InstallShield or AdminStudio:
Make the right choice for your organization
When you’re in the market for software packaging solutions, it’s essential to understand the differences between InstallShield and AdminStudio. Both solutions share some similar functionality, but each provides support for specific users and use cases, and are built for different scenarios.
When is InstallShield the right choice?
InstallShield is a powerful solution designed primarily for software vendors and independent developers who need to create software installers. It supports creating MSI, EXE, UWP, and InstallScript installers, making it the go-to choice for developers looking to package their applications for distribution. However, it has limited capabilities beyond installer creation.
If your needs are focused solely on creating and delivering software installers without the need for additional validation, or deployment management, InstallShield might be the right solution for your organization. However, its capabilities beyond installer creation are limited.
InstallShield... has indeed saved much of our team's time and helped to greatly increase our efficiency.
Mr. Chang Senior Manager of ETS Department
When should I consider AdminStudio?
AdminStudio is purposefully designed for IT departments and enterprises that need a comprehensive solution for application packaging, testing, and deployment. It includes all the functionalities of InstallShield, but also extends far beyond by offering tools for repackaging, application readiness, compatibility testing, and security vulnerability checks.
AdminStudio also integrates with enterprise management systems like SCCM, Intune, and Workspace ONE and automates much of the application lifecycle management process.
If you’re an enterprise deploying software internally (*RN: external deployed is a violation of the EULA), AdminStudio is the right solution for you.
InstallShield vs. AdminStudio: Key Differences
Feature/Capability |
InstallShield |
AdminStudio |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Users | Software vendors, independent developers | IT departments, enterprise software managers |
| Key Use Case | Creating software installations (MSI, EXE, and scripts) | Comprehensive application packaging and deployment readiness |
| Installer Creation | MSI, EXE, UWP, and InstallScript installers | MSI, EXE, MSIX, and packaging as part of broader lifecycle management |
| Application Readiness | Limited to installer creation | Full application readiness lifecycle (packaging, testing, validation, and deployment) |
| Repackaging Capabilities | Not Available | Advanced application repackaging for different formats (MSI, App-V, MSIX, etc.) |
| Compatibility Testing | No built-in testing | Tests for OS compatibility, application conflict testing etc. |
| Endpoint Management System Integration | Not Available | Supports integration with SCCM, Intune, WorkspaceOne and other endpoint management tools |
| Automation Features | Limited automation for installation builds | Automation for packaging, testing, and deployment workflow management |
| Deployment to Enterprise Systems | Not Available | Deployment tools for distributing software across enterprise environments |
| Enterprise Software Deployment | Not available for enterprises deploying software internally | Specifically designed for enterprises deploying software across multiple systems (includes InstallShield) |
| Free Trial | Free Trial |
Key Takeaway for Enterprises
If you’re a software vendor or independent developer looking to simply create reliable software installers, InstallShield is here to support you.
If you are an enterprise that is responsible for deploying software internally, AdminStudio, which bundles InstallShield along with a full suite of tools for application readiness, compatibility testing, and deployment management, is the best solution for your organizations.
AdminStudio ensures that your software packages are validated, secure, and ready for deployment across various environments
