Yesterday I posted about archiving CD/DVDs to your hard drive for easy access and distribution. So now, what if you want to install from one of these? With the use of a tool I have referenced in the past, Virtual Clone Drive, here are simple instructions for installing from an ISO.

Note: These instructions are intended to read by end users I distribute the zip file containing the ISO file (and serial number if needed). I thought this would be the easiest way to write the how to.

1. Download and install Virtual Clone Drive.
2. Extract the ISO file from the zip file to your desktop. Note: If a serial number is needed, a text file will be included in this zip file.
3. Open My Computer and select the Virtual Clone Drive (it will look like a sheep). Right-click it and go to Virtual Clone Drive > Mount.
4. Browse to and select the ISO you extracted from step 2.
5. You can now access the CD from the Virtual Clone Drive like you would from a normal CD drive.
6. Install the program.
7. Once finished, select the Virtual Clone Drive in My Computer. Right-click it and go to Virtual Clone Drive > Unmount to ‘eject’ the CD.
8. You can now delete the ISO file.

This method is a quick and easy way to install programs without having the CD handy.