MSI Factory

Overview of MSI Factory 2.0

Don’t put up with the hassles, excuses and outsourced technical support that you get with your current installation toolkit. Join the thousands of developers who have made the switch to our next generation software deployment tools. Our fresh approach to Windows installers is exactly what you’ve been looking for. MSI Factory 2.0 makes the task of creating professional .MSI format installers faster, easier and hassle-free. We guarantee it or you’ll get your money back.

• Create 100% pure Microsoft Windows Installer (.MSI) format software installers. If you’re developing software that will be installed in a corporate or government environment, or you plan on applying for Windows logo certification, you’ll need an MSI installer.
• Intelligent development environment makes installer creation faster, easier and more reliable than ever before. MSI Factory 2.0’s visual IDE focuses on the files you want to distribute, rather than on abstract concepts like components, features and GUIDs. While you still have access to all the advanced MSI features you could want (should you feel like getting your hands dirty), our approach is simply more intelligent than other installer builders.
• Next generation Windows Installer XML (WiX) compiler technology for the ultimate in flexibility and control. This is the same technology Microsoft uses internally for creating installers for products like Microsoft® Office, SQL Server^TM, BizTalk® and Windows Live Messenger®.
• Unique fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper. With LZMA data compression for incredibly small installers and 200+ actions including HTTP downloads for unprecedented flexibility in an MSI based installer.
• Make a single installer that is compatible with all Windows systems, including Vista, XP, Server 2003, 2000, ME, 98 and even 95.
• Extensive list of actions included MSI Factory 2.0 comes standard with actions including registry editing, shortcut icons, file operations, INI files, environment variables, custom VBScript/JScript, file permissions, installing and controlling services, XML editing, working with ODBC and much more.

What makes MSI Factory 2.0 different is the unique file-centered design view. You aren’t forced to deal with the complexity of MSI database tables, sequences and components (unless you want to – MSI Factory 2.0 is as flexible as you need it to be). Most developers simply drop in their application files, customize a few dialog boxes using the visual dialog editor and then click “build.” No kidding.

MSI Factory 2.0 is the result of over 15 years of experience in creating software installation tools. You can rely on Indigo Rose to provide reliable tools, top quality documentation and superior technical support.

MSI Factory 2.0 includes all the advanced installer capabilities you want plus the next generation power of WiX, an intelligent development environment, a revolutionary fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper and access to world class technical support. Don’t settle for second best when MSI Factory 2.0 is the clear choice.

Download the Free Trial and Get Started Now!

The best way to know if MSI Factory 2.0 is going to work for you is to try it. You can download the free trial version of MSI Factory by clicking here. The free trial version will continue to work for a period of 30 days, so you have plenty of time to build projects and see for yourself what a great tool it is. There is no other software in its class which is easier to use, or faster to work with!

MSI Factory

Product Features

MSI Factory 2.0 incorporates a rich feature set to assist developers with the complex challenges associated with developing MSI format installer packages. MSI Factory 2.0 offers a complete set of advanced installer capabilities including an intelligent development environment, a revolutionary fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper with LZMA data compression and 300+ easy to use actions for creating totally custom installation solutions. MSI Factory generates an installer that can work with all versions of Windows from 95 to Vista.

Some features of MSI Factory 2.0 include…

Industry Standard
Generates 100% pure MSI format installation packages with optional fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper.

Next Generation
The first visual setup builder to fully leverage Microsoft’s Windows Installer XML (WiX) compiler technology. Microsoft uses WiX internally for creating installers for Office, SQL Server, BizTalk, Instant Messenger and more.

Intelligent Design
MSI Factory 2.0’s visual IDE focuses you on the files you want to distribute, rather than on abstract concepts like components and GUIDs.

Powerful Actions
Extensive list of actions including: registry editing, shortcut icons, file operations, INI files, environment variables, custom VBScript/JScript, file permissions, installing and controlling services, XML editing, working with ODBC and much more.

LUA Scripting
Scripting language with 300+ custom actions makes it easy to extend/customize both the MSI installer and the bootstrapper.

Vista Compatible
Make a single installer that is compatible with all Windows systems, including Vista, XP, Server 2003, 2000, ME, 98 and 95.

