Hi, all. New to the forum. I spent some time reading some past threads about Source Protection in ControlLogix. Seems to be some differing opinions on its use and credibility. This is of great interest to me. A little history.
I have been writing programs for the same type machinery (which I do not build) for 20 years. I have had competitors upload my programs and then use them to control machines made by the same manufacturer I work for and other manufacturers. This has cost my employer several projects and plenty of revenue.
I am now attempting to prevent this from happening again. But there is one thing about the Source Protection I can not find a solid answer to...
Is it possible, legally or illegally, to "crack" the Source Protection in ControlLogix? I have had several people tell me the Source Protection was a "joke" and was easily defeated with export/import. This was tested and was determined to be a myth. The code was present, but encrypted. Is there a way to get around the encryption? Is there a "back door", intentional or not, left by RSI? RSI, Microsoft, Autodesk, and many other "software" companies go to great lengths to prevent the illegal copying and use of their software. Originally designed and coded PLC logic is no different (in my opinion). But I see no way to protect my company's investment in developing the code other than a means provided by the manufacturer. That, at least for now, leaves me with the Source Protection from RSI. So does it work? Is it really secure?
Thanks,
South
I have been writing programs for the same type machinery (which I do not build) for 20 years. I have had competitors upload my programs and then use them to control machines made by the same manufacturer I work for and other manufacturers. This has cost my employer several projects and plenty of revenue.
I am now attempting to prevent this from happening again. But there is one thing about the Source Protection I can not find a solid answer to...
Is it possible, legally or illegally, to "crack" the Source Protection in ControlLogix? I have had several people tell me the Source Protection was a "joke" and was easily defeated with export/import. This was tested and was determined to be a myth. The code was present, but encrypted. Is there a way to get around the encryption? Is there a "back door", intentional or not, left by RSI? RSI, Microsoft, Autodesk, and many other "software" companies go to great lengths to prevent the illegal copying and use of their software. Originally designed and coded PLC logic is no different (in my opinion). But I see no way to protect my company's investment in developing the code other than a means provided by the manufacturer. That, at least for now, leaves me with the Source Protection from RSI. So does it work? Is it really secure?
Thanks,
South