Limit Excel file access to a certain number of times

[gyro2222]

I have an excel file which imports data from a text file and then generates a report based on the data.
I would like to have a way to limit the number of times a user can access this report, so I can charge for usage.
Ideally, i could set the number of times they can run this file (or import data) by having it count down the number of times the file was accessed and then stop running once the counter reaches 0.
It would then have to be refreshed once the user has paid for another set of X usages.
any suggestions?
Thanks
Hal

 

[Rijnsent]

Hi Hal,
I've played with the idea myself, but you'll run into the following situation: say I have a working copy of your workbook, I just save that somewhere and everytime the counter inside the file hits the restraint, I'll make a copy of that base file. What I've seen working:
-like most software, make a registry entry to monitor usage, but this is still hackable
-in your VBA link to an online system/database with e.g. "maximum date to use file" or a counter that is user-specific.
-I've created files that worked for a year (with a constant in VBA with the end date), the file will open afterwards, but not work anymore and give a warning to the user a month before the end date.
Hope that gets you started,
Koen

 

[tonyyy]

There's another thread - with sample code - that discusses what you're looking for...

Cheers,

tonyy

 

[Smitty]

Welcome to the Board!

Note that all someone needs to do is disable macros to get around whatever you do. And you can run into issues disabling someone's ability to access their own data. It's a very slippery slope.

Do a search for Excel Compiler, which allows you to create/distribute a fully functional, but locked-down copy of your workbook.

HTH,