DRM Protection for 3D Print Files
STL Shield is a digital rights management (DRM) platform for 3D print files, developed by HallyAus. It encrypts STL files using AES-256-GCM into a proprietary .stlx format, applies forensic watermarks using 8 redundant methods across mesh and G-code layers, and monitors 9 marketplaces for unauthorized redistribution.
Encrypt. Watermark. Trace. Every copy of your design is forensically watermarked — if it leaks, you'll know who, when, and where.
Sell protected files on any platform
Seven layers of defense
From encryption to courtroom-ready evidence reports, every angle is covered.
AES-256 Encryption
Every file encrypted with a unique key. Military-grade AES-256-GCM with authenticated encryption. .stlx files are unreadable garbage without a valid token.
Forensic Watermarking
8 redundant methods — 4 on the mesh, 4 on G-code. Vertex perturbation, face reordering, feed rate LSB encoding. Survives format conversion and re-meshing.
Shield Watchdog
Automated crawler monitors Etsy, Thingiverse, Cults3D, and 6 more platforms. Image hashing, text similarity, geometry fingerprinting. One-click DMCA notices.
Machine Binding
SHA-256 hardware fingerprint locks each token to a specific device. Max 3 activations. Every activation logged with IP, geo, and timestamp.
Dual Security Modes
Standard: opens in the buyer's slicer. Maximum: embedded CuraEngine slicing — buyers get G-code only. Raw mesh never leaves the app.
Zero Workflow Disruption
Standard mode imports slicer profiles from OrcaSlicer, PrusaSlicer, Cura, and Bambu Studio. Your buyer's workflow is sacred.
256-bit
Encryption
8
Watermark Methods
9+
Platforms Monitored
<10MB
App Size
Four steps to total protection
Upload
Upload your STL to the dashboard. It's encrypted with a unique AES-256-GCM key.
Distribute
Sell the encrypted .stlx file on Etsy, Gumroad, or anywhere. Generate tokens for buyers.
Unlock
Buyer opens .stlx in the free desktop app, enters their token. File decrypts and opens in their slicer.
Trace
Every copy is watermarked. If pirated, upload the suspect file — identify the leaker instantly.
Simple, transparent pricing
Start free. Upgrade when you're ready.
Free
Get started protecting your designs
- 5 products
- 50 tokens / month
- Standard protection
- Email support
Pro
For serious designers selling daily
- Unlimited products
- 500 tokens / month
- Maximum protection mode
- Watchdog basic (3 platforms)
- Priority support
Business
Full platform with API access
- Everything in Pro
- Unlimited tokens
- Watchdog advanced (9 platforms)
- API access + CLI
- Forensic evidence reports
- Dedicated support
Trusted by designers worldwide
“I caught someone reselling my miniatures on Cults3D within 24 hours. The watermark extraction identified the exact buyer. Game changer.”
Marcus T.
Tabletop Miniature Designer
“My buyers don't even notice the protection. They open the file, it goes to OrcaSlicer with their profiles. Zero friction.”
Sarah K.
Functional Print Designer
“The forensic evidence report was enough for Etsy to take down the listing same day. No lawyer needed.”
James W.
Cosplay Props Designer
Frequently asked questions
No. Watermark perturbations are 0.001-0.005mm — far below any printer's resolution. They're invisible in the print and in slicer previews.
Unlocking requires a one-time internet connection to validate the token. After that, the file works offline. Slicing and printing don't need internet.
In Standard mode, the watermarked mesh reaches the slicer — a sophisticated attacker could intercept it, but the watermark makes it traceable. In Maximum mode, the mesh never leaves Rust memory.
Your encryption keys are yours. We're building a key export feature so you can always decrypt your own files. We also publish our full encryption spec — no vendor lock-in.
Standard mode works with OrcaSlicer, PrusaSlicer, Cura, Bambu Studio, Slic3r, Simplify3D, IdeaMaker, FlashPrint, and ChiTuBox. Maximum mode uses the built-in CuraEngine.
The encryption spec, file format, and watermark methods are published for transparency. The server and app source are private to prevent circumvention tools.
Your designs deserve
real protection
Join hundreds of 3D designers who sleep better knowing their files are encrypted, watermarked, and monitored.
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