Difference Between MSI and EXE

Software and installer are required to activate new software on the computer. (The installer is also a software.) In order for the installation to start, 2 (two) common files must be opened. These; MSI and EXE file or files. The EXE file is binary and can be run directly. The MSI file is the Windows installer. Therefore, the file with the MSI extension is only active during the installation process. This is not the case with the EXE file. For any application to run, at least one EXE file is required. One of the benefits of using MSI is that it can be customized to a certain extent. There is a GUI that avoids the complexity of creating a personal interface. However, with the use of EXE files, the user becomes free to communicate with the installer. This is clearly evident, especially in games that use EXE in their installations. In this way, “boring” the user during the installation of the relevant program is prevented. The actual installation is done when the program is run for the first time. At this stage, MSI unpacks and installs the required files. However, this feature is not available in EXE files. Choosing between MSI and EXE when creating the installer depends on the program and the level of effort that will be added to the installer. It requires a lot of extra work in creating the EXE installer, but provides a higher level of control. In MSI, on the other hand, the opposite is the case. Its function is to bring it into a structure that is compatible with previously determined standards.
Summary
MSI specifies the installation package, while EXE specifies the executable. (For example, in package programs such as Visual Studio XXXX, this structure is constantly changing. Because the project is reloaded and recompiled with additional codes.) In both cases, the EXE file is run. Either by typing the name of the program from the code line or by single or double-clicking the program in Windost, depending on the situation.
Source: https://www.weblogographic.com/difference-between-msi-and-exe-853400