Windows Installer

What Does Windows Installer Mean?

Windows Installer is a utility application in the Windows operating systems that is used for installing software/applications. It provides a means to install software on a computer that complies with the architectural framework of Windows.

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Windows Installer was previously known as Microsoft Installer.

Techopedia Explains Windows Installer

Windows Installer is primarily designed for software publishers that design and develop software/applications for Windows. Typically, each third-party software is bundled with the Windows Installer. This binding allows the correct installation and configuration of a third-party application on a Windows framework. Windows Installer has been released in different packages that generally include the following:

  • Database and guidelines for developing an installer for applications and services
  • Transformations, modifications and version control
  • API for remotely accessing installed applications/software

Windows Installer has an “.msi” extension and usually includes an application for uninstalling the program/software. The uninstaller is usually invoked from the Control Panel.

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Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…