How to create a web installer using LZMA compression

What is an online installer?

An online installer is a tool for installing software directly from the Internet. Unlike traditional installers, it is a small executable file that fetches the necessary files from the web in real time, reducing the initial download size. This means it requires less bandwidth and storage space.

Web installers ensure you get the latest version of the software, provide customization options during installation, and simplify deployment for developers. They are commonly used for software such as web browsers and productivity suites. Basically, they are an easy and efficient way to install software without problems.

What is LZMA compression?

LZMA stands for Lempel-Ziv-Markov The chaining algorithm is a highly efficient data compression algorithm known for its ability to achieve significant compression ratios while maintaining data integrity. Developed by Igor Pavlov, LZMA is widely used in a variety of applications, including file archiving, software distribution, and data storage.

It operates on a sophisticated dictionary-based compression model, intelligently replacing redundant data models with concise references to entries within its algorithmic lexicon. This transformative approach empowers LZMA to elegantly condense file sizes, ensuring your data takes up minimal space without sacrificing any vital information.

In general, LZMA compression provides a balance of high compression ratios AND fast decompression speed, making it suitable for a wide range of applications where file size minimization is essential. It is commonly used in popular file compression services such as 7-Zip, WinRAR and others, as well as in various software distribution platforms.

You can learn more about LZMA compression on the wiki.

Creating an online installer with LZMA compression

Now that we understand the concepts of web installers and LZMA compression, let’s explore how to apply these principles and build our web installer.

Specifying the web installer build

Now that the files, registries, and other components are configured, it’s time to define your web installer build.

Navigate to Package Definition -> Builds page from the left panel. There, choose Web Installer.

below Archive section, select “Installing the archive using LZMA compression“.

The Advanced Installer offers the option to choose the compression mode: store, LZMAOR LZMA2, with the latter the most recent. You can also choose from five predefined compression levels or specify custom parameters, including dictionary and word size.

Dictionary size directly affects RAM usage for compression and decompression. Also, compression is strongly dependent on the number of CPU cores on the machine.

Moreover, you have the opportunity to include a layer of security encrypting your LZMA archive. Just mark it “Encrypt archive” option and specify the password.

Now, edit the LZMA URL with the web location where you plan to store the LZMA archive of the installer file, including the .lzma file name.

Finally, build the project. Don’t forget to rename and upload the .lzma file to the mentioned URL location you defined earlier.

This is! Now you can distribute your small web installer exe. When activated, it will collect all necessary installation files from the web.

CONCLUSION

By adopting LZMA compression for your web installer via the advanced installer, you start on a path to efficient software distribution.

This method not only optimizes download sizes, but also enhances security and user experience by providing the latest versions and customizable installations.

Whether for individual developers or enterprises, leveraging LZMA compression makes a compelling case for simple software deployment.