MSI Files – Corporate Benefits and Uses

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What are the advantages of using .msi files over regular setup.exe files?

I have the impression that deployment is easier on machines where users have few permissions, but not sure about the details.

What features does msiexec.exe have that makes deployment more easy than using setup.exe scenarios?

Any tips or tricks when deploying .msi applications?

Best Answer

Just a few benefits:

  • Can be advertised (so that on demand installation could take place).
  • Like advertisement, features can be installed as soon as the user tries to use them.
  • State management is maintained so Windows Installer provides a way to let administrators see if an application is installed on a machine.
  • Ability to roll back if an installation fails.

I think to when I'm deploying software in an enterprise setting: deploying software via MSI is almost enjoyable. In contrast, I almost always find myself dreading deploying software when it's in another container.

For some additional info on manipulating MSI installations, type msiexec into the Run dialog.

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