AACS LA

AACS LA, LLC (Advanced Access Content System Licensing Administrator) is the entity responsible for licensing and administering the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) copy protection technology. AACS is a digital rights management (DRM) system used primarily on Blu-ray Discs, HD DVDs (now obsolete), and other forms of digital media.

AACS LA develops the AACS specifications and licenses the technology to manufacturers of hardware and software products that play or create Blu-ray Discs and other AACS-protected content. These licensees must adhere to the AACS specifications and security requirements in order to maintain their license and continue to access AACS keys.

AACS LA is comprised of several major media and technology companies. The organization's primary role is to protect copyrighted content by managing the keys necessary to decrypt and play AACS-protected media. The organization is involved in combating piracy by revoking keys from devices or software that have been compromised, preventing them from playing newer AACS-protected discs. These revocations are distributed with new releases of protected content.

The revocation process and the overall effectiveness of AACS have been subjects of debate and controversy. Circumvention tools and methods have emerged over time, prompting AACS LA to continually update and improve the AACS specifications and security measures.