Packaging for Windows

Learn how to package your plugins and applications on Windows. In this workshop you’ll discover a complete packaging workflow using Inno Setup, one of the most widely used installer tools for Windows software.

You’ll start by learning how Windows handles application trust and security, the types of code signing certificates available, and the pros and cons of signing your software. You’ll see both traditional certificate based signing and the newer Azure Artifact Signing approach, so you understand the options available and which one is right for you.

Next, you’ll build a working installer using the Inno Setup wizard before moving on to a fully customised installer script. You’ll learn how to organise plugin files, add optional components, create full and custom installation modes, and generate shortcuts and icons for standalone applications.

The workshop also covers practical details, such as handling bundle style plugins, managing installer variables, structuring your project folders, and creating installers that are easy to maintain as your project changes.

By the end of the workshop you’ll understand how to build professional Windows installers and how to prepare your plugins for release. The course also includes reusable installer templates, cheat sheets, and notes so you can quickly package future releases.