Encrypted DVD Videos Can Be Ripped For Private Use

Ever wondered what will happen when your kids' favorite DVD wears out? You know the one I mean, the movie or story episode that they watch again and again and again and again. The obvious response is you'll have to go out and buy a new copy. What if it isn't available? For that matter, what if you're favorite movie on DVD gets damaged or scratched and you can't find another copy for sale?

You could go see the movie again at the theater. Or, you could buy another copy of the movie on DVD.

Unfortunately, all that viewing does put wear on the DVD itself. So, what do I do, go out and buy another copy of the film, assuming it's still available? I could. I could also burn a backup copy.

Making a backup copy for your own personal use, however, is quite legal. Many stores sell decryption software, and/or DVD recorders that automatically strip off the protection files and burn a copy while you're watching.

For personal use, however, decoding the copyright protection can be done and remain legal. Why make a backup instead of simply buying another copy of the movie? As mentioned above, the movie may not be available for sale anymore.

Burning a copy of a copy protected DVD is perfectly legal when the process is used to protect an investment. In other words, if your DVD is scratched or wearing out, you are allowed, by law, to make a copy for your personal use. Copying and selling DVDs for profit is what's illegal. Preserving a movie on DVD for personal use is perfectly within the law.

To create a backup of your favorite movie, purchase decrypting software and load it onto your computer. Then you'll need to copy the DVD to the computer's hard drive. Before you copy, though, be sure you have enough space on your computer to hold all the files. Movies are reduced to about 25% of their normal size when put onto a DVD disc, so will take up massive amounts of megabytes when you open them.

Once you're sure all of the parameters have been met, run the decrypting software. All the movie files will now be on your computer. Take this time to strip off the protection software and any other files that have nothing to do with the actual movie.

Now that the movie files are on your computer, delete everything that has nothing to do with the film, particularly the protection software. Then the next time you want to burn a backup copy of this movie, it'll be simple.

Instead of, or in addition to using your computer to create a backup, there are other devices available to decrypt DVDs. One device is an eliminator box for DVD recorders, which helps to unlock the copyright protection. Another is a special DVD recorder, which can automatically strip the protections, and burn a backup copy. These recorders can do all of this as you watch the film.

So, if your DVD library is suffering from overuse, consider burning a backup copy. Save your movies now, before it's too late!
Isaiah Henry is a writer on dvd ripper solutions. Visit DVDShrinkNow.com for more information on dvd copy and dvd rippers software like DVD neXt COPY review.