Create self extracting archive with autorun on linux for windows platform

Question

Our application is distributed as a zip file, with a small bat/shell script that the user runs after extracting the archive to install the application. This zip file is currently created via mavens assembly plugin.

The zip file we distribute contains a lib folder with an executable jar, as well as all the files we need as part off the deployment off the actual application.

What we want is a self extracting zip-file that executes that contained bat file after the zip file has been extracted. And this should be created as a part off the build process.

I have read creating-a-self-extracting-zip-archive-on-a-linux-box, and can do that. But I don't see anywhere how to also execute a bat file within the extracted archive when it's done.

I have found winzip self-extractor, but I would prefer something that can be run on any platform. The build server and some developers use linux. I also found some VB code which leads me to believe that there might be some autorun properties on zip files.

Answer 1

Did you consider using IzPack (and the IzPack Maven Plugin) to generate a cross-platform installer?