Features
 
NSIS can create Windows installers that are capable of installing, uninstalling, setting system settings, extracting files, etc. Because NSIS is based on script files, you can create both simple or advanced installers.  
 
Small overhead size  
 
NSIS is created to be small, fast and and efficient. While other installers often add hundreds of kilobytes or several megeabytes to your installer data, a full featured NSIS installer has an overhead of only 34 KB.  
 
Compatible with all major Windows versions  
 
You can create a single installer that is compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Server 2003.  
 
Unique compression methods  
 
You can choose between three different integrated compression method (ZLib, BZip2, LZMA). NSIS is the only installer system that features intergrated LZMA compression. This new compression method often gives better results than any other compression method. You don't have to use large self-extracting archive modules or other applications. The compression support is included in the 34 KB overhead.  
 
Script based  
 
Unlike other system that can only generate installers based on a list of files and registry keys, NSIS has a powerful scripting language. This script language is designed for installers and has command that help you to perform many installation tasks. You can easily add custom logic and handle different upgrades, version checks and more.  
 
Many features and checks for the target system  
 
The script langauge provides commands you can use on the target system. From simple features like folder creation and registry editing to text/binary file modification, modification of enviroment variables and system reboots. Using provided plug-ins you can even use Windows API.  
 
Custom dialogs and interfaces  
 
You can create custom wizard pages to get user input or integrate configuration options. NSIS includes a classic and modern wizard interface, but it is even possible to create a own custom interface.  
 
Plug-in system  
 
NSIS can be extended with plug-in that can communicate with the installer. They can be written in C, C++, Delphi or another language and can be used to perform installation tasks or extend the installer interface. You can use the plug-in with a single line of script code. Plug-ins can also be compressed like other installation data and will only be included when you are using the provided features.  
 
Support for web installation, file patching  
 
The NSIS distribution includes a set of plug-ins that allow you to download files from the internet, make internet connections, patch existing files and more.  
 
Multiple languages in one installer  
 
One installer can support multiple interface languages. More than 35 translations are already included, but you can also create your own language files.  
 
Project integration, different releases and automatic builds  
 
The NSIS compiler features a powerful preprocessor. This allows you to easily integrate multiple projects into a single installer or automatically generate installer builds. You can also generate different releases such a lite and full version.  
 
Easy and human readable file formats  
 
The NSIS script format and the format used for interface dialogs are easy, documented and human readable, so you can edit your files with your favorite editor. This also makes automatic script generation possible.  
 
Full list of features...