msi2xml

The command-line tool msi2xml, developed by Daniel Gehriger, serves as a vital component in the Development Tools category, specifically under Database Tools. This software stands out for its ability to convert Windows Installer Databases (.msi and .msm) into text-based XML files. Conversely, its complementary tool, xml2msi, reconstructs the .msi or .msm from the XML file.

Released in its latest 2.2.1.957 version, msi2xml supports multiple OS platforms, including Windows XP, 7, 10, and the newest Windows 11. The program has evolved through various versions like 2.2, and 2.1, ensuring that it caters to different user requirements and stays updated with technological advancements.

Several uses make msi2xml particularly beneficial. For quality assurance, the human-readable XML file facilitates the comparison of changes between different .msi file versions. When it comes to version control, many text-based systems can store the XML file instead of the .msi file, aiding in better file management. Moreover, for automated build systems, using xml2msi enables existing installations to be updated with new files and automatically rebuilt, streamlining the whole process.

Overall, msi2xml combines versatility with efficiency, making it a go-to tool for developers needing reliable conversion and reconstruction capabilities for Windows Installer Databases.

Pros:

• Efficient conversion of .msi/.msm to text-based XML.
• Supports multiple Windows OS platforms.
• Useful for quality assurance, version control, and automated build systems.

Cons:

• As a command-line tool, it may require some technical knowledge to operate effectively.
• Limited to specific file types (.msi/.msm).

It is not possible to confirm if there is a free download for this software available on the developer's website. We recommend checking the downloaded files with any free antivirus.

You may want to check out more software, such as DBScribe for MySQL, DBAddin or Mybase, which might be related to msi2xml.