InstallShield is a service provided by Revenera that makes native MSIX plans, crystal installs, and installations in the cloud. The best feature of this software is that there is no need to visit another website for its installation because this option is available on the official website.
It is designed in such a way that a user will follow all the changes in the organization, market and enjoy the best customer experience. As a result, the productivity of the work is increased due to the addition of script, codes, working simplification, and upgrade, uninstall options.
A free trial of this software can be accessed from the official website, but there will be limited attributes. Similarly, this software can be purchased permanently from the official website. When there is a need for any help in the use of InstallShield, the help center will assist the users.
If the overall features of this software are discussed, it has modification packages, real 64 installers, MSIX bundles, automated patch design, window installations, user interface editor, multilinguistic support, designer for an outstanding look, single code support, and many others.
Why Users want InstallShield Alternatives?
Although InstallShield has the best services, it still has some loopholes, and because of them, users are looking for its alternatives. Initially, it has the highest cost of licenses that compels the users to approach other software. Secondly, there is a lack of learning options; therefore, users face difficulty in its usage.
Similarly, the issue of writing code and identifying errors also exists. The user interface is somehow complex to such an extent that users report this issue in every review. While on the other hand, its alternatives like Inno Setup, Wix, and others are providing comparatively better services; therefore, users prefer these alternatives of InstallShield.
List of InstallShield Alternatives
Nowadays, a single software cannot complete the needs of an organization; therefore, users are trying different alternatives for improved productivity. Another logic behind it is that if the software is damaged or broken down, then another one should be available as a timely replacement.
Keeping in mind the needs of users, the 15 best InstallShield alternatives are discussed in this article, along with these built-in features, merits, and shortcomings. This way, users can choose an optimum alternative based on their needs.
1. Inno Setup
Inno Setup is an alternative software of InstallShield that is used for the free installation of Windows programs. It was introduced by Jordan Russel and Martijn Laan in 1997. Till now, many versions of this software have been introduced that can be installed from jrsoftware.org according to the need.
When a new version of this software is released, clients are informed through e-mail. Through Inno Setup, a user can find multiple useful tools, for example, GUI script editor and translators, for setting the text in the desired language. It can run on all versions of Window and Window Vista, and there is no need for any service packs.
Features
- 64-bit Application
- Dashboard Customization
- Single EXE
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Support All Formats
- Multilinguistic Software
Cons
- Programming Issues
- Loses Content after Uninstallation
- Help Center Issues
2. Wixtoolset
Wixtoolset software is similar to the InstallShield that is used for the installation of Windows. You can directly download this software from the official website when a bug occurs in the usage of this software that will be fixed by the official website. Moreover, documents about the usage of this software are available on the official website.
The core of Wixtoolset consists of constructed tools that make Window installer packages with the help of build concepts of the product. The Wix command-line build tools can operate with any automated system. It has many extensions that provide functionality different from the window installer.
Features
- Toolset Documentation
- Bugs Fixing
- Window Installer Packages
Pros
- Design Specialization
- Easy Usage of Tools
- No Default Components
Cons
- Limited Templates
- Single Designer Mode
- Dashboard Issues
3. Advanced Installer
Advanced Installer software is used for the installation, up-gradation, and configuration of Windows in a safe way. The best feature of this software is that there is a need to visit another website for its downloading because this option is available on the official website.
Mostly, free versions of the software are available with limited attributes, but this software provides all features in a free trial of thirty days. A free demo about the use of this software is present on the official website for the better guidance of users. A team of highly educated and experienced engineers is always available for the technical support of users.
Features
- MSI Authoring
- Visual Studio
- Team Trial Collaboration
Pros
- Webnier Based Training
- Decrease Support Cost
- Migration Tools
Cons
- Support System Issues
- Control Problems
4. NSIS
NSIS is official open-source software that has been offering its Windows installation for the last ten years. It is abbreviated as Nullsoft Scriptable Install System. This software is made to be as small and flexible as possible and is beneficial for internet distribution.
Due to the features of stability and reliability, NSIS is completely fruitful for the system of users. Its installers have every sort of capability for the setup of the software. NSIS is script-based and lets its users make the logic to control even the difficult tasks of installations.
