In the macOS environment, creating and burning data CDs and DVDs is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using built-in tools. This is particularly useful for backing up data, sharing files, or creating physical media for distribution. While the use of physical media has declined with the rise of cloud storage and USB drives, there are still scenarios where a CD or DVD is the best option.

In this article, we will explore how to create and burn a data CD/DVD on macOS using Finder, Disk Utility, and Terminal. These methods provide flexibility depending on your comfort level with graphical interfaces or command-line tools.

Examples:

Using Finder:
1. Prepare Your Data:

• Create a new folder on your desktop and add all the files you want to burn to the CD/DVD.

2. Insert a Blank CD/DVD:

• Insert a blank CD/DVD into your Mac’s optical drive. If your Mac does not have an optical drive, you can use an external USB optical drive.

3. Burn the CD/DVD:

• Open Finder and locate the folder with your data.


• Right-click the folder and select "Burn [Folder Name] to Disc."


• Follow the prompts to name the disc and initiate the burning process.

Using Disk Utility:
1. Prepare Your Data:

• Similar to the Finder method, create a folder with all the files you want to burn.

2. Create a Disk Image:

• Open Disk Utility (found in Applications > Utilities).


• Go to File > New Image > Image from Folder.


• Select the folder you created and choose a name and location for the disk image.


• Ensure the format is set to "DVD/CD master" and click "Save."

3. Burn the Disk Image:

• Insert a blank CD/DVD.


• Select the disk image in Disk Utility.


• Click the "Burn" button and follow the prompts.

Using Terminal:
1. Prepare Your Data:

• Create a folder with the files you want to burn.

2. Create a Disk Image:

• Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities).


• Use the hdiutil command to create a disk image:
  

   hdiutil create -srcfolder /path/to/your/folder -format UDTO -o /path/to/save/image



• This will create a .cdr file, which is a CD/DVD master image.

3. Burn the Disk Image:

• Insert a blank CD/DVD.


• Use the drutil command to burn the image:
  

   drutil burn /path/to/your/image.cdr

These methods offer a range of options for creating and burning data CDs and DVDs on macOS, catering to different user preferences and technical skills.