MSI File Extension - What is .MSI? How to open or install it?

What is an MSI file?

So, executable files (EXE files) and MSI files are both used to install and run Windows programs. They're similar, but when you double-click an EXE, it simply runs the software it contains, and doesn't always include an installer. An MSI file always includes an installer.

MSI files are opened by the Windows Installer software, which was previously called Microsoft Installer – hence the name MSI files.

So, in file extensions, .MSI stands for Microsoft Installer. Custom installation packages, such as Windows applications or update packages, leverage Microsoft's Windows Installer service.

The MSI file extension is used for installing software on the Windows operating system. It is utilized for customizing, updating, uninstalling, and installing applications on a computer.

How do I open an MSI file?

Users can use 7-zip to unpack an .msi file and examine the contents of an MSI file format, but they cannot modify them.

If a user wishes to open and quickly edit an MSI file, they can use the Orca tool. Orca is a free application that allows the content of an MSI file to be viewed in a tabular format.

Orca is useful when end users want to quickly glance at a package's details and internal organization without actually installing it. The “Property List” shows:

• Product Name
• Product Version
• Manufacturer
• Product Code

With Advanced Installer, you can easily and clearly open and edit MSI files.

These look better because of their fancy graphical user interfaces.

• File structure
• Registry
• Shortcuts
• Features
• Components
• Services, etc.

Alternatively, you can use a file unarchiver to open an MSI file on a Mac. Since Windows uses the MSI format, double-clicking it on a Mac won't open it.

This program will install itself automatically, so you don't have to worry about doing it manually. The installation process is very straightforward.

What is the difference between an MSI and an EXE file?

The difference is that an EXE is not just a format for installers. They can be standalone program executables. Every program you launch on Windows is an executable file.

Given this property, which can be exploited by malware, MSI files are preferred over EXE installers, especially in enterprise environments where security is critical. An EXE file could initiate a virus sequence instead of the installation wizard on a machine.

However, if the .exe installer comes from a trusted source, such as an authorized vendor or a reputable hosting service for apps, it is approved.

Another difference between MSI and EXE installers is the availability of installation parameters. MSI parameters are independent of the application, whereas EXE parameters depend on the tools and options the installer creator used when building it.

Last Words

MSI is a reliable installer format that adheres to industry standards and best practices. MSI packages are particularly useful in corporate environments because they can be safer than their EXE equivalents.

What format do you prefer? Let us know in the comments. We hope this helps clarify which format is most useful for your installations. Stay tuned for more updates!