Hardware Lock for Linux Live CD

vahab · 04-03-2012, 01:57 PM

Hi,

I am creating a live Debian CD for a specific server which I do not want to boot on another servers; because it contains a commercial software.
I am thinking about reading something like CPU id or disk id (if possible) of the server and check them in start-up.But if we insert the code in start-up scripts it can be easily broken by another admin.

Could anyone please suggest a solution for this issue.

Thanks.

Steviepower · 04-03-2012, 02:11 PM

write the check in a seperate small c program and compile it? or maybe just put the check in the software itself?

unSpawn · 04-03-2012, 05:11 PM

Moved: This thread is more suitable in the Linux General forum (as it's not a Linux security issue) and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.

jefro · 04-03-2012, 10:14 PM

Going to be a bit difficult. I never tried it but maybe you could encrypt the disk.
See this for ideas. http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1163409

Might have use an encryption key like a hardware encryption key that they'd have to buy.

Anyone with physical access to some media has an advantage.

Might look at something like gpxe/ipxe and remote boot this so they can't get access to the system. You'd have to look it all down no matter what so they can't access it.

I'd think it a snap to do with a encrypted live usb. Cost is nothing really. 8G for like $10.