Flash Content Protection with Adobe Flash Access 2.0

Streaming content on the web is hard to protect because of several proxy software around. Adobe has something to counter this problem by taking the protection features right inside the Flash itself. Formerly known as Adobe Flash Media Rights Management Server, Adobe released the new version of this product re-branded as Adobe Flash Access 2.0.

This is a solution for enterprises that want to protect their Flash content through premium memberships or blacklists. This new release will enable companies to protect Flash content while securely playing back Flash videos.

Adobe Flash Access 2.0 was presented and went through several demonstrations at the 2009 IBC tradeshow in Amsterdam, Holland, being scheduled to ship out later this year, along with a new version of Adobe's Flash Player. Flash Access 2.0 is not compatible with currently used Adobe Flash Players.

This new security product will certainly find its way in several domains like online TV, on-demand video viewing, event broadcasting, chat-rooms, and many others, which have been recently plagued by proxy software like Vidalia (Tor) or UltraSurf. It uses standard cryptography, while being able to handle industry-standard FLV files, as well as MPEG 4 (H264).

“As the No. 1 software for delivering video on the Web, the Adobe Flash Platform has enabled millions of users to enjoy high-quality content,” said Jim Guerard, VP and GM of Dynamic Media at Adobe Systems Incorporated, “With Adobe Flash Access 2.0, media publishers can rely on robust protection for premium content to support new, emerging business models for rich, interactive online experiences.”

Industry reactions soon followed. “At Warner Bros., we are always looking for innovative ways to enable our audiences to enjoy online video,” said Darcy Antonellis, President of Warner Bros.’ Technical Operations. “We welcome the development of Adobe Flash Access, which will help create new possibilities for our current and future partners to deliver Warner Bros. content seamlessly and easily to Adobe Flash Player, expanding access to our entertainment online.”