If you’re an avid macOS fan, then you’ve had a really positive experience putting in new programs. In truth, Apple depends on a fairly unique strategy in this scenario. Typically, you frequently install new software via a disk image with a DMG add-on.
But Windows, a major rival, takes a completely different tack by having you click through easy installs and…
However, the reality is that macOS really has installers that are quite comparable. When using these, the program is installed using the PKG extension instead of Windows, where the deployment is performed with a simple click via a wizard.
While this more modern method is certainly useful, many programmers still prefer the tried-and-true practice of working with disk images. Instead, a hybrid approach is taken, with the PKG installation program being tucked away on the DMG drive.
Have You Ever Asked Why?
Let’s get to the meat of the matter and examine why disk image files (DMGs) are the de facto standard for installing software inside an OS. There are ultimately a number of causes behind this. It is essential to highlight the functionality afforded by macOS programs due to the operating system’s design.
Users just see a logo and a term, with the APP extension appending the name. However, in actuality, it is a comprehensive file of the whole program, concealing everything from essential data to more. So, with exception of Windows, it is not simply a hotkey or a starting file but the full program itself.
In reality, the complete software, along with all of the required data, will be shown before your eyes if you navigate to Finder > Applications, click on any one of the choices, and choose Show Package Contents. The organization of programs in macOS is, therefore, analogous to that of a folder containing many files. Unfortunately, transporting a folder requires some kind of wrapping, which is not always simple.
Because of this, using a DMG disk image for the export and subsequent installation is highly recommended. The program must be packed in some way so that it may be easily distributed. Given this, a ZIP code is a suitable alternative.
But Not That Easy
But in reality, it’s not that simple. The software won’t launch until it’s in the Applications folder. The fact that this is possible is another benefit of DMG. Due to the disk image’s malleability and potential for graphical enhancement, developers may more clearly show users how to complete the installation process.
