What Are ISO Files And How Do I Use Them?
What is an ISO file?
Think of an .iso as a container that holds all the files and folders contained on a CD/ DVD. Unlike a .zip file, an ISO is not compressed. ISO files are useful for keeping backups of CDs and DVDs and for storing the contents of CDs or DVDs on hard-drives or uploading and downloading them on the internet.
When using an ISO file you have three options:
- Copy it to a CD/DVD
- Mount it to a 'Virtual CD/DVD Drive'
- Extract the contents of it to your hard-drive
Copying an .iso image to a CD or DVD
Firstly, you will need a program that is able to process and burn the image to a disc. For this I would not look past ImgBurn.
During the install, it will ask you if you want to install the Ask toolbar. I generally untick the agreement tick box at this point and continue with the installation. ImgBurn will be installed without any toolbar junk.
Using ImgBurn to create a CD/DVD from an .iso image
Step 1
Open ImgBurn and select the 'Write image file to disc' option (Pictured).
Step 2
In the next window you will need to click on the little folder icon with the magnifying glass on it. (Pictured)
Step 3
Locate and select your .iso file in the Open file dialogue and click 'Open'.
Step 4
Finally press the 'Image to Disc' button at the bottom of the window and the burn process will begin! If the button is 'greyed out' check that you have a blank CD or DVD in your drive. Wait for the disc drive to finish recording to the disc and you are all done.
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