The process involves using a software tool or built-in operating system utility to mount or extract the contents of a disc image file, typically with a “.iso” extension. Mounting allows access to the image file as if it were a physical disc drive, enabling software installation directly from the image. Extracting the image copies the contents to a directory on the local storage, allowing installation from the extracted files. For example, a user might acquire a software application packaged as an ISO file; instead of burning it to a physical DVD, they can employ mounting software to virtually load the image and begin the installation process.
Employing disc image files offers several advantages. It allows for convenient software distribution, as entire programs can be bundled into a single, easily transferable file. This method is particularly valuable for backing up physical media or for distributing operating systems and large applications electronically. Historically, disc images became prevalent as a means to distribute software over the internet, circumventing the limitations of physical media and facilitating faster, more efficient software acquisition.
