InstantStorm for Windows

Name: InstantStorm
Rating: 3.8 (18 reviews)
Author: Jan Kolarik and Ondrej Vaverka

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Used InstantStorm for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.

Editors’ Review

Download.com staffSeptember 30, 2025

InstantStorm is a free software program that allows users to create customized screensavers from Flash (SWF) files. It provides an easy method for converting Flash content into standalone executable screensavers for Windows without requiring advanced technical knowledge. Designers, developers, educators, and hobbyists can all benefit from its simplicity and practical functionality.

The program offers customization features such as splash screens, branding, and installer options, making projects more professional. InstantStorm remains lightweight and easy to use, while also supporting advanced scripting for those with technical expertise. Its balance of simplicity and depth makes it suitable for personal creativity as well as commercial projects.

Versatile features with custom options

One of the key features of InstantStorm is its ability to turn SWF files into distributable screensaver installers. Users can add branding and installation wizard elements, giving the screensavers a polished, professional appearance. The program’s interface is simple enough for beginners to navigate without difficulty. However, its heavy reliance on Flash (SWF) files is a major drawback, as this outdated format significantly limits the program’s usefulness in today’s modern design environment.

The program also supports advanced configuration for power users. Options such as command-line arguments, interactive screensavers, and custom installer graphics provide greater control over the final output. These features make it versatile for both personal and commercial projects. Unfortunately, its Windows-only compatibility restricts accessibility, preventing users on macOS or Linux from benefiting from its tools. This limitation makes the software feel less adaptable in today’s cross-platform computing environment.

Although it is specialized in working with Flash files, alternatives exist for users who need broader compatibility. Programs such as Axialis Screensaver Producer or Ultra Screen Saver Maker support more modern media formats and offer wider flexibility. While it remains useful for those specifically tied to SWF content and benefits from being free, it feels outdated for non-Flash projects, reducing its relevance in today’s design and development landscape.

Pros
- Free to use
- Easy-to-understand interface
- Supports advanced customization
- Creates professional installer packages
Cons
- Limited to Flash (SWF) files
- Windows-only compatibility
- Outdated for non-Flash projects

Bottom Line

A reliable tool for flash projects

InstantStorm is a practical solution for anyone needing to create screensavers from Flash files. Its combination of beginner-friendly simplicity and advanced customization makes it flexible enough for different types of users. Although its reliance on SWF files limits its appeal in modern use, the program’s free accessibility and wide feature set still make it a relevant and reliable choice for individuals or businesses with Flash-based projects.

What’s new in version 2.0.1

Added support for Adobe Flash Player 11 projector
Fixed issues with 64-bit Windows compatibility
Updated installer to improve stability
Corrected minor bugs related to screensaver configuration
Improved handling of large SWF files for smoother performance

InstantStorm for Windows

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: October 20, 2014

Latest update: September 30, 2025

Version: 2.0.1

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Windows

Operating System

Windows 98
Windows 8
Windows NT
Windows 2000
Windows 10
Windows XP
Windows ME
Windows Vista
Windows 7

Additional Requirements: Adobe Flash Player ActiveX component

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 288,127

Downloads Last Week: 77

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Program available in other languages

