What is .msi?
.msi (Microsoft Installer) is a structured database file format used by Windows Installer to install, update, and remove software. An MSI package describes files, registry entries, shortcuts, and install logic in a standardized way that supports repair, rollback, and enterprise deployment.
This quick guide explains when to use .msi files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .msi files
- You are distributing Windows desktop or server software that should integrate cleanly with Windows Installer.
- You need reliable install, repair, and uninstall behavior with rollback support.
- You want IT teams to deploy your software using Group Policy, SCCM, Intune, or other enterprise tools.
- You are packaging line-of-business applications for managed Windows environments.
How to open .msi files
On Windows, MSI files are executed by double-clicking them in Explorer or running `msiexec /i package.msi` from the command line. System dialogs guide users through installation, or installs can run silently with appropriate command-line options. Authoring and inspection tools like Orca, WiX Toolset, and commercial installer builders can open MSI databases to view or edit their contents. When you upload MSI files to FileXhost, they can be shared as downloadable installers for QA, teammates, or customers to install on Windows.
Algorithm details
An MSI file is a relational database stored in a structured format. Tables describe components, features, files, registry entries, custom actions, and UI elements. Windows Installer uses this metadata to determine what to install, how to manage upgrades, and how to roll back changes if something fails. File payloads are typically stored as compressed CAB streams inside the MSI.
Browser & platform support
- Desktop: Browsers on Windows download MSI files as binaries; they do not execute them directly.
- Mobile: Mobile platforms cannot run MSI files; they can only store or forward them as opaque attachments.
- OS: Only Windows uses MSI natively. Other operating systems require virtualization or packaging tools to interact with MSI content.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| MSI vs EXE Installer | MSI is a structured, data-driven installer format managed by Windows Installer, while EXE installers are arbitrary executables that implement custom logic. |
| Enterprise Deployment | MSI packages are preferred for enterprise deployment scenarios, supporting Group Policy deployment, logging, and standardized install options. |
| Repair and Rollback | MSI supports repair and rollback out-of-the-box; EXE installers must implement such logic themselves. |
| Flexibility | EXE installers can execute any logic; MSI focuses on declarative install definitions with optional custom actions. |
How to create msi files
- WiX Toolset: Author XML-based installer definitions that compile to MSI packages.
- Installer Builders: Use tools like Advanced Installer, InstallShield, or Visual Studio setup projects.
- Vendor Tooling: Many commercial products provide their own MSI packaging utilities.
- Repackaging: Capture existing installs into MSI format for managed deployment using repackaging tools.
How to convert msi files
- FileXhost: Distribute MSI packages via FileXhost so IT teams and users can download and install them.
- Repackaging Tools: Convert EXE-based installers into MSI packages for enterprise deployment (with varying levels of fidelity).
- Extraction: Use tools to extract files from MSI packages for inspection or manual installation.
- Transforms: Apply MST transform files to customize MSI behavior for specific environments.
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Standardized installation behavior with repair and rollback
- Well-suited for enterprise deployment and management
- Supports detailed logging and configuration via transforms
Disadvantages
- Windows-only; not applicable to macOS or Linux
- Authoring can be complex compared to simple EXE installers
- Conversion from arbitrary EXE installers to MSI may lose custom logic
Tools & software
Authoring
WiX Toolset, Advanced Installer, InstallShield, Visual Studio setup tooling
Deployment
Group Policy, SCCM, Intune, other enterprise software deployment platforms
Inspection
Orca, lessmsi, MSI viewers, msiexec logging options
Frequently asked questions
Should I ship my Windows app as MSI or EXE?
Use MSI when you target managed Windows environments that rely on standardized installation and deployment tools. EXE installers can be simpler for consumer apps but lack built-in enterprise features unless carefully implemented.
How do I install an MSI silently?
Use `msiexec /i package.msi /quiet` or similar command-line options. Enterprise tools often wrap these commands for automated deployment.
Can I edit an MSI after it is built?
You can inspect and modify MSI tables with tools like Orca, but changing a signed or shipped MSI can break digital signatures and support contracts. Prefer rebuilding from source definitions when possible.
Why does my MSI fail to install?
Common causes include missing prerequisites, insufficient permissions, conflicting versions, or custom actions failing. Enable verbose logging with `msiexec /i package.msi /L*V log.txt` to diagnose issues.
Technical specs
- File type
- Executable
- Extension
- .msi
- MIME type
- application/x-msi, application/octet-stream
- Compression
- Uncompressed
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.
Share .msi files instantly
Upload your .msi file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .msi file