Windows Installers Debate

Discussions criticize the reliance on custom installers for Windows software, contrasting them with simpler drag-and-drop or package manager methods on macOS and Linux, and advocating for better built-in package management.

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Keywords

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Sample Comments

1718627440 Oct 14, 2025 View on HN

Yes, that's why having installers not provided by the OS is a bad idea.

panzi Jul 6, 2014 View on HN

Why not? It's not something you need/want an installer for.

IshKebab Aug 6, 2021 View on HN

There totally is an install. Tons of apps use a Windows-style install process.

naikrovek Apr 13, 2019 View on HN

Very few things, if any, REQUIRE an installer on Windows; it's just common (and annoying) that most software is distributed this way for that platform.

blackpill0w Sep 13, 2023 View on HN

Why do Windows programs need special installers/uninstallers? Why isn't this handled by Windows itself?

pg Jun 1, 2009 View on HN

Why use software that requires installation if there's software that doesn't?

ajasmin Jan 22, 2013 View on HN

OS X and Linux apps don't have to be bundled in a custom installer. In OS X you simply drag the app into you Application folder and now there's an App Store that makes the whole experience even simpler and curated.Linux distros have great package manager and you won't get greedy crap-ware from the Open Source community.It's a shame that Windows installers have become so bloated. The other day I've seen one with a check box labeled "I agree [to install this crap ware]" just bellow the licen

n00b101 May 24, 2013 View on HN

Just curious, why does installing software on end-user devices not work for you?

moron4hire Feb 17, 2016 View on HN

This is, to me, a point against package managers. Little Windows universe secret: Installers aren't that bad.

duped Apr 29, 2024 View on HN

It's better because you almost never need to give root permissions to the installer, unlike on Windows