NSIS is an open-source system for building Windows installers with scripts that define setup and removal behavior. It can extract files, edit registry entries and environment variables, run system checks, and handle upgrades. Built-in ZLib, BZip2, and LZMA compression helps package files, while language support and plug-ins extend installer capabilities.
| Author: | Kichik |
| License: | Open Source |
| Price: | FREE |
| Released: | Jan 29, 2018 |
| File size: | 1.60 MB |
| Downloads: | 403 |
| Keywords: | installation system, Windows 10 compatibility, setup, windows installer creator, NSIS software, installation script system, setup builder, Kichik developer, x64 software, software setup packaging, installer, installation, Open-source installer, setup creator, installer scripting tool, create installer, open source installer, Nullsoft Scriptable Install System |
| Author URL: | http://nsis.sourceforge.net/Main_Page |
NSIS, or Nullsoft Scriptable Install System, is an open-source tool for building Windows software installers. It is intended for developers who need to package application files and define how setup and removal should work, from a basic file-copying installer to a setup process with custom logic. Its script-based approach gives developers control over installation behavior rather than limiting them to a fixed sequence of files and registry entries.
An NSIS script can extract files, create folders, edit registry entries and environment variables, change text or binary files, and request a system reboot when required. Developers can add checks for the target system and write logic for version checks, upgrades, and other installation conditions. This makes it possible to tailor setup steps to the computer's state, while also defining corresponding uninstall actions. Plug-ins extend scripts with additional capabilities, including communication with Windows APIs and other software components.
The system includes ZLib, BZip2, and LZMA compression, allowing developers to choose a method when packaging installer content. Compression is built into NSIS, so a separate self-extracting archive module is not needed. The installer interface can support multiple languages in a single package; included translations cover more than 40 languages, and developers can create language files of their own. Right-to-left languages such as Arabic and Hebrew are supported. Custom dialogs and interfaces can be used to adapt the setup experience to an application's needs.
NSIS suits software publishers distributing programs online, where a compact installer can reduce download size, as well as teams that need repeatable setup and uninstall procedures. Available scripts and plug-ins can provide a starting point for common tasks or help with more specialized installation workflows. Script-generation tools are also available for preparing standard installers or getting started before adding more advanced behavior.
NSIS is open-source software for creating Windows installers. The project emphasizes a small installer runtime overhead, with the source citing 34 KB for a full-featured installer, though the final package size depends on its contents. The system's documentation and scripting model are relevant for users who want direct control over setup behavior. Its stated Windows target coverage includes Windows 10; Windows 11 support is not established by the provided compatibility information.