5 replies to this topic

[trinityadder]

Hello.. I've got a question about trial programs, and I really hope someone can answer this.

You know those programs that have free 30-day trials and stuff? And then when you try to redownload and reinstall it says this program has already been installed on this computer and the trial has expired, so download the full version, etc. etc. ?

What I want to know, is how does the program KNOW that it has been previously installed? Does it leave a registry entry? Or a file lying around somewhere? It's a technical question, but if you know, then pleeeaase help!

Thanks!

PS: Knowing how a program does it is not illegal.

[Sida]

Could be one of many ways. A lot of programs tend to use your computer's clock aswel. Changing the date back 30 days works for some stuff.

Spoiler! --Click here to view--

Keygens and cracks though tbh.

[trinityadder]

Thanks for the reply!
That clock one is new. I'd never heard of that one being done before. 0_o
Some programs don't have cracks/keygens but have trial periods, so for those I need a way to extend the trial period.
I think it adds a registry entry, I'll have to confirm that though.

PS- What's tbh?

EDIT- Okay, got it. Google FTW.

Edited by trinityadder, 17 September 2008 - 08:46 AM.

[Cyo]

dere is cracks/keygens for all programs

[Mumei]

most programs that setup trial periods either write into the registary a number of things usually including the expiry date/time, or install and register a limited time dll

there are a number of programs that you can use on your computer to see what regs are being written when an install/first run is happening

[Sida]

Thanks for the reply!
That clock one is new. I'd never heard of that one being done before. 0_o
Some programs don't have cracks/keygens but have trial periods, so for those I need a way to extend the trial period.
I think it adds a registry entry, I'll have to confirm that though.

PS- What's tbh?

EDIT- Okay, got it. Google FTW.

A crack is something that will remove the trial period making the program work as though you paid for it.
Also, tbh = to be honest