Beyond the executable file, an application may require a number of supporting files, such as DLLs, package files, and helper applications. In addition, the Windows registry may need to contain entries for an application, from specifying the location of supporting files to simple program settings. The process of copying an application's files to a computer and making any needed registry settings can be automated by an installation program, such as InstallShield Express. Nearly all types of applications include the following issues:

• Using installation programs
• Identifying application files
• Helper applications
• DLL locations

Database and Web applications require additional installation steps. For additional information on installing database applications, see Deploying database applications. For more information on installing Web applications, see Deploying Web applications.