Disk images, which are more commonly known as DMG files are like virtual disks (for example CDs or DVDs). You might have encountered them while downloading any software applications from the internet. They are most commonly used as app containers for the macOS operating system.
Why Are DMG Files Used?
Similar to Zip files, DMG files also compress the application setup and significantly reduce the time and space needed for the whole installation process.
Apart from that, Apple is highly conscious when it comes to cybersecurity. The macOS uses DMG files in such a way that all files from the installation setup are verified and are only downloaded if they are totally clean. This also ensures that while downloading, all files are fully downloaded without any components being damaged.
How to Use DMG Files?
Usually, when you download a program’s setup file, it comes in the form of a Disk Image (DMG file). When you double-click it and open the downloaded item, you see a new window where you typically have to drag the DMG file (software application’s icon) into the Applications folder. This is how the installation procedure unfolds.
Once the program has been installed, you can right-click the DMG file and click Eject. This automatically unmounts the DMG file from your macOS system. Finally, you can delete the DMG file from your Mac since it has fulfilled its purpose and is now just a waste of storage space.
Nevertheless, disk images are not limited to being used as app containers, and they can have various other functions.
How to Add Files to a Disk Image?
Adding files to a disk image yourself is not a challenging task. If you think disk images can only be used to store app configuration files, you are wrong. You can store whatever type of files you want! All you have to do is follow a few simple steps below:
- Open up the Finder.
- Click Go and select Utilities.
- Now open up Disk Utility.
- Go to File.
- Select New Image, followed by Image from Folder. If you want a blank DMG for now and want to add files later, you can select Blank Image.
- A new window will appear. Navigate to the file that you wish to put into your disk image.
- Hit the Choose button.
- Next, you will be asked to perform some configuration settings. For instance, whether you want to encrypt your file or not. If so, you will have to enter your device’s password twice. The good thing about DMG files is that they support 128/256-bit AES encryption, which makes it possible for users to password-protect their files.
- If you want your DMG file to be a read-write one instead of read-only (which happens by default), you can change the settings by going to Image Format and selecting Read/Write instead of Compressed.
That’s all you have to do to add files to a disk image. If you want to access your files later, you can simply open the DMG file and enter the password (if applied earlier). The disk image will automatically mount on your Mac.
Well, that’s pretty much it! In just a few simple steps you can create a disk image and add files to it.