Plug-ins and scripts allow the users to make web installers integrate with Windows and other similar components. The best feature of this software is that there is no need to visit another website for its installation because this option is available on the official website.
Features
- All Window Versions Compatibility
- Compression Methods
- Script-Based Programming
Pros
- Multilinguistic Software
- Plug-in System
- Simple Formats
Cons
- No Testing Trial
- Technical Support Problems
5. CreateInstall
CreateInstall software is used by professionals for installation purposes by manually controlling this procedure. This software operates on the basis of these two principles. If a user wants to know about the specifically required operations at a specific time, then this software will assist you.
All features of installation are implemented in CreateInstall. Even when there is a need for change in the installation packages, it will also help the users. At the time of installation of this software, users are blessed with an additional application known as CreateInstall Assistant. It has a simple UI that lets the users for the fast installations of programs.
Features
- Automated Software
- Menu Commands
- Project Tools
Pros
- Easy Downloading
- Timely Updates
Cons
- Limited Accessibility
- Backup Issues
- Sometimes becomes Slow
- Limited Advance Features
6. IzPack
IzPack software offers multiple installation programs that can run on Microsoft Windows, Linux, Solaris, and Mac OS. You can download this software directly from the official website. There is no fixed installation canvass of it. Till now, many versions of this software have been introduced for developers.
Users can freely select the components that they would like to assemble. Similarly, your installer will be selected according to your need and desire. IzPack makes installers that provide some extra attributes like desktop shortcuts, a system registry, and an administrator account. When a new version is introduced, updates will be shared with the users.
Features
- Freely Pick Elements
- Cross-Platform for Sharing
- Free Open-Source
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Bugs Tracker
- Mailing List
Cons
- Discontinued Customer Support
- No Free Trial
7. InstallSimple
InstallSimple software similar to InstallShield enables its users to make installation packages through a fast and easy process. This software is available in Wizard format and guides the users about every step. A user can start working on this software by giving a splash picture for the installer and a header picture.
As a result, users will give names and descriptions of their software that can be seen by others. This software can be downloaded directly from the official website. Similarly, the process of purchasing is done from the official website. If there is an issue in the use of this software, then a support system will assist the users.
Features
- User Testimonials
- Macro Assembler Language
- Wizard Formats
Pros
- Easy Downloading
- Support System
- Quick Procession
Cons
- No Privacy Policy
- Limited Terms and Conditions
- No Testing Trial
8. CyberInstaller Suite
CyberInstaller Suite software is beneficial for installation and packetization or any sort of software development. This software supports multiple languages, for example, Net, C+ +, C#, Delphi, Java, PHP, Visual Basic, and a few others. Its installation engine enables the users to access the distribution of packages on any version of Windows.
A free trial of this software can be used for the purpose of the trial, but there will be limited attributes. Similarly, Personal, Professional, and Enterprise are the paid versions that can also be purchased from the official website with all features. If there is an issue in the use of this software, then a support system will assist the users.
Features
- Installation Engine
- Comprehensive Reporting
- Microsoft Window Installer
Pros
- Timely Updates
- Helpful Font Installation
- Serial Code Management
Cons
- No Privacy Policy
- No Terms and Conditions
9. DCP Setup Maker
DCP Setup Maker is a strong cross forum software that can easily make stable Java installers. Its user interface is very simple; therefore, there is no need for any expertise in the usage of this software. Due to the DCP Setup Maker, users can make complex installers with many files.
Only three steps are followed in the process of making the package, scanning, setting, and tweaking. Scanning means the file which you want to include in your package. In the next step, the parameters of the user’s pack are fixed. In the final step, final custom settings for the start of the use of software are made.
Features
- Directories Management Flexibility
- Wizard-like Interface
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Free Demo
- Help Center
- View Recent Development
Cons
- No Privacy Policy
- No Terms and Conditions
10. ClickTeam Install Creator
ClickTeam Install Creator software is similar to InstallShield that allows its users to make installers for multiple projects. This software can be downloaded from the official website within a minute. Before using it, users have to submit some personal information that is kept confidential due to a proper privacy policy.
After the making of installers, the extra page is also made for performing multiple functions. Similarly, the registered version of this software has complete features, and it can be purchased through an online store or fax from ClickTeam Install Creator.
