How to distribute keys securely with binaries in .NET?

Question

Can I distribute a .NET app that uses a key that the user can't access, but the app can?

Note that I am using the word distribute in the sense that the application is delivered to run in the user's computer, not in a cloud or cluster.

Answer 1

Anything in your application can be accessed by a skilled enough user.

This is why games and the like moved from storing key algorithms inside the program to verifying with an outside, game manufacturer owned server.

If you're just trying to keep out the average joe, just hash it and store it like any other variable..like a padlock on a door, it won't keep out the determined user, but keep honest men honest.