Bootstrap Wrapper
Unique fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper with LZMA compression and 200+ actions including HTTP downloads for unprecedented flexibility in an MSI based installer.

WiX
Generate Windows Installer XML (WiX) compatible source projects with integrated support for WiX fragments and extensions.

Rapid Installer Development
Simply drag and drop your files onto the project window, and click on the build button. You’ll be up and running in minutes.

Merge Modules
Easily add 3rd party merge modules (.MSM) and components.

LZMA Compression
LZMA data compression of the fully scriptable single-file .EXE bootstrap wrapper ensures the smallest installers possible.

Visual Dialog Editor
For quickly customizing the user interface. Includes 22 different control types (check boxes, radio buttons, bitmaps, edit fields, list boxes, selection trees, icons, scrollable text, etc.) for creating fully custom dialogs.

.NET Ready
Automatic bootstrap installation of the .NET and .MSI runtimes.

System Editors
Extensive list of actions including: registry editing, shortcut icons, file operations, INI files, environment variables, custom VBScript/JScript, file permissions, installing and controlling services, XML editing, working with ODBC and much more.

Project Wizard
Walks you through the creation of a professional software installer complete with custom dialogs, maintenance mode and a full uninstaller.

CD/DVD
Create installers that span multiple CD/DVD discs using the Media Manager to assist you with the layout.

Internet
Integrated Authenticode signing ensures Internet download compatibility.

Multilingual
A unique language selector is included in the visual dialog editor, making it easy to create multilingual user interfaces and modify translations at will.

Latest Technology
Installers made with MSI Factory 2.0 work on all Windows systems and are fully MSI compatible. With next generation WiX 3.0 compiler technology and support for MSI 4.0 at your disposal, you’re working with the latest and greatest.

Enterprise Ready
Essential features for team and enterprise development include automated builds, preprocessor defines, pre/post build steps and integrated support for WiX fragments and extensions.

Trusted By Millions
Our software development tools are used by over 20,000 software developers to reach millions of desktops around the world.

Superior Support
Indigo Rose stands behind its products with a refreshingly personal approach to technical support. We’ll treat you like the valued customer that you are.

Intelligent Choice
Compare it to other tools. MSI Factory 2.0 is easier to use, gives you next generation technology, has superior technical support and is priced lower than competitive products.

MSI Factory

MSI Factory 2.0 Product Brochure

Creating a professional software installer doesn’t have to be a chore. With MSI Factory 2.0 you simply drag and drop your files onto the project window and click on the build button. It’s really that simple. On the other hand, MSI Factory 2.0 also gives you access to all the advanced “Windows Installer” features you could want. Things like components, GUID’s, features and more. It’s the best of both worlds, and it’s all included with MSI Factory 2.0.

Click here to download a printable MSI Factory 2.0 brochure

 

 

Note: This brochure in Adobe Acrobat PDF format. You may need to download and install the Adobe Reader software in order to view it.

MSI Factory

Download a Free 30-Day Trial Version

The best way to decide if MSI Factory 2.0 is right for you, is to download the free 30-day trial version. The trial version is fully functional, so you’ll be able to really “kick the tires” and see what it can do.

To download the free trial version, please enter your information into the fields below. We’ll email you the download instructions within minutes of submitting your request.

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Note: By submitting this form, you agree to receive followup emails regarding MSI Factory. You may unsubscribe from these emails at any time. We do not sell, rent or give away your email address to anyone. We only use it to keep you informed about MSI Factory and how to get the most out of your free trial.

MSI Factory

Competitive Matrix

MSI Factory 2.0 is the next-generation intelligent setup builder for Windows. It fully leverages Microsoft’s Windows Installer XML (WiX) compiler technology for creating 100% pure MSI format installer packages in a faster and more intuitive way.

Use the chart below to compare MSI Factory 2.0’s features to a variety of competitive installer products. Note that there is also a feature comparison chart to help you choose between MSI Factory 2.0 and Setup Factory 8.0.

