Convert MSI to XAP

Understanding MSI and XAP file formats

MSI files are Windows Installer packages used for the installation, maintenance, and removal of software on Windows systems. They contain all the necessary data and instructions for the software installation process.

XAP files are application package files used for distributing and installing applications on Windows Phone and Silverlight platforms. They contain the application code and resources needed for the app to run.

Converting MSI to XAP

Converting an MSI file to an XAP file is not a straightforward process because they serve different purposes and platforms. An MSI file is designed for Windows desktop applications, while an XAP file is for mobile or Silverlight applications. Therefore, a direct conversion is not possible.

To achieve a similar result, you would need to manually recreate the application for the Windows Phone or Silverlight platform, ensuring that the code and resources are compatible with the target environment.

Best software for creating XAP files

To create an XAP file, you can use Microsoft Visual Studio, which provides tools for developing applications for Windows Phone and Silverlight. Follow these steps:

• Open Microsoft Visual Studio.
• Create a new project and select the appropriate template for Windows Phone or Silverlight.
• Develop your application by adding code and resources.
• Once your application is ready, go to File → Export → Package to generate the XAP file.