How to Make a Bootable CD Using Nero Express in Windows XP

Nero Express can be used to burn audio and video discs, as well as discs created from ISO, or disc image files.

You can create a bootable CD using the Nero Express Image Burner. Boot disc images can be downloaded for free from various websites. An image file is essentially a file that contains all of the data contained on a CD, but is stored on your hard drive. Image files are useful when two or more users in different locations need to use the same CD. Rather than physically bringing on mailing the CD to the other user, the user in possession of the CD can simply create a disc image and send the file to the other user.

Things You'll Need

• Nero Express
• Computer running Windows XP
• Internet connection
• CD burner

Instructions

1. Go to the Windows XP Service Pack 3 boot disc download page. See the References section of this article for the link.

2. Download the ISO file by clicking “Download” in the middle of the screen. You will be redirected to another page and your download will automatically begin. Save this file to the desktop of your computer for easy access.

3. Open Nero Express.

4. Click “Image, Project, Copy” in Nero Start window.

5. Click “Disc image or Saved project.”

6. Select the ISO, or image file that was just downloaded from the Microsoft website and click “Open.”

7. Click “Burn” to create your bootable CD. A dialog box will appear indicating the burn was successful when the burn is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• While the link provided states it is for Windows XP Service Pack 3, it will work for all prior versions of Windows XP.

References

• Nero Express Manual
• Microsoft: Windows XP Service Pack 3 - ISO-9660 CD Image File