At ftp://ftp.cdrom.com/pub/infozip/zlib/zlib.html, there's a freeware compression library called zlib. About a year and a half ago, as an exercise, I created a class that would use it to compress (and encrypt) data entered into a VFP table. The class works well enough, especially on memo fields, but can cause shorter strings (<1k), such as most fields are, to 'bloat' instead of shrink. You can also encrypt/unencrypt entire tables by converting them to a string and feeding the results through zlib.dll. You do have to keep track of the size of the original file once it's compressed so you can uncompress it. At the FTP site, there are examples of how to use the library in VB code which is easy enough to understand. It was a neat exercise but I never really found any use for it. If you're interested, let me know. I'll send you my test class or post it here if you'd prefer.

Good luck,

Gregg

>Hi!
>
>I am working with a client that has a series of lookup tables and tables that tell how information is connected (pseudo-artificial intelligence), and they are concerned that anyone with foxpro or ODBC can access/change this information.
>
>The product is not currently multi-user and there are no plans to make it multi-user.
>
>Things I am considering:
>1. Include the tables and indices into the EXE and make sure that the encrypted flag is set in project info.
>
>2. Finding a 3rd party product that allows secure access to the tables.
>
>I am interested in any 3rd party products that you have used and found helpful. Also any pitfalls that you have experienced with the product.
>
>TIA,