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When enjoying content from music and video streaming services, e-books, iTunes Music, Windows Media, etc., the digital rights management technology DRM restricts playback in apps other than the designated ones or transfer to other devices. To remove these DRM protections, you need specialized DRM removal software.

In this article, we'll explain the main types of DRM and introduce free software that can remove each type. We'll also explain specific methods for removing DRM. Since the specifications for each DRM technology are different, please choose the DRM removal software that best suits your needs and the service you use. We hope this information is helpful.

Remove various DRM

What is DRM?

DRM (Digital Rights Management) is a technology and management method that prevents unlimited use of content on electronic devices (movies, music, novels, etc.) by restricting the original data to be playable only with specific software or hardware, making it difficult for third parties to copy or reuse it.

There are various mechanisms for implementing DRM, and the mechanisms vary depending on the content format and usage, but the most common method is for users to use specific playback software (such as iTunes or Windows Media Player) to decrypt and play encrypted content. This playback software manages the user's content usage, making it possible to take measures such as making the content unplayable after the usage period has expired.

(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

Major DRM types: Streaming music/video, Blu-ray/DVD, e-books

The DRM technologies and specifications applied to various content, including music, videos, Blu-ray/DVDs, and e-books, vary. For example, DRM protection for streaming music and videos places restrictions on downloadability, the number of devices that can be used, and whether format conversion is possible. E-books have stricter restrictions for protecting rights, such as linking to an account. The table below summarizes the types of DRM, their application areas, and restrictions.

Types of DRM Content field Main Restrictions
FairPlay Streaming Streaming music from iTunes, Apple Music, etc. Offline playback time limit, format conversion not possible, device limit
Widevine Streaming videos, DMM videos Screen recording block, resolution limit, playback environment restriction
CSS, AACS DVD, Blu-ray Data reading restrictions, content duplication restrictions, access control
Kindle DRM E-books Print count, device limit, account linking
Windows Media Player DRM DRM-protected ".wmv" and ".wma" files Only playable on certain devices, copy-protected

Recommended software and methods to remove DRM (safe and free)

There are many types of media that use DRM. Professional tools are required to remove DRM, so here we will introduce free software that supports different media formats. Choose the appropriate professional DRM removal software according to your purpose.

Streaming Music DRM Removal Software: StreamByte for Music

"StreamByte for Music" is a free music-specific DRM removal software that allows you to remove DRM protection from your favorite songs and easily download them in high quality from music streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music.

Due to DRM protection, streaming music and video content can only be played within the app, and there are restrictions on storing them.StreamByte for Music" is a professional music conversion software that supports major music streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, YouTube Music, etc.Remove DRM from streaming services like Apple Musicand maximize your music320kbpsWith high quality soundCommon formats such as MP3, AAC, and FLACThe DRM-free music can then be freely enjoyed offline without storage time limits, playback restrictions or device restrictions.

In addition, this software is compatible with streaming services.Built-in browserYou can search and download your favorite songs directly without installing a music app.Bulk downloadFunctions andEdit and store ID3 tag informationIt also comes with functions that allow for efficient music management. "StreamByte for Music" offers a free trial version, so please download it and use it.

StreamByte for Music

StreamByte for Music

This is the perfect music converter for those who want to enjoy streaming music with the original sound quality. It supports multiple music platforms and allows you to save music while maintaining high sound quality.

Main functions and features of StreamByte for Music

  • Supports a variety of DRM-free formats including MP3, AAC, and FLAC
  • Remove DRM from music and play, edit and transfer freely
  • High quality audio up to 320Kbps can be freely specified
  • Customize ID3 tag information such as song title, artist, album, etc.
  • Ability to download multiple songs, albums, and playlists at once

Steps to remove DRM from music streaming services with StreamByte for Music

Below we will introduce the steps to remove DRM protection from streaming music and download it using "StreamByte for Music".

step 1After launching "StreamByte for Music" on your computer and logging in, the main screen will display several music streaming services, including Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. Select the music service you want to remove DRM from. The process is similar for each music streaming service, so we'll use Spotify as an example.

Select the music service you want to remove DRM from

Step 2When the Spotify web player screen appears, click the icon in the top right corner to log in. Once you find the music you want to remove DRM from, click the "Add to Conversion List" button or drag and drop the song into the area on the right to add it to the conversion list.

