Abstract: A copy protected compact disc (200) preferably is provided with a first session that includes the standard digital audio content (204), in a format that is readable by a conventional CD player. It also includes a second session that is configured to provide a user computer with access to an alternative form of the same digital audio content (210), but that is subject to a digital rights protocol, such as a protocol that requires a key in order to play or copy the audio content Copy protection technology is further provided on the compact disc in order to frustrate a user computer from identifying the standard digital audio content (204) as such and thereby directing the computer to the second session and the alternative audio content (210). The copy protection technology is preferably a configuration of the control data that is located in the lead in area (202) of the compact disc.

Abstract: A system and process for the concealment of digital content recorded on a storage medium such as a compact disc (CD) and, more specifically, to an apparatus and method for recording a CD or other storage medium using a recording drive, such as a CD-R or CD-RW drive, that is connected to a computer and that conceals the stored digital content on the medium from being read by a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other digital-based reader or computer device, for example as done when performing digital audio extraction (also known as ripping) of musical content from an audio CD. The apparatus and method permit improved control of the usage and copying of published content on physical media by an immediate purchaser while limiting copying and distribution of the content to unauthorized recipients.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for authentication of a computer-readable medium (120) provides advantages of automating the authentication process, and further provides redundancy in processes that may be used by a customer for authentication. It enables downloading of files and/or licenses from a central server (104), and the local use of an authentication program running on the client (102), who reduces communications and processing demands on the server (104). Further advantages include the flexibility to customize the authentication approach by varying the local criteria checked during authentication. Accordingly, downloading and further copying and distribution of software or content is effectively controlled, making piracy and other unauthorized copying more difficult.