To mount an ISO file in Windows 10, open File Explorer, right-click the ISO file, and select Mount. You can also just double-click it. Windows opens the ISO as a virtual DVD drive with its own drive letter, so you can open, copy, or run the files inside, such as setup.exe.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Learn on September 26, 2026.
An ISO file is a copy of a whole disc in one file. Windows 10 can open it without any extra software. On a newer PC, the steps to mount an ISO file in Windows 11 are nearly the same.
Mount an ISO file
- Open File Explorer (Windows logo key + E) and go to the ISO file, often in Downloads.
- Right-click the ISO file and select Mount. Or double-click it.
- A new drive, such as DVD Drive (E:), opens and shows the files inside.
Install or run a program from the ISO
Open the mounted drive and double-click setup.exe (or the file the program’s instructions name). This is how you install software or run a Windows upgrade from an ISO.
Copy files out of an ISO
Mounting is the easiest way to extract an ISO in Windows 10. Open the mounted drive, select the files, and copy them to a folder on your PC.
Eject the ISO when you’re done
- In File Explorer, select the mounted drive under This PC.
- Select the Manage tab (under Drive Tools).
- Select Eject. Or right-click the drive and select Eject.
Restarting the PC also unmounts it.
If Mount is missing
Another app may have taken over ISO files. Right-click the ISO, select Open with > Windows Explorer, and check Always use this app to open .iso files. See how to set default apps in Windows 10.
ISO files stored on a network drive or in a compressed folder may not mount. Copy the ISO to your PC first.
Frequently asked questions
How do I put an ISO on a USB drive?
To make a USB drive you can start a PC from, see how to create a bootable Windows 10 USB drive.
Can I burn an ISO to a DVD?
Yes. Insert a blank DVD, right-click the ISO, and select Burn disc image.
Does mounting change the ISO file?
No. The virtual drive is read-only, so the ISO stays as it was.
For movie discs, see how to play DVDs on Windows 10.
Before you mount an ISO you downloaded, you can check its SHA256 checksum to make sure the file is complete.
To get a Windows 10 ISO from Microsoft, see how to download a Windows 10 ISO file.
Microsoft’s guide is Using ISOs. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.