Installshield Product Code //top\\

InstallShield Product Code — Complete Guide

Pitfall 4: Hard-Coding the Product Code in Scripts

Result: You write a custom action that checks for OLD-GUID. When you change the Product Code, your script breaks. Fix: Use property references (e.g., [ProductCode]) in InstallScript or use the MSI API to retrieve the current product code dynamically.


The Golden Rule of Thumb:

If you want the new version to stand alongside the old version (side-by-side installation), you need a new Product Code AND a new Upgrade Code. If you want the new version to replace the old version, change the Product Code but keep the Upgrade Code identical. installshield product code


How to Generate or Change a Product Code in InstallShield

InstallShield provides several methods to manage this GUID. InstallShield Product Code — Complete Guide Pitfall 4:

Step 6: Rebuild and Test

Build a release and test on a clean VM. Check for two entries in Control Panel. Verify that the old registry keys are removed. The Golden Rule of Thumb: