Understanding ISO Images

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated November 30, 2020)

An ISO image is a file on your hard drive (typically with an ".iso" extension) that is an image of an optical disc (like a CD or DVD). Using free software, you can create an ISO image from an optical disc, then mount the .iso file and use it as if it were an actual optical disk—even though it's all on your hard drive.

An advantage to having ISO images is that they are portable. Once you create it, it's like you have the disc it came from always available. You can transfer the .iso file to another device, store it on a flash drive, etc.

If an ISO image was created from a video DVD, it can likely be played through Windows Media Player simply by double-clicking the .iso file. Otherwise (for example, if it's an image of a data disc), you may need to mount it and treat it just like you would a physical optical disk in your drive. I happen to use "Virtual Clone Drive" by Elaborate Bytes AG for dealing with data .iso files (it's a free download from most of the popular download locations).

To create an ISO image, I often use BurnAware Free (but the free version is only for non-commercial use) or ImgBurn. Both are available at popular download locations.

 This tip (13015) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

Adjusting the Mouse for Left-Handed Users

Since Windows is so customizable, it should come as no surprise that Microsoft has made accommodations for left-handed ...

Discover More

Using Windows in Safe Mode

There may come a time when your system is no longer operating properly. This could be the result of Registry changes, a ...

Discover More

Ending a Frozen Program

Sometimes a program can get "stuck," meaning it is no longer responsive and appears to be doing nothing at all. You can ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Using Windows DVD Maker

You can use the built-in DVD Maker to create slide shows and views of your own photographs and videos. This tip tells you ...

Discover More

Using Windows with a Projector

If you want to show what's on your computer screen through a projector so that others can see it, the process is about as ...

Discover More

Understanding Types of DVDs

There are several types of DVDs on the market. This tip explains the various types and how you might use them.

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is five more than 8?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)

Newest Tips
Links and Sharing
OUR COMPANY
OUR PRODUCTS
OUR SITES
 

Copyright © 2024 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.