Is InstallShield the solution for creating a self-contained program?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the creation of a self-contained installer for a program that requires specific .DLL files to run on computers without Visual Studio. Participants explore various methods for packaging the application and its dependencies, including the use of InstallShield, Inno Setup, and batch files.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a way to include .DLL files with their executable to avoid manual placement in system directories.
  • Another participant suggests placing the .DLL files in the same folder as the application and mentions using Microsoft's .msi installer with redistribution files.
  • Inno Setup is recommended by some participants as an easier alternative to .msi, with a focus on handling system DLLs effectively.
  • A participant proposes using batch files to automate the installation process by zipping the executable and .DLL files together.
  • Instructions for using Inno Setup are provided, including writing a script to specify file locations and creating a setup executable.
  • One participant expresses satisfaction with Inno Setup after trying it, while another mentions the need to change shortcut icons using a batch file.
  • InstallShield is mentioned as a software solution that allows for specifying included files and modifying icons, with a participant sharing their positive experience using it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the utility of Inno Setup and InstallShield for creating installers, but there are differing opinions on the necessity and effectiveness of batch files versus dedicated installer software.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the best approach for their specific needs, and there are varying levels of familiarity with the suggested tools.

Who May Find This Useful

Software developers looking for solutions to package applications with dependencies, particularly those targeting users without development environments installed.

sweetjones
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I have exe that needs some .DLL files to run on other cpu's that don't have Visual Studio on them. The only way to run my program is to put the .DLL files in the Windows/system32 path. Is there a way of including the information that's in the .DLL files in my code so that everything can compile together? Or is there a way of creating an All-In-One Installer that I can write specifically where to put these files? My main goal is to put my program on a file hosting site where all u have to do is go to the URL and run the program. Thanx In Advance!
 
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You can put the dll in the same folder as your app.
If you are using microsoft's .msi installer you just add the redistribution .msm file to the build.
I would recommend the free InnoSetup (www.jrsoftware.org/isinfo.php) installer, it is much easier to use than the microsoft .msi one and has a section describing how to handle system dlls cleanly.
 
mgb_phys said:
You can put the dll in the same folder as your app.
If you are using microsoft's .msi installer you just add the redistribution .msm file to the build.
I would recommend the free InnoSetup (www.jrsoftware.org/isinfo.php) installer, it is much easier to use than the microsoft .msi one and has a section describing how to handle system dlls cleanly.
That sounds good to me. I'll check it out. I also was thinking about Batch Files. Would that be a good solution? Zip up the .exe, the .DLL files, and and make a Batch file that sends these file to the correct path. What about that scenario?

P.S. -Which one of the programs I need to use on that Inno Setup website?
 
Last edited:
The installer is isetup-5.2.1.exe ( or whatever version ) in the download section.

You write a script in a text file which contains the list of files you want to send and where to put them. Run innosetup on the text file and it builds a "setup.exe" which contains all the files. You send it to your customer, they run the setup.exe and it puts the files in the correct directory, there is no need for batch files.
 
mgb_phys said:
The installer is isetup-5.2.1.exe ( or whatever version ) in the download section.

You write a script in a text file which contains the list of files you want to send and where to put them. Run innosetup on the text file and it builds a "setup.exe" which contains all the files. You send it to your customer, they run the setup.exe and it puts the files in the correct directory, there is no need for batch files.

Thanks a lot for your help. I'll give it a shot.
 
Man, that was easy. I love that program. It works really well. Now all I have to do is figure out how to change the shortcut icon with a Batch File. Thanks Again for your help!
 
InstallShield makes software just for this purpose. You specify what files to include in the setup package, change icons, etc...I have an older copy that I use for most of my programs. It works well for me...
 

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