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What Are WiX Fragments?

Last updated on September 30, 2022 @ 11:03 am

Windows Installer XML (WiX) is a free and open source toolset that builds Windows installation packages from XML code. WiX was created to build Microsoft Windows installations, but it can be used to build packages for any software.

WiX uses XML files to create installer databases. These databases are compiled into MSI or MSM files, which are then used to install the software. WiX can also create EXE and DLL files, which can be used to install software without an MSI file. WiX can be used to create patches, upgrade existing installations, and add or remove features from installed products.

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WiX includes several command-line tools to help create and manage installer databases. The most important tool is “candle”, which compiles WiX source files into object files. “light” links the object files into an MSI or MSM file. “dark” decompiles an MSI or MSM file back into WiX source files. “torch” can be used to analyze MSI files and compare them to other MSI files.

“pyro” creates a Burn bootstrapper for WiX installer databases.

PRO TIP: If you are not familiar with WiX Fragments, it is best to avoid using them. Fragments are a potentially dangerous feature that can cause your computer to become unstable. If you do use Fragments, be sure to back up your data before using them.

What Are WiX Fragments?

WiX fragments are XML files that contain the source code for a specific feature or component of a Windows installation package. A fragment can contain one or more components, each of which will be installed when the fragment is included in an installer database. Fragments can be nested inside other fragments, allowing for a modular approach to building installer databases.

WiX fragments are typically used to add new features to an existing installation package, or to modify the behavior of an existing feature. For example, a fragment could be used to add a new component to an existing installation package, or to change the way an existing component is installed. Fragments can also be used to create entirely new installer databases from scratch.

What Are WiX Fragments?

WiX fragments are XML files that contain the source code for a specific feature or component of a Windows installation package.

WiX fragments are typically used to add new features to an existing installation package, or to modify the behavior of an existing feature.

Kathy McFarland

Kathy McFarland

Devops woman in trade, tech explorer and problem navigator.