How to Convert MSI to EXE for Mac
By Kirk Bennet
A MSI file is a Microsoft Installer file, similar to a package. When you double-click the file, Windows Installer extracts the files from the package, creates the necessary folders, copies the files in the folders and might also create shortcuts or registry entries, if necessary. An EXE file is an executable file. Some EXE files can be opened on a Mac computer, but only to extract their contents. If you want to convert a MSI file to an EXE file you can use on a Mac, you must make sure the EXE file is a package, similar to the original MSI.
Step 1
Open your favorite Web browser and navigate to the Windows Seven Forums to download the REG file (link in Resources).
Step 2
Click on the blue "Download" button and save the REG file on your hard disk.
Step 3
Double-click on the "Add_Extract_All_to_MSI_Context_Menu.reg" file you downloaded earlier and select "Yes" to change the registry.
Step 4
Right-click on the MSI file and select the "Extract All" option from the resulting menu.
Step 5
Click on "Run." The contents of the MSI file are extracted in a folder named "File.msi Contents," where "File" is the actual name of the MSI file.
Step 6
Double-click on the folder created earlier and press "Ctrl+ C" to select everything.
Step 7
Right-click on one of the files and select "Add to archive" from the resulting drop-down menu.
Step 8
Place a checkmark in front of the "Create SFX archive" option to create an EXE file and type a name for your EXE file in the "Archive name" text box.
Step 9
Select "Store" in the "Compression method" drop-down box and click "OK" to create the EXE file. Unlike other EXE files, files created this way can be used on any Mac.
Writer Bio
Kirk Bennet started writing for websites and online publications in 2005. He covers topics in nutrition, health, gardening, home improvement and information technology.