How to create a C++ MSI Custom Action DLL using Visual Studio 2010?

Question

If I want to abort an installation in a C# custom action, it will have to display an unwanted "1001 Error" message box.

To avoid this I once used a C++ project which can abort the installation without the message box.

I'm trying to create this C++ project again but the only tutorial I found on the internet

http://www.codeproject.com/Articles/1747/MSI-Custom-Action-DLL

isn't updated since 2002. How can I do the same on VS 2010?

This is a valid question. Setting up a custom action project requires understanding what includes and libraries, compiler settings and function declaration. This isn't trivial for a first time developer. Luckily WiX has templated all of this. — Christopher Painter
– Christopher Painter, Commented Jun 21, 2013 at 15:46

Christopher Painter · Accepted Answer · 2013-06-21 15:45:39Z

2

That example is outdated. The easiest way today is to download and install Windows Installer XML (http://wix.codeplex.com). Then say File | New Project | Windows Installer | C++ Custom Action

Also of note is the C# custom action project. Your 1001 error message tells me that you are using InstallUtil / Installer Class custom actions. The C# project type in WiX is called Deployment Tools Foundation (DTF) and is far superior. Checkout the following for an explanation of how it works and appears to MSI as a C++ custom action.

Deployment Tools Foundation (DTF) Managed Custom Actions

answered Jun 21, 2013 at 15:45

Christopher Painter

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2 Comments

Jader Dias Over a year ago

The C++ template in WiX doesn't compile. Can't find dutil.lib.

Christopher Painter Over a year ago

Ask Rob Mensching. He answers a lot of WiX questions around here so maybe he knows about this. I think the DTF route is what you are really looking for though. It can return ActionResult.UserCancel (or something like that) and roll the install back and display the normal Installation Cancelled dialog.

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