The is a unique, Windows-compliant identifier crucial for software deployment, maintenance, and uninstallation. Managed through a globally unique identifier (GUID), this property dictates how the Windows Installer engine interacts with your software application. What is an InstallShield Product Code?
Property table → ProductCode property
Never attempt to invent your own GUID or manually type one from memory. Rely on the "Generate a new GUID" button within InstallShield or a trusted external tool like the guidgen.exe utility that comes with Microsoft Visual Studio to guarantee uniqueness and proper formatting. installshield product code
A Product Code is a unique string of characters assigned to a specific release of a software product.
Last updated: October 2025. InstallShield 2023 R2 and later. The is a unique, Windows-compliant identifier crucial for
Product Code, Windows Installer assumes it's a "Small Update" or "Minor Upgrade." This often requires the user to run the installer via command line with specific arguments (like REINSTALLMODE=vomus By changing the Product Code, you enable a Major Upgrade
The relationships between these codes can be confusing, so the following table summarizes how each should be changed for different types of updates: Property table → ProductCode property Never attempt to
is the definitive identity of an application. Within the InstallShield environment—the industry standard for creating Windows Installer (.msi) packages—this code acts as a unique GUID (Globally Unique Identifier) that distinguishes one specific product and version from every other piece of software in the world. The Role of the GUID
The Product Code is central to how Windows Installer (MSI) manages software. It allows the operating system to differentiate between various software packages, ensuring that updates, repairs, and uninstalls target the correct application.
At its core, the is a Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) – a 128-bit integer value that is guaranteed to be unique across all software on all systems. In the context of an installation built with InstallShield, whether it is a Basic MSI, InstallScript, or any other project type, the Product Code is the key that identifies your product on the target machine.