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I'd like to be able to examine an application installer and find out what files it will install. For bonus points: I'd like to be able to extract files into a directory of my own choosing rather than running the installer. If neither is possible, I'd settle for being able to obtain the list of installed files after installation.
In the linux world of .deb (Debian) and .rpm packages, I can list the contents of any package installed using a tool such as "dpkg" or "rpm". I can even probe the package file itself and get the list prior to installing the package. What is the equivalent mechanism in Windows XP?
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To find the installation folder of a program using a desktop shortcut: From your desktop, right-click on the program's shortcut. Click on the Properties, and the Properties window should now be displayed. Click on the Shortcut tab, and you will find the installation path in the Target field.
The rpm command has -a option to query (list) all installed packages.
The C:\Windows\Installer folder contains Windows installer cache, it's used to store important files for applications installed using the Windows Installer technology and should not be deleted. The installer cache is used to maintain (remove / update) the applications and patches installed on the computer.
Press the Windows key , type All Apps, and then press Enter . The window that opens has a full list of programs installed on the computer.
While it's possible to extract the files from a .MSI package without running it through custom code, it's easier still to run an administrative install (msiexec /a package.msi). This will extract its files into a format that can then be used to perform an install, or just allow you to examine its contents.
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