How to erase a write-protected cd

Write-protection is put on many compact discs after they're burnt to keep the files written to the disc from being erased. If you want to add more files or remove the ones on the CD, your computer may tell you that you can't because it's write-protected. While some programs, such as music and video copiers, may be permanently write-protected, you can remove other types of write-protection.

Write-protection is put on many compact discs after they're burnt to keep the files written to the disc from being erased.
If you want to add more files or remove the ones on the CD, your computer may tell you that you can't because it's write-protected.

Insert the write-protected CD into the drive.

Open the "Start" menu, type "run" into the search box and open the "Run" command when it appears. Type "cmd" into the "Run" box.

Type "$ rmformat -w disable device-name" (without quotes), replacing "device-name" with the name of your drive. For example, if the CD is in the D drive, you would type "$ rmformat -w disable D:"

Press "Enter."

Melly Parker has been writing since 2007, focusing on health, business, technology and home improvement. She has also worked as a teacher and a bioassay laboratory technician. Parker now serves as a marketing specialist at one of the largest mobile app developers in the world. She holds a Master of Science in English.