How to install bootstrappers and an MSI

I recently changed my product's deployment.

I previously used a Visual Studio Setup Project. Visual Studio produces a Setup.exe file that installs all of the prerequisite components (Windows Installer, .Net Framework, Visual C++ runtime) before installing from my MSI file.

Unfortunately, the Setup Project lacks some features I require (controlling services.) I'm now using WiX to build my MSI file. It appears the Visual Studio Setup Project will only create an installer for an MSI file it generates. I can't ask the Setup Project to install from my WiX generated MSI file.

How can I, using Visual Stud开发者_如何学运维io 2010 or a third party tool, generate a Setup.exe that will install prerequisite components and my MSI file in one go? Do I have to write my own setup application to do this?

Yes, you can use the Visual Studio bootstrapper. Here's how: http://wix.sourceforge.net/manual-wix3/install_dotnet.htm You have to do the four steps described on your WiX project.

Also check this: Wix and .NET Framework (prerequisites)

And this: I need a WIX Bootstrapper Project that installs MY software and prerequisites