Have a Windows ISO file and need a bootable USB stick or DVD to install it? Microsoft's free Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool turns the image into installation media in four simple steps.
The tool turns a Windows 7 ISO into installation media
Select the Windows 7 ISO as the source, then choose USB or DVD as the destination. The tool prepares the selected media and transfers the setup files, producing media that can boot a compatible computer into Windows installation.
The guided sequence keeps the task focused on one image and one destination. It was built for Windows 7 but also works with many Windows 8 and 10 ISOs. It has no partition-scheme setting, so its USB sticks boot best on older BIOS or legacy mode and may not suit UEFI-only PCs.
Choose USB or DVD for the installation
For USB media, select the connected drive you want to prepare. The process formats the selected USB drive, so files already stored on it will be erased. Copy anything you need elsewhere before creating the media.
For DVD media, choose the DVD option and use a writable disc. The finished disc can then be used to start Windows setup on a computer with a DVD drive.
Follow the guided ISO-to-media sequence
The workflow moves through choosing the ISO, selecting the media type, identifying the destination, and starting the copy. For Windows 10 or 11 today, Microsoft's Media Creation Tool, or a utility such as Rufus with UEFI support, is usually the better choice.
- Choose the Windows 7 ISO file.
- Select USB device or DVD.
- Pick the destination and start copying.
Pros
- Creates bootable USB or DVD installation media from an ISO
- Guides users through choosing the image and media type
- Prepares the selected media and copies the installation files
Cons
- No UEFI or GPT partition option
- Erases the USB drive it writes to
- No longer updated by Microsoft
System requirements: Windows 7 · Pentium 233 MHz processor or faster (300 MHz recommended) · 50 MB free disk space · DVD-R drive or 4 GB removable USB drive
What does Windows 7 USB DVD Download Tool create?
It creates bootable USB or DVD installation media from a Windows 7 ISO.
Will creating USB media erase files on the drive?
Yes. The selected USB drive is formatted, which erases its existing files.
Can the tool create a DVD instead of a USB drive?
Yes. Choose DVD as the media type and use a writable disc.