Click the "Add to conversion list" button

Step 3After adding, you can choose output format from MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, etc. in the settings options, set bitrate up to 320kbps, and change the directory to save the DRM-removed music files in the bottom left corner.

Select output format

Step 4Once the settings are done, click the "Convert All" button to start removing DRM and converting your music. The interface will show you the conversion progress, and once it's done, you can switch to the "Conversion Completed" tab to see the list of DRM-removed music.

Check the DRM-free music list

"StreamByte for MusicWith ", you canSpotify,YouTube Music, Apple Music and other major music streaming servicesRemove DRMYou can download the music in popular formats such as MP3 and AAC.Play on other playersIt is possible,Transfer to any deviceYou can enjoy it anytime, anywhere without restrictions. In addition, you can try out all the features of "StreamByte for Music" for free, so please give it a try.

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Streaming Video DRM Removal Software: StreamByte for Video

"StreamByte for Video" is a service that allows you to download videos from video distribution and sharing services.Remove DRM from MP4, MOV, MKVThis is a video download software that can save videos to your computer in the format. This software can download videos from YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, etc.1000+ Video SitesSupports up to8KHigh image quality8x SpeedYou can download videos at high speed. The downloaded videos are DRM-free, so you can save them locally and play them freely on other players. You can also transfer them to any device, such as a smartphone or tablet.Extract audio from video and save it in MP3 formatIt also has the function to share multiple videos.Bulk downloadand subtitles, audio language, etc.Customize output settingsis also possible.

How to remove DRM from streaming videos with StreamByte for Video

Here, we will use Netflix as an example to show you how to use "StreamByte for Video" to remove DRM protection from streaming videos and convert and save them in common formats such as MP4/MOV/MKV.

step 1Log in to "StreamByte for Video", select Netflix on the main interface and search for the video you want to remove DRM from. You can also paste the URL into the search bar to remove the DRM from the video and download it.

StreamByte for Video main screen

Step 2Once you find the Netflix video you want to remove DRM from, tap the icon on the top right corner. You can freely adjust the output settings, including download options, output format, video quality, subtitle saving method, etc.

Tap the icon on the top right

Step 3Once you've adjusted your settings, click the blue "Download" button in the bottom right to begin the download. You can follow the download progress on screen.

Download progress

Advantages:

  • Compatible with popular video services such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Amazon Prime
  • Lossless video output in MP4, MKV, MOV formats
  • Download videos at up to 8K resolution and up to 8x speed
  • Select and download subtitles and audio tracks
  • Simple interface and easy to use

Cons:

  • The free version is limited to downloading only the first 5 minutes of each video.

iTop Screen Recorder: A DRM-free recording software

"iTop Screen Recorder" is a free app for Windows PC.Screen Recording SoftwareIt is possible to remove DRM protection and watch video content from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, etc.Recording without a black screenIt can output in various video and audio formats such as MP4/MOV/MP3/FLAC. You can also output in full screen, specified range, window, etc.Various recording modesIn addition, the software also has built-in screenshot and video editing functions.

How to save videos locally using the recording function of "iTop Screen Recorder"

step 1Install and launch "iTop Screen Recorder" on your Windows PC.

Step 2You can record the entire screen or a specific area, so you can specify the area you want to record. You can also adjust the recording settings and choose whether to record system sound or microphone sound.

Step 3Click "REC" to start recording. If the capture screen is black and you cannot record, click the star icon in the upper right corner to turn on "Extended Mode" and you will be able to record video normally.

iTop Screen Recorder

Advantages:

  • Record and output DRM-protected videos
  • Recording files can be output in various formats
  • External audio and speaker sound can be recorded simultaneously.
  • Equipped with advanced video editing functions

Cons:

  • Recording speed is about the same as playback, so it takes time.
  • Output video quality depends on network environment
  • Doesn't retain ID3 tags, making organizing your video library a pain

DVD/Blu-ray Disc DRM Removal Software: VideoByte BD-DVD Ripper

"VideoByte BD-DVD Ripper" is a multifunctional ripping software that supports ripping DVDs and Blu-rays simultaneously.Remove DRMA wide range of genres including movies and TV showsDigitize DVDs and Blu-ray DiscsThis means that it can be played on mobile devices and common players. In addition, the settings panel allows you to adjust the output profile, such as the encoder, bit rate, and resolution.Customize parameters in detailIn addition, the latest3D Conversion TechnologyIt also has a function to convert 2D videos into 3D videos.

