Downloading and Installing CSET®

The CSET download is in a file format known as "ISO". This file is an “image” of the equivalent files within the CSET compact disc (CD). Because of this format, it will be necessary to process the download using one of the following methods:

  1. Mounting the File- this method loads the ISO file using utility software to make the file appear like a virtual drive with the original CD loaded.
  2. Burning the file to CD or DVD – this method uses CD-burn software and the ISO file to burn the files onto your own CD to create a physical disk identical to the CSET original.

Either case requires a separate software utility. There are a variety of both free and purchased utility programs available through the Internet that will work with the ISO file format. As DHS does not recommend any specific application or vendor, it will be necessary for you to find a product that provides the necessary functionality. Step by step instructions for each method are provided below:


Mounting the File

  1. CLICK the ‘Download’ button on this page to download the ISO file.
  2. SAVE the file to your hard drive of choice (i.e. your computer hard drive or USB drive) maintaining the file name and extension (.iso.)
  3. RUN your ISO-specific utility program that is capable of mounting the file. (If you do not have an application that can do this then you will need to find and install one before continuing with these instructions.) COMPLETE the instructions within the utility software to create a virtual drive using the ISO file.
  4. COMPLETE Installing the CSET Program instructions.  

Burning the file to CD or DVD

  1. CLICK the ‘Download’ button on this page to download the ISO file.
  2. SAVE the file to the hard drive on your computer.
  3. INSERT a blank, writeable CD or DVD into the computer’s CD or DVD drive.
  4. RUN your CD-burn utility program. COMPLETE the instructions on your utility program to burn the ISO image to your CD or DVD. (If you do not have an application that can do this, then you will need to find and install one before continuing with these instructions.)
  5. COMPLETE Installing the CSET Program instructions.

Installing the CSET Program

  1. GO to the root directory of your new virtual drive or CD/DVD containing the CSET files.
  2. DOUBLE-CLICK the Setup.exe file to execute. This will initiate the installer program.
  3. COMPLETE the instructions in the installer wizard to install the CSET program.
  4. READ the material within the ReadMe document for a summary explanation of how to use the tool. Help is also available through the User Guide, screen guidance text, and general and screen specific video tutorials.

Minimum System Requirements for Cyber Security Evaluation Tool (CSET) 5.0: