Why Are People Still Burning DVDs in 2026?
You might wonder why DVD burning remains relevant in 2026 when cloud storage dominates the digital landscape. The answer is simple: physical media still matters. DVDs offer permanent, offline storage that doesn't depend on internet connectivity or subscription services. They're perfect for archiving precious family videos, creating physical backups of important data, distributing content without file size limitations, and ensuring long-term preservation of memories without relying on cloud providers that may change policies or shut down.
For professionals, DVDs remain essential for client deliverables, legal document archiving, and situations where physical handoff is required. Plus, many people still own DVD players and prefer the tangible nature of physical media collections.
What You'll Need
Before we begin, make sure you have:
A Windows 11 PC with a DVD burner drive
Blank DVD discs (DVD-R or DVD+R recommended)
Nero Burning ROM software
Files you want to burn (videos, photos, documents, etc.)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Burn DVD with Nero Burning ROM
Step 1: Install Nero Burning ROM
First, you need to download and install Nero Burning ROM from the Microsoft Store. This is the world's leading DVD burning software, trusted by millions of users worldwide.
👉 Download Nero Burning ROM
Installation steps:
Click the download link above or open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 PC
Search for "Nero Burning ROM" (if not using the direct link)
Click the Get or Install button
Wait for the download and installation to complete (approximately 63 MB)
Step 2: Launch Nero and Create a New DVD Project
Once Nero Burning ROM is installed, launch the application and set up your DVD project:
Open Nero Burning ROM from your Start menu
In the New Compilation window, navigate to DVD > DVD-ROM (UDF) > New
The DVD-ROM (UDF) option is ideal for data DVDs that can store any type of files
You'll see various options including:
Multisession settings (choose "No Multisession" for standard DVDs)
File replacement options
Compilation settings
Click New to create your DVD project
The interface provides multiple DVD format options including DVD Copy and DVD-Video, but for general file burning, DVD-ROM (UDF) is your best choice.
Step 3: Add Files to Your DVD
Now it's time to add the files you want to burn:
The Nero interface is divided into two panels:
Left panel: Shows your disc content (currently empty)
Right panel: Shows your computer's file browser
Navigate to the folder containing your files in the right panel
Drag and drop files or entire folders from the right panel to the left panel
You can add multiple files and folders
Watch the capacity indicator at the bottom to ensure you don't exceed the DVD's storage limit (typically 4.7 GB for single-layer DVDs)
Step 4: Review Your Files and Burn
Before burning, review your file selection:
Check the file list in the disc content area
In this example, we have four demo videos ready to burn:
Demo Video 1
Demo Video 2
Demo Video 3
Demo Video 4
Verify the file sizes and modification dates
Insert a blank DVD into your DVD burner drive
Click the Burn Now button
The interface clearly shows all files queued for burning, making it easy to verify everything is correct before proceeding.
Step 5: Monitor the Burning Process
Once you click Burn Now, Nero will begin the burning process:
The progress window shows:
Current file being written (e.g., "Demo Video 3.mp4")
Overall progress percentage (shown with a green progress bar)
Caching and burn progress timeline
Writing speed and other technical details
Optional settings you can enable:
Automatically shut down the PC when done (useful for large burns)
Verify written data (recommended for important content)
The process typically takes 5-15 minutes depending on:
Amount of data
DVD write speed
Your drive's capabilities
Do not remove the disc or close the application until the process is 100% complete.
Step 6: Verify Your Burned DVD
After the burn is complete, verify your DVD:
The DVD will be automatically ejected (or you can manually eject it)
Re-insert the DVD into your drive
Open File Explorer and navigate to your DVD drive (e.g., "BD-RE Drive (D:)")
You should see all your burned folders and files:
Music folder
Photo folder
Video folder
Open the folders to verify all files are accessible
Try playing a video or opening a document to ensure everything works correctly
Tips for Successful DVD Burning
Choose the right disc type:
DVD-R/DVD+R: Single-use, best for permanent archives
DVD-RW/DVD+RW: Rewritable, can be erased and reused
Dual-layer DVDs: Hold up to 8.5 GB instead of 4.7 GB
Optimize your burn:
Use slower write speeds for better compatibility
Always verify written data for important content
Keep your DVD burner's firmware updated
Use quality blank discs from reputable brands
Storage best practices:
Store DVDs in protective cases
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
Handle discs by the edges to avoid fingerprints
Label discs with a soft-tip marker, never adhesive labels
Conclusion
Burning DVDs in 2026 remains a practical solution for creating physical backups, archiving important memories, and distributing content without internet dependency. Nero Burning ROM on Windows 11 makes the process straightforward and reliable, whether you're preserving family videos, backing up work projects, or creating physical media collections.
With this guide, you now have everything you need to burn your first DVD on Windows 11. The process is simple, and the peace of mind that comes with having physical backups is invaluable in our increasingly digital world.
👉Download Nero Burning ROM
Ready to start burning DVDs? Download Nero Burning ROM Now.
