How to Convert ESD to ISO

The ESD (Electronic Software Download) file format is commonly used for distributing Windows updates and installation files. However, to make installation or bootable media creation easier, it’s often necessary to convert it into an ISO format, which is more universal and widely supported. This guide provides a detailed overview of several methods to convert ESD to ISO.

Method 1: Using the Windows Command Prompt

Windows has built-in utilities that allow you to convert ESD files to ISO without additional software. Follow these steps:

  1. Open File Explorer and locate your ESD file.
  2. Copy the file path by holding Shift and right-clicking the file, then selecting “Copy as path.”
  3. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click it, and select “Run as administrator.”
  4. Enter the following command, replacing it with the path to your ESD file:
dism /Export-Image /SourceImageFile:"path_to_your_ESD_file" /SourceIndex:1 /DestinationImageFile:"path_to_ISO_file" /Compress:max /CheckIntegrity

After running this command, you will have an ISO file ready for use.

Method 2: Using the ESD Decrypter Tool

If the Command Prompt seems complex, you can use a specialized tool, such as ESD Decrypter. This free utility allows you to convert ESD files to ISO with just a few clicks.

  1. Download ESD Decrypter from a reliable source.
  2. Extract the archive to a convenient location on your computer.
  3. Run decrypt.cmd as an administrator.
  4. Select the option to convert ESD to ISO and follow the on-screen instructions.

The program will automatically create an ISO file in the same folder as your ESD file.

Method 3: Conversion Using PowerShell

For advanced users, PowerShell also provides a conversion option. Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the following commands:

Import-Module Dism
Export-WindowsImage -SourceImagePath "path_to_your_ESD_file" -SourceIndex 1 -DestinationImagePath "path_to_ISO_file" -Compress Max -CheckIntegrity

This command will create an ISO file from your ESD file. Note that this method requires PowerShell version 5 or higher.