information processing terminal that reads and executes software recorded on an information recording medium,
A server installed on the licensor side of the software is configured to store registration information regarding an information processing terminal of a user who is permitted to use the software, and the registration information includes information on each information processing terminal. Is registered in association with the second identification information assigned in advance to the software and the third identification information assigned so as not to overlap each other in the information recording medium. Has been
The server further includes a second information representing a first identification information unique to the information processing terminal and software to be executed on the information processing terminal. In response to sending the identification information and making a registration status confirmation request, the server determines whether the received combination of the first identification information and the second identification information matches the registration information managed by the server. Are configured to perform such searches,
When the information processing terminal receives the matching result from the server via the network, the software is set to be executable under a normal operating environment, and the combination does not exist. Is received, the third identification information unique to the information recording medium mounted on or connected to the information processing terminal is transmitted via the network, and the third identification information is transmitted to the server. When a registration request is made and a registration result indicating that the registration has been successfully performed is received, the software is set to be executable under a normal operating environment, and the registration has not been performed normally. An information processing terminal configured to execute the software under a restricted operating environment when a registration result is received. An information processing terminal that reads and executes software recorded on an information recording medium,
A server installed on the licensor side of the software is configured to store registration information regarding an information processing terminal of a user who is permitted to use the software, and the registration information includes information on each information processing terminal. Is registered in association with the second identification information assigned in advance to the software and the third identification information assigned so as not to overlap each other in the information recording medium. Has been
The server further includes a first identification information unique to the information processing terminal connected to the information processing terminal connected via the network, and software representing software to be executed on the information processing terminal. The server receives the first identification information received in response to a request for registration status confirmation by transmitting the second identification information and the third identification information unique to the information recording medium mounted or connected to the information processing terminal. The combination of the identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information is configured to search whether or not the registration information managed by the server matches,
When the information processing terminal receives a matching result indicating that it matches from the server via the network and when the third identification information is unregistered with respect to any information processing terminal, If the registration result indicating that the registration of the identification information has been normally performed is received, the software is set to be executable under a normal operating environment, and the registration is not normally performed. An information processing terminal configured to execute the software under a restricted operating environment when a registration result is received. A server configured to be connected to a plurality of information processing terminals that read and execute software recorded in an information recording medium via a network,
The server is configured to store registration information related to an information processing terminal of a user permitted to use the software, and the registration information includes first identification information unique to each information processing terminal. Are registered in association with the second identification information pre-assigned to the software and the third identification information assigned so as not to overlap each other of the information recording medium,
The server further represents first identification information unique to the information processing terminal transmitted to the server by the information processing terminal connected via the network and software to be executed on the information processing terminal. The registration information is searched in response to the registration status confirmation request including the second identification information, and the information is received when the received combination of the first identification information and the second identification information matches the registration information. Sending a first verification result that permits the processing terminal to execute the software under a normal operating environment;
If the combination does not exist, the information processing terminal connected to the information processing terminal connected via the network transmits a second verification result for requesting registration of third identification information to the information processing terminal, and the information processing terminal When the registration request for the identification information is received together with the third identification information unique to the information recording medium mounted on or connected to the information recording medium, the registration status is retrieved again and transmitted from the information processing terminal. Is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal, the third identification information is registered in association with the first identification information unique to the information processing terminal, and the information A first registration result for permitting execution of software under a normal operating environment is transmitted to the processing terminal, and the third identification information is transmitted to any other information processing terminal. If there is an abnormality in at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third identification information, the information processing terminal A server configured to transmit a second registration result for restricting execution of the software. A server configured to be connected to a plurality of information processing terminals that read and execute software recorded in an information recording medium via a network,
The server is configured to store registration information related to an information processing terminal of a user permitted to use the software, and the registration information includes first identification information unique to each information processing terminal. Is registered in association with the second identification information pre-assigned to the software and the third identification information assigned so that each of the information recording media does not overlap each other,
The server further represents first identification information unique to the information processing terminal transmitted to the server by the information processing terminal connected via the network, and software to be executed on the information processing terminal. In response to the registration status confirmation request including the second identification information and the third identification information unique to the information recording medium mounted or connected to the information processing terminal, the registration information is searched and received. When the combination of the identification information, the second identification information, and the third identification information matches the registration information, the information processing terminal is permitted to execute the software under a normal operating environment. Send verification results,
If the combination does not exist and the third identification information is not registered in association with any other information processing terminal, the third identification information is stored in the information processing terminal. First registration result for registering in association with unique first identification information and permitting the information processing terminal connected via the network to execute software under a normal operating environment Or when the third identification information is registered in association with any other information processing terminal, or the first identification information, the second identification information, or the third identification information. The server is configured to transmit a second registration result for restricting execution of the software to the information processing terminal when at least one of them is abnormal. .   A recording medium configured to be mounted on or connectable to the information processing terminal according to claim 4 or 5 and storing a verification program for managing an operating environment of the software according to a registration result received from the software and the server . A license management system for software supplied from an information medium to an information processing device, the software being configured to be executable on the information processing device,
The system includes a server in the licensor of the software, and a network connection unit configured to connect a plurality of information processing apparatuses to the server via a communication network,
The server has a database in which registration information is stored in association with identification information unique to each information processing apparatus using software in which software stored in the information medium is stored. And
Registration in the database
Identification information unique to the information processing apparatus, information representing software executed on the information processing apparatus, and the software sent from the information processing apparatus connected to the server via a communication network Receiving a registration request including identification information unique to the information medium supplied to the information processing apparatus;
Verifying the identification information contained in the received registration information with the database,
When the combination of the unique identification information related to the software is new on the database, the receipt information requested to be registered is registered in the database, and the information processing apparatus receives the information from the information medium. Send license information that enables the loaded software to be executed under licensed conditions, or
When the specific information of the information medium is already registered in the database in association with the identification information of another information processing apparatus with respect to the software, registration is rejected.
