Digital Rights Management (DRM) refers to a collection of technologies and strategies used to control and manage access to digital content and devices. These technologies are designed to protect the intellectual property rights of creators and distributors by restricting how digital media, such as music, movies, software, and e-books, can be used, copied, and shared. DRM systems are implemented to prevent unauthorized distribution and piracy, ensuring that only those who have purchased or have been granted permission can access the content.

DRM can take various forms, including encryption, digital watermarks, and license agreements, which dictate the terms under which the content can be accessed. For instance, DRM may limit the number of devices on which a piece of content can be played, restrict the ability to make copies, or require an internet connection to verify a user’s license.

While DRM is intended to protect the rights of content creators and distributors, it has also been a subject of controversy. Critics argue that it can infringe on consumer rights, limit the usability of legally purchased content, and create compatibility issues across different platforms and devices. Despite these criticisms, DRM remains a widely used tool in the digital marketplace to safeguard copyrighted works and proprietary hardware.