Windows Solution for Self-extracting Archives

When it comes to distributing a collection of files, a software, or a setup. One of the best choices is to make the distro in the form of a Self-extracting Archive(why?). If you chose to go with this solution, you will have to use some tool to create the SFX. Ofcourse, that's no big deal; There are plenty of software which allow you to produce self-extracting archives. Winzip, WinRAR, 7zip, etc may be the obvious choice.

But, have you ever noticed that the Windows Operating System holds a built-in utility for this?

Strange enough, but it's true.

If you are not the user used to dig into the system32 directory of your Windows installation, its highly unlikely that you have met this tool before. By default, there are no shortcuts or links to this tool. Since there are no directives or clear documentation, it remains a hidden feature for the common Windows user.

The main executable of this utility is named 'iexpress.exe'. It's available in the system32 directory in all Windows operating systems after Windows XP. You can navigate to the system32 folder and open this file or alternatively, you can type 'iexpress.exe' in the Run dialog or the Start Menu. If the OS version is newer than Win XP, I'd recommend the first method because in order to run properly, this file needs to be called 'Run As Administrator'.

Welcome Screen

What iexpress actually does is decide how the final package should be and call another file(makecab.exe) to create the archive. So, the compression used in the archive is cabinet(cab) file compression. Although there are better compression procedures, iexpress is still useful for small-scale archives.

Screenshot 2

The wizard provide all the instructions and options. It also allows to create cabinet archives(which are not executable) if you wish. Read on native Windows utilities for cabinets.

The SFX

Screenshot

It is said that iexpress was first introduced as a part of Microsoft Internet Explorer to allow users to make customized installations of IE. Later, it was included in the Windows installation.

Ok. So, that's a post about the built-in SFX maker for Windows. If you enjoyed the post, please leave me a comment.

Feel like reading more on iexpress? checkout this documentation at Microsoft.