Every serious computer user needs a way to load .ISO and .IMG files without wasting a DVD-R or CD-R. The potential applications of this type of program are nearly endless. You might need to load two programs that require CDs at the same time, for instance, and you only have one DVD drive. You might not have any spare CD-Rs, but you need to load an .ISO. You might simply prefer to read CD and DVD image files directly to stop your disc drive from making an annoying spinning sound.

In any case, a program like Virtual CloneDrive gives you exactly what you need. At only 1.5 megabytes, this is one of the lightest DVD simulation programs on the market. It's got the basic features that you need without unnecessary excess, and its smooth, reliable operation makes it a welcome addition to your computer or portable USB drive.

Virtual CloneDrive installs easily and runs you through some basic settings that determine how the program runs and operates. For instance, you can keep a history of recently mounted images for simple operation. You can also use the program from Windows Explorer by right-clicking an .ISO or .IMG file, which is extremely convenient. Virtual CloneDrive also allows you to easily make image files from your DVDs and CDs. If you've got some time to spare, the program offers a great way to back up all of your optical disks, potentially saving you a tremendous amount of money and hassle down the line.

Virtual CloneDrive was designed for Windows 7 and it doesn't work very well with Windows Vista. However, if you're a Windows 7 user and you've been looking for a clean, simple way to mount virtual DVDs and CDs, Virtual CloneDrive offers some serious advantages over similar programs in a small, easy-to-use package.