{"categories":[{"label":"Python Modules","url":"https://skillfed.io/packages/category/software-development-libraries-python-modules/20"}],"enrichment":{"capability":"Reads, writes, and creates Windows .lnk shortcut files from Python, supporting file and folder shortcuts on local machines with a CLI tool and programmatic API.","skillfed_tags":["windows-interop","file-format-parser","cli-tool"],"use_cases":["Automate creation of Windows shortcuts in deployment scripts or system administration tools without manual GUI interaction.","Parse existing .lnk files to extract metadata (target path, arguments, icon, working directory) for inventory or auditing.","Build cross-platform tools that generate Windows shortcuts from configuration files or data sources.","Modify shortcut properties (window mode, description, icon) programmatically in bulk operations.","Integrate shortcut handling into Python-based Windows automation or system provisioning workflows."],"what_it_does":"pylnk3 is a Python library for parsing, modifying, and creating Windows .lnk shortcut files. It exposes the internal structure of .lnk files through a programmatic API (LNK objects that can be loaded, altered, and saved) and provides a command-line tool for quick inspection and creation. The library supports shortcuts to local files and folders, network paths, and UWP apps, with convenience functions to handle the complexity of the .lnk binary format.\n\nThe package requires Python 3.9 or later and has no external runtime dependencies, making installation straightforward. It is maintained but aging\u2014the last release was in April 2025 and the repository shows activity through August 2025. The LGPL license means any modifications or derivative works must remain open-source under compatible terms.","worth_installing":"Yes, if you need to read or create Windows .lnk files from Python. The library is stable, dependency-free, and actively maintained enough for production use. The LGPL license is a consideration for proprietary projects. Not suitable if you need support for network or UWP shortcuts beyond what the changelog describes\u2014verify compatibility with your specific shortcut types first."},"id":"pylnk3","links":{"html":"https://skillfed.io/packages/pylnk3","md":"https://skillfed.io/packages/pylnk3.md","pypi":"https://pypi.org/project/pylnk3/"},"maintenance":{"status":"aging"},"meta":{"latest_release":"2025-04-28","license_spdx":null,"license_treatment":"copyleft","name":"pylnk3","python_support":"supports_current","summary":"Windows LNK File Parser and Creator"},"popularity":{"monthly_downloads":101604,"position":12924,"tier":"top_15000"},"security":{"n_vulnerabilities":0},"version":"0.4.3"}