I purchased some software recently and installed the cd and entered the serial key etc. but since then I have lost the cd. so I have the software successfully installed on the pc but I want to install the software on another computer. What I want to know is, is it possible to rip the software from the pc to another pc? if that makes sense, any suggestions appreciated. thanks
It depends on the software, but usually the answer is no. Most installers install files, such as dll's, onto the computer. This process will then register the dll's and usually write several keys to the registry. While it's possible to trace down all of the files, dll's, and registry keys it's usually very difficult.
It's possible but the software is kind of expensive. It's called laplink pcmover. It transfer the programs with registry entries to a different computer (even with a different os). Years ago I had an uninstall program that would also uninstall and save all the files/registry entries into a zip file. I could then unzip and install that program on a different computer and it would work. I don't recall the name of that program but I know it is possible to do what you want. Laplink is the most well known but there or other brands. From laplink website Time and again Laplink comes across the same popular misconception among bloggers, journalists and consumers – that the only way to get a program from one PC to another is to un-install and re-install the software onto the new machine. That is why Laplink is out to set the record straight: with PCmover anyone can transfer programs and applications from one machine running Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, or XP to another computer running Windows XP, including Macs with Parallels or Bootcamp. And Laplink will have a Vista certified version ready in time for the operating system’s 2007 launch. With PCmover, users can transfer software programs, plus all of their files and settings, to a new computer. It’s as easy as installing PCmover on both machines, making sure they are connected through any LAN or a Laplink USB Cable, and spending under 5 minutes clicking through a simple migration wizard. Users can then leave the program alone to perform the migration.
That software is used to move all of your files from one computer to another. While it works great for that purpose, I don't remember ever seeing any settings to only pick one application to move to another computer. It's been several years since I've used it, but I don't think it will work for your situation.