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Last Updated

User Reviews

3.8/5

18 User Votes

Easy to use and works as advertised.(WORKS IN VISTA 64)
bfboJanuary 14, 2014
Pros
Easy to use, and has many good customizing options for creating Screensavers. Works with Flash! - one of the best ways to create Screensavers with rich content. Free to use - even for commercial use! Create Executables or Standalone (.scr)'s.
Cons
Absolutely need a Flash (.swf) file, and the free Adobe Flash Player. So either you find a Flash file you like, or make one using your own Flash editing program. There are no other ways to make a Screensaver. There are no built-in Flash tools either, and you can't use (.flv) files.
Summary
If you have the means to create your own Flash (.swf) files, and don't mind taking some time and effort into creating usable Screensavers out of them, with the help of InstantStorm, then this Program is for you.
Didn't Work On Vista 64 Bit
Leahm37May 14, 2012
Pros
Seemed like it could be a great program!
Cons
I'll never know because I couldn't get it to work on my machine with Vista 64 bit, it just locks up, bummer.
Summary
Vista users, stay away.., stay very far away!
Always Wanted to Do This!
legeremaOctober 22, 2010
Pros
Sleek, easy-to-use, and can convert all those .swf files I created into screensavers!
Cons
The screensavers won't go away in the desktop settings box after I had deleted them.
Summary
did not work on Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit o.s.
AAS2010degreeJuly 26, 2010
Pros
I do not know, some very neat screensavers require this "extra" bit of software.
Cons
did not work on Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit o.s. I could not find any real help information either. Either it works for you or their is nothing else to do about it.
Summary
Great working, small program!
donnyjrmailJune 20, 2010
Pros
Not only converts .swf to .scr for a screen saver but puts it in an install package so that you don't have to know where the OS keeps them. After installing your screen saver it shows up in the menu list of screen savers!
Cons
None that I have found.
Summary
Works fast and easy to use makes me like this program and leaves me nothing to dislike.
Fast and functional, but would like more choices.
Zenbob96August 26, 2009
Pros
It is fast, functional and creates a compact, fully useable screensaver, but as far as I can tell, only in SWF format.
Cons
Only SWF format output. Does not accept all graphic formats or sizes despite suggesting that it does. Minor quibble, but this functionality could be improved. Does not include any ability to insert sound or music. Sad.
Summary
I think this program has a lot of potential. It already does most functions very well, very quickly and has an interface that is relatively user friendly. However, it should allow for sound insertion, better tailoring of various image formats and resolutions (rather than simply kicking the image out of the set) as well as an easier method of moving the order of the graphics and I would like to see a randomize function for playback. All in all, I would suggest trying this program out for yourself to see if it will satisfy your requirements. Some people will love it, some may be less thrilled. But, I hope the developers keep working on it and receive enough support to deliver improved versions. That is why reviews and feedback are so important to the programmer/developer. As a former developer of software, I used to solicit responses by email/mail, and in forums, but most people were either so nice "it's wonderful!" or non-committal, that we had to drag the real details out of them. "I'd like to do this, but cannot" sort of responses that allow programmers to revise and improve the product in ways the users really desire. So, please do comment back to the developers and urge them to keep working on the product, and thank them for their efforts and generosity. I do appreciate the hard work and time that was put into this application.
excellent product for free
d2commandoJanuary 15, 2009
Pros
easy to use. you can convert your videos to swf format using a converter and have instant ssavers.
Cons
sor far i cant get a real clear image but clear enough
Summary
would be nice if it had a format converter to swf. but what u want for free. I like it because its simple and fast to use. You can have a ss in a few minutes and installed..
somnath_cnetApril 27, 2008
Pros
Cons
Summary
Excellent tool for the creative person
sephkaneMarch 16, 2008
Pros
I love how easily Instant Storm lets you make screensavers. There are so many options to customize the installation process for your screensaver. You can visually edit every page of the installation interface, turning it into your own imaginative baby. And being able to use .SWF files gives anyone with imagination the ability to make remarkable and unique screensavers for friends or even for sale.
Cons
I can't think of anything wrong with this program. Download it. Use it to it's (and your) fullest potential.
Summary
downloaded, and it says File is currupted,
softwarelover1February 20, 2008
Pros
I hit 'run' and after download it says file is currupted, please download new version . . . now what ?
Cons
Summary

Developer’s Description

By Jan Kolarik and Ondrej Vaverka

Turn Adobe Flash (SWF) files into Windows screensavers with many customization options.

InstantStorm is a Windows freeware tool for creating Flash based screensavers with many advanced features. All you have to do is to choose an SWF file, set screensaver parameters, and compile an executable installer. All 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Windows are fully supported, including Windows 95 and Windows 8.1. And the best of all--there are no nag screens or other annoying stuff. Unlike many other tools, InstantStorm allows you to fully customize your screensaver's about box, installer and uninstaller including all texts. Program highlights: - Extremely easy to use, the Wizard mode turns Flash SWF files into screensavers in seconds - Output screensaver files work with all Windows versions - Customizable screensaver installer and settings dialog - Support for live previewing and debugging - Separate Flash files for widescreen, 4:3, and 5:4 screen resolutions - Every single line of text in the screensaver installer, uninstaller, and settings dialog can be translated or edited - Customizable icon, readme file, and license agreement text in installer - Advanced developers' features - Flash Player 15 support - Support for additional external files (SWF, AS, TXT, XML).

InstantStorm for Windows

Editors’ Review

Versatile features with custom options

Pros

Cons

Bottom Line

A reliable tool for flash projects

What’s new in version 2.0.1

InstantStorm for Windows

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User Reviews

Easy to use and works as advertised.(WORKS IN VISTA 64)

Didn't Work On Vista 64 Bit

Always Wanted to Do This!

did not work on Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit o.s.

Great working, small program!

Fast and functional, but would like more choices.

excellent product for free

Excellent tool for the creative person

downloaded, and it says File is currupted,

Developer’s Description