Setup.exe -

While modern installers often utilize the Microsoft Installer ( .msi ) format, a setup.exe is still used to handle tasks that an .msi file cannot easily perform on its own:

A wizard appears, asking for user input (installation path, license agreement, features).

Registry entries are created, and shortcuts are added to the Desktop or Start Menu. Setup.exe

Compressed files are decompressed and copied to the target directory.

Contains all necessary application files within itself. They are larger in file size but do not require internet access for installation. Contains all necessary application files within itself

Developers commonly create setup.exe files using Visual Studio's extension. What Is Setup.exe? - Revenera Community

Here is a detailed breakdown of the role, functionality, and creation of Setup.exe . 1. The Core Purpose: More Than Just Copying Files What Is Setup

Running setup.exe helps satisfy Windows User Account Control (UAC) prompts, ensuring the installer has necessary permissions to copy files to Program Files or write to the system registry.