MSI files handle how programs run on your computer.
MSI files are databases of the files, configuration information and settings for a particular application. These files contain the base information for an application such as Adobe, Excel, Yahoo! Mail, or a calculator to work. Everything your computer can do is an application of some sort and requires a code in order to function. MSI files contain the code to make programs work and are usually in a "hidden" file so you will not accidentally get rid of the files.
Switching Drives
When you switch hard drives you can accidentally get rid of .msi files. This happens because the program was not properly installed or Windows deliberately deleted it during the process. If the file is missing, your computer will likely prompt you that the file is missing. The solution is to fully reinstall the program or to put the installation CD in when you get the prompt that the MSI file is missing. The program will walk you through finding the code on the installation disk and you will be back up and running.
Cleaning Your Hard Drive
You can also get rid of .msi files without meaning to if you are doing a computer cleanup. Because you often do not know what these files are, if you are clearing out your hard drive you might get rid of one of these critical files. To avoid this, always look at the extension associated with files before you delete them. If the file is .msi, you likely need it for one of your programs. Deleting hidden files can also change the way your programs work because these .msi files are usually out of sight in order to protect the files from deletion.
File Corruption
MSI files can become corrupt. Many worms and viruses are meant to attach to .msi files in order to gain access to your computer system. Because users have been taught not to get rid of such files, it allows the virus to stay on the computer or be more difficult to find. In these cases it is important to delete the infected .msi files. Before you do so, verify you have the installation disk or request one from the software company. This will allow you to restore any program files you delete with clean copies. You can keep your work files, but it is likely best to entirely remove the program and reload it in order to get rid of all versions of the virus on your system.
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