How to Play Blu-ray ISO on PC Without Encryption Issues

A Blu-ray ISO is an exact copy of a Blu-ray disc. It contains all the original disc content, including video, audio, subtitle, and other data. Many use it for backup, archiving, or playback without using the physical disc. These files are commonly used to store and share Blu-ray movies in their full quality. Unfortunately, since ISO files are disc images, they can't be opened like regular video files. So, how do I play an ISO file on my PC? That's exactly the goal of this post: to help you play Blu-ray ISO on a PC. We'll provide two effective methods using dedicated software. Both tools enable you to load the ISO file and play the movie directly without needing to burn it to a disc. Let's proceed through each method step by step.

• Part 1. What is a Blu-ray ISO File
• Part 2. Play Blu-ray ISO on PC with Blu-ray Master Free Blu-ray Player
• Part 3. Play Blu-ray ISO on PC with VLC Media Player

Part 1. What is a Blu-ray ISO File

A Blu-ray ISO file is a complete digital copy of the contents found on a Blu-ray disc. All content included on the Blu-ray disc is saved within a single file with a .iso extension. Think of it as a clone of the original Blu-ray. It contains the video streams, audio tracks, menus, subtitles, metadata, and disc structures. ISO files are commonly used for backup, archiving, or even in virtual playback. These files are created using disc imaging software. It can store high-definition videos in their original format without any compression and quality loss.

Important Note: Since Blu-ray ISOs are exact copies of the entire disc, you can play them using a compatible media playback software. However, due to its large file size, it requires ample storage space and demands more processing power to play smoothly.

Want to know more about what ISO file are and how they work? Check here!

Part 2. Play Blu-ray ISO on PC with Blu-ray Master Free Blu-ray Player

Blu-ray Master recommends the Free Blu-ray Player for its outstanding performance in Blu-ray playback. It offers full compatibility with Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, as well as Mac OS X 10.9 or later. It can play Blu-ray ISO files, Blu-ray discs, BDMV folders, and even local files. Additionally, it can efficiently handle Blu-ray discs from Region A, B, and C without restrictions.

Furthermore, it allows you to create a custom playlist to manage and control your playback. It also enables you to select specific titles or chapters from the ISO file. During playback, you can use the Snapshot feature to capture important video scenes. The software's smart playback controls offer easy content navigation, enabling you to manage Blu-ray content.

Here's how to play an ISO using the Free Blu-ray Player:

Step 1. First, get a free download of Free Blu-ray Player, recommended by Blu-ray Master. Install the Blu-ray ISO playback software and follow the installation process to completion. Afterward, run Free Blu-ray Player on your Windows and allow it to prepare its window.

Step 2.Click the Open File button to access your local drive and import the Blu-ray ISO. In addition to Blu-ray ISO, you can also load a BDMV folder. The software will then read the ISO image file and play it back automatically afterward.

Step 3.Once the Blu-ray ISO is added, you can choose to continue playing the image file. Alternatively, proceed to the Control tab and select designated options to access other titles or chapters. Use the smart playback controls to Play, Pause, Stop, Forward, or Backward. If needed, customize your Blu-ray ISO playback using the following:

Audio: Select different audio tracks, adjust stereo modes, or switch to a different audio device.

Video: Choose video tracks, insert or replace subtitle tracks, and set the screen aspect ratio.

Tools: Modify language settings and apply effects like brightness, contrast, saturation, and hue.

Free Blu-ray Player, chosen by Blu-ray Master, delivers a stable performance for playing Blu-ray ISO files. It efficiently handles ISO files without requiring additional mounting software, making it a convenient option to use. Additionally, it provides menu support for both physical discs and ISO files.

Part 2. Play Blu-ray ISO on PC with VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is among the leading media players for playing nearly all media formats. Aside from local files or media stream formats, it supports Blu-ray ISO playback. In addition to basic playback, it provides enhanced features to further improve your viewing experience. However, you should be aware that VLC cannot play back Blu-ray ISO files with region restrictions and encryption.

Here's how to play Blu-ray ISO on a PC using the VLC Media Player:

Step 1.On the VLC Media Player, click the Media tab and select the Open File option. It will open your PC's local drive, allowing you to browse and locate the Blu-ray ISO. Another way to import the Blu-ray ISO is by pressing the Ctrl + O keys.

Step 2.As soon as the VLC Media Player reads the Blu-ray ISO, it should be ready for playback. On the lower section of the preview screen, use the playback controls to navigate through the file. You can adjust the volume, toggle the video to full screen, and switch playlists, among other options.

Important Note: Some Blu-ray ISO files may contain region restrictions and encryption. Unfortunately, VLC cannot handle such files without extra workarounds. You will first need to download the key database and AACS dynamic library. These files allow the media player to bypass the restrictions embedded in the Blu-ray ISO.

Not only that, you also need to install the essential files into the correct directories. If a single file is misplaced, the VLC Media Player won't play Blu-ray ISO properly. Create a new folder on your Local Disk (C:) and name it aacs. Then, transfer the KEYDB.cfg file into that folder and paste the libaacs.dll file into the VLC installation directory. For Windows running 32bit VLC, the directory should be C:Program Files (x86)VideoLANVLC.

Conclusion

This post demonstrates two easy and effective methods to play Blu-ray ISO on a PC. VLC is a convenient and free option that can handle ISO files effectively. However, it falls short when it comes to Blu-ray ISO with region restrictions and encryptions. For a more reliable, full-featured, and region-free playback, use Free Blu-ray Player by Blu-ray Master. It can play Blu-ray ISO smoothly and provides tools for full playback control.
Do you know of any other methods to play Blu-ray ISO files on a PC? Feel free to share them in the comments below. We'd love to hear your suggestions.