MSIX:  MICROSOFT'S   MODERN

APPLICATION  PACKAGE  PLATFORM

Announced at Ignite 2018, the MSIX package format and framework is Microsoft's most significant update to Windows Installer to date. MSIX allows for the creation of a single package for all Windows platforms. 

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The MSIX package format preserves the functionality of existing app packages and/or install files in addition to enabling new, modern packaging and deployment features to Win32, WPF, and Windows Forms apps.

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MSIX enables enterprises to stay current and ensure their applications are always up to date. It allows IT professionals and developers to deliver a user-centric solution while stile reducing the cost of ownership of application by reducing the need to repackage.

MSIX is a complete containerization solution which inherits all of the features of UWP and applies them to all Win32, WPF, Windows Forms, and UWP applications. The new MSIX package format is a major improvement over the current APPX format.

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Microsoft envisions a future where MSIX not only replaces the MSI, but also creates a package format which cross-platform Microsoft applications can recognize and use on any platform (e.g. iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux).

MSIX Key Features

Reliable

MSIX provides a reliable install boasting a 99.96% success rate over millions of installs with a guaranteed uninstall.

Optimized Network Bandwidth Utilization

MSIX decreases the impact to network bandwidth through downloading only the 64k block. This is done by leveraging the AppxBlockMap.xml file contained in the MSIX app package. MSIX is designed for modern systems and the cloud.
 

Optimized Storage Utilization

With MSIX there is no duplication of files across apps and Windows manages the shared files across apps. The apps are still independent of each other so updates will not impact other apps that share the file. A clean uninstall is guaranteed even if the platform manages shared files across apps.

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Componentized Architecture

Via decoupling of OS updates, app updates, and customizations.

Optimized Storage Efficiency

MSIX does not duplicate files across apps. Windows manages the shared files across apps. The apps are still independent of each other, therefore  updates will not impact other apps that share the file.

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Eliminates Machine Rot

With clean uninstalls.

APP PACKAGING, VIRTUALIZATION, MODERNIZATION SERVICES

App

Modernization

APP MODERNIZATION SERVICES

• .MSI to MSIX conversion

• AppX to MSIX conversion

• Legacy Win32 app to MSIX conversion

• Project Management​

APPLICATION  MODERNIZATION

Re-Platform | Re-Host | Re-Factor | Re-Architect Your Mission Critical Apps

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Due to the proliferation of end user devices such as tablets, smart phones, game consoles, and HoloLens, Microsoft realized it was crucial to standardize the framework conditions for applications and to offer a cross-platform solution that supports a wide range of applications and technologies. In May 2018 Microsoft presented its future-oriented solution that combines old and new applications in a single installer: MSIX.

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Based on the APPX Packaging Framework, which serves as the basis MSIX containerization, the new MSIX format also offers the option of company-specific configurations. This is also reflected in the naming: MSIX = APPX + MSI. The technology is created in Windows 10 and is intended to combine the capabilities of MSI, App-V and Click-Once.

The new format introduces several advantages for both software developers and users alike:

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• Multiplatform format that includes non-Windows systems (e.g. Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and UNIX)

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• Security, containerization and isolation of running applications

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• Simplified update procedure

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• Fast installation and clean uninstall routines

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• Applications can be sent directly to the Microsoft Store (if applicable)

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• Integrated licensing features as well as numerous other APIs, including integration with Cortana, sets, timeline, etc.

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• Enhanced enterprise features, including customization of existing vendor packages, enhanced compatibility features, and fixes

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Until recently, the modernization of old applications to the UWP framework (Universal Windows Platform) was not always possible. This was especially true for industry-specific products that are no longer under maintenance. MSIX bridges the gap to the UWP world, and allows old Win32 applications to be operated on the new platform with the new MSIX installer and all the advantages without having to make any changes to the code.

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Until recently, the modernization of old applications to the UWP framework (Universal Windows Platform) was not always possible. This was especially true for industry-specific products that are no longer under maintenance. MSIX bridges the gap to the UWP world, and allows old Win32 applications to be operated on the new platform with the new MSIX installer and all the advantages without having to make any changes to the code.

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The changeover to the new format will take some time. However according to Microsoft, the MSIX format will remain the only native installation and packaging framework, and legacy technologies such as MSI and APP-V are being phased out and replaced.

APPLICATION  VIRTUALIZATION & STREAMING

Deliver Apps Faster & Simplify Remote Access to Apps and Data

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Imergis' application virtualization and streaming services overcome traditional app provisioning challenges. Streaming applications to users or groups via centralized management results in faster, easier updates and enhanced licensing control without touching individual endpoints. Golden image management, delivering legacy apps and providing multiple versions is simplified by separating the cloud desktop, application and operating system.

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In addition to delivering applications to cloud desktops, applications can be streamed directly to the user’s device. Applications appear and perform like on a desktop but, because of server side execution, won’t impact the desktop’s resources.

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TRADITIONAL  MSI  APPLICATION  PACKAGING

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From requirements gathering to media validation and discovery, Imergis can help identify the applications that exist within your estate as well as who uses them and how. Once the media has been identified, it is organized and prepared for packaging.

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Imergis' packaging specialists and subject matter experts have been packaging Windows Installer .MSIs since the dawn of the format in 2000. Our team has deep knowledge, enabling your organization to rapidly package, deploy, and update the mission critical applications that your users need.