The ROCKEY4 (and its successor, the ROCKEY4ND) is a driver-based security device. Unlike simple license files, the ROCKEY4 utilizes an internal microprocessor with an instruction set that performs specific algorithms. When the protected software runs, it sends a "query" to the dongle; the dongle processes this via its internal hardware and returns a "response." If the response doesn't match the expected result, the software locks down. Why Emulation is Necessary Today