IzPack

What IzPack is

IzPack generates installers for packaging, distributing, and deploying applications on the Java platform. It creates a single installer that runs on systems with a Java virtual machine; listed destinations include Windows, Linux, Solaris, and Mac OS X. Users can select installer elements and appearance, then extend the installer with additional features. Optional native integration can create desktop shortcuts, manipulate a system registry, or switch to an administrator account during installation. The project documents command-line packaging, silent installation, auto-update support, and CI/CD integration. Its download page identifies version 5.2.7 as the current release. The project documents a Maven plugin and links to independent plugins for Gradle, Scala SBT, and Apache Buildr. IzPack is published under the Apache Software License 2.0. The project invites contributions through GitHub pull requests and directs users to mailing lists for updates and feedback. The Windows native launcher available with IzPack 4 is not supported in IzPack 5 because it lacks a maintainer. No paid plans are listed.

Who it suits

IzPack suits developers who need to build customizable installers for Java applications across the listed destination systems. Its documented build integrations may suit teams using Maven or the linked independent plugins.

Limits

IzPack is free under Apache License 2.0, and no paid plans are listed. Generated installers run on systems with a Java virtual machine; version 5 does not support the Windows native launcher available in version 4.

Getting started

1. Visit the IzPack website
2. Choose the installer components and appearance you need
3. Use the documented Maven plugin or a linked build plugin
4. Generate a JAR installer, web installer or pack JAR

Verdict

IzPack provides customizable Java application installers and documents several packaging and build options. Teams that need the Windows native launcher from IzPack 4 should note that it is unsupported in version 5.