What is Source Code Protection?

Source code protection is the process by which a plain text code is converted into, ideally, an irreversible obfuscated form, which is unreadable to humans. In this illegible format, an adequately protected code should prove a formidable obstacle for any hacker, regardless of expertise. In this modern day and age, it has become clear that source code security needs to be prioritized, considering the endless news reports of data breaches at major companies world wide. In addition to protecting plain text code through obfuscation and encryption, it is also essential to retain and maintain visibility on where your code is being utilized and by whom.

Common justifications for Source Code Protection:

• Overall Security - Safe guard any sensitive data stored in scripts, Protect Intellectual Property!
• License Management - Ability to assign an irreversible period of validity to protected scripts and the option to remotely regulate such scripts
• Centralized Administration - Remote disablement/enablement of protected scripts's functions/features, License Enforcement
• User Access Control - Define a list of users authorized to execute obfuscated scripts
• Host Access Control - Define a list of hosts allowed to run protected scripts
• Monitoring/Metrics - Where are my scripts right now? See records of hack attempts on your protected source code
• Duplication Prevention - Prevent obfuscated scripts from functioning if original script name (given at the time of obfuscation) is ever altered
• Tamper Resistance - Auto self-aborts when hack attempts are detected on the contents of a protected script
• Modification Prevention - Ensures the protected script (in its obfuscated format) can never be modified!
• Prevent Vulnerability Scans - Protect against exploitative scans designed to find source code vulnerabilities