How to use VideoByte BD-DVD Ripper

Please refer to the steps to remove DRM from DVDs and Blu-ray Discs with "VideoByte BD-DVD Ripper". Here we will take Blu-ray Disc as an example.

step 1Start the software, insert the Blu-ray disc into the drive and read it into the software.

Load Blu-ray disc

Step 2Then select the output format of the Blu-ray you want to remove DRM from.

Step 3Then click the "Rip All" button at the bottom right to remove DRM and rip the Blu-ray.

Advantages:

  • Rip all types of DVDs and Blu-rays, including commercial, rental, and recorded discs
  • Supports over 300 video and audio formats
  • Easily remove copy protection such as CSS and CPRM
  • Convert Blu-ray/DVD content to high-quality 4K/HD video
  • Equipped with a variety of editing functions

Cons:

  • The free trial period is limited to 30 days

E-book DRM removal software: Calibre

Kindle and Kobo e-books are also protected by DRM, which restricts the printing, copying, sharing, and screen capture of purchased e-books to protect copyrights.

"Calibre" is a free software that is effective in removing DRM from e-books, compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.EPUB, MOBI, PDF, TXTIt can also be converted to formats such as Kindle, and synced with major e-book readers.Reading e-booksand author and publisher informationEditing and ManagementIt also has functions.

Steps to Remove DRM from eBooks with Calibre

Here we will show you how to remove Kindle DRM using Calibre.

step 1Then install "Calibre" and the "DeDRM Plugin".

Step 2Launch Calibre and go to Preferences > Plugins > Load Plugins from File.

Calibre settings screen

Step 3Add the "DeDRM Plugin". If a security risk appears, select "Yes".

Step 4Once the Zip file plugin has been successfully installed, click "OK". On the next screen, select "Apply" to complete the operation. Restart Calibre and add your Kindle books to Calibre, and the DRM protection will be removed immediately.

Advantages:

  • Completely free to use
  • Available for various devices including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
  • Convert e-books to EPUB, MOBI, PDF, and other formats
  • Convenient editing and management of e-book tag information

Cons:

  • May not support the latest DRM protection such as Kindle Unlimited and Apple Books
  • The software itself does not have a DRM removal function, so you need to use the "DeDRM plugin"
  • DRM removal plugin settings are complicated

DRM Removal Software for Windows Media Player: FairUse4WM

When playing DRM-enhanced content with Windows Media Player, you may see the message "An error was detected by the Windows Digital Rights Management (DRM) component" and be unable to play the content. In this case, try using the DRM removal software for Windows Media Player "FairUse4WM" is recommended.

"FairUse4WM" isFree DRM RemovalThis tool is easy to use and can quickly remove DRM-protected files without compromising the quality of the video or audio. This allows you to enjoy your purchased movies and music freely without playback restrictions. However, please note that FairUse4WMWindows Media DRM 10 and 11It is only compatible with iTunes and cannot be used with any other DRM.

How to use FairUse4WM

You can easily remove Windows Media Player DRM by following the steps below.

step 1Then, open the .wmv file you want to remove DRM from in Windows Media Player.

Step 2Launch "FairUse4WM", click the "Add Files" button at the bottom left, and select the file you want to remove DRM from.

FairUse4WM interface

Advantages:

  • Completely free to use
  • Maintains the quality of video and music
  • DRM-free content can be played freely
  • It's lightweight and can be used even in older environments

Cons:

  • Development has ended and updates have stopped
  • The interface seems a bit old-fashioned
  • Does not support the latest DRM technology

FairPlay DRM Removal Software: myFairTunes

The music files provided by iTunes Music are DRM protected, so you cannot save the music you purchased from iTunes Music and use it for other purposes. In this case, you can use the free iTunes DRM removal software for Windows, "myFairTunes" is available. With this software,Remove FairPlay DRM protection technology, iTunes MusicFormats such as MP3 and M4AAfter 2019, music data purchased from iTunes will no longer be restricted by DRM technology in M4A format, but you can still use this software to remove DRM from iTunes music data purchased before that date and enjoy it freely.

