Summary

Synopsis

The InstallShield MSI Log Analyzer is a powerful utility that enables you to generate reports based on a powerful analysis of Windows Installer log files.

Discussion

When a Windows Installer?based installation fails or provides unexpected results, the only way to reliably learn what has gone wrong is to enable verbose logging. Verbose logging instructs the Windows Installer run-time engine to generate a log file detailing as much additional information as possible to help troubleshoot run-time problems. While verbose logging is a powerful feature, it usually results in large log files that can be very difficult to interpret. Failures of an action can be nested very deeply in the center of the log and are not written in a fashion that allows them to be located quickly.

The InstallShield MSI Log Analyzer addresses this problem by performing a complex analysis of the data contained in the log file and rewriting the data to one of several HTML-based reports.

MSI Log Analyzer Features

Support for all Logging Options

Windows Installer provides a large number of options that control the type of log that is generated and the content contained with it. The MSI Log Analyzer smartly handles any combination of options.

Large Log File Support

Log files can vary in size from just a few kilobytes to in excess of 10 MB (more than 50,000 lines). The MSI Log Analyzer handles logs this size in just a few short seconds and displays an informative dialog to keep you informed of its progress.

Multiple Configurable Reports

Choose from several different reports, each with its own set of configurable options.

Generates Professional Reports

View your reports using our professional and easy-to-read formatting.

Most Recent Files List

Gain quick access to recently analyzed logs through the Most Recent Files list.

Run, Log & Analyze

Take advantage of the right-click Run, Log & Analyze menu command to easily run an installation with logging enabled and automatically have the resulting log analyzed when the installation completes.