How to create an ISO image from a Folder (linux)

Under Linux, you can create an ISO image from a folder using a command line argument with the mkisofs tools. The following example creates an ISO image suitable to be used under Windows:


mkisofs -J -l -R -V "Label CD" -iso-level 4 -o output.iso input_directory


The -J option is used to generate Joliet directory records in addition to regular ISO9660 filenames (useful when the discs are to be used on Windows machines). When using the -J, it is recommended to add the -R option (Rock Ridge protocol). Finally, the -l option manages the long names.

If you want to create an ISO image for your Linux box only, simply type:


mkisofs -o output.iso input_directory


Then, you will need to mount it. Use Daemon tools (or equivalent under Windows) and the following syntax under Linux

First, to read the ISO file:

mdconfig -a -f ./image.iso

The command mdconfig returns the relevant memory disk (let us say md0). Now, you need to mount it:


mount -t cd9660 /dev/md0 /mnt


Those two commands could be put together in one command line:

mount -t cd9660 /dev/`mdconfig -a -f ./image.iso` /mnt

Once done, don’t forget to umount the disk:

umount /mnt
mdconfig -d -u 0


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