1 What Is an ISO File?
A digital copy of a physical disc.
An .iso file is an exact replica of a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray disc, stored as a single file. It contains all the files and folder structures that were on the original disc. ISO files are commonly used for software installation discs, operating system installers, and game discs.
You can either "mount" it (make your computer treat it as if you inserted a disc) or extract it (pull the files out like a ZIP).
2 Opening on Windows
Built-in support on Windows 10 and 11.
Mount It (Recommended)
Double-click the ISO file
Windows 10 and 11 automatically mount ISO files. A new "drive" appears in File Explorer with a drive letter (like D: or E:).
Browse the files
Open the new drive to see all the files. Copy what you need, or run the setup/installer if it's software.
Eject when done
Right-click the drive in File Explorer → "Eject" to unmount the ISO.
Extract It
If you prefer to just pull out the files: right-click the ISO → 7-Zip → "Extract to [folder]." This copies all the files out without mounting anything.
3 Opening on Mac
Also built-in — no extra tools needed.
Double-click the ISO file
macOS mounts it automatically using DiskImageMounter. A new virtual drive appears on your desktop and in Finder's sidebar.
Open the mounted drive
Browse and copy files as needed.
Eject when done
Right-click the drive icon → "Eject" or drag it to the Trash (which becomes an Eject icon).