This tutorial explains the demo mode functionality in PC Guard's Remote Protection, including how it works, how to activate or extend the demo period, and how the evaluation period operates.

1. Introduction to demo mode

When a user first runs a protected application, the application prompts for a valid activation code. However, if demo mode is enabled, the user is granted a trial period during which they can evaluate the application. The user can activate the application either during the trial or after it expires.

2. How the demo mode works

When demo mode is enabled, the application will either:

• Display an activation dialog if certain options are enabled, such as:
  • "Display execution limitation counter"

  • "Display date limitation counter"

  • "Always display activation dialog box"

In this case, the user has two options:

• Activate the application using a valid activation code.

• Enter application in demo mode by selecting the default radio button ("Enter application") and clicking "Continue."

If these options are not enabled, the application will start automatically without displaying the activation dialog.

3. Activating the application

If the demo mode has expired or if the user decides to enter the application in demo mode after the trial period, the activation dialog will display upon startup, prompting the user to input a valid activation code.

4. Using Special key pop-up feature

The "Special key pop-up enabled" option allows the end user to manually invoke the activation dialog by pressing a special key before launching the protected application. This gives more control over when the activation dialog appears.

5. Demo mode Expiry and Reinstallation

When the evaluation period expires, the application will prompt for a valid activation code. However, reinstalling the application will not extend the evaluation period unless an extension activation code is provided. The evaluation period is tied to the original installation and cannot be reset by reinstalling the application.

6. Extending the demo mode

The demo period can be extended during or after the evaluation period expires. This can be done using an activation code with the "Extend evaluation period" flag enabled. By default, the same demo limitations (such as the number of days and runs) will be applied.

However, the fixed date limitation cannot be extended. If such a limitation is in place, the message "Evaluation period for this program can't be extended!" will be displayed.

Custom Demo Extensions: Using extended activation codes allows you to modify the default demo settings, offering flexibility with the trial period.

7. What Happens After the Demo Mode Extension

Once an extension code is applied, the user will see the message: "Evaluation period successfully extended! Please restart the application."

Conclusion

By using demo mode, you can give end users a trial period to evaluate the application before committing to purchasing an activation code. You can further extend the trial period using special activation codes. Keep in mind, however, that using demo mode is less secure than using remote protection without demo limitations.