How to convert bootable USB into an ISO file

If you’ve ever created a bootable USB for installing Windows, Linux, or other operating systems, you might wonder: Can I turn this USB back into an ISO file?
The short answer is yes — and it’s easier than you think.

Converting a bootable USB to an ISO is useful if you want to back it up, share it, or store it for later without keeping the physical USB plugged in. In this guide, we’ll cover multiple methods for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Why Convert a Bootable USB to ISO?

There are a few good reasons to do this:

• Backup: Avoid losing your OS installer or recovery tools.
• Sharing: Easily send the ISO to others.
• Reusability: Free up the USB for other tasks while keeping the installer safe.

Method 1: Using a Tool on Windows (Win32 Disk Imager or ImgBurn)

Option A: Win32 Disk Imager

1. Download and install Win32 Disk Imager.
2. Insert your bootable USB drive into your PC.
3. Open Win32 Disk Imager.
4. Select your USB drive under Device.
5. Choose where to save the output file and make sure it ends in .iso (you may need to save as .img first and rename later).
6. Click Read. The tool will copy your USB into an image file.

Option B: ImgBurn

1. Download ImgBurn and install it.
2. Choose Create image file from files/folders.
3. Point it to your USB drive.
4. Save the file as an ISO.

Method 2: Using Command Line (Windows)

If you prefer no extra software:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Use the DISM command:
   dism /capture-image /imagefile:C:\path\output.iso /capturedir:E:\ /name:"MyISO"
   Replace E:\ with your USB drive letter and C:\path\output.iso with your destination path.

Method 3: On macOS

1. Insert your bootable USB.
2. Open Disk Utility and note the disk identifier (e.g., disk2).
3. Open Terminal and run:
   sudo dd if=/dev/disk2 of=~/Desktop/myusb.iso bs=4m
   Replace disk2 with your USB’s ID.

Method 4: On Linux

1. Insert your bootable USB.
2. Open a terminal and run:
   sudo dd if=/dev/sdX of=~/myusb.iso bs=4M
   Replace /dev/sdX with your USB’s device path (check with lsblk).

Tips and Warnings

• Double-check the drive letter or device ID before running any commands — selecting the wrong drive can erase your data.
• Use a fast USB port for quicker imaging.
• Store your ISO in a safe location and consider compressing it to save space.

Final Words:
Converting a bootable USB to an ISO is a smart way to keep your installers handy without juggling physical drives. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, the process is straightforward with the right tools.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!