How to open MSI file on Mac?
How to open MSI file on Mac?
I’ve been trying to figure out how to open an MSI file on my Mac but haven’t had much luck. From what I understand, MSI files are typically used for Windows installers and don’t natively open on macOS. My main concern is finding a reliable method or tool that allows me to access the contents of these files without compromising the functionality or safety of my Mac. I’ve come across some suggestions online, but it’s confusing to determine the best approach. I’m specifically looking for a detailed guide or trustworthy tools that can help me navigate this issue effectively. Can anyone provide clarity or share their experiences with handling MSI files on a Mac?
7 Answers
Opening an MSI file on a Mac can be challenging since it’s designed for Windows. What’s worked for me is a tool called The Unarchiver, which you can get from the Mac App Store. Here’s how you use it:
- Download and install The Unarchiver from the Mac App Store.
- Right-click the MSI file and select ‘Open With’ > ‘The Unarchiver’.
- It extracts the contents to a new folder, and you can access the files there.
This method has been straightforward and effective for me. Try it out!
A while back, I needed to open MSI files on my Mac, and CrossOver was a lifesaver. It allows you to run Windows applications on macOS seamlessly. Here’s the process:
- Install CrossOver; you can get a trial or purchase it.
- Open CrossOver and use its interface to run the MSI installer.
- Create a new ‘bottle’ (a Windows environment) in CrossOver, which lets you install the MSI contents.
If you frequently use Windows software, CrossOver can be very helpful.
Boot Camp is an excellent option for those who need to run Windows frequently on a Mac. It allows you to install Windows alongside macOS. Here’s my setup:
- Use Boot Camp Assistant on your Mac to install a Windows partition.
- Start up the Mac in Windows mode.
- Download and run the MSI file within Windows.
Although it requires more initial setup, dual-booting gives you a full Windows experience for seamless operation.
Using Parallels Desktop has been my best method for this issue because it lets you run a Windows environment on Mac. Here’s what I did:
- Start your Windows virtual machine using Parallels Desktop.
- Transfer the MSI file to your virtual Windows desktop.
- Run the MSI installer like you would on a native Windows machine.
It’s a robust solution, especially if you often need to use Windows software.
When dealing with MSI files on a Mac, WineBottler was my go-to tool. This free app lets you run Windows programs on macOS. Here’s what worked for me:
- Download and install Wine and WineBottler.
- Launch WineBottler, then select the MSI file you want to open.
- WineBottler wraps the MSI contents into an app you can use on your Mac.
It’s a bit of a setup process, but it works reliably without needing a full Windows installation.
Keka is a simple and effective tool to handle MSI files on a Mac. Here’s the steps I followed:
- Download and install Keka from its official site.
- Drag the MSI file to Keka’s main window.
- Keka extracts the MSI contents to a new folder.
This straightforward approach enabled me to access the files I needed without hassle.
If you find yourself needing to unpack the data within MSI files, converting the MSI to a ZIP file can be practical. The tool I used is ‘p7zip’ through Homebrew. Here’s how:
- Install ‘p7zip’ by running
brew install p7zipin Terminal. - Navigate to the MSI file’s directory in Terminal.
- Extract the MSI contents with
7z x filename.msi.
This method lets you access the MSI’s contents directly in macOS, which is very useful for non-executable files.