WiX Includes vs Fragments

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alastairs picture alastairs · Feb 24, 2009 · Viewed 13.3k times · Source
  • What's the difference between a WiX include (.wxi file) and a WiX fragment (.wxs file)?
  • What are the use cases for each?
  • Which should be used and why?

Answer

Jeff Yates picture Jeff Yates · Feb 24, 2009

The file extension is a convenience, the content of the file is what really matters. The distinction makes it easier to manage the difference between the actual installation (wxs files) and the properties required to create the installation (wxi files).

For example, your wxs files specify the product and its contents (which files you install) whereas you would use your wxi files to specify product version, upgrade codes, common paths, etc.

The WiX documentation provides some clear information.

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