Is is possible to actually "copy" a DVD?

[newtothis]

I'll admit, I'm new to this. I have a large DVD collection of commerical movies. I want to keep them in good condition but my kids don't understand the concept on handling DVDs. Is it possible to physically copy a DVD move onto a DVD-R so that I have two exact copies (like copying a CD)? I don't want to rip or SVCD encode anything new - just make a copy.

Is there any software that provides this? Any particular hardware I need to purchase?

I appreciate the help.

[Kdiddy]

no direct DVD-to-DVD recordale media copying for DVDs that are CSS encrypted due to physical security placed on both the media & burners.

Best ways, is here http://www.vcdhelp.com/dvdripping.htm

[bbussan]

Actually, yes you can depending on the DVD - I just bought a burner and copied Re-Animator on the first try no problem - of course, this is distributed by the smaller Elite Entertainment and older, and just about 9 of 10 (at least) dvds are protected - even if you copy without getting stopped in middle, you'll have a garbled copy - so try to copy at own risk but expect to have a lot of $10 coasters