Tips: How to Remove DRM from Apple Music Songs and Keep Them

"myFairTunes" is a powerful freeware that can remove DRM protection from iTunes music, but it only supports iTunes 6 and 7. It is not necessary for music data from 2019 onwards. It also cannot remove DRM from the latest Apple Music.

Therefore, instead, we recommend "StreamByte for MusicWe recommend "Download". It uses cutting-edge DRM removal technology and allows you to save your favorite songs in MP3, M4A, WAV, and other formats for enjoyment anytime, anywhere.

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Steps to remove iTunes DRM using myFairTunes

Below are the steps to remove FairPlay DRM using "myFairTunes".

step 1Once you launch myFairTunes, it will automatically scan your iTunes library and find any songs that are DRM protected.

Step 2Once the scan is complete, it will show you a list of DRM protected music.

Step 3Select the music you want to remove DRM protection from, then click the "Start Conversion" button, and myFairTunes will convert the selected songs to MP3 format.

myFairTunes main screen

Advantages:

  • Completely free DRM removal software
  • Store DRM-protected iTunes music locally
  • Intuitive interface makes it easy to use
  • Bulk DRM removal possible

Cons:

  • Development has ended and updates have stopped
  • Outdated security measures are dangerous
  • Doesn't support the latest Apple Music DRM protection

DRM removal software information list

So far, we have introduced seven DRM removal software for media content and their operation methods in detail. We have compiled the following comparison table to summarize the features of each software, such as the supported content, operating system, and conversion functions.

DRM Removal Software StreamByte for Music StreamByte for Video iTop Screen Recorder VideoByte BD-DVD Ripper Calibre FairUse4WM myFairTunes
Supported OS Windows/Mac Windows/Mac Windows Windows/Mac Windows/Mac Windows only Windows only
Supported DRM Removal Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, LINE MUSIC, Deezer, SoundCloud, Pandora Over 1000 video sites including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube Video content from Netflix, Hulu, DMM, etc. DVDs, Blu-ray Discs E-books Windows Media Player iTunes Music
Format conversion Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Not possible Possible
Double speed conversion Possible Possible Not possible Possible Possible Not possible Not possible
ID3 tags retained Possible Possible Not possible Possible Possible Possible Possible
Bulk download Possible Possible Not possible Possible Possible Not possible Not possible
Software Updates Continuously updated Continuously updated Continuously updated Continuously updated Continuously updated Update stopped Update stopped

Please note the following points when using DRM removal software. "FairUse4WM" and "myFairTunes" are no longer in development, so they may not be compatible with the latest OS or streaming services. In such cases, it may be a good idea to consider using other DRM removal tools or a different streaming service.

To remove DRM from music streaming services,StreamByte for MusicWe recommend "StreamByte for Music." It supports major music services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, and is continually updated, ensuring stable use even in the latest environments. You can freely choose from popular formats like MP3, AAC, and WAV, and download your favorite music in bulk while maintaining the original sound quality. "StreamByte for Music" is arguably the most convenient and powerful music DRM removal software.

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

If you want to remove DRM from a video, please click "StreamByte for Music" is the best choice. It supports many streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, and is multifunctional, has high conversion efficiency, and allows you to easily save DRM-free videos locally. This allows you to freely enjoy high-quality videos.

Tips: How to remove DRM

The main ways to remove DRM from media content are as follows:

Use professional DRM removal softwareWe've introduced several DRM removal software programs above. These programs allow you to easily remove DRM protection from compatible content, such as music, videos, and e-books, and save them locally. Once DRM is removed, you can freely copy, share, and edit the media content without any restrictions.

DRM removal for audio and video recordingBesides directly removing DRM protection from media content, you can also bypass DRM restrictions by recording videos and music through screen recording or audio recording. Some high-performance recorders can even record DRM-protected content without blocking the recording process.

Use DRM-free music and videosMedia content that is not DRM-protected can be freely copied, transferred, and used. For example, music provided by the latest version of iTunes is DRM-free, so there is no need to remove the DRM after purchase, and it can be directly downloaded in common formats such as MP3, AAC, and AIFF.

DRM Removal Method Comparison: Direct Download and Conversion vs. Recording

There are differences in quality, processing speed, and effort between using professional DRM removal software to directly download and convert music and videos and bypassing DRM restrictions by recording or filming.

