How do you extract .msi files from setup.exe's?

[Cueball]

i made it from scratch mate using commercial software, had to do it in my workplace as the software i used is too expensive just for what i needed it for

can't remember the software right at the moment but will take a look when I get back to work if you really are interested in knowing what it is.

[Python007]

Hiya Cueball,

Yeah, i'm still interested.......

You say u made it from scratch?

Was it difficult?

I would say that my knowledge of PC coding lies somewhere between novice and expert.........if it helps, I have cracked (without external help) the 'innosetup' install routine's, which gave me a bit of a buzz for this 'cracking' thing.

After doing the installers I would love to learn how to crack the executables themselves - I used to do it during my teens (80's) with 8-bit 6502 assembler and later on using 32-bit RISC (Acorn machines), but then again, it might be over my head nowadays.

Regards

[Cueball]

ok the program is Installshield (version 10 is the one used at work, but I believe there is a newer one now)

it was relatively easy for COD, with a hell of a lot of testing from Grumpy & Reddragon.

the program itself is virtually wizard run but does need some modifying after, however you need to know what reg keys and such the game makes, you can use a tool called regmon to find this out

there are quite a few games that can't be converted to dvd because of the setup routine used, ie Call of Duty, so if you feel like using a good few days up and spending a bit of cash on the software I'm sure there will be plenty of people who would be very grateful.

I was going to look at Soldier Of Fortune 2 but just not had the time lately, if I get time i will do.

oh and I didn't crack it mate, I just worked around it

EDIT: the link for the software: http://www.installshield.com/products/installshield/

http://www.sysinternals.com/Utilities/Regmon.html

[Python007]

Cool m8

I was looking at Filemon, and had a little play, so see what files were been installed during the setup installer for Perimeter.

I presume Regmon is made by the same company who made Filemon.

i'm ok at modifying .msi's, but when it comes to creating them, I might get stuck.

it's a shame there is no way of decompiling the setup.exe to extract the .msi file

That's why I like innosetup, because you can use innounp to extract the .iss script and file cabinets, make your adjustments, then repackage i.e. I have done a successful patch install on Restricted Area