Frequently asked questions.
Find straightforward answers about BurnSure, its functionality and its approach to optical disc verification.
What is BurnSure?
BurnSure is an open-source Linux application for preparing, writing and verifying optical data discs. It combines disc-image creation, optical writing and transparent verification in one workflow.
Which operating systems does BurnSure support?
The BurnSure application is developed for Linux. The readability of a recorded disc on another operating system depends on the filesystem and the receiving system's support for that format.
Does BurnSure verify data after burning?
Yes, when verification is selected. Single-session jobs offer full SHA-256 verification, distributed sample verification and an explicit option to skip verification. Experimental multisession requires full verification.
What is full SHA-256 verification?
Full verification compares the complete selected dataset read from the target with the corresponding original SHA-256 manifest.
Is sample verification sufficient for important archives?
Sample verification only checks part of the recorded data. Full verification is recommended when checking every selected file is important.
Can I test BurnSure without using a blank disc?
Yes. BurnSure includes dry-run functionality that simulates the workflow without physically writing to optical media.
Does BurnSure support multisession?
Multisession functionality is under experimental development for compatible appendable optical media. Refer to the development notes for the current status and limitations.
What filesystem does BurnSure use?
Regular single-session projects use a UDF 2.60 image-building workflow. Experimental multisession mastering uses ISO9660 level 3 with Rock Ridge and Joliet.
Does BurnSure modify my original files?
BurnSure's workflow reads the selected source files for preparation and verification. It is not designed to overwrite the original source material during disc creation.
Can I use rewritable discs?
Dedicated erase and rewrite workflows for formats such as DVD+RW and BD-RE are not part of the documented initial feature set. Consult the current compatibility information before attempting unsupported operations.
What happens if verification is interrupted?
BurnSure distinguishes incomplete verification from a fully successful result. Available retry and recovery behaviour depends on the application version and selected workflow.
Do I need to use the terminal?
BurnSure provides a graphical desktop interface. Command-line tools are also available. Installation requirements may involve some terminal commands depending on the distribution method.
Is BurnSure open source?
Yes. The project uses the GPL-3.0-or-later software license.
Is a verified disc a permanent backup?
Verification provides evidence about the data read at the time of checking. It does not establish permanent physical media reliability. An optical archive can form part of a broader data preservation strategy.
Why use BurnSure instead of a basic disc burning utility?
BurnSure places particular emphasis on the complete preparation, writing and verification workflow, including clear distinctions between writing success and confirmed readback results.