Mounting is a term in computer science that refers to placing a file in a “virtual disk” that allows users to play games and access other programs without a physical CD or DVD. Games and software that are mounted in a virtual disk function in the same way as they would via a physical disk because a virtual disk allows the computer to process the data in the same way a CD or DVD player would. Mounting is very easy, but may seem complicated to inexperienced users.

 

Where to Find Game Data

Before the user can mount a game in a virtual disk, he/she will need the actual game data that is usually on the disk. Game data has many sources, including P2P and BitTorrent websites such as IsoHunt and PirateBay, although this is usually illegal. The game creator sometimes gives access to game data, although this is very rare for popular games. More commonly, there are disks with game data that can easily be ripped in order to play the game on multiple computers.

 

Daemon Tools Lite

Once the user has obtained the game data, specifically the game’s BIN or CUE file, it can be mounted using any mounting software. One of the most popular mounting programs available, Daemon Tools Lite, is very easy to use and is completely free. Daemon Tools can be found here and, once installed, will place an icon on the Taskbar Tray for easy access whenever the program is running. The user must simply right click the icon, put the cursor over “Virtual Devices,” then over “Device 0: No Media,” and click “Mount Drive.” This will allow the user to browse for the BIN file in the game data and mount it, causing the game to load. The user should then be able to install and play the game without any problems. If the game allows the user to create a shortcut or includes an AutoRun software, the user will be able to use this icon to access the game whenever it is mounted. If the game does not provide the user with this option, he/she can play the game by going to My Computer and selecting the appropriate drive.