I just bought a new computer which has a DVD-RW drive. Can I copy DVD movies from the video store or do they have some sort of anti-copying device that will prevent it?

Dvd's and vcd's don't, only games

Re the above reply - unfortunately DVDs do have copy protection on them.

However, I would recommend DVD Decrypter, a donationware program for ripping DVD's. I can honestly say it's the best ripper available and if used in conjunction with DVD Shrink you will be able to back up commercially available DVDs to a DVD±R.

DVD Decrypter also has a forum for members at http://forum.dvddecrypter.com/index.php? (just register) and I am a beta tester for the program so I do know of what I write

In the guides section of the site you will find a DVD9 to DVD±R guide, this takes you through step by step how to back up a DVD and also gives you the links to download the software you need.

Finally you really want to purchase decent blank media for your backups, I use Grade A Ritek G04 or G05 dye and a year after I started these disks still play perfectly.

Hope this helps