[feature request] Improve Windows Support: Shift to MSYS2 Mingw-w64 and Enhance Distribution

[Foadsf]

Background

Currently, Elmer development emphasizes WSL2 for Windows users. However, this approach has limitations:

1. WSL2 requires Hyper-V, which is unavailable on Windows Home editions.
2. Legacy WSL, while available to Home users, is deprecated and no longer supported.
3. Many users, especially in work environments, lack the privileges to use Hyper-V or either of the WSL versions.

Proposal

To improve accessibility and ease of use for Windows users, I propose the following changes:

1. Shift towards MSYS2 Mingw-w64: This environment is:

   • Fully FLOSS (Free/Libre Open Source Software)
   • Available to all Windows OS users
   • Usable without admin rights
   • Can be installed portably

2. Add MSYS2 Mingw-w64 to GitHub Actions: This will ensure consistent building and testing on Windows platforms.

3. Use CPack for Windows packaging: Package Elmer for Windows and release it directly on GitHub, replacing the separate FTP distribution.

4. Maintain package manager distributions: Actively maintain and update packages for:

   • Chocolatey
   • PortableApps

Benefits

• Wider accessibility for Windows users
• Simplified installation process
• Consistent development and distribution workflow
• Improved portability

Next Steps

1. Investigate the feasibility of MSYS2 Mingw-w64 integration
2. Set up GitHub Actions workflow for MSYS2 Mingw-w64
3. Develop CPack configuration for Windows packaging
4. Establish processes for maintaining Chocolatey and PortableApps packages

Discussion

I welcome thoughts and feedback from the Elmer development team and community on this proposal.

[raback]

All "quick" tests now pass on github actions.