Install4j

install4j is a professional tool for building installers and launchers for Java applications on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides an integrated environment for configuring, customizing, and distributing software, with a graphical IDE and build tools for automated workflows.

★★★★★

4.5(2 ratings)

• Native installers. install4j produces platform-specific installers for each operating system, such as .exe for Windows, .dmg or .pkg for macOS, and shell-based installers or .deb and .rpm packages for Linux. Installers can also be built for different CPU architectures, including Apple Silicon and ARM.
• Customizable wizards. Lets you design installation flows with configurable screens, including language selection, license agreement, and installation directory. Every step can be modified to fit the needs of the project.
• Auto-update support. Includes a built-in update system that notifies users about new versions and downloads and installs them. You can configure the update server and the update behavior.
• JRE integration. Can detect an installed Java version or bundle a specific JRE with the application, so the software runs on systems without Java installed.
• Native launchers. Generates native executables for starting your Java application, with options for splash screens, memory settings, and Windows service support.
• MSI and Windows packages. Besides executable installers, it can create MSI packages for deployment in enterprise environments, as well as media files for unattended installation.
• Code signing. Supports digital signing of installers with Authenticode certificates for Windows and Apple Developer ID certificates for macOS, including notarization, which increases security and user trust.
• Scripting. Lets you add custom logic to the installation process using Java code and a rich set of built-in actions, screens, and form components.
• Multi-language support. Installers can be translated into many languages, and you can add your own translations.
• System requirement checks. Lets you check conditions such as the operating system or the installed Java version before the installation continues.
• Uninstaller generation. Creates an uninstaller that removes the files installed by the installer, along with the shortcuts and registry entries it created.
• Build tool integration. Works with Maven, Gradle, and Ant, and also provides a command-line compiler, so installer builds can be automated in CI pipelines.

install4j was developed by ej-technologies, a company that specializes in tools for Java developers, and is also known for the JProfiler profiler. It is written in Java, which allows its IDE to run on different platforms, and it has been developed for many years. Over time it has added advanced features while keeping its focus on creating reliable, customizable installers.

Alternatives to Install4j:

For Install4j there is 1 alternative program. Free: 1, paid: 0.

NSIS

NSIS (Nullsoft Scriptable Install System) is a professional tool for developing software installers on Microsoft Windows systems.

Price: Free   Size: 1.52 MB   Version: 3.11   OS: Windows