Does Windows DVD Maker Still Work in 2026?

Last Updated: 2026

If you've recently searched for Windows DVD Maker, you may be wondering whether it still works on modern versions of Windows. The short answer is no—Windows DVD Maker is no longer included with current versions of Microsoft Windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11.

However, if you still have an older computer or need to create DVDs for videos or backups, there are several alternatives available. In this guide, we'll explain what happened to Windows DVD Maker, whether it can still be used, and what options you have in 2026.

---

What Was Windows DVD Maker?

Windows DVD Maker was a built-in application included with Windows Vista and Windows 7. It allowed users to create video DVDs that could be played in standard DVD players.

With Windows DVD Maker, you could:

• Create DVD videos from photos and videos.

• Add menus and themes.

• Burn DVDs directly from your computer.

• Create discs compatible with most DVD players.

For many years, it was one of the easiest ways to create home video DVDs.

---

Is Windows DVD Maker Available in Windows 10 or Windows 11?

No.

Microsoft discontinued Windows DVD Maker after Windows 7. It was not included in Windows 8, Windows 10, or Windows 11.

If you're using a modern version of Windows, you won't find Windows DVD Maker installed, and Microsoft no longer provides it as a downloadable application.

---

Can You Still Install Windows DVD Maker?

Some websites offer downloads claiming to restore Windows DVD Maker on newer versions of Windows. However, you should be cautious.

Many unofficial downloads may be outdated, modified, or bundled with unwanted software.

For security and compatibility reasons, it's generally better to use modern DVD-authoring software that is actively maintained.

---

Why Did Microsoft Remove Windows DVD Maker?

There were several reasons behind Microsoft's decision:

Declining Use of DVDs

As internet speeds improved and streaming services became more popular, fewer people created video DVDs.

Shift to Digital Media

Cloud storage, USB drives, and online video platforms gradually replaced physical DVDs for many users.

Focus on Modern Windows Features

Microsoft simplified Windows by removing older applications that were no longer widely used.

Although DVD Maker disappeared, Windows still supports DVD drives for reading discs, and many computers can still boot from Windows installation DVDs.

---

Do People Still Use DVDs in 2026?

Yes.

While movie DVDs are less common than they once were, DVDs continue to be used in several situations:

• Installing operating systems

• Computer repair

• Business system deployment

• Data archiving

• Offline backups

• Legacy hardware support

Many businesses and IT professionals continue to keep Windows installation DVDs available for maintenance and recovery.

---

What Are the Best Alternatives to Windows DVD Maker?

If you need to create video DVDs today, there are many modern alternatives available. Look for software that supports:

• DVD menu creation

• Video burning

• ISO image creation

• Windows 10 compatibility

• Windows 11 compatibility

Choose software from reputable developers and download it from official sources whenever possible.

---

Windows Installation DVDs Are Different

It's important not to confuse Windows DVD Maker with a Windows installation DVD.

A Windows installation DVD is used to:

• Install Windows on a computer.

• Reinstall Windows after replacing a hard drive or SSD.

• Repair startup problems.

• Perform a clean installation of Windows.

Even though Windows DVD Maker has been discontinued, Windows installation DVDs remain useful for businesses, repair technicians, and home users who prefer physical installation media.

---

Why Choose Physical Windows Installation Media?

Many users still prefer installation DVDs because they offer several advantages:

• No need to download large installation files.

• Reliable offline installation.

• Permanent installation media.

• Useful for older desktop computers with DVD drives.

• Convenient for IT professionals managing multiple systems.

For users maintaining older PCs or preparing several computers, a Windows installation DVD remains a practical solution.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Windows DVD Maker still work?

The original Windows DVD Maker only works on the versions of Windows it was designed for, primarily Windows Vista and Windows 7. It is not included with Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Can I download Windows DVD Maker from Microsoft?

No. Microsoft no longer offers Windows DVD Maker as an official download.

Is Windows DVD Maker the same as a Windows installation DVD?

No. Windows DVD Maker creates video DVDs, while a Windows installation DVD is used to install or repair the Windows operating system.

Do I still need DVDs in 2026?

Many users no longer rely on DVDs for entertainment, but DVDs continue to be useful for Windows installation, system recovery, business environments, and older computers.

---

Final Thoughts

Windows DVD Maker is part of Microsoft's history and is no longer supported on modern versions of Windows. If you need to create video DVDs, modern DVD-authoring software is a better choice.

However, if your goal is to install or reinstall Windows, a Windows installation DVD is still a practical and dependable option. Many businesses, IT professionals, and home users across Europe continue to use physical installation media for system deployment, recovery, and maintenance.

If you're looking for reliable Windows installation media, explore the Windows DVD collection at IT Mercat to find the version that matches your computer and operating system.