key-operated software

noun

UK /kiː ˈɒpəreɪtɪd ˈsɒftweə/

US /kiː ˈɑːpəreɪtɪd ˈsɔːftwer/

Software that you can only use after you type in a special code.

The game is key-operated software, so you need a license key before you can play it.

SYNONYMS

licensed software activation-key software product-key software serial-key software

RELATED WORDS

license key activation code software license product key registration

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Software whose features are unlocked by entering a purchased key.

After buying the key-operated software, she entered the code to unlock all the tools.

3. A program that requires a hardware or dongle key to run.

The design program is key-operated software that only works when the USB key is plugged in.

4. Software protected by a key-based copy-protection system.

Pirates tried to crack the key-operated software but the key check blocked them.