What is the purpose of Digital Rights Management (DRM)?

The purpose of Digital Rights Management (DRM) is primarily to prevent unauthorized distribution of digital files. DRM technologies are implemented by content creators and distributors to protect their intellectual property and ensure that their digital products are not copied, shared, or distributed without permission. This includes measures that restrict access to content and enforce licensing agreements.

While "per-per-use" licensing may be one aspect of DRM, it is not the primary purpose of the technology. DRM encompasses a broader range of protective mechanisms designed to control how digital content is used and distributed, which includes limiting copying and sharing, rather than just tracking or licensing per use. Thus, the role of DRM is essentially about safeguarding the rights of copyright holders by managing how their digital products are accessed and utilized.