How to Create an ISO File

Do you have a bunch of files that you want to backup? Do you want to protect the data on your CDs and DVDs from being lost due to scratches or missing discs? ISO files are archives that contain files and folders, and are easy to transfer and backup. You can create ISOs from files and folders on your computer, or from discs such as CDs, DVDs, and Bluray discs. See Step 1 below to learn how.

Method 1 of 3: Creating an ISO from a CD/DVD/BD

Download an ISO compiler program. There are a variety of programs that can be downloaded for free or purchased that will allow you to create ISO files from a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray Disc (BD). Popular programs include MagicISO, ISO Recorder, and ImgBurn.

·         Only download programs directly from the developer. If you download the program from another location, you risk malware or adware infection.

·         Install the ISO compiler. You can usually leave most of the default options as they are. Some programs, such as ImgBurn, come bundled with lots of ad software that needs to be disabled during installation, so make sure that you carefully read each screen before continuing.

·         Insert the disc you want to rip. Copying a disc to ISO format is called "ripping", and allows you to create perfect backups of any disc in single files. Make sure your drive supports the disc you want to rip. For example, you cannot rip a Blu-ray disc in a DVD drive, but you can rip a DVD disc in a Blu Ray drive.

·         Start the ripping process. Find the "Create Image from Disc" button. The wording may change depending on the program you are using. For example, it may say "Copy to Image". There is often an image of a disc in the button icon to signify that the ISO is coming from the disc's data.

o   You may be asked to designate the source. Make sure the proper disc drive is selected.

·         Designate where you want the file to be saved. You will need to save the file somewhere on your computer while it is being created. Keep in mind that the ISO file will be the exact same size as the original disc, so make sure that your hard disk has enough space to store it. This is especially important with BDs, as they can reach sizes up to 50 GB.

·         Make sure to give it a name that you can remember or recognize easily.

·         Wait for the ripping process to complete. Once you've set where the file is to be saved, the ripping process will begin. This can take a significant amount of time, especially with BDs. Once the process is complete, the ISO file will be in the location you specified earlier, and can now be burned or mounted.

Method 2 of 3: Creating an ISO From Files on Your Hard Drive

Download an ISO compiler program. There are a variety of programs that can be downloaded for free or purchased that will allow you to create ISO files from a CD, DVD, or Bluray Disc (BD). Popular programs include MagicISO, ISO Recorder, and ImgBurn.

·         Only download programs directly from the developer. If you download the program from another location, you risk malware or adware infection.

·         Install the ISO compiler. You can usually leave most of the default options as they are. Some programs, such as ImgBurn, come bundled with lots of ad software that needs to be disabled during installation, so make sure that you carefully read each screen before continuing.

·         Create a new ISO project. Click the "Create image file from files/folders" or "Make ISO" button to start the project. This will allow you to choose which files and folders you want to add. Creating an ISO from files is a great way to easily transfer or backup multiple folders and files.

·         Make sure to give the project an accurate or descriptive name so that you know what the ISO contains.

·         Add files and folders to the project. The exact process will vary from program to program, but usually you can drag-and-drop files and folders into the window, or use the built-in browser to navigate through all of the folders on your computer.

·         Start creating the ISO. Click the "Build" or "Copy" button to begin creating the ISO using the files and folders that you selected. The amount of time this will take is dependent on the size of the files and the speed of your computer.

·         Store or transfer your ISO. Once the ISO has been completed, its ready to be burnt to a disc, uploaded to your online storage, or mounted on a computer to be accessed.

o   If your ISO file is too big, it may not fit on a disc. CDs can hold around 700MB, DVDs can hold 4.7GB, and Bluray discs can hold up to 50GB.

Method 3 of 3: Creating an ISO File Using WinRar

 ·         Download WinRar. After downloading, install it. WinRar is a paid program, but you can use the trial version to create ISOs just fine.

·         Gather all the files you want to archive. You will need to select all of the files at once, so it may be easier to put them all in one location. Select all of the files by pressing [ Ctrl+A. ]

·         Right-click on the selected files. Click on the option "Add to archive...".

·         Save the archive. After clicking, a new window will appear. Give the archive a name, and make sure it is being saved in .iso format.

·         Click OK and your ISO file will be created. This may take several minutes, especially if there are a lot of large files being added to the ISO file.