Diana Smith

DVDFab Editor

Diana Smith is a prolific content creator at DVDFab and specializes in DVD/Blu-ray ripping and backup. With years of experience in software reviews and tech tutorials, her insights have been quoted on many leading tech sites. She holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University, where her research focused on optical signal processing and data encryption. She is a true enthusiast of nostalgic media. Her desk is a testament to this hobby, always neatly stacked with disc drives and DVD collections.
Joined in 2013
Article Contributed: 116

Expertise

Software review | Tech guide | Optical signal processing

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University

Latest Posts

  • Best DVD to USB Converter in 2026: Tested Ways
    Best DVD to USB Converter in 2026: Tested Ways

    To convert DVD to USB, you can choose from three ways. The first is using a professional ripper like DVDFab to bypass encryption and convert movies into MP4 files for Smart TVs or cars playback. The second is a direct copy and paste for unprotected data or home movies to USB. The third is hiring local DVD to USB transfer services if you lack a computer or a disc drive.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 18, 2026
  • Top 6 ISO to MP4 Converters in 2026: Tested & Guide
    Top 6 ISO to MP4 Converters in 2026: Tested & Guide

    To convert ISO to MP4, you'll need a reliable converter to read and digitize the disc image data. While HandBrake offers a free solution for unencrypted files, DVDFab provides faster conversion and handles complex protection automatically. The process involves loading ISO files, selecting the MP4 container, and configuring codecs for hardware acceleration. These methods ensure high-quality digital MP4 files that are compatible with you media servers.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 18, 2026
  • Best MakeMKV Alternatives in 2026: Reviews and Tests
    Best MakeMKV Alternatives in 2026: Reviews and Tests

    MakeMKV is still a popular DVD and Blu-ray ripper, but its MKV-only output, limited editing features, beta restrictions, and unstable purchase path have pushed many users to look for a better MakeMKV alternative. DVDFab is the best MakeMKV alternative for users who need stronger DVD/Blu-ray/UHD decryption, ripping, compression, and editing, while HandBrake is better for free video compression and format conversion.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 18, 2026
  • Is MakeMKV Down? Site Restored, Buying Still Unavailable [2026 June]
    Is MakeMKV Down? Site Restored, Buying Still Unavailable [2026 June]

    MakeMKV was unreachable on June 16, 2026, after Reddit users noticed a domain expiry record and reported DNS errors. The official site, download page, and forum became reachable again on June 17, but the purchase flow still appears unavailable. Users should rely on the official beta key, avoid unverified sellers or mirrors, and use official MakeMKV sources whenever possible.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 18, 2026
  • MakeMKV Beta Key June 2026: Current Key & Purchase Status
    MakeMKV Beta Key June 2026: Current Key & Purchase Status

    MakeMKV‘s current beta key is valid until the end of July 2026, so free beta access is available again. However, permanent key purchases remain unavailable on the official purchase page, and users reported new makemkv.com access problems on June 16, including slow loading and DNS-related errors. This page explains the current key status, purchase limits, safer workarounds, and when a MakeMKV alternative like DVDFab may be needed.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 18, 2026
  • Best Free DVD Decoders for Windows XP/8/10/11: Fix DVD Playback Errors
    Best Free DVD Decoders for Windows XP/8/10/11: Fix DVD Playback Errors

    To play DVDs on Windows XP/8/10/11, your system requires an MPEG-2 decoder, which is often missing by default. You can restore it by installing K-Lite Codec Pack, switching to VLC, or converting the disc to a digital file with DVDFab DVD Ripper for device-agnostic playback. A comparison table covers all six methods with XP compatibility and setup time.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 17, 2026
  • Best Free DVD Ripper for Mac in 2026: Tested Tools to Rip DVD on Mac Easily
    Best Free DVD Ripper for Mac in 2026: Tested Tools to Rip DVD on Mac Easily

    The best DVD ripper for Mac depends on your disc type and output goal. DVDFab DVD Ripper for Mac is the best tool for commercial protected DVDs and flexible MP4, MKV, and MOV output. HandBrake works well for transcoding unencrypted DVD sources, while MakeMKV is good for creating a 1:1 MKV backup while keeping the original tracks. To rip your DVD, connect an external DVD drive to your Mac, such as an Apple USB SuperDrive, since modern Macs do not have built-in optical drives.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 16, 2026
  • UHD Backup Software Review: Choose the Best Tool for 4K Blu-ray Backup
    UHD Backup Software Review: Choose the Best Tool for 4K Blu-ray Backup

    4K UHD Blu-rays deliver stunning detail and sound, which makes backing up your valuable collection more important than ever. This guide reviews four UHD backup tools—DVDFab UHD Copy, DVDFab UHD Ripper, MakeMKV, and HandBrake—highlighting their features, pros, and cons.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 15, 2026
  • Convert Video to DVD: 8 Best and Free Video to DVD Converters in 2026
    Convert Video to DVD: 8 Best and Free Video to DVD Converters in 2026

    Converting video to DVD involves a platform decision, an input format fit, and for some users an installation safety check. This roundup tests five DVD creation tools across Windows and macOS, covering free and paid options. For most Windows users with standard files, Free Video to DVD Converter handles the task at no cost. DVDFab DVD Creator covers the full range for cross-platform and GPU-accelerated needs. A separate section addresses three professional tape-to-DVD services.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 15, 2026
  • How to Transfer and Burn iPhone Videos to DVD on Windows & Mac
    How to Transfer and Burn iPhone Videos to DVD on Windows & Mac

    This guide explains how to transfer iPhone videos to a Windows PC or Mac and burn them to DVD using DVDFab DVD Creator or Windows Media Player. It covers iPhone's HEVC video format compatibility, three retail mail-in services, and answers common questions on playback compatibility, burn time, and free DVD tools.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 11, 2026
  • How to Convert AVI to DVD on Windows and Mac in 2026: 6 Best Tools
    How to Convert AVI to DVD on Windows and Mac in 2026: 6 Best Tools

    I tested several AVI to DVD converters and found most free options carry a watermark or reliability trade-offs. DVDFab DVD Creator is the strongest cross-platform pick; WinX DVD Author is the only free, watermark-free option on Windows. A comparison table covers all six tools.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 10, 2026
  • How to Rip DVD to Facebook and Upload Videos Easily [2026 Guide]
    How to Rip DVD to Facebook and Upload Videos Easily [2026 Guide]

    Want to share your favorite DVD clips on Facebook? This guide shows you how to rip DVDs into Facebook-compatible formats using both free and paid tools, and how to upload the videos without losing quality. Please make sure to use it only for personal, legal purposes.

    By Diana Smith - Jun 10, 2026