How to Protect Downloadable Video Courses
A downloadable course gives the learner a local file. Protecting that file requires more than hiding the download URL, but the viewing experience must still work on the devices and timelines the course promises.
Quick answer
Use GiliSoft Video DRM Protection to build a protected course package, issue Playback Passwords to purchasers, and test the chosen binding and expiry settings on the expected player environment.
Define the Purchase-to-Playback Path
| Situation | Approach | Check before release |
|---|---|---|
| Instant self-service access | Fixed password is simpler to issue | Sharing risk and order-to-password workflow |
| One licensed computer | PC Binding supports one approved machine | Machine Code collection and replacements |
| Refund or cancellation | Plan expiry or an online blacklist | Blacklist only affects future online checks when configured |
| Offline viewing | Test the supported player without connectivity | Do not promise immediate online revocation while offline |
How to Protect and Deliver the Videos
- Specify the course license
Decide permitted devices, duration, refund handling, and what support will do when a viewer changes hardware.
- Protect the approved files
Add the course videos in GiliSoft Video DRM Protection, save Project ID and Encryption Key, and export the intended GEM or EXE package.
- Issue the right viewer password
For PC Binding, obtain the viewer Machine Code and create a matching Playback Password. Apply play counts or expiration only if the course terms require them.
- Test real enrollment cases
Try a new purchaser, expired password, wrong machine, and interrupted connectivity. Confirm the viewer can get captions or an accessible alternative.
The Video DRM Protection user guide shows the matching settings, password maker, and supported package workflow.
Product Interface for This Workflow
Use the actual GiliSoft Video DRM Protection screens to confirm project settings, protected output, and viewer credentials.
Check the Viewer Experience
- Keep the publisher Encryption Key and Project ID separate from the viewer Playback Password.
- Test the completed GEM or EXE package in the supported playback environment, not just the original source video.
- Check expiry, device changes, caption or transcript access, and a reachable support route.
- When using an online blacklist, confirm it was configured before release and verify the next online check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this protect streaming video on my course site?
This page covers downloadable protected packages, not a hosted streaming DRM deployment.
Can a leaked password be disabled?
The product supports an online blacklist, but future enforcement depends on the package being configured for and reaching that check.