A very common question is what the difference between the AS and MSI installer packages is. Here's the quick answer, with some additional points for MSI packages from TrentM: The AS package is far less functional than the MSI package....
A very common question is what the difference between the AS and MSI installer packages is. Here's the quick answer, with some additional points for MSI packages from TrentM:
The AS package is far less functional than the MSI package. Here's a quick run-down of the differences:
AS package:
- zip file
- batch-file installation script
- cannot repair a corrupted installation
- cannot uninstall the package automatically
- requires manual setting of paths, registry entries, etc.
MSI package:
- Microsoft Installer file
- double-click the file to run the graphical installer
- can repair a corrupted installation
- can uninstall the package via the Add/Remove Programs control panel
- sets the required environment variables and registry settings automatically
- can be installed non-interactively (no GUI required)
- can be installed remotely using standard Microsoft tools
As you can imagine, the MSI package is highly recommended.
Comments
Same goes for ActivePython. Also in the MSI package list:
- you can do a silent (i.e. no UI) install with MSI
if you want to
- if the MSI is setup for it you can optionally install only certain bits (http://aspn.activestate.com/ASPN/docs/ActivePython/2.4/installnotes.html#install_features)
- MSI packages can be used for installing on numerous machines with standard remote Windows administration tools
