Webinar

Modern software installers are streamlined, user-friendly setup experiences that often require minimal user interaction—sometimes just a single click. They reduce friction during installation, improve user satisfaction, and help software vendors present a polished first impression. These installers typically include customizable panels, support for light/dark themes, and simplified license agreement handling. Adopting modern installers can lead to fewer support tickets and faster onboarding for end users.

Using cloud-based build infrastructure and licensing models like Cloud License Server (CLS) can significantly simplify deployment. CLS allows software producers to manage licenses across multiple machines without the need for on-premise servers. Combined with hosted build agents and CI/CD tools like Azure DevOps, teams can automate builds and deployments in scalable cloud environments. This reduces maintenance overhead and accelerates release cycles.

MSIX is a modern packaging format from Microsoft that supports secure, reliable, and clean installations. One of its key benefits is built-in support for automatic updates via App Installer files, allowing applications to self-update without manual intervention. MSIX also ensures better application isolation and cleaner uninstall processes. For software producers, this means fewer compatibility issues and a more consistent user experience.

Windows Package Manager (Winget) simplifies the installation of software by allowing users to install applications via command-line commands. Software producers can publish their packages to the Winget repository, making it easier for users to install and update applications without needing to manage complex installers or command-line switches. This standardization improves deployment speed and reduces user error during installation.

Yes, InstallShield supports automation of software builds in cloud environments through its Azure DevOps extension. This allows software producers to set up pipelines that build installation packages using hosted agents, eliminating the need for manual build processes. When combined with CLS, licensing is handled seamlessly, enabling scalable and low-maintenance CI/CD workflows.

InstallShield-generated installers are fully compatible with Windows 11, ensuring that applications built with the tool run smoothly on the latest Windows platform. This compatibility helps software producers future-proof their deployment strategies and maintain support for users upgrading to newer operating systems. Ongoing testing ensures continued reliability and performance on Windows 11.

Software producers can now use InstallShield to configure prerequisites that pull directly from Microsoft’s Windows Package Manager. This eliminates the need to manually bundle or host prerequisite files, as packages are maintained by their original vendors. It ensures that users always install the correct and most up-to-date dependencies, streamlining the setup process and reducing maintenance.

Cloud License Server (CLS) is a licensing model that allows software teams to use installation tools across multiple machines without being tied to specific hardware. It’s ideal for cloud-based environments, offering flexibility, scalability, and zero maintenance. CLS is automatically provisioned and integrates with cloud platforms like Azure and AWS, making it easier to manage licenses in dynamic build environments.

InstallShield’s suite project now includes a minimal template that enables the creation of one-click installers. These installers feature a simplified interface with just a few panels and an install button, making the setup process fast and intuitive. Software producers can customize themes, add license agreements, and configure installation behavior—all while delivering a modern user experience.

Combining InstallShield with cloud-based tools like Azure DevOps and CLS can dramatically improve build and deployment speed. Azure DevOps pipelines automate the build process, while CLS handles licensing across multiple machines without manual configuration. These tools support hosted agents, allowing software producers to scale their operations and reduce infrastructure costs.