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Digital rights management (DRM)

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Digital Rights Management, DRM, is a method in which digital products such as games, music, and films, can be controlled with the aim of reducing copyright infringement (piracy).

Forms of DRM

DRM can come in many forms, not all of them exclusive to each other.

CD-Key

The simplest form of DRM is CD-key. The game comes with a code, usually printed in the case or on the back of the manual, that the user inputs during install.

User accounts

A game is registered to an online account that checks if the user owns that particular game. The most common appearance of this DRM is Steam.

Partial Install

Part of the game may not be on the disc, requiring a download of the rest of the games content in order to work.

DRM Software

Steam

Probably one of the most common and accepted forms of DRM. Steam ties all games bought through its service, or using the Steamworks API, to a user account.

SecuROM
StarForce


Controversy

DRM presents an issue for long term games collectors as it can lead to games becoming completely locked out as CD-keys are lost, studios close or withdraw support, or online services discontinued.