An ISO file or image is really a selection of data which contains all necessary files and applications to run a program. ISO images substitute physical disks, for example CDs and DVDs, that would instead have been needed to use a program. It is commonly used for large software such as os's or games.

Just like a physical disk, an ISO image must be mounted first prior to being run. Mounting means accessing the ISO file's contents similar to the way your computer would read an actual disk. You can think of it as your pc simulating a CD running, but instead, it is software that it's reading.

You've two methods to mount an ISO file. The very first method is using Windows' own ISO mounting program, and the second could be using third-party programs. The very first method is only available if you are using Windows 8.1 and above.

How to Mount an ISO File in Windows 8.1 and Above

1) To mount an ISO image with its built-in mounting program, first, navigate to your ISO file's location.

2) Second, right-click the ISO file to open its context menu. In this menu, you can observe various actions that can be done together with your ISO, for example open, delete, copy, cut, open with, and much more.

3) Select Mount in the context menu. Depending on your computer's processing power, it might load for some seconds before the mounting is complete.

4) Go to My Computer (if below Windows 10) or This PC (Windows 10 and above).

5) Under Devices and drives, click on the DVD Drive with the name of your ISO file. This can open the ISO file to inform you its contents.

How you can Mount an ISO File with a Third-Party ISO Mounting Apps

In this guide, we will be using the free ISO mounting app WinCDEmu by Sysprogs. Do not concern yourself. You can also use other disc mounting programs. Most of them will require exactly the same or similar steps, as shown below.

1) Download WinCDEmu from this link. Double-click the installer and follow the instructions shown. Its default settings would be enough for the needs.

2) After installing this program, right-click the ISO file to open its context menu.

3) Click "Open with" to show programs able to running ISO files.

4) Select WinCDEmu mounter from the options. This step should open a WinCDEmu window that allows you to set your preferences when mounting your ISO file.

5) After setting your requirements, click OK.

6) Go to My Computer (if below Windows 10) or This PC (Windows 10 and above).

7) Under Devices and drives, click on the DVD Drive using the name of the ISO file. This can open the ISO file to show you its contents.