	MSI Factory 2.0	InstallShield Professional	InstallShield Express	Wise Installation Studio	Wise Installation Express
Design Environment
Modern Design Environment
File-Centric List View
Project Wizard
Multiple file properties
Customizable toolbars
Unattended building
WiX Features
Generate WiX Project Files
Support for WiX Fragments
Support for WiX Extensions
WiX Based XML Actions
	MSI Factory 2.0	InstallShield Professional	InstallShield Express	Wise Installation Studio	Wise Installation Express
MSI Features
Product Information
Package Information
Add/Remove Programs Options
Include Binary Resources
Configure Features
Edit Components
Include Merge Modules
Set File Properties
Modify Registry
Modify INI Files
Create Shortcuts
Set Environment Variables
Make File Associations
Configure Services
ODBC
Launch Conditions
System Searching
Installation Types
Define Media Types
Upgrade Codes
Custom Actions (DLL, EXE, VBScript, JScript)
Set File Permissions
Set Registry Permissions
64-Bit Support
Restart Manager (MSI 4.0)
Enable UAC (MSI 4.0)
	MSI Factory 2.0	InstallShield Professional	InstallShield Express	Wise Installation Studio	Wise Installation Express
Extended Runtime Capabilities
Show Message Box (CA)
Download File from Internet (CA)
Post Data to Web
Launch Web Page
IIS Support
COM+
Driver Install Framework (DIFx)
Update XML Files
Modify Users and Groups
Build Capabilities
Digital Signature Signing
Build Configurations
Build Multi-CD/DVD Installs
Bootstrapper
Scriptable bootstrap EXE Wrapper
Create Self-Contained Exe
OS Prerequisite Checking
.NET Framework
Add Your Own Runtimes
LZMA Compression
Encryption
Single Password Protection
Download files from the internet
Detect and close processes
Run multiple MSI installs
Detect previous installation state
Selectively extract from archive
Run your own programs
Interact with Web scripts
File copy, delete, move
Control and query services
Read and write XML files
Interact with the Registry
Search the system for files
	MSI Factory 2.0	InstallShield Professional	InstallShield Express	Wise Installation Studio	Wise Installation Express
User Interface
Customize User Interface
Visual Dialog Editor
Insert Custom Screens
Skinnable (Themes)
Windows Vista Issues
Windows Vista Compatible
Target Windows Vista Systems
Minimize reboots using Restart Manager
User Account Control Support
Digital Signatures
Localization
Multilingual runtime support
LUA Scripting
LUA Script Support
300+ Actions Included
Product Support
Help Documentation
Training Videos
User Forums
Email Support		$$$	$$$	$$$	$$$
Phone Support	PER INCIDENT	$$$	$$$	$$$	$$$
Maintenance	1 YEAR INCLUDED	$$$	$$$	$$$	$$$
Product Information
Version	Version 2.0	Version 12	Version 12	Version 7	Version 7
Price	$495	$1,799	$499	$1,199	$449

 

* This information was gathered from publicly available sources as of May 2007. MSI Factory is a trademark of Indigo Rose Software Design. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

MSI Factory

Choosing Between Setup Factory and MSI Factory

Setup Factory 8.0 and MSI Factory 2.0 are the two different installer development tools created by Indigo Rose Software. While they ultimate perform the same task, they approach it from different angles.

Both products support all standard installation functionality, such as installing and removing files, making changes to the Registry, modifying INI files, registering controls, etc. (See the features page for either product for a full list of their features.) The chart below outlines the similarities and differences in some key areas that may affect your purchasing decision.

Feature	Setup Factory 8.0	MSI Factory 2.0
Creates MSI (Windows Installer) packages	No	Yes
Supports a free-form “scripted” approach for setup logic	Yes	No
Level of flexibility	High	Medium
Create self-extracting executable setups (i.e. “setup.exe” files)	Yes	Yes
Create installers that run on Windows 98-Vista	Yes	Yes
Create “Certified for Windows Vista” compliant installers	No	Yes
Create “Works with Windows Vista” compliant installers	Yes	Yes
Register COM (ActiveX) controls	Yes	Yes
Install .NET Assemblies to the Global Assembly Cache (GAC)	No	Yes
Supports the use of Windows Installer merge modules	No	Yes
Install Internet Information Services (IIS) Websites, virtual directories, etc.	No	Yes
Supports automatic uninstall	Yes	Yes
Supports “repair” mode	No	Yes
Flexible configuration of installer dialogs	Yes	Yes
Free-form dialog editor	Yes	Yes
Detect and install third-party technologies	Yes	Yes
Supports more than one language/localization per installer	Yes	No*
Can be used to create Windows Installer merge modules	No	Yes
Built in WiX support	No	Yes
Custom LUA scripting support	Yes	Yes

