Open Access

Andreas Schaad, Björn Grohmann, Oliver Winzenried

• Protecting software from illegal access, intentional modification or reverse engineering is an inherently difficult practical problem involving code obfuscation techniques and real-time cryptographic protection of code. In traditional systems a secure element (the "dongle") is used to protect software. However, this approach suffers from several technical and economical drawbacks such as theProtecting software from illegal access, intentional modification or reverse engineering is an inherently difficult practical problem involving code obfuscation techniques and real-time cryptographic protection of code. In traditional systems a secure element (the "dongle") is used to protect software. However, this approach suffers from several technical and economical drawbacks such as the dongle being lost or broken. We present a system that provides such dongles as a cloud service, and more importantly, provides the required cryptographic material to control access to software functionality in real-time. This system is developed as part of an ongoing nationally funded research project and is now entering a first trial stage with stakeholders from different industrial sectors.…