How to backup licenses of DRM protected .WMV, .WMA Windows Media files

When you purchase DRM protected audio or video file such as song, music, audiobook, movie, etc from online store or content provider, you should always backup you DRM licenses to save your purchased files in case of a computer failure.

The licenses (media usage rights) are important component of Windows Media Player DRM in where it defines how the copy-protected file can be used, or the permission for where, when and how you can play the media.

If these DRM licenses are lost, you won't be able to playback the your copy-protected .WMA or .WMV files, that previously were playing without any problem. And your license issuer (like digital music service, online shop,...) can limit the amount of times you can re-acquire your licenses. It can also prohibit license re-acquisition.

So it is very important to backup Windows Media Player licenses all DRM protected content.

Please note that only Windows Media Player 7, 8, 9 and 10 supports license backup and restore feature. If you use WMP11, you can't use your Windows Media Player to backup you licenses.

Most digital music services suggests you to back up music by burning it to an audio CD or CDs (using Windows Media Player 11, Nero, ...) as they have no way to replace song and license files if they are lost.

Note that not all your licenses can be backed up. The backup rights can be denied by the online store where you bought the DRM protected file.

You can also use regular PC backup method to backup your DRM licenses.

How to backup licenses of DRM protected .WMV, .WMA Windows Media files

1. In Microsoft Windows Media Player, click on the Tools menu.
2. Click Manage Licenses in Windows Media Player 10, or click License Management in Windows Media Player 7-9.
3. To change the backup location, click Change, and then select a location where you want to store backup copies of your licenses.
4. Click Back Up Now.
5. If the backup step fails, try to delete the Drmv2.sst file that is located in the DRM folder on your hard disk, and then try to backup again. To locate the DRM folder on your hard disk, read the following thread:
   Windows Media Player 10/11: How to determine IBX version (Windows XP).
6. Burn the backup copies to CD / DVD or copy to external USB flash drive, if necessary.

How to restore licenses of DRM protected .WMV, .WMA Windows Media files (Windows Media Player 7-10)

1. In Windows Media Player, click on the Tools menu.
2. Click Manage Licenses in Windows Media Player 10, or click License Management in Windows Media Player 7-9.
3. Select the location of the backup copies of your licenses. If you need to, insert the USB flash disk/memory key or floppy disk where your licenses are stored.
4. Make sure you're connected to Internet.
5. Click Restore Now.

[bmnstrm]

C:\documentsandsettings\allusers\drm

its a hidden folder so just type it in and then hit enter and it should show up.