Importance

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Abstract

A system and method of distributing music and video signals over a network is disclosed. In one embodiment a unique encryption key is generated based on who the user is and what content the user is requesting to download. When a user downloads a new music or video title, it is encrypted in a manner which no other users can decrypt. The encryption key needed to encrypt the digital music or video signal is stored on the client in an opaque format to prevent duplication and unauthorized playback. In another embodiment the user belongs to one or more subscription groups receives a subscription-based key. In another embodiment, electronic commerce units will be used to purchase music and video content. Also disclosed is a unique system and method for transferring digital multimedia content to one of a plurality of hardware players. In one embodiment the multimedia content is transferred to the hardware player in encrypted format. The multimedia content is then encrypted in the hardware player using a unique playback encryption key and a decryption module within the hardware player. In another embodiment the multimedia content is decrypted and then only a portion of the signal is re-encrypted before being transferred to the hardware player.

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First Claim