I have been thinking about adding some of the applications I have written to my web site for my viewers to use. Although I try to keep most of my program contained in one executable, sometimes this is not an option – particularly if I want to provide the option for skins or application themes. I need an MSI installer and I’m really not looking to pay much for it – if anything at all. In the professional realm, I really wouldn’t use anything other than the Symantec / Altiris / Wise Package Studio product, but for home I am looking for something else, well less expensive.
WinINSTALL LE – included with Windows 2000 Server
The first MSI creation tool that comes to mind is a product that is included on the Microsoft Windows 2000 Server product CD. If you happen to have one of those around, you could try using it – or if you are interested in purchasing a newer version, OnDemand Software is the maker.
Caphyon Advanced Installer
Although I live by the motto, “you get what you pay for”, I absolutely love freeware products that are exceptional. In the line-up with great products, such as Avast AntiVirus, Advanced Installer is an great product that allows you to easily create an MSI package – in less than 5 minutes!
When you first open the application, Advanced Installer displays a New Project wizard. Using Advanced Installer for my Screen Capture application, I started with a Simple project type.
Next you will be provided with a simple wizard screen that will allow you define some of the basic settings of your new MSI installer package, such as product name, company name, shortcut locations, and the files to include in the installer package.
After the wizard completes, Advanced Installer gives you the option to modify the included files in the package, registry keys, shortcuts, et cetera. In addition to a variety of powerful options for a free product, you can set Prerequisites to ensure the user has the appropriate operating system and supporting applications.
Looking for a great packaging tool? Download Advanced Installer!
Aaron Gilbert
