Opening Windows Installer Packages

InstallShield 2020

InstallShield provides the option to either edit MSI packages directly in the IDE in Direct Edit Mode or convert it to an InstallShield project (.ism), and then edit it as a Basic MSI project in the IDE.

Note:Some functionality may be limited when editing an MSI package in Direct Edit Mode.

To open an MSI package in Direct Edit Mode of the IDE:

1.

Click the Open Project button on the toolbar. A browse dialog opens.

2.

Select Windows Installer Packages (*.msi) from the Files of Type list.

3.

Select the MSI package that you want to open.

4.

Ensure that the Open as field is set to Auto, and click Open.

Note:By default, the IDE opens an MSI package in Direct Edit Mode.

The Open MSI/MSM Wizard can convert an existing Windows installer (.msi) package to an InstallShield project (.ism) file, and open the new project to modify in the IDE.

Note:You can also open Patch Creation Project files (.pcp files) in InstallShield and edit them in the Direct Editor.