The short answer
Usually, after a check. Might hold something you care about. Look inside before removing it.
What is it?
Disc images of operating systems such as Linux distributions or Windows, or of software, often used to install a virtual machine in Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion or UTM. Each typically takes a few GB.
Operating system or disc images downloaded more than 30 days ago. Check that no virtual machine still uses them.
What happens if you delete it?
Not recreated; most can be downloaded again from the publisher.
How to remove it properly
Check in your virtualisation app that no virtual machine still has the .iso attached as a CD/DVD drive, then move it to the Trash.
Quit the app that uses it, then move it to the Trash. Empty the Trash when you’re sure.
- MoreRoom only suggests items unused for 30 days or more.
Before you delete it
Some virtual machines refuse to start if an attached .iso disappears: detach it in the VM’s settings first.
How MoreRoom helps
MoreRoom recognises this item and labels it “Review first”: it shows what’s inside, its size and last use, so you can decide. Nothing is removed without your say, and everything goes to the Trash first, with Undo.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to delete old .iso files in Downloads?
Usually, after a check. Might hold something you care about. Look inside before removing it. Not recreated; most can be downloaded again from the publisher.
Will Old disc images in Downloads (.iso) come back after I delete it?
No. Not recreated; most can be downloaded again from the publisher.
How do I remove Old disc images in Downloads (.iso) properly?
Check in your virtualisation app that no virtual machine still has the .iso attached as a CD/DVD drive, then move it to the Trash.