1. A method for providing security for software used in a computer, which includes a working memory, and a program stored in said memory, which method includes, in combination, the steps of: (a) loading a program into said working memory, which program includes instructions for (i) generating preselected coded interrogation signals, (ii) assessing response signals thereto, and (iii) generating command signals according to preselected security criteria; (b) commencing execution of said program; (c) transmitting said coded interrogation signals from said memory to an electronic security device which automatically processes said received signals and generates a coded response thereto; (d) transmitting said coded response to said memory; and (e) generating a command signal from said memory which causes said computer to complete the execution of said program only if said response signal satisfies said preselected security criteria.