Creating an ISO image from a bootable USB flash drive can be essential for many tasks, such as creating backups or reinstalling your operating system. In this guide, I’ll show you two simple methods using two different programs: AnyBurn and ImgBurn. By the end of this tutorial, you will have your ISO image ready from a bootable USB flash drive.
Key Takeaways
- Learn two different methods to create an ISO image from a bootable USB flash drive.
- Both AnyBurn and ImgBurn are reliable tools for this task.
- Once created, the ISO image can be mounted and used for installing or testing purposes.
Requirements
To follow this guide, you’ll need:
- A bootable USB flash drive (e.g., Windows installation disk).
- Download and install either AnyBurn or ImgBurn.
- A computer with administrative rights to install and run the software.
Method 1: Using AnyBurn
Let’s start with the first method, which uses a program called AnyBurn.
Step 1: Download and Install AnyBurn
Head over to AnyBurn.com, go to the download section, and download the 64-bit edition.
After downloading, open the file to run the setup. Follow the prompts to install AnyBurn.
Step 2: Select “Create Image File from Files and Folders”
Open AnyBurn, and from the main menu, click on Create Image File from Files and Folders.
Step 3: Add Files from Your USB Flash Drive
Click on Add, navigate to your USB flash drive, and select all the files (Ctrl + A). Click Add again to load them into AnyBurn.
Step 4: Save the ISO Image
Select a save location (I’m choosing Desktop) and give your ISO file a name, like Windows ISO. Leave the image file type set to ISO.
Step 5: Create the ISO File
Click Create Now, and AnyBurn will start creating the ISO image from your USB flash drive.
Step 6: Mount and Test the ISO Image
Once done, check your desktop for the ISO file. Right-click the file and choose Mount to test if it works. You should see the Windows setup launch.
Method 2: Using ImgBurn
The second method involves another program called ImgBurn.
Step 1: Download and Install ImgBurn
Go to ImgBurn.com, navigate to the Downloads section, and I recommend choosing Mirror 7.
Open the file and follow the installation steps.
Step 2: Create Image File from Files and Folders
Once installed, launch ImgBurn and choose Create Image File from Files and Folders.
Step 3: Add USB Files and Select Destination
Click the folder icon and select your USB flash drive (e.g., ESD-ISO).
Set the destination for saving your ISO image (e.g., Desktop) and name it Windows ISO.
Step 4: Make the Image Bootable
- Go to the Advanced tab, then choose Bootable Disk. Click the icon to browse for the boot image and select the ETFS boot file located in the boot folder of your USB drive.
- Set the developer ID to Microsoft Corporation if creating a Windows ISO.
Step 5: Create the ISO Image
Click the button to start the creation process. If prompted, click Yes and OK to proceed.
Step 6: Test the ISO File
After completion, mount the ISO file on your desktop and test it by running the setup. You should see the Windows setup start, confirming that the ISO works.
Conclusion
Creating an ISO image from a bootable USB flash drive is straightforward using either AnyBurn or ImgBurn. Both methods will allow you to back up your USB drives efficiently or prepare them for other tasks like reinstalling Windows. Try both methods and see which one works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use this method for non-Windows USB drives?
Yes, you can use these methods for any bootable USB flash drive, not just Windows.
Which method is faster, AnyBurn or ImgBurn?
Both programs are quite efficient, but AnyBurn might feel slightly faster due to its simpler interface.
Do I need to make the ISO bootable?
Yes, if you plan to use the ISO to reinstall an operating system or create a bootable disk from it.
Is there a file size limit for creating ISO files?
The size of the ISO file will depend on the contents of your USB flash drive.
Can I create an ISO file from a USB on a Mac?
These methods are for Windows, but you can use software like Disk Utility on Mac to create an ISO.
