This article describes the default functionality in Windows 2000 for CD-R, CD-RW, and DVD-R devices. It also describes third-party "burner" software that is known to support Windows 2000.

The third-party products that are discussed in this article are manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding the performance or reliability of these products.

Back to the top

The built-in Windows 2000 drivers for CD-R, CD-RW, and DVD-R devices treat them as read-only devices. Note that no version of Microsoft Windows to date (Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows NT, Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows 95, or Microsoft Windows 3.x) natively supports the ability to write to CD-R, CD-RW, or DVD-R devices. Writing to (or "burning") these devices requires third-party drivers and software in Windows 2000.

Back to the top

Third-Party Software

The following third-party software is known to support Windows 2000.

NOTE: If you encounter any issues with the third-party products mentioned in this article, please contact the manufacturer for support. Also, you should verify with the manufacturer which versions of their software are supported with Windows 2000.

Adaptec CD-R Software

•	Easy CD Creator version 3.5c
•	Easy CD Creator versions 4.0, 4.02 (4.02 is officially supported on Windows 2000)
•	Adaptec DirectCD 3.01

Easy CD Creator 5 Platinum

Roxio's Easy CD Creator 5 Platinum version, are not supported on Windows 2000-based computers and may encounter blue screens as well as an extremely long time to boot.

Adaptec Easy CD Creator version 3.5b or earlier, and Adaptec DirectCD versions 3.0 or earlier, are not supported on Windows 2000-based computers and may encounter problems if you install them. For additional information, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: Visit the following Adaptec Web site for additional information and to obtain support updates and patches for Easy CD Creator and DirectCD: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

Software Architects

•	WriteDVD! 2000 version 1.0

Visit the following Software Architects Web site for support and updates: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

Golden Hawk Technology

•	Golden Hawk CD-R software version 3.8A

Visit the following Golden Hawk Technology Web site for support and updates: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

Nero by Ahead Software

•	Nero CD-R Software version 4.0.9.1 (is Windows 2000 compatible)

Visit the following Nero Web site for support and updates: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

Gear Software B.V.

•	Gear Pro version 4.41
•	Gear Data version 4.41
•	Gear Pro DVD version 2.0

These versions support Windows 2000 with the Gear software drivers installed. Visit the following Gear Web site for support and updates and patches for Gear CD-R/DVD Software: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

Back to the top