A no-CD patch (also called a "crack" or "fixed EXE") is a modified version of the game’s main executable file: (for The Conquerors ) or empires2.exe (for the original).
Microsoft and Ensemble Studios (the original developers) have provided support and patches for "Age of Empires II: The Conquerors" through their official websites and forums. However, for modern systems, compatibility and the need for a CD (or its image) can depend on the operating system and its configuration. age of empires 2 the conquerors no cd patch 10c