Windows 11: How to Mount ISO Files Easily and Effectively

By / September 12, 2025

Working with ISO files has become an everyday task for many Windows users. Whether you’re installing software, trying out a new operating system, or accessing large collections of data, ISO images are a convenient way to store everything in a single file. Luckily, Windows 11 makes mounting ISO files incredibly simple—no extra software required.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to mount ISO files on Windows 11, along with helpful tips and troubleshooting fixes.

What is an ISO File?

An ISO file (also called an ISO image) is basically a digital copy of a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray disc. Imagine taking all the files from a disc, compressing them, and saving them into one container file—that’s an ISO.

People use ISO files for:

  • Installing operating systems (Windows, Linux, etc.).

  • Running old software distributed on discs.

  • Storing backup images.

  • Distributing large programs or games.

Why Mount an ISO File?

When you “mount” an ISO, Windows treats it like a virtual disc. Instead of burning it to a DVD, you can open it instantly and access the files inside.

Think of it as plugging in an invisible CD/DVD drive that only exists on your computer. Cool, right?

Method 1: Mount ISO Using File Explorer

This is the easiest and fastest way.

Step 1: Locate the ISO File

  • Open File Explorer.

  • Find the ISO file you want to mount.

Step 2: Mount the File

  • Right-click on the ISO.

  • Select Mount from the context menu.

Step 3: Access Virtual Drive

  • Open This PC.

  • You’ll see a new virtual DVD drive with the ISO contents.

  • Double-click to explore or run setup files.

Method 2: Mount ISO with Double-Click

Windows 11 is smart enough to mount ISOs with just a double-click:

  1. Locate the ISO in File Explorer.

  2. Double-click it.

  3. It opens as a virtual disc under This PC.

⚡ Tip: If double-click doesn’t work, it might be associated with another program (like WinRAR). We’ll fix that later.

Method 3: Mount ISO Using Ribbon Menu

  1. Select the ISO file in File Explorer.

  2. At the top menu (File Explorer ribbon), click Mount.

  3. The ISO will appear as a virtual drive.

Method 4: Mount ISO with PowerShell

If you love command-line magic, PowerShell is for you.

Step 1: Open PowerShell

  • Press Windows + X → Select Windows Terminal (Admin).

Step 2: Run Command

Type the following and press Enter:

Mount-DiskImage -ImagePath "C:\path\to\your.iso"

Replace the path with your actual ISO location.

Step 3: Access ISO

Check This PC to see the mounted drive.

Method 5: Mount ISO with Command Prompt

Yes, even Command Prompt works:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Type:

    PowerShell Mount-DiskImage -ImagePath "C:\path\to\file.iso"

  3. Press Enter.

How to Unmount (Eject) an ISO File

Once you’re done using the ISO:

  • Open This PC.

  • Right-click the virtual DVD drive.

  • Select Eject.

The ISO is now unmounted, and the virtual drive disappears.

Fix: Mount Option Missing in Windows 11

Sometimes, the Mount option doesn’t appear. Here’s why and how to fix it:

Reason 1: ISO is associated with another app

If double-click opens the ISO in WinRAR or 7-Zip instead of mounting it:

  1. Right-click the ISO → Select Open with → Choose another app.

  2. Select Windows Explorer.

  3. Check Always use this app to open .iso files.

  4. Click OK.

Reason 2: Corrupt ISO

Try downloading the ISO again.

Reason 3: Outdated Windows

Run Windows Update to ensure you have the latest features.

Benefits of Mounting ISO Files in Windows 11

  • No external software needed (built-in support).

  • Faster installations compared to DVDs.

  • Saves physical storage space—no need for discs.

  • Multiple ISOs at once—mount several virtual drives.

Extra Tip: Burning ISO to USB/DVD (Optional)

Sometimes you may still want a physical copy.

  1. Right-click the ISO.

  2. Select Burn disc image.

  3. Follow the wizard to write it to a DVD.

For USB, use Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool.

Common Uses of ISO Files in Windows 11

  • Installing Windows 11 from an ISO.

  • Running Linux distros on a VM.

  • Playing old games distributed on discs.

  • Creating system recovery images.

Conclusion

Mounting ISO files in Windows 11 is easier than ever. Whether you’re installing software, testing operating systems, or just accessing disc-based content, you don’t need any third-party tools. With just a right-click, double-click, or a PowerShell command, you can quickly turn an ISO into a virtual disc.

It’s one of those small but powerful features that make Windows 11 super convenient for both beginners and power users.

FAQs

1. Can Windows 11 mount ISO files without third-party apps?
Yes! Windows 11 has built-in ISO mounting support.

2. Why doesn’t the “Mount” option show up?
Your ISO may be linked to another app (like WinRAR). Reset it to Windows Explorer.

3. Can I mount multiple ISO files at once?
Yes, Windows 11 allows multiple virtual drives simultaneously.

4. Do I need to unmount ISO files after use?
Not required, but unmounting (Eject) helps free system resources.

5. Can I run Windows 11 setup directly from an ISO?
Yes, just mount the ISO and run setup.exe inside.

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