Most computer software is delivered in a compressed form for sale and distribution. This “setup program” is typically an executable that unpacks the software and installs it correctly on the computer, taking into account variations between computers and customized user settings.
The software that produces these setup programs is called an “installer.” Installers are typically one of the most expensive tools a developer will buy, though of course there are free and open source installers available.
Following is a list of installers available today for .NET software and any online reviews. Price is for one developer license unless otherwise noted. A plus sign indicates the price is for the standard version, and advanced versions are available. Please comment if any installers are missing, or if you would like to report any new reviews, updates, errors or broken links, as I will keep this list updated.
| Installer | Company | Price | Reviews |
| ActiSetup | Dacris | $249 | |
| Advanced Installer | Caphyon | $249+ | Soft |
| Desktop Authority MSI Studio | ScriptLogic | $410+ | RM |
| Ghost Installer | Ethalone | $299+ | RBD |
| GkSetup | GkWare | $102 for 10 | |
| Inno Setup | jrsoftware.org | free | AD, CS, LB |
| InstallAware | InstallAware Software | $899 | AD, AD, IR |
| InstallConstruct | FileStream | $395 | |
| Installer2GO | SDS Software | $49 | |
| InstallMaker | Bytessence | free | Neo |
| InstallShield | Acresso | $848+ | AD, Build, HBP, IS, VSJ |
| InstallWizard | DigitalWeb | $89+ | |
| MSIStudio | Avatar Software | $995 | |
| NSIS (Nullsoft Scriptable Install System) | open source | free | FF, LB |
| Setup Factory | IndigoRose | $495 | CS |
| Tarma Installer | Tarma Software Research | $149+ | |
| Visual Studio Installer | Microsoft | free with Visual Studio | IS |
| War Setup | Konsulent Jarle Aase | free | |
| Windows Installer XML (WiX) | Microsoft open source | free | AD, Soft |
| WinINSTALL MSI Packager | Attachmate | $1,195 | |
| Wise Installation Studio | Symantec | $1,199 | AD, AD, IS |
Updated:
- 29-Apr-08: Added WiX
[…] .NET Installers – C# 411 has a round-up of the .NET Installer products on the market. […]
WiX – Windows Installer XML, an OpenSource Microsoft project that VS2008 is going to support/internalize.
wix.sourceforge.net
$free
I have to agree: WiX is missing on your list. Very nice tool and good to integrate with visual studio / msbuild.
Updated, thank you.
You might want to include SharpSetup on your list.