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MSI file – What is it? How to open such file? Solutions to problems with MSI files

Unknown file extension can be a source of various problems. However, identifying the causes of problems with MSI files and addressing them isn’t necessary a complicated process. This article will describe 5 simple steps that will let you address problems with MSI files.

  1. 1. MSI File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) MSI file?
  3. 3. How to open MSI file?
    1. 3.1 Find and download then install appropriate software
      1. 3.1.1 Programs that support MSI files
    2. 3.2 Verify whether the MSI file is not infected with malware
    3. 3.3 Verify whether the MSI files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly
    4. 3.4 Verify whether MSI files are associated with proper software
    5. 3.5 Verify whether the storage medium on which the MSI files is stored is not damaged or corrupted
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

MSI File Extension

File
  • File type Windows Installer Package
  • File developer Microsoft
  • File category Misc Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) MSI file?

MSI (Windows Installer Package) is a file format designed by Microsoft to simplify the installation and updating of software applications. It is a standard for packaging applications into a single file that contains the instructions for installing the software. The MSI files can be used to install, repair, or uninstall an application on Windows platforms. MSI files are also used for deploying applications in corporate networks.

To open an MSI file, Windows users can simply double-click on it to initiate the installation process. MSI files are compressed using ZIP compression and can contain other resources such as registry entries, drivers, MST (transform) files, and other information required for software installation. Windows Installer packages can also include digital signatures used to verify the contents of the package.

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How to open MSI file?

Step 1. Find and download then install appropriate software

Typically in order to open .MSI files it is sufficient to follow these simple steps: find, download, and install appropriate software. Then, by double-clicking on the file icon, open the file. System should automatically associate MSI file with appropriate software. Below is the list of programs required to open files with MSI extension:

Programs that support MSI files

Windows programs
Windows

Step 2. Verify whether the MSI file is not infected with malware

If given file with MSI extension is not infected, it is possible that the antivirus software is blocking access to the file. User should take necessary precautions and follow the steps suggested by the system. After recovering or removing the infected file it is recommended to scan the entire system for viruses. Yo will have to acquire a new, clean version of MSI file.

Hint!

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Be advised that you can always consult an IT expert for help. Some problems with MSI files can be hard to solve for less sophisticated users. Also, you can ask for help one of the developers of software that supports files with MSI extension. In order to do so, go to software’s subpage and search for software’s developer website address

Step 3. Verify whether the MSI files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly

If the MSI file has not been downloaded properly it is not possible for the software to open such file. Check the file size in the location from where you downloaded the file in question. If the size of the original file differs from the size of downloaded MSI file, you will have to download the file again.

Step 4. Verify whether MSI files are associated with proper software

If the system registry has no entry related to default program that should be used to open MSI files, even though given program is installed on the system, then MSI files must be associated with the application in question.

Associating files with applications is performed similarly regardless of the type of system and consists in selecting an application which should be used for opening given type of files. In order to associate MSI files with given application, right-click the file icon and select form the context menu "Open with" option, which will display a list of suggested programs. Select your program from the list. If the application is not on the list, use the "Browse" button and point to the location of the application. Checking "Always use selected application to open this kind of files" option will set selected application as the default application for opening given files.

Step 5. Verify whether the storage medium on which the MSI files is stored is not damaged or corrupted

It is possible that the storage medium on which the file is located is damaged or corrupted. Try scanning the storage medium for errors.

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