14 DAY TRIAL // Every encounter with a computer software starts with that application's setup program. Since first impression counts, this setup program must be as user friendly and easy to use as possible.
Today I will quickly browse through three setup creators available for free use. First we have the notorious Nullsoft Installation System, second on the starting grid is Setup2Go, while the last setup creator that I have on today's timetable is CreateInstall 2003.
I won't keep this for the finish, so I'll say it now: don't expect to find the absolute truth in this article. As usual, I highly recommend you to get all programs present here, install and use them while reading this; otherwise you'll end up like those people who think that reading cooking books will improve their kitchen skills...
Adjust you monitor and chair, get a cup of...something you like...and let's start our race!
Nullsoft Installation System 2.18
First setup creator today comes from Nullsoft, Winamp's birthplace and it's not recommended for beginners, using scripts for building the installation kits.
After starting the program you will be welcomed by a command center with a lot of links and useful information. There are four main categories to be noted here, inside the Quick Launch area - Utilities, Folders, Documentation and Websites. The two utilities are all that matters now, and this is what I will touch now - the compiler interface and the ZIP to SFX converter.
First of all, the compiler interface allows you to create installation kits based on existing NSI scripts, but you can also edit them or create new ones. Of course that this requires you some scripting knowledge and you will have to spend some time to study it.
The good part of this is that, as usual, scripts give you more power and control than wizard-driven actions.
The ZIP to SFX converter lets even the beginners get near this program. Simple installers can be created from existing ZIP archives without much trouble, with only a few mouse clicks.
This is NSIS - powerful yet simple.
What don't I like? The converter doesn't allow you to set any advanced options, while the script compiler doesn't have a visual editor and you have to do all editing by hand.
What do I like? The resulted installation kits are fast and easy to use, and this is most important for me.
Why use it? If you don't want extremely fancy setup programs (that usually are slow like a bug) and you don't fear scripting languages, this is your choice. Even if you need to create quick installers for your zipped content, NSIS may be a worthy choice.
Here are some snapshots of the application in action:
Second stop is called CreateInstall Free, and has even a paid version, but the only difference is that you will be able to display your own text at the bottom of the setup screen instead of the program's name.
What's different about this one? Well, CreateInstall is a friendlier application that has an interface which guides you all along the way of creating a setup package.
You have to take care of eight setting areas, starting with the general ones and ending with uninstall and advanced options. Registry entries to be changed or added, program shortcuts, setup dialogs can be changed as you need, in order to create a top-quality, industry-standard setup package.
There's nothing much to say about this program, all you have to do is install it and start using it, you can't go wrong. Of course that you can't get it perfect from the first try, but practice will help a lot.
What don't I like? The registration costs 39USD, which seems a bit too much. Don't get me wrong, I like this program a lot, but it's not perfect, and maybe having a completely free version with some features taken away and a full featured commercial one would be a better idea.
What do I like? I like IT. You have to try this program and then you'll understand. It has all the features it needs, the interface is easy to use and the result of your work can be an excellent setup package in the first hour after touching the program.
Why use it? You don't like scripting or you don't have time to waste reading documentation. All you want to do is create a setup package, and quick. This is one of the best choices, in my opinion. Go ahead and try it!
Here are some snapshots of the application in action:
Last program today is Setup2Go, and you can consider it an extended version of the previous one, CreateInstall. Why?
Setup2Go is extremely detailed, and the best way to use it is combining the wizard (for creating the setup project) with the eleven settings tabs available inside the main program.
The things that can be setup include checking for free disk space and OS requirements, include multiple languages in the setup program, create file types associations, add custom splash screens, window backgrounds or adding an icon to the setup program, but they don't end here.
If you get lost, then don't be afraid to check the help file, it can clear some things for you, I am sure of that!
What don't I like? The program's interface looks a bit old, and the worst thing about this program is that the generated setup packages will display an advertisement page for SDS Software when the installation is complete.
What do I like? Who doesn't like the POWER? I do, and this is best thing about this program. Oh! Add the fact that you can use it without any problem for personal and commercial purposes, and you get my point.
Why use it? If you don't mind the advertisement page that I mentioned above, then this is the best choice you can get for free!
Here are some snapshots of the application in action:
The race was really tight, and I could say that the last are actually the first, but the final decision will be yours. Setup2Go has the most features, CreateInstall is the most balanced, and NSIS brings the power of scripting and speed at your feet.
I have done my part, now it's your time to play. Have fun and enjoy your weekend!
