How to Convert SWF to EXE in Open Source

An SWF file is the standard means of sharing a Flash presentation over the Internet, but because the content of the presentation is streamed from a host server as a user watches it, it won’t work well for viewing presentations offline. Converting an SWF into an EXE makes it a stand-alone installable program that works regardless of Internet connectivity. While a number of paid SWF to EXE converters exist, you may prefer open source software because it is free, and because you can modify the source code yourself--if you encounter a bug or missing feature.

Things You'll Need

• HippoHX

Instructions

HippoHX

1. Download and install the latest release of HippoHX (see Resources for link).

2. Launch HippoHX.

3. Click "Create a New Project."

4. Name your project, then click "OK."

5. Click "Browse" next to "Main SWF" and navigate to the location of the SWF file you wish to convert. Double-click the SWF file.

6. Enter the name of your EXE file in the "Executable Name" field.

7. Click "Browse" next to "Destination Folder" and navigate to the folder you would like the resulting EXE file to be saved in.

8. Select "Windows" as your "Target OS."

9. Click "Build." Once completed, the EXE file will appear in the folder you specified in Step 7.

Tips & Warnings

• HippoHX added a GUI (Graphical User Interface) to the original open source SWF to EXE converter, ScreenWeaver HX. If you are familiar with haXe code and feel comfortable working in the command line, you can use ScreenWeaver HX directly (see Resources).

References

• StackOverflow: Does a Good SWF to EXE Wrapper Open Source Exist?

Resources

• ScreenWeaver HX
• HippoHX