: These are used to decrypt Entitlement Management Messages (EMMs) . These messages are sent over-the-air to tell your receiver which channel packages you are allowed to watch.
: These are short-term decryption keys for the actual video stream. They rotate frequently—often several times per minute—to make it difficult for pirates to maintain unauthorized access. videoguard keys
: Every authorized receiver or smartcard contains a unique keycode. This key is specific to that hardware and cannot be used with other receivers. : These are used to decrypt Entitlement Management
: One of the most widespread users of the digital VideoGuard system. : One of the most widespread users of
: Over 26 providers, including China Central Television and Sky Network Television, use this system for conditional access .
While VideoGuard is primarily a professional broadcasting tool, you might encounter references to "keys" in online forums regarding or card sharing . These are unofficial methods used to emulate the hardware's security to view content without a standard receiver, though many modern versions of VideoGuard include "pairing" features that make this extremely difficult.
VideoGuard is used by major global broadcasters to protect their revenue and content rights: