ISO images are a virtual file format that replicates the contents of physical media like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays. Software companies use ISO files to distribute applications, tools, and entire operating systems.
When you mount an ISO image on Windows 11, you can explore its contents without needing the actual physical media. This method of distribution allows software and media to be shared digitally, eliminating the need for physical shipping.
Microsoft also uses ISO images to distribute various versions of its operating system, including Insider editions. At times, you may need to access the files within an ISO image. Here’s how to mount an ISO image on Windows 11.
How to Mount an ISO Image on Windows 11
While third-party utilities are available for managing ISO files, Windows has built-in support for ISO management, starting from Windows 7 and continuing in Windows 11.
To mount an ISO image on Windows 11:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the ISO image you wish to access.
- Simply double-click the .ISO image, and its contents will open in a new File Explorer window. Note: In this example, we’re using a Windows 7 ISO image.
- If it’s the first time opening an ISO image, select Windows Explorer from the suggested apps and click Always.
Mount an ISO Image on Windows 11 Using the Context Menu
Microsoft revamped the context menu in Windows 11, reducing the number of visible options unless you know where to look. Don’t worry—we’ll guide you through the steps to mount an ISO image directly from the context menu.
To Mount an ISO on Windows 11 via the Context Menu
- Navigate to the ISO file you wish to mount in File Explorer.
- Right-click on the file and choose “Show more options,” or press Shift + F10.
- The context menu will show the familiar options you’d see in Windows 10 and earlier.
- Simply click “Mount” from the list.
How to Unmount an ISO File on Windows 11
Once you mount an ISO file on Windows, it appears as a virtual drive with its own letter in the This PC section. In our example, we have a couple of Windows 7 images mounted.
When you’re finished, you may want to unmount these ISO files.
To Unmount an ISO on Windows 11:
- Open This PC in File Explorer.
- Right-click the virtual drive for the ISO and select “Eject” from the context menu.
