What It Is

• Basically, a "rip" is a copy of an audio or video file that has been extracted from a CD or DVD, respectively. This word refers to the metaphorical effect of "ripping" the content off a disk.
  
  

Legal Considerations

• The laws differ from region to region, but it is generally considered fair to make a rip of an album for personal use, but the laws for feature films are less clear.
  
  

How to Make One

• You can buy software that allows you to rip content, and some can be legitimately obtained for free. However, this software may not be legal in your area, particularly DVD ripping software, so check your local laws before proceeding.
  
  

Time and Performance

• Ripping is not an instant process. To create a DVD rip, give your computer up to an hour to complete the process. Using your computer for other activities slows down the process.
  
  

Potential Dangers

• You may find rips publicized on the Internet. This is generally considered piracy, and you can get in trouble for participating.