Ask the editors

Protecting data on CDs and DVDs

2005/11/07 14:19:09

Question

Is there any way to store information on a disc without making it available to copy to a computer (for example, if I wanted to save pictures to a CD, but didn't want people to be able to copy it from the CD to their computer)?

-- Submitted by: Ken, CNET reader, via e-mail

Protecting data on CDs and DVDs

For protecting your data and other files, you can find encryption software that will "scramble" your disc and password-protect it. So even if someone pulled the pictures off your disc, it would be gobbledygook unless that person knew the password. Different programs employ different encryption schemes, which can vary in strength, so potentially, a person with the technical know-how could break the encryption scheme, but that's all very cloak-and-dagger! We don't review such software, but searching on the phrase "CD encryption" will get you lots of hits for such programs. We can't vouch for any of these programs, but they do exist.

If you want to protect discs that you've used to back up your system or data files, programs such as Nero 7 will allow you to encrypt your discs, provided you burn them through Nero's BackItUp Utility. However, this feature won't let you encrypt individual files.

Like this article? Click below to send it to your mobile for free!

Be the first to comment on this article!

  • Leave a comment

All fields marked with * are required

What do you think

Your e-mail will not be displayed

You must read and type the 6 chars within 0..9 and A..F

You must read and type the 6 chars.


  • 50 significant moments from internet history

  • 101 software tips, tweaks and tricks

  • Dual-core Atom heading for nettops

  • HP TouchSmart IQ800

  • HP considers own Linux-based OS

  • Apple in touchscreen Mac patent

  • Acer Aspire Predator

  • Asus Eee Box

  • Intel reveals Core i7 chips

More articles »

Find the right desktop

Brand

    • Multiple options can be selected

    • HP TouchSmart IQ800

      HP TouchSmart IQ800

      Thanks to 1080p output, TV tuner, Blu-ray player and wall mount, the new TouchSmart blurs the distinction between television and computer even further.

    • Acer Aspire Predator

      Acer Aspire Predator

      Acer's Aspire Predator ticks most of the boxes for an enthusiast's machine, but the interior is a let down.

    • Asus Eee Box

      Asus Eee Box

      We've got mixed feelings about the Eee Box, and nettops in general. You might as well buy a netbook and gain the bonus of portability.

    • Dell Studio Hybrid

      Dell Studio Hybrid

      If you consider all of the options in the price range, the Dell Studio Hybrid is not very compelling. However, if you limit yourself to the very specific niche of small PCs, you'll appreciate its clever design and relatively powerful hardware.

    • HP TouchSmart IQ505a

      HP TouchSmart IQ505a

      The second generation TouchSmart as just a panel PC is gorgeous. The AU$1,999 price is fantastic as well — but we can't help but feel that there's so much more potential in the touchscreen aspect being left, ahem, untapped.

    More reviews »

    Membership benefits

    Create a personalised homepage

    Create a personalised homepage

    Choose your interests from our 16 categories and only see articles relevant to you. Sign up for a free CNET.com.au membership now!