In the realm of digital storage, ISO image files have long held a prominent position, with a myriad of software choices spread across the Internet, each offering the capability to mount these ISO files onto virtual drives. Yet, when the task at hand is mounting more specialized formats such as ZIP, RAR, or 7z archives as virtual drives, the choices narrow down considerably. Enter WinArchiver, a potent solution to this niche requirement. In this risewindows article, we delve into the capabilities of WinArchiver, showcasing its prowess in seamlessly mounting archive files as virtual drives. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or someone looking to expand their toolkit, read on to understand the significance and utility of this remarkable software.
WinArchiver Virtual Drive for Windows 11 and 10
While the tech-savvy community may be aware of several tools to mount CD/DVD image files, the unique capability of mounting formats like ZIP, RAR, and 7z as virtual drives often goes unnoticed. WinArchiver emerges as an essential utility in this domain. Its primary advantage lies in its ability to allow users to access files from virtual discs without the need for a physical CD/DVD. This is particularly relevant in our current digital age, where physical CD-ROMs are becoming a relic of the past. Many modern computer systems no longer come equipped with CD-ROM drives, making WinArchiver an indispensable tool for those looking to access compressed files directly from the internet.
Imagine downloading a compressed file and wanting to mount it onto a CD/DVD ROM without the hassle of burning it onto an actual disc. WinArchiver simplifies this process. While alternatives like WinCDEmu exist, WinArchiver’s support for ZIP, RAR, and 7Z formats distinctly sets it apart. Moreover, it enables running compressed archives directly, negating the need for extraction and potential space concerns on your hard disk. For instance, a sizable 11GB file, when downloaded and extracted, occupies the same amount of space on your hard disk. Compressing such a file doubles its space occupancy. Utilizing a virtual drive with WinArchiver efficiently conserves this space.
Functionally, WinArchiver can rival any top-tier ISO file mounting software. Once installed, users can select from one or multiple virtual drives to mount their desired files. Additionally, there’s an option to have it initiate upon system startup, ensuring constant, seamless access to your archives.
Mounting an Archive File
Now that we’ve explored the “why” of it, let’s move on to the “how” of it in this article. Mounting an archive file on a virtual drive is a straightforward process. First, you need to download the software to your computer. After installation, locate it in the System Tray. Click on its icon to access the configuration.
After completing the initial setup, designate the number of virtual drives you wish to create (with a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 23) and click “OK“. There are also additional settings available, such as auto-mount and auto-start.
Next, navigate to the specific archive file you wish to mount. Right-click on the file, then select WinArchiver > Mount > [Drive Letter]. The chosen file will then be mounted onto the virtual drive.
Similarly, to un-mount the virtual drive, right-click on the drive letter in File Explorer and select “Eject.”
Download WinArchiver Virtual Drive
WinArchiver delivers on its promises. It is compatible with various Microsoft operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as verified through personal testing. Visit the official website to download it for your computer.
Additionally, consider exploring Pismo File Mount. With this software, you can mount ZIP, ISO, CISO, CFS, and PFO files as Virtual Folders and Virtual Drives.
Also Read: How to Install Windows 11 on VirtualBox Virtual Machine?
Conclusion
The digital world offers a plethora of tools and utilities for mounting and managing files, but WinArchiver stands out due to its specialized features and capabilities. Not only does it allow users to mount a diverse range of archive formats as virtual drives, but it also provides an efficient and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re navigating the process of mounting archive files or looking for a reliable tool that aligns with modern computing needs, WinArchiver proves to be a top contender. Moreover, its compatibility across various Microsoft OS platforms further cements its position as a go-to software for virtual drive needs.
