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Runtime program security

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    Runtime program security

    I certainly hope this question has not been answered before, as I looked at what was here but didn't see any similar question. So, if I'm repeating a question, mea culpa and point me to the path (!).

    I'm interested in the runtime version of Alpha for distribution of a commercial package. In this regard, how robust are A5 runtime versions to reverse engineering? In specific: if others have the runtime version, is it possible to dig into the "foreign" product?

    Thanks for any info!

    -- JB

    #2
    RE: Runtime program security

    The runtime allows you to run the application; however, you cannot edit the application with the runtime. So, that isn't your worry. What could be done is a customer could buy the full version of the program and use it to open your application. Then they would have access to your layout designs and scripts. But you can password protect the scripts in an application and you can hide the control panel when the first form opens making it difficult for all but the most determined hacker to get in.

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      #3
      RE: Runtime program security

      Thanks for the quick reply! This tells me I have to do some thinking. Maybe there will be a couple of other responses too, with other angles!

      Thanks for the input! Appreciate it greatly.

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        #4
        RE: Runtime program security

        John,

        If your commercial package includes proprietary data beware. The dbf format used for data storage in Alpha Five is not secure.

        Vers 5, beta, includes an encryption mechanism that may over come this when Vers 5 is released.

        -- tom

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          #5
          RE: Runtime program security

          If someone has the full version of Alpha, they could see how you have designed your app, and alter the design.

          I have sold many apps using Runtime (in fact, I never sell an app without), and on several, I have password-protected the scripts. While not 100% secure (is anything, really?), at least they can't get into my scripts (unless they're VERY clever), and the scripts control most of the features of the apps.

          Heed Tom's warning about the data itself.

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            #6
            RE: Runtime program security

            Tom,
            Thanks for that tip. I'll have to check the beta out, but haven't had the change to do so yet, as I just received it. I'll look up that function. I have been thinking about a dongle for program and data encryption, but wanted to stay away from that as much as possible.

            If I might be forgiven for breaking the thread on this topic a bit, I'm new to Alpha and this forum. But what I've seen of the support offered here (and the courtesy and professional--and friendly--feedback I've had a chance to lurk over) has impressed me. Also the responses and the quick turnaround to my questions "up the ladder" so to speak to Richard (Rabins) and Selwyn--I just noted they have the same surname; hmmm--well, I think that speaks volumes. Thanks to all of you for making my stay interesting and collegial! I'll do my best to adhere to tradition!

            -- JB

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