Here is a free and open-source tool for write a raw disk image file has a removable device (let’s say USB or thumb drive). The tool is named Win32 Disk Imager. This can be useful when you want to create a copy or backup of your game or other data stored on a CD or DVD (in image format) so that you can use this backup later when needed. You can also use it to back up your removable device to a raw disk image file.
This tool only supports IMG read and write files but it works fine. Also, the tool is a bit old and was designed to work with Windows 10 and lower versions, but it works quite well for Windows 11 operating system as well.
Features of Win32 Disk Imager for Windows
Here are the features or options present in Win32 Disk Imager:
- Read: This option allows you to read data from a removable device to the input image file
- Write: Use this option when you want to backup or write your IMG file data to the removable device
- Chop: With this option you can generate MD5, SHA256, and or SHA1 hash of your IMG file. It also lets you copy the generated hash so you can save it in a folder
- Check only: You can use this feature to control or verify the integrity of files (input IMG file and removable device). If the file stored in the removable device is exactly the same as the input IMG file, their hash will match and the file integrity check will pass.
How to Use Win32 Disk Imager to Write a Raw Disk Image File to USB
Using this tool is very simple. The tool comes with a small interface where everything is self-explanatory. To use this tool, first grab its EXE file from sourceforge.net. Run the EXE file and complete the installation process. Finally, launch the tool, and its interface will be in front of you.
Now connect your removable device (if you haven’t already) and it will automatically detect and select it. If you have multiple removable devices connected to your computer, select the desired device from the drop-down menu available at the top right section of its interface.
Once you’ve done that, use the Case Where Browse icon available on the upper part of its interface to add the input IMG file. Generate a hash (if needed for the IMG file) or just skip this step.
Finally, press the Write button, confirm your action using the Yes button and wait for the process to complete. Once done, it will write your IMG file data successfully.
If you want, you can also use other features like checking file integrity, reading data from removable device, etc., using the buttons present on its interface.
Related: Best free imaging, backup and recovery software for Windows.
How to copy an image using Win32 Disk Imager?
Copying or writing an IMG file to a removable device is quite simple. Use the available icon to enter your input IMG file, select the output removable device, then use the Write button. That the whole process is over. If all goes well, you will have a backup or copy of your image file on the removable device. This article also covers the whole process of copying an image file using Win32 Disk Imager.
Why do you need software like Win32 Disk Imager?
Tools like Win32 Disk Imager are useful when you want to write data from your IMG file to a removable device. Even if the original image file is lost or corrupted, you will have a backup copy of your data. These tools are also useful when you want to back up your removable device to a raw disk image file.
I hope this helps you.
Read next: Best Free Game Backup Software for Windows Computers.
