WinZip Self-Extractor 3.1

License:Free to try; $49.95 to buy

Requirements:Windows 98/ME/2000/XP/Vista

Limitations:45-day trial

Date Added:July 27, 2007

Publisher's description of WinZip Self-Extractor

From WinZip Computing:

WinZip Self-Extractor is a utility that creates self-extracting ZIP files that are ideal for electronic file distribution, because they allow the recipient to use a familiar Windows interface to decompress files without a separate unzip utility. Also, self-extracting ZIP files can optionally run a setup or installation program, provided by the creator, after the files are decompressed. WinZip Self-Extractor is a companion product to WinZip, and is separately licensed.

WinZip Self-Extractor 3.1 supports improved compression technology (PPMd) and advanced encryption (AES with 128- and 256-bit keys.

Editor's review of WinZip Self-Extractor

Create self-extracting EXEs

Although it bears the WinZip name, WinZip Self-Extractor does not create ZIP files. Rather, it takes existing ZIP files and packages them as executable files that can unpack themselves.

Although the standard WinZip utility also lets you make self-extracting archives, WinZip Self-Extractor offers advanced features appropriate for software developers. If the source ZIP file is password-protected, WinZip Self-Extractor automatically creates a password-protected installer (AES is supported). The program includes various pop-up dialog options in its wizard, support for various command-line parameters, and the ability to run a command after the unzip operation completes.

It's easy to work with, but not a great substitute for a full-blown install maker.

Download: http://www.download.com/WinZip-Self-Extractor/3000-2250_4-10003166.html?cdlPid=10716092