Windows 7 already allows mounting of Virtual Hard Disk (VHD) files through the Disk Management applet of the Computer Management tool. On Windows 8, this will be much simpler. Users will be able to mount and open VHD files directly from Windows Explorer. Additionally, Windows 8 will natively support optical disk ISO image files, allowing users to mount them as virtual optical drives and access contains within it through Windows 8 Explorer.
To mount an ISO file, click on the “mount” action from the Explorer ribbon (or just double-click or right-click on the file), and Windows seamlessly creates a “virtual” CDROM or DVD drive. A new drive letter appears indicating that the contents are now readily accessible. The contents of the ISO are accessible just as they would have been had you inserted the CD/DVD media into a physical optical drive.
Once you are done using the ISO, you can (virtually) “eject” it, and the virtual drive disappears.
VHD files in Windows 8 can be mounted the same way, but rather than appearing as a removable drive (as is the case with ISO), VHDs appear as new hard drives.
You can work with the virtual hard disk just like any other file storage in your system, whether you are modifying, adding or removing files. Once you’ve finished working with the VHD, like an ISO, you can right-click it and click Eject (or just use the Eject button on the ribbon). Any changes you’ve made remain saved within the file.
Watch the video demo.
[via Building Windows 8]
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