On the other hand, an EXE (executable) installer is a file format that contains the actual program code and resources needed to run the application. It is a self-extracting archive that often includes a setup program to guide users through the installation process.
Unlike the MSI installer, EXE installers do not necessarily adhere to strict standards. This gives them more flexibility, but can lead to inconsistencies when deploying and managing new software applications.
EXE files can contain software installers, but are also norway telegram data commonly used for any executable program in Windows. This distinguishes them from MSI files, which are used only for installing and uninstalling software. EXE files can also contain viruses and malware, so system administrators and users should take care to obtain them only from trusted sources.
When EXE files are used to install software, they contain all the necessary code and other resources needed to run the program, such as dynamic link libraries (DLLs). This is because EXE installers do not depend on the underlying Windows Installer infrastructure, unlike MSI installers.
Key Differences Between MSI and EXE File Formats
Although both MSI and EXE file formats are used to install software on Windows operating systems, they serve different purposes and needs. Below, we will look at some of the most significant differences between MSI and EXE installers.