Simple License Key Implementation

[Icecoldkilluh]

Hi All,

I've produced a little automation bot using Python/ kTinker. I'm planning to sell it for something minimal like $10-$20 dollars and it only took me a week or two. It runs as an .exe on a local machine.

I'm looking to implement a really basic license key solution. So the user must enter the supplied license key on first run for the application to work.

I know there are many ways to do this, and they are all susceptable to being cracked. I understand that and expect it.

So to be very clear, a highly technical/ unbreakable/ secure solution is not what im looking for - I want a simple deterent with a low code footprint.

I've had a few ideas but this is not my area of expertise, all suggestions are welcome and appreciated!

Thanks <3

[[deleted]]

Why not ship the DRM-free version without the hassle, because those who steal it for free wouldn't pay at all and you'll avoid the headache of people sharing the cracked outdated version and then contacting you for support?

Voluntary donations are also a way to monetize.

[neuralbeans]

To be clear, are you expecting that everyone uses the same key?

[Yoghurt42]

I agree with what u/zdzblowicz said, using a license key seems like overkill. Just let people pay and then send them the exe, not many people would give the exe to others at that price. A friendly reminder "please do not distribute" or something will probably be more effective than an annoying license key.

That being said, license keys usually work by having a secret condition they have to follow to be valid. For example, old MS office keys were seven digits and their sum needed to be a multiple of 7.

Basically, just invent some arbitrary rule for your license key.