Re: Client binaries

[Jonathan Roy <ninja@halcyon.com>]

Netrek seems to have a working system. They have precompiled binaries
with RSA code to authroize themselves. These binaries can be sent
anyplace out of the US. The source code for the clients
is availible, but the RSA code is only availile seperatly
by request, and only to those in teh US. Certain keys are used in sending
out the by-request RSA code, so that if someone seems to be absuing
it, you just expire that RSA key. The binaries have their own
keys, and have default expirations of 3-4 months. This way you don't
have to upgrade or even compile new patch level for all systems
(binaries for Paradise usually run 5-6 patchs before a new
binary is posted), but you can always compile it yourself
if you like.

Netrek server have the choice of allowing or disallowing non RSA
clients. Paradise allow all to play, which is good for people who
can't use RSA. (Using term, or whatever). MOst Bronco sites
only allow RSA clients.

So... That system seems reasonable. Pre-compiled RSA clients,
source for non-RSA, and the server decides to allow non-RSA
or now...