How to Install an ISO Game File on a Windows PC

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As long as you're using Windows 10 or 8/8.1, you can install a game from an ISO file with tools built in to the operating system. To do this, you'll just need to mount the file that ends with the ".iso" file extension as a virtual drive—a task that you can accomplish in just a few seconds. This wikiHow teaches you how to mount a game's ISO file as a virtual drive so you can install it on your Windows PC.

Things You Should Know

  • Hold down the Windows button and the E key to open File Explorer.
  • Right-click on the ISO file and select Mount from the drop-down menu.
  • Double-click the game's installer program and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Steps

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    This opens the File Explorer.
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    For example, if you downloaded the file from the internet, you'll usually find it in the Downloads or Desktop folder. The file's name will usually be the name or version of the game followed by .iso .
    • ISO files may be provided as freeware from the game developer or publisher.
    • If you don't see file extensions (e.g., .iso, .exe, .jpg) at the end of file names in the File Explorer, click the View tab at the top of the window, and place a checkmark next to "File name extensions" in the "Show/hide" panel.
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    A context menu will expand.
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    It's at the top of the context menu. The contents of the ISO (which are exactly what you'd see if you inserted the game's DVD) will appear as a virtual drive.
    • This gives the ISO its own drive letter like it's a real DVD-ROM drive. You'll see it in the left panel of File Explorer with your other drives.
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    The name of the program will usually be something like "Setup.exe," "Install.exe," or "Autoexec.exe." The program may feature a “Setup.exe,” “Install.exe” or “Autoexec.exe” to run the installer program.
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    If playing the game requires the CD/DVD to be inserted in the future, simply remount the ISO file.
    • If the game doesn't require the "DVD" to be inserted during gameplay, you can "eject" the ISO image. To do this, right-click the new drive in File Explorer and click Eject .
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I use a virtual disk drive to install an ISO game file on my Windows PC?
    Luigi Oppido
    Computer & Tech Specialist
    Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He is also the host of the Computer Man Show! broadcasted on KSQD covering central California for over two years.
    Luigi Oppido
    Computer & Tech Specialist
    Expert Answer
    For newer versions of Windows, all that you have to do is double-click on the virtual CD-ROM drive in the Finder, then choose "Mount." After running the installation, it should be good to go.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 13 Helpful 10
  • Question
    What if I don't have the option to mount?
    Community Answer
    You will need to download and install a program such as PowerISO to mount the ISO file.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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  • Question
    How do I play a game that is an ISO file on my computer?
    Community Answer
    Mount the ISO file as shown above, then run the setup/autorun/autoexec.exe file. It should start installing.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      Warnings

      • Downloading copyrighted software that you didn't purchase is illegal. Avoid downloading games unless you already have a license and/or have permission from the game's developer to do so.
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      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Open the File Explorer.
      2. Navigate to the ISO file.
      3. Right-click the file and select Mount .
      4. Double-click the installer or setup file.
      5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

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