EXE and MSI files?
Q
When downloading and installing programs you recommend, I’ve noticed that some are EXE files, while others have an MSI file extension.
In a few cases, I’ve been offered a choice between the two formats – hence my question. What is the difference between an EXE file and an MSI one? If offered the choice between an EXE and an MSI file for the same program, which one should I download? Stephen Morgan
A
As far as most Windows PC users are concerned, there is very little practical difference between these two types of file. If you have a choice, it doesn’t really matter which you pick. As you will have discovered, doubleclicking either type of file starts a process running on your computer. This is often a setup screen that precedes installation of the full program, but sometimes it opens the program itself.
Let’s start with MSI files. The abbreviation is short for Microsoft Installer, which hints at the file type’s purpose. Microsoft invented and owns the format, but not all MSI files are created by Microsoft. However, all MSI files launch some form of installer, even if that installer simply downloads or runs an executable (EXE) file. In essence, an MSI file is a package of files, which may include one or more EXE files and others besides.
MSI files were originally designed to help IT administrators who needed to roll out installations to lots of computers. However, because the MSI format does some of the work involved in creating an installer, developers sometimes use it an alternative (or in addition) to EXE files.
In contrast, an EXE file may contain and run an installation routine of its own, or it may simply be a standalone executable program that you can run without installing it. Some EXE files run as soon as you double-click them, leaving no trace of themselves on your computer once you close the associated program. All portable apps (www. portableapps.com), for instance, are EXE files – because they don’t require any of the installation facilities built into the MSI format.
Want to know the difference between technical terms? Email noproblem@ computeractive.co.uk