TechTips: How to Mount an ISO File Using Virtual CloneDrive

TechTips
ISO files are disk images or archives of CD/DVD's and you have to either burn these to a CD/DVD to use or mount them on a virtual drive. Well if you don't want to waste money on a CD/DVD then there is a great free program that will allow you to mount your ISO image easily. Virtual CloneDrive by SlySoft software is a light weight easy to use virtual drive mounting software program.

You can first get the program here. Installation is a breeze; just download and run the program, leave all defaults and hit yes and next to all prompts. Once installed find the program in your start menu and it will open up with a few options. First set the number of drives, I set it to one since that is all I need but if you plan on mounting more than one select the number of drives you need (allows up to 8).

Now I am not sure what the Virtual Sheep and Buffered I/O do but I check them both. I also set the Automount last image, that way each time I load my PC the ISO file will load automatically and I won't have to repeatedly mount the file. Once you have your settings the way you want you will hit the OK button.

Now if you go to your "My Computer" there is a Virtual CloneDrive with a Sheep Icon and a drive letter, mine is (F:), you will need to right click on the icon and choose the Virtual CloneDrive option and it will give you a few options, we want to choose Mount. This opens yet another window that will allow us to browse to our ISO file, simply locate your ISO file and click Open. Now your drive is mounted and ready to be used.

This program is very simple and straight forward program, very few settings or options for customization which is why it's perfect for beginners who might not want too many options that might confuse them.

There are other programs out there that give you more options but that are more complex than Virtual CloneDrive. For instance VCD Control is free mounting software that can be used but it requires a bit of setup and more knowledge of software to use. If you are interested in seeing more about VCD Control read this article I wrote about it.

If you have any problems with the Virtual CloneDrive you can check the SlySoft Forums for trouble shooting. It also might have some good info about other products SlySoft offers.

Also check out the screen shots that detail the steps of opening an ISO file using the Virtual CloneDrive software.

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I am a senior systems engineer and enjoy writing articles about computers, technology and other electronics.  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Problem help plz7/20/2010

    Well After I right clicked and mounted my .ISO How do I actually open the files in the .ISO??

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