What is Azure Content Protection?
Azure Content Protection is a service within Azure Media Services that protects video content with Digital Rights Management (DRM) and AES encryption. The service supports all major DRM systems: Microsoft PlayReady, Google Widevine, and Apple FairPlay. This enables premium content to be securely delivered across all end devices.
Core Features
- Multi-DRM support: PlayReady, Widevine, FairPlay
- AES-128 Clear Key Encryption for simpler scenarios
- Token-based authentication for license requests
- Dynamic encryption without re-encoding content
- Integration with Azure CDN for global delivery
Typical Use Cases
Streaming services protect premium movies and series from piracy. Education platforms secure paid course content. Sports broadcasters encrypt live events for paying subscribers.
Benefits
- One service for all DRM platforms (Windows, iOS, Android, Web)
- No separate DRM infrastructure required
- Dynamic encryption saves storage costs
- Enterprise scale with Azure Media Services infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
Which DRM systems does Azure Content Protection support?
Content Protection supports Microsoft PlayReady (Windows, Xbox), Google Widevine (Chrome, Android), and Apple FairPlay (Safari, iOS, Apple TV). This covers all major platforms.
What is the difference between DRM and AES encryption?
AES Clear Key Encryption protects content with a simple key that is decrypted in the player. DRM provides additional protection through hardware security, license conditions, and more robust copy protection. DRM is recommended for premium content.
Do I need to re-encode my videos for DRM?
No, Azure Content Protection uses Dynamic Encryption. This means your videos are only encrypted during delivery. You store only one unencrypted version and save storage costs.
How does token authentication work?
Your backend generates JWT tokens with claims for the user. These tokens are validated on license requests. This ensures only authorized users receive licenses without you operating your own license infrastructure.
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you with Azure Content Protection: DRM strategy, integration into streaming platforms, and architecture consulting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which DRM systems does Azure Content Protection support?
Content Protection supports Microsoft PlayReady (Windows, Xbox), Google Widevine (Chrome, Android), and Apple FairPlay (Safari, iOS, Apple TV). This covers all major platforms.
What is the difference between DRM and AES encryption?
AES Clear Key Encryption protects content with a simple key that is decrypted in the player. DRM provides additional protection through hardware security, license conditions, and more robust copy protection. DRM is recommended for premium content.
Do I need to re-encode my videos for DRM?
No, Azure Content Protection uses Dynamic Encryption. This means your videos are only encrypted during delivery. You store only one unencrypted version and save storage costs.
How does token authentication work?
Your backend generates JWT tokens with claims for the user. These tokens are validated on license requests. This ensures only authorized users receive licenses without you operating your own license infrastructure.
