Include a Tailored Perl Distribution in MiKTeX

[NilsonPark]

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Currently, MiKTeX users need to install Perl separately, which can be challenging for beginners due to compatibility issues, the complexity of Perl installations, and the additional overhead of managing Perl modules. There are many questions and issues due to the unsuccessful installation or configuration of Perl (such as #1301 #1117 #902 #170).

To streamline the user experience and reduce setup complexity, I propose that MiKTeX includes a tailored Perl distribution, similar to the approach taken by TeX Live. TeX Live offers tlperl, which is a minimal Perl distribution containing only the necessary components required for TeX Live to operate. tlperl is much smaller than a standard Perl distribution (saving more space, which is aligned with the strength of MiKTeX). This minimal Perl distribution significantly reduces the barriers for new users and simplifies the installation process, as it avoids the complexities associated with a full Perl setup.