cannot format or write to DVD RW Drive on Windows 11

Here is how to find the registry key that I mentioned. The directions said to delete the key, which I did and was then able to format and write to CDRW's, DVD's, etc. The last part of the instructions below would not be appropriate unless you want to add the key back for some reason. I already had this value set to 0, which should have enabled DVD burning but did not.

1. Hold the Windows Key, then press “R” to bring up the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit“, then press “Enter“. This will open the registry editor.
3. Navigate to the following registry key:
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE for all users, or HKEY_CURRENT_USER for the currently logged in user.
   • Software
   • Microsoft
   • Window
   • CurrentVersion
   • Policies
   • Explorer
4. Look for a key called **“NoCDBurning”.**If it does not exist, you can create a new DWORDvalue under the Explorer folder by performing the following steps:
   • Click “Edit” > “New” > “DWORD Value“.
   • Name it **“NoCDBurning”**without quotes. Press “Enter” to save.
5. Double-click on “NoCDBurning” and you can set the value to “1” to disable CD burning or set it to “0” to enable it.

Hi Samiha Yeasmin，

Welcome to Microsoft Community and we regret the inconvenience caused to you. 

Based on your description, you cannot format or write to a DVD RW drive on Windows 11. This can be due to several reasons such as drive failure, drive incompatibility, outdated drive drivers, etc.

Make sure your drive is properly connected to your computer and is not damaged. Check if your drive is compatible with Windows 11. You can find more details about this information on the manufacturer's website. Update your drivers. You can find drivers and update them in Device Manager or right-click the Start button - Device Manager - expand DVD/CD-ROM drives - Right Click your drive - Uninstall. Then restart the computer and the drive will be freshly restored.

You can also try using a different DVD RW disc to format or write to and see what happens. Thanks for your patience and wish you everything as well.

Regards，

Manson |Microsoft Community Support Specialist

I've worked with Samiha on this issue, and we have tried several different DVD burners, all of which work perfectly fine when connected to other PCs, but show no option for formatting or writing/burning to DVDs when connected to this PC (similar issue on one other PC). We're already removed/reinstalled, searched for updated drivers, etc. Also tried removing security software in case that was interfering, but didn't change the behavior.

I have the same problem and have gone through the same steps to try to solve. Burner connected to other computers works but not when connected to the computer with the problem. And he built in burner on the problem computer reads disks but won’t format or write. It is recognized as CD RW drive. Would a reinstall f the operating system possibly correct the problem. I hate to do his, as it involves a lot of reinstalling of programs.

Thank you

Since we have not heard back from you, this thread will be closed.

If there is any new progress on your issue or you have other questions, please feel free to contact us again.

Hi Samiha Yeasmin，

Welcome to Microsoft Community and we regret the inconvenience caused to you. 

Based on your description, you cannot format or write to a DVD RW drive on Windows 11. This can be due to several reasons such as drive failure, drive incompatibility, outdated drive drivers, etc.

Make sure your drive is properly connected to your computer and is not damaged. Check if your drive is compatible with Windows 11. You can find more details about this information on the manufacturer's website. Update your drivers. You can find drivers and update them in Device Manager or right-click the Start button - Device Manager - expand DVD/CD-ROM drives - Right Click your drive - Uninstall. Then restart the computer and the drive will be freshly restored.

You can also try using a different DVD RW disc to format or write to and see what happens. Thanks for your patience and wish you everything as well.

Regards，

Manson |Microsoft Community Support Specialist