End users need a separate license containing the key to play a packaged media file with the Windows Media Player. Media files and licenses are stored separately, making it easier to manage the entire system. Windows Media Packager also handles Web site creation and management, publishing media files to the Windows Media Server, and tracking Web site usage statistics. The Windows Media Rights Manager server creates and manages pages on the Web site, issues licenses to registered consumers, and stores information about media files, licenses, and registered consumers. Advantages for Content Providers With Windows Media Rights Manager, retailers and record labels can set up Internet music stores to distribute media files and gather customer information.
Record labels can generate interest in new bands by offering songs for free download.
Without jeopardizing copyright, companies can gather extremely targeted customer information. Unsigned garage bands might upload and market directly to fans using Windows Media Rights Management technology. Consumers need Microsoft Windows Media Player version 6.2 to play the packaged media files. When users try to play a media file but don't have the correct version installed, the player automatically directs them to download the free Windows Media Player upgrade. Once downloaded, Windows Media Player 6.2 checks to see if the consumer has a license to play the media file.