However, the situation is not as hopeless as it first appears. The 16-bit SETUP.EXE is merely a launcher or "stub" whose only job is to extract and launch the true, 32-bit InstallShield engine. This engine file is typically named _INST32I.EX_ and contains the actual installation logic and user interface. The generic 32-bit installer provides a direct way to run this engine without needing the 16-bit launcher at all.
InstallShield 3 was the standard for Windows 95 and early Windows NT software deployment. It replaced the simplistic "copy files" approach of the Windows 3.1 era with a scriptable, engine-based system. installshield 3 32bit generic installer best