AnyDVD is a DVD decryption application which allows users to remove RPC region code and copy protection from any DVD, HD and Blu-ray discs allowing you to make a copy of the DVD with the option of creating a stripped down movie file, free from all the extra data, which is region free and playable on any DVD player. AnyDVD runs in the background and automatically begins decrypting when a DVD is inserted into the drive and allows you to copy straight to hard drive on the fly; AnyDVD also supports Audio CD decryption.

First public release of AnyDVD was in July of 2003 with version 1.2.1.3 developed by SlySoft and in terms of user interface it was simple and user friendly, but what lies beneath the UI is what makes the application so popular. The second release of AnyDVD 1.3.1.1 improved region handling and made removal of user prohibition automatic on startup. V2.0.0.3 improved the UI slightly giving it a shiny look for XP users, support was added for optional speed control of DVD drives; AnyDVD would run more discreetly in the background remaining dormant if no DVD was inserted and this version was completely reworked to improve compatibility and speed. Finally Blu-ray and HD support came in version 6.1.3.0 and supported removal of region encoding and improved compatibility issues with new copy protection encryptions. The latest AnyDVD 7.0.x releases come with added support for new java based protection, updated decryption keys breaking new copy protections and crash fixes.

AnyDVD v6.7.8.0 and prior versions are compatible with all versions of the Windows OS, however support for Windows 98/ME was dropped in version v6.7.9.0. AnyDVD v6.7.9.0 and later are compatible with Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7.

AnyDVD v6.1.3.3 wins the vote for most popular version; one of the main reasons being this version includes the removal of Sony ARccOS Protection and Macrovision RipGuard as of version 6.1.4.3 support for this was removed.

Pros: Cracks most types of DVD/HD/Blu-ray encryption, runs in the background automatically.

Cons: Requires daily updates, nag screen.