Best Microsoft Web Platform Installer Alternatives in 2025
Looking for alternatives to Microsoft Web Platform Installer? In this comparison, we take a closer look at Microsoft Web Platform Installer alongside similar software solutions including Microsoft Web Platform Installer, Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack and Microsoft Web Deploy.
Our detailed comparison table highlights key features, pricing, and performance of these leading solutions, empowering you to make an informed decision. Whether you're seeking robust functionality, user-friendly design, or cost-effective alternatives, explore how Microsoft Web Platform Installer, Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack and Microsoft Web Deploy stack up to find the perfect software for your goals.
Primary Purpose
 Microsoft Web Platform Installer
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A free tool for seamless installation and management of various Microsoft and non-Microsoft web components and applications. |
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Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack
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A set of reference assemblies to enable development and deployment of .NET applications targeting specific .NET Framework versions. |
 Microsoft Web Deploy
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A deployment tool designed for publishing web applications and configuring IIS servers, supporting continuous integration and delivery. |
Supported Technologies and Environments
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Microsoft Web Platform Installer
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Supports installation of frameworks like .NET, PHP, MySQL, IIS components, popular web applications such as WordPress, Joomla, Drupal on Windows platforms. |
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Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack
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Supports development in multiple programming languages using the .NET Framework across desktop, web, and mobile applications. |
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Microsoft Web Deploy
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Supports deployment of ASP.NET and PHP web applications primarily on IIS servers running Windows Server environments. |
Key Features and Capabilities
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Microsoft Web Platform Installer
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Centralized management interface with dependency checking, automatic installation of latest components and updates with internet connection required. |
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Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack
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Provides reference assemblies for specific .NET Framework versions allowing consistent targeting and compatibility for development tools, with regular updates. |
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Microsoft Web Deploy
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Enables consistent application settings deployment, integrates with CI/CD pipelines, supports detailed logging, secure publishing over SSL/TLS, and offers command-line tools and UI for deployments. |
Choosing the right software isn’t just about features. Size, license type, user ratings, and popularity also matter.
This quick comparison shows how Microsoft Web Platform Installer stacks up against Microsoft Web Platform Installer, Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack and Microsoft Web Deploy in these key areas—helping you find the best alternative for your needs.
Size
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Microsoft Web Platform Installer
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Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack
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Microsoft Web Deploy
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5.9MB |
License
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Microsoft Web Platform Installer
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Freeware |
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Microsoft .NET Framework Targeting Pack
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Freeware |
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Microsoft Web Deploy
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Commercial |