Editing Key (lock) (section)

===Restricted key===
A restricted keyblank has a keyway for which a manufacturer has set up a restricted level of sales and distribution. Restricted keys are often protected by patent, which prohibits other manufacturers from making unauthorized productions of the key blank. In many cases, customers must provide proof of ID before a locksmith will cut additional keys using restricted blanks. Some companies, such as Medeco High Security Locks, have keyways that are restricted to having keys cut in the factory only. This is done to ensure the highest amount of security. These days, many restricted keys have special in-laid features, such as magnets, different types of metal, or even small computer chips to prevent duplication.

Another way to restrict keys is trademarking the profile of the key.
For example, the profile of the key can read the name of the manufacturer.
The advantage of a trademark is that the legal protection for a trademark can be longer than the legal protection for a patent.
However, usually not all features of the profile are necessary to create a working key.
By removing certain unnecessary features, a non restricted profile can be derived, allowing the production and distribution of non restricted key blanks.