Features
- Version Comparison
- Training Tutorials
- Export Modules
Pros
- Customer Support System
- A Free Trial
- Privacy Policy
Cons
- Limited Tools for Procession
- No Terms and Conditions
11. InstallForge
InstallForge is a software that is fruitful for free setup making for Windows. Its working is far different from other script-based, complicated, and time waster installation creators due to the quick procession. When a new version of this software is released, customers are informed in the updates section, and all services of it are free of cost.
You just have to register yourself on the official website, and it is ready for use. Moreover, it can also be downloaded from the official website. For this purpose, some personal information of the users is required that is kept confidential due to a proper privacy policy. If there is an issue in the use of this software, then a help center will assist the users.
Features
- Customizable User Interface
- Fast Native Setup Engine
- Multiple Window Versions
Pros
- Free Downloading
- Help Center
- Best Privacy Policy
Cons
- No Video Tutorials
- No Live Support System
12. Actual Installer
Actual Installer software is used for the installation of Window-based programs. The best feature of this software is that there is a need to visit another website for its downloading because this option is available on the official website. A free trial of this software is available on the official website, but there will be limited features.
Besides this, pro and Pro+ are the paid versions of this software having different pricing plans and attributes. After purchasing, two different licenses are issued for personal and commercial uses. Before the start of this software, some personal information about the users is given that is kept confidential due to a proper privacy policy.
Features
- Custom Prerequisites
- File Association
- Template Editor
Pros
- Shortcuts Creation
- Timely Updates
- Multilinguistic Software
Cons
- Problematic Installation
- Import Registry File Issues
13. xeam Visual Installer
xeam Visual Installer is a software that lets its users for making installer package for their applications. Different files and libraries are added to the installers for designing purposes. Due to these installers, this software becomes more easy and guided. Similarly, its documentation can be downloaded from their official website.
While on the other hand, Bronze is a completely free version of this software with limited attributes. If there is an issue in the usage of this software, then a support system will assist the users. You can directly and quickly download this software from the official website. There are three paid versions of this software, Silver, Source, and Platinum.
Features
- High Customization
- Adjustable Configuration
- Extended User Interface
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Quick Procession
- Support System
Cons
- No Privacy Policy
- No Terms and Conditions
14. WinInstall
WinInstall software is used for the instant installation of Windows applications. Many relevant apps have been introduced whose searching option is manifested on the official website. Before the use of this software, you have to log in. If there is an issue in the use of this software, then a help center will assist the users.
For this purpose, the personal information of the users is added that is kept confidential due to a proper privacy policy. Some applications through which you can work from home can be downloaded from the official website, for example, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and many others.
Features
- Windows Package Manager
- Winget Installer Package
Pros
- Privacy Policy
- Customer Help Center
- Direct Procession through Log-in
Cons
- Not a Multilinguistic Software
- No Shortcuts Included
15. SharpSetup
SharpSetup is a software that enables its users for Windows installations directly from Visual studio with the help of different tools and languages. When the languages are discussed, it has NET, C#, C++, and Window Forms. Besides this, dialogue templates, controls, and wizards are helpful in making this software friendly for the users.
The best and different feature of this software is that it supports direct procession just through sign-in. For this purpose, a user has to provide some personal information that is kept confidential due to a proper privacy policy. Moreover, the User Interface of this software is simple; therefore, there is no need for any expertise in its usage.
Features
- Simple User Interface
- Multilingual Installers
- Control Designer
Pros
- Privacy Policy
- Terms and Conditions for Usage
- Support System
Cons
- Limited Shortcuts Keys
- Not Live Customer Support
Final Words
InstallShield is a cloud-based software that is used for the installation of Windows. It has become a need for almost every organization. This software has multiple features, but a single one cannot complete the needs of an organization; therefore, this article has presented you with its alternatives.
These are categorized as Advanced Installer, NSIS, CreateInstall, IzPack, InstallSimple, CyberInstaller Suite, DCP Setup Maker, ClickTeam Install Creator, InstallForge, Actual Installer, xeam Visual Installer, WinInstall, SharpSetup, and a few others.
If the overall features of these software are discussed, it has a simple User Interface, multilingual installers, control designer, Windows package manager, high customization, adjustable Configuration, and many others. They have the best privacy policy, terms and conditions, quick procession, and support system.
