How to Edit a Finalized DVD-RW (10 Steps)

By David Taylor

i Paul Katz/Photodisc/Getty Images

Finalizing a DVD creates an index and protects the disc from further writes. This means that the data on your finalized DVD-RW cannot be modified. Despite this limitation, a DVD-RW can be erased. Erasing the disc will remove all data, including finalization information. By copying your data from the disc and erasing it, you'll be able to add it back in and work with the disc in an un-finalized state.

Step 1

Create a new folder on your computer's desktop and give it a temporary name. This folder will contain the contents of the DVD while it is being erased.

Step 2

Insert the DVD-RW into your computer's disc burning drive.

Step 3

Open the disc from Windows Explorer if it does not automatically open.

Step 4

Select all files on the disc, then press "Ctrl-C" on the keyboard to copy them.

Step 5

Open the folder you created and press "Ctrl-V" on the keyboard to paste the files to this directory.

Step 6

Open the disc window and click "Erase this disc" from the menu bar. Click "Next" and wait for the disc to be erased.

Step 7

Select all the files in the folder you created, then copy them by pressing "Ctrl-C."

Step 8

Reinsert the ejected disc and open it in Windows Explorer. Choose "Like a USB flash drive" when prompted to prevent re-finalization.

Step 9

Press "Ctrl-V" to paste the files back to the disc.

Step 10

Click "Burn to disc" from the menu bar and click "Next."

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