 

Summary & Recommendation on How to Choose

The fundamental architectural difference between the two products is that Setup Factory 8.0 uses its own proprietary, self-contained setup engine to perform the installation. It includes a powerful built-in scripting language to control the installation procedurally. As such, it is very flexible and configurable.

MSI Factory 2.0, on the other hand, creates Windows Installer packages (.MSI files) that are interpreted and run by the Windows Installer Service which must be pre-installed on the end user’s system. Like all standard MSI installers, these are essentially database files that describe the installation in a declarative fashion, and must abide by the rules of the Windows Installer technology.

Although both products are easy to use, many people find that Setup Factory is both easier to use and more straightforward. This is because of its procedural approach, rather than the declarative approach of the MSI Windows Installer technology (the .MSI technology is inherently more complicated and will require you to learn some new and potentially foreign concepts).

Ultimately, if the chart above does not lead you to a clear choice based on your requirements, you should evaluate the free trial versions of both products and see for yourself.

As a general recommendation, if you do not require an .MSI based installer for your product, then we’d recommend that you choose Setup Factory as your installer builder. If you know that your development requirement calls for an .MSI format installer, then your choice is clear that MSI Factory is best for you.

* Each Windows Installer package can only support one language – this is a limitation of the Windows Installer technology itself. However, MSI Factory 2.0 does allow you to design your installer in multiple languages from one source project and then lets you choose the target language each time that you build.

MSI Factory

Screenshot Gallery

MSI Factory 2.0 includes all the advanced installer capabilities you want, plus the next-generation power of WiX, an intelligent development environment, a revolutionary fully scriptable .EXE bootstrap wrapper with LZMA compression, 300+ actions including HTTP downloads and access to world class technical support. We make the task of creating professional MSI format software installers faster, easier and hassle-free.

Click on any of the screenshot images below to see a larger, more detailed version.

MSI Factory

Video Tutorials

These videos were created for “Setup Factory for Windows Installer 1.0″, but are fully compatible with “MSI Factory 2.0″.

Lesson One – Creating Your First Installer This lesson shows you how to get started with Setup Factory for Windows Installer. It starts with the project wizard, shows you how to work with shortcuts and then how to build your first Windows Installer package. View Lesson ->

Lesson Two – Working with Folders This lesson goes through some of the basics of configuring folders in Setup Factory for Windows Installer. Topics covered include: how to set a file’s destination folder, how to rename a folder, how to create a new folder and assign files to it, how to insert a folder into an existing hierarchy and how to create an empty folder during installation. View Lesson ->

Lesson Three – Working with Features A look at how to use features in your projects. Also covers creating advertised (i.e. “install on demand”) features and shortcuts. View Lesson ->

Introduction To Bootstrapping The basics of bootstrapping your installer using Setup Factory for Windows Installer View Lesson ->

Building Custom Bootstrappers A brief overview of building custom bootstrappers using Setup Factory for Windows Installer View Lesson ->

MSI Factory

Online User’s Guide

The easiest way to learn how to use MSI Factory is to start it up and use it. We recommend that you use the Project Wizard for your first project. That will help you see the available options and what a properly configured project looks like. If you have any questions about what a particular dialog box option does, just click on the Help button to get a full description.

However, if you enjoy learning everything there is to know about your software, the Help menu is your friend. That’s were you’ll find links to the full Help File/Command Reference as well as documentation on both WiX and the MSI Bootstrapper application.

We’ve made the Command Reference portion of the documentation available to you online in “webhelp” format, if you’d like to take a peek before installing the software.

Click Here to View the MSI Factory 2.0 Online User’s Guide