Almost everybody has a DVD or VCD player these days. The technology to copy the DVD format is growing in popularity as well. Why would anybody need to copy a DVD? What kind of software should they use? As with any technological progression, these and other questions need to be asked when selecting the DVD copy software that is right for you.

The average lifespan of a well protected CD (compact disc) or DVD (Digital Video Disc) is only five years. While this may seem like a long time, there are other factors to take into consideration. While the DVD format offers excellent quality in sound and video reproduction, it can easily be damaged. Perhaps the most common problem with the DVD format is scratching. Scratching can cause the movie to skip or not play at all. Anybody who has ever tried to get a CD or DVD out of one of the Disc Sets it is packaged with knows how easy it is to scratch them. One false move and you have purchased a DVD movie for nothing.

Given the large price tag on most DVD movies, especially when they are a New Release, it is advisable to back up your DVD to protect your investment. Not only is the DVD format great for backing up movies, but it allows you to store a large amount of data to disc as well. Blank DVDs are finally available at a reasonable price. However, if you wish to protect your investment in movies and data, you need to have a reliable software program to do so.

One of the things you need to decide when you select your DVD Copy Software is what other functions it has. The same software that you use for backing up and copying your DVD should be compatible for CDs also. While being able to make a DVD or CD Label is nice, it is not imperative and can be done with many software programs other than DVD Copy Programs. You should be able to use your DVD Copy Software to "rip" or copy the DVD to your hard drive. This will allow you to make multiple backup CDs or DVDs and make new copies whenever you need them. Anybody who has more than one person using their DVD collection will immediately understand the need for this and the logic behind it. By making multiple DVD copies you can make sure that you will always be able to use what you have bought.

Other handy features to look for with your DVD software are compatibility issues. Many DVD players will not play VCD (Video Compact Disc) movies. What file formats does the software use? You should select a DVD copy program that has the ability to record your backup DVD in many formats, including MPG, MPG2, DIVx, WMV, MOV or any of the other common video file formats.

If you are not very comfortable on your computer, do not be afraid. Most DVD copy software is easy to use and includes help files that will guide you through the process of backing up your CD or DVD with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions. The most important factor of all is making sure that you have a quality DVD or CD copy program with software that you know you can use.

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About the Author

S. Stammberger is the editor of Copy Software Tools. Top DVD Copying Software Reviewed.