File with a .WIM extension contains a disc image stored in an imaging format based on files it holds. It was introduced to Vista version of Windows system and it enables to place a singular image on many platforms, mainly for purpose of managing drivers’ files or updates with no necessity to initiate the operating system.

WIM files also enable to start a computer from a WIM disc image. It may also contain many different images which can be mounted as virtual discs – new volumes in Windows system.