What is a software key

[bluedolphin]

I have downloaded some software from kazaa and when trying to use it it prompts me for a Software Key...what is this? Can I buy one ? What do they do and what do they look like?

[Mobius1]

Software keys are used for a number of things. Sometimes if you download a piece of software, entering the key will unlock all of it's advanced features. In this case you will have to pay for the key from the software supplier. In the case of downloading software from Kazaa, which is in fact illegal, the software key is to prevent you from using it. If you had purchased the softeare legitimately you would have received the key with it, but since you've downloaded it you likely can't use the program or some of it's more advanced features. There are ways of getting around this but I'd probably be banned from this site for telling you.

[lisaj]

Actually, downloading software from Kazaa is not illegal. Downloading commercial software from Kazaa instead of buying it is illegal. There is a bucketload of freeware and shareware out there is is perfectly legal to download and use wherever you get it from.

[Mobius1]

Indeed that is correct, and you have just pointed out the very difference between software, and the 'legal to download' freeware and shareware. I can't remember the last time a piece of freeware asked me for a software key. Go figure.

[sft42]

ok dolphin go back on to Kazaa and type in the name of the software you downloaded the the word "crack" afterwards, this will let you DL a patch that will get round the software key...good luck and if kazaa can't help try WinMX instead.