What are DMG files on Mac and Windows, and how do you use them?

When it comes to DMG files, Apple users might be more familiar with them. In daily use, you may encounter issues like: Why did I download a DMG file instead of an EXE file? What is DMG? How do I open it, and so on. Some users might also wonder what a DMG file is in the Windows system. DMG files can function as archives in both Mac and Windows systems. Considering its utilities and effects, it's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of DMG. Reading this article will help you grasp DMG better and utilize it efficiently.

# What is a DMG file on Mac?

A DMG file is an Apple disk image format (UDIF) used on Mac computers. DMG was previously known as the New Disk Image Format (NDIF) for systems OS9 and earlier. This type of file extension can also be saved as .img and .smi. A DMG file with the .dmg extension is a disk image file that stores compressed software installers on a Mac. DMGs are to Macs what ISO files are to Windows – a standard part of the computer system, because you need them to make your Mac more efficient. In essence, a DMG is like a virtual package installer. You double-click the DMG before the virtual hard drive mounts/appears on the desktop. Now that you have a general idea of what a DMG file is on a Mac, let's move on to how to use it in detail!

Why does Mac use DMG?

DMG is a specific file format developed by Apple, primarily used in the macOS operating system. The main reasons for choosing or using DMG as a core file format are its inherent advantages, which include:

- DMG files offer advanced compression and encryption features, with the primary advantage being that they can be treated like a removable disk. - DMG files are read-write, allowing you to add files to them as needed. - The maximum single file size for a DMG is 2 TB. - You can add licenses and text descriptions; set background images; and encrypt the content. - The installation process is straightforward, without the need for decompression. - It can significantly save storage space on your computer.

How to use DMG on a Mac?

Here, we mainly provide one way to open/access a DMG file on a Mac:

If you download apps from the Internet, as opposed to the Apple store, they often come in this format, which ends in .dmg.

Step 1: Double-click the DMG file.

Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to drag the app icon into the Applications folder.

Drag to application

Step 3: After dragging the icon, you'll see that the project has been copied into your app.

Step 4. Double-click the app icon on your computer to open the program.

After all, the installation of the DMG file completes.

And, if you're interested, here's some more information about DMG files on the Mac.

How to Recover Deleted/Corrupted DMG Files on Mac OS X

DMG files are gone forever from your Mac and seem unrecoverable. Use Data Recovery Wizard for Mac to retrieve deleted DMG files in just a few steps from macOS 10.14 all the way down to OS X 10.6. This is your guide to DMG file recovery.

What is a DMG file on Windows, and how do I open it?

DMG files are not exclusive to Apple's Mac or other devices. Thanks to their numerous advantages and high level of security, Windows also employs DMG to enhance the user experience. So let's delve into more about DMGs on Windows and how to use them!

1. What is a DMG file on Windows?

DMG files on Windows serve the same purpose as they do on a Mac. Essentially, a DMG is the same on both Mac and Windows. It's used to store applications to avoid unnecessary hassle during the installation process. Perhaps for this reason, Windows has adopted DMGs to offer a safer, time-saving “container” for users.

2. How do I open it on Windows?

As we all know, DMG files are mainly used in the Mac system. However, due to certain applications being compressed into DMG format, it has become increasingly common on Windows as well. With its growing popularity, learning how to open or use a DMG file on Windows is not a bad choice.

Before we begin, two pieces of advice.

DMG Extractor

First, you'll need to download a free program called DMG Extractor. Once downloaded, it should run automatically. DMG Extractor can also help you extract encrypted .dmg files.

Step 1. Launch DMG Extractor, upload the DMG file you want to extract (or simply drag and drop it).

Step 2: DMG Extractor will then automatically extract the files you've chosen. If your file is over 4 GB, the progress bar may appear at the bottom.

Note: DMG Extractor is easy to use and works great, but it can only handle .dmg files up to 4 GB in size for free. Larger ones require a payment.

UltraISO

The English title for this image is "ultraiso," with a height of 649 pixels and a width of 600 pixels.

Step 1: Download and run UltraISO.

Step 2: Select the file type: .dmg/.fhs/.timg.

Step 3: Select the files you want to extract.

Step 4. When it's done, convert the DMG to an ISO.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored what DMG is and how to use it. We have also looked at the advantages of DMG. So, with a comprehensive understanding of DMG, I believe you now have a better grasp of DMG files. You should know what DMG is on Mac/Windows and how to use it on different devices. If you have any better tips on using DMG on Windows, please let us know.

What is a DMG file? FAQs

1. Is it safe to delete the DMG file after installing the software?

Certainly. Once software is installed, DMG files usually become unnecessary, so deleting them can free up storage space on your computer.

Note: If you have trouble deleting the DMG files, make sure you unmounted them first.

2. Is DMG only for Mac?

As we mentioned earlier, DMG files are Apple-specific and are meant to be used only on Mac. Usually, many software titles offer separate downloads for Mac or Windows on their official websites. But now, you can opt for other efficient tools to convert DMG instead.