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Installer

An installer is a software utility that prepares an application for use on a computer. It typically copies program files, configures system resources, registers components, creates shortcuts, and updates configuration databases or registries. Installers may also install dependencies, set environment variables, and adjust permissions to ensure proper operation.

Installers come in formats and styles across platforms. On Windows, typical forms include executable installers (EXE)

Typical installation begins with compatibility checks and license acceptance, followed by optional component selection, configuration, and

Security and integrity are central to installers. They are usually code-signed, verify cryptographic checksums, and request

In modern software ecosystems, installers interact with operating system packaging systems, application stores, and enterprise deployment

built
with
tools
such
as
Inno
Setup
or
InstallShield
and
Windows
Installer
packages
(MSI).
On
macOS,
installation
is
often
delivered
as
a
package
(.pkg)
or
as
a
bundle.
Linux
software
is
commonly
distributed
as
DEB
or
RPM
packages,
or
as
source
code.
progress
reporting.
Installers
may
perform
post-install
tasks
such
as
registering
services
or
creating
shortcuts,
and
may
include
rollback,
repair,
or
uninstall
options.
Silent
or
unattended
installations
also
exist
for
automated
deployment.
appropriate
privileges.
Good
installers
provide
clean
uninstall
paths
and
minimize
changes
to
the
system,
reducing
the
risk
of
leftover
components
or
corrupted
configurations.
tools
to
manage
installation,
updates,
and
removal,
while
supporting
localization,
accessibility,
and
rollback
capabilities.