Method and apparatus for upgrading the software lock of microprocessor
First Claim
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1. A method for performing a software lock, comprising:
- reading a first serial number of a currently installed microprocessor;
retrieving a second serial number of a previously installed microprocessor;
comparing said first serial number and said second serial number;
seeking authorization to perform said software lock with said first serial number; and
performing said software lock with said first serial number if said authorization is obtained.
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for providing, maintaining and upgrading the software lock of a microprocessor. When a processor upgrade occurs, software that was serialized to the previously installed processor detects that it is running on an unauthorized processor. The software initiates a reauthorization process based on a reauthorization use profile. The temporary re-enabling of the software is allowed if the authorization service is not available.
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Citations
10 Claims
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1. A method for performing a software lock, comprising:
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reading a first serial number of a currently installed microprocessor; retrieving a second serial number of a previously installed microprocessor; comparing said first serial number and said second serial number; seeking authorization to perform said software lock with said first serial number; and performing said software lock with said first serial number if said authorization is obtained. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4)
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5. A system for performing a software lock, comprising:
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means for reading a first serial number of a currently installed microprocessor; means coupled to said reading means for retrieving a second serial number of a previously installed microprocessor; means coupled to said reading means and said retrieving means for comparing said first serial number and said second serial number; means responsive to said comparing means for seeking authorization to perform said software lock with said first serial number; and means responsive to said seeking means for performing said software lock with said first serial number. - View Dependent Claims (6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. An apparatus for upgrading a software lock of a computer system, comprising:
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an upgrade microprocessor having a first serial number associated therewith; a storage device coupled to said upgrade microprocessor and configured to store a second serial number of a previously installed microprocessor; and means for upgrading software lock from said previously installed microprocessor to said upgrade microprocessor, said upgrading means including; means for comparing said first serial number and said second serial number; means responsive to said comparing means for seeking authorization to perform said software lock; and means responsive to said seeking means for performing said software lock.
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Specification