33
6
Some software sites allow to download their software to be installed either as an .msi file or as an .exe file. When given the option, which one should one choose to download for installing software, i.e: what are the advantages of using the .msi file instead of the installer (.exe)?
I do understand the difference between both, in that the .msi file is an installation package that will be processed by a Windows installer executable. And the .exe file is an executable containing the installer and installation files. But what is the real benefit of choosing .msi over .exe. In the end, the result is the same. Or not?
2
MSI files have many advantages for corporate use: MSI deployment advantages
– Stein Åsmul – 2014-07-24T17:28:00.500More detailed answer on Stack Overflow – johntrepreneur – 2014-07-30T17:06:49.130
1
There is a question on similar lines at Stackoverflow: Windows application installer frameworks. I think, it has good points for you.
– nik – 2009-09-09T08:53:35.2173As a general rule, windows takes forever to do things, do I normally go with the .exe's for smaller software packages that install quickly on their own. – The Green Frog – 2009-09-09T08:53:08.730
7"As a general rule, windows takes forever to do things"? A bold and untrue statement, if i've ever seen one. – caliban – 2009-09-09T08:54:38.930