Application Deployment question

[beefstew]

Hi,

I am tring to figure out how to distribute Applications to clients. i think i understand the basic idea, but do not know how to change the app to an .msi file. i gather this is the correct procedure.

To Deploy office 2K, the command is "d:setup.exe data1.msi", then use group policy.
can anybody tell me how to deploy third party software?

thanks

 

[MisterNiceGuy]

Do an internet search on Zap files, this is the method used to deploy software from active directory that is not a native MSI. The user will need to be an administrator on the local machine for this to work however . To build an MSI from an install that does not natively use Windows Installer technology you need to purchase a third party application like Wise Installer to capture the changes and build the MSI. To deploy an MSI follow the steps withing the GPO.

 

[beefstew]

i want to repackage the app into an .msi file

 

[tlcscousin]

w2k includes a stepped down version of winstle it is in the value add 3rd party mgmt folder. this allows you to create an msi.

 

[koquito]

If you want to use MSis, there is a tool for that included in windows 2000 server CD..i think is in VAlueAd folder, its name is WINSTALL, but the name in the CD is something like WINSTLE (in case you want to look for it).
Onc einstalled you just run it before you install your software in the 2k workstation, and run it again after you install and run the software with all your preferences and configurations.
Make a share folder somewhere on the network (best in the server) and put the MSi packagein this folder, and give your network users read permissions over it.
Then go to Active Directory and COmp.., make and OU or use the OU wich has the computers/users for those you want to deploy the software...right click and go to Group POLicy and go to Software settings..and add the New PAckage (the MSI)..if everything is working fine within your network, the software will install automatically (check the choices of Publishing or Assigning the software). A+, MCP, CCNA
marbinpr@hotmail.com

Keep fighting for your knowledge!