How to remove DRM Direct download conversion Recording and filming
quality lossless Depends on internet environment and playback quality
Processing Speed Double speed conversion Playback takes a long time at full size
Supported services DRM-protected media content DRM protection may cause a black screen
time and effort Bulk download possible Play one by one
Library Management Automatically retains ID3 tag information for convenience Manually enter ID3 tags for each file

DRM removal software can download and save streaming videos and music in lossless quality. However, the quality of the output file depends on the network environment at the time of operation. DRM removal software also uses high-speed engines and generally has the ability to download multiple contents at once, allowing large amounts of data to be converted and saved in a short amount of time. However, the time required for recording depends on the playback time of the content itself.

Overall, the best option is to use professional DRM removal software to convert and download the content directly.

Tips: Remove DRM with high quality and speed

If you are looking for a way to directly remove DRM and download multiple media data such as music and videos, we especially recommend "StreamByte for Music" and "StreamByte for Video."

"StreamByte for Music" allows you to convert and download songs directly from popular music services like Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube Music into DRM-free file formats.

"StreamByte for VideoWith ", you can save your favorite videos locally in up to 8K resolution from over 1,000 video sites, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+.

If you want to save high-quality streaming videos and music quickly and enjoy them comfortably, be sure to download and use these DRM removal software for free!

DRM Removal FAQ

Is it illegal to remove DRM?

No, it is not illegal in principle. Downloading DRM-removed content for personal use is not illegal. However, it is important to note that uploading saved content without permission or profiting from it for commercial purposes could result in legal issues. To avoid violating copyright law, be sure to use DRM-removed content only for personal use.

Will it be found out if I remove DRM?

No, as long as it is for personal use, there is no problem. The main reasons why DRM removal may be discovered are:Checks during online authentication, attempts to play on official apps and sites, and misuse of cloud sync featuresAs mentioned above, there is no need to worry as long as you use it strictly for personal use, but please be aware that the risk of being found out increases significantly if you upload it to social media or use it for commercial purposes.

How do I remove DRM?

To remove DRM, we recommend using the professional DRM removal software introduced in this article that supports the various DRMs. In addition to using software, you can also circumvent DRM protection by recording and recording using methods such as screen recording and screenshots. However, if some distribution sites detect recording activity, the screen will turn black and playback will be disabled. In addition, we recommend purchasing DRM-free content. Since it is not DRM protected, you can freely play, edit, and transfer the content.

Can I remove DRM protection on my phone?

No, you can't remove DRM protection directly on your phone. However, you can use DRM removal software on your computer to save DRM-free content locally. Since it's free of DRM protection, you can freely transfer the saved content to any device, including your phone or tablet. In this way, you can play your favorite DRM-free content on your phone.

summary

This article introduced seven DRM removal software programs. There are various types of DRM, and the appropriate software varies depending on the type. We recommend choosing the software that best suits your purposes and needs. Among these, methods for removing DRM from music and video streaming services are particularly noteworthy.

It can remove DRM protection from music streaming services and convert music to common formats such as MP3.StreamByte for MusicWe recommend using this software.Compatible with major music distribution servicesAnd maximum320kbpsIt can be converted with high sound quality.Even if you are a free Spotify member, you can download songs in DRM-free MP3 formatYou can also save multiple songs.Bulk downloadFunctions andEdit and store ID3 tag informationIt also has the following features: For those who want to enjoy music to the fullest anytime and anywhere, "StreamByte for Music" is the best choice.Free trialSo please download it and try it out.

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

Free Download

100% safe and virus free

If you want to save DRM-protected videos from video streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video,StreamByte for Video" is recommended. With this software, you can remove DRM protection from videos and download them in common formats such as MP4, MKV, and MOV. It also has a function to extract only the audio from the video and convert it to MP3. The saved streaming video is in a DRM-free format, so you can play it freely without time or place restrictions.

Born in Tokyo. Studied music culture at Tokyo Woman's Christian University, and after graduating, worked in the music distribution and download industry, gaining experience as an editor and writer. Has a deep understanding of a wide range of music genres, from rock, J-POP, classical, and metal, and is familiar with major services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

He has written over 300 articles, with a total of 6 million page views. He strives to provide accurate and easy-to-understand information so that readers can enjoy music more conveniently and safely. He currently writes articles for the StreamByte editorial department, focusing on how to use and utilize music download and conversion software.

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