A license management system configured to be performed by a procedure including the above. An information processing apparatus that operates according to the license management system according to claim 9,
An interface for reading software stored in an information medium, network connection means for connecting the information processing apparatus to the server, and means for storing license information provided from the server,
When the software read from the information medium is executed on the information processing apparatus, whether the license information provided from the server is stored in the information processing apparatus, and the license information is stored If the identification information of the information medium is registered in association with the identification information of the information processing apparatus, the identification information of the information medium is registered in association with the identification information of the information processing apparatus. An information processing apparatus configured such that software read from the information medium can be executed on the information processing apparatus under the licensed condition.   When the license information is not stored, or when the identification information of the information medium is not registered in association with the identification information of the information processing device, execution of the software on the information processing device is restricted. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the information processing apparatus is configured to be performed under certain conditions.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the information processing apparatus is a game apparatus, and the software is a game program configured to be executable on the game apparatus. An information medium for supplying software whose license status is managed by the license management system according to claim 9 to an information processing apparatus,
When the software read from the information medium is executed on the information processing apparatus, it is verified whether or not the license information given from the server exists in the information processing apparatus,
If the license information exists in the information processing apparatus and identification information specific to the information medium relating to the software is registered in association with identification information specific to the information processing apparatus, the information is read from the information medium. An information medium characterized in that the software can be executed on the information processing apparatus under a licensed condition.   If the license information does not exist or identification information specific to the information medium related to the software is not registered in association with identification information unique to the information processing apparatus, 14. The information medium according to claim 13, wherein execution of the information medium is performed under a limited condition. An information medium that supplies software whose license status is managed by the license management system according to claim 9 to the information processing apparatus, wherein the information medium stores the software and a license authentication program.
The license authentication program is read from the information medium into the information processing apparatus, and is configured to perform verification whether the license information provided from the server exists on the information processing apparatus,
When the license information exists and identification information unique to the information processing apparatus is registered in association with information representing the software and identification information unique to the information medium, the software It is configured to be executable under the licensed conditions on the device,
When the license information does not exist on the information processing apparatus, or identification information unique to the information processing apparatus is not registered in association with information representing the software and identification information unique to the information medium An information medium configured to restrict execution of the software on the information processing apparatus.   When identification information unique to the information processing apparatus is registered in association with information representing the software and identification information unique to the information medium, the software is a product version on the information processing apparatus. 16. The information medium according to claim 13, wherein the information medium is configured to be executable as an information medium.   16. The software according to claim 14, wherein when the license information does not exist on the information processing apparatus, the software is configured to be executable on the information processing apparatus with a limited use period. Information medium. A license management system for software supplied from an information medium to an information processing device, the software being configured to be executable on the information processing device,
The system includes a server in the software licensor, and a network connection unit configured such that a plurality of information processing apparatuses can be connected to the server via a communication network.
The server has a database in which identification information of a user who has made a license registration request from an information processing apparatus connected to the server via a communication network is registered in association with identification information of software for which the registration request has been made. And
Registration in the database
Registration request including identification information of a user assigned from a licensor and identification information of software executed on the information processing apparatus sent from the information processing apparatus connected to the server via a communication network Receive
The identification information included in the received registration request is registered in the database, and license information that enables the software read from the information medium on the information processing apparatus to be executed under the licensed condition is communicated to the information processing apparatus. It is configured to take place in a procedure that involves sending over a network,
The license management system, wherein the software is configured to be executable in a state where usage conditions are limited on an information processing apparatus that has not acquired the license information by the procedure. An information medium for supplying software whose license status is managed by the license management system according to claim 18 to an information processing apparatus,
The information medium stores the software and a program for verifying whether the license information exists on the information processing apparatus in which the software is read, and when the license information exists The software is stored so that the software can be executed on the information processing apparatus under a licensed condition, and when the license information does not exist, the software is executed in a restricted operating environment. Information medium characterized by being made.   When executed under the licensed conditions. 20. The software is stored in such a manner that the software is executed as a product version, and the software is executed as a demo board when executed in the restricted operating environment. Information media.

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