Copyright infringement, also called piracy.
Unauthorized duplication of software is when you make a copy of software without the permission of its owner. This breaks copyright laws and can incur a fine and/or jail time.
Computer software is unique in that it is protected by patent and copyright. Copyright laws make duplication and distribution illegal, and patent law prevents other companies from using the code for their own programs.
DVD duplication is illegal depending on the copyrights of the company providing the disc. But in most cases it is not, you can find software for such activities at your local computer store.
Copyright infringement of software.
If you own the rights to the software, then no, of course it's not illegal. However it's copyright infringment if you do not own the software.
No. There is nothing inherently illegal in the software. It only becomes a copyright issue when the software is use to distribute protected intellectual property without permission.
In some cases, CD duplication is legal. It just depends on whether the material you are duplicating is copyright protected. Material with copyright should not be duplicated.
If someone were interested in CD duplication and mastering they could check the literature that came with any software they bought or ask a friend who may be of help. Be warned, CD duplication is most likely illegal except for some cases where backup copies are allowed.
There are lots of video duplication software services to choose from. Easy DVD Video Copy is one that is available from Cnet downloads and is free to try. Pinnacle Systems offers full featured duplication software and hardware.
No. Copyright is federal law.
DVD Fab seems to be the highest rated software for disc duplication. There are others out there also. DVD Wizard Pro and 1 Click DVD Copy Pro are a couple of high rated software for disc duplication.
Copyright itself is not illegal; in fact, it's the law.