MSI Updates - Advertised
Jonny
few answers first - if anyone can help..
Think i'm confused about this, but does msi have a facility to update files
over a network automaitically?
For instance, if we create a smallish msi that distributes a main app, and
advertise componants (features) which are located on a http server, if we
create updates and place them on the server will msi check theserver
automatically for new files every time the apps run and download and
install, or does this facility not exist?
If not, what are the best options for getting updates out to users -- over
the Internet.
AJ
for updates. That would have to be a function of your application. I
don't know what product you are considering using for your MSI
building, but Wise for Windows Installer has a feature called
WiseUpdate that will allow you to specify a webserver and path to check
for updates. It uses a small stub file on the user's machine that will
periodically check for updates. Again, this is not a feature of
Windows Installer itself, but a feature of the Wise Product.
I am not sure if InstallShield or the others have similar capabilities
in their products, but your application could just as easily perform
these types of checks as well. The APIs in Windows Installer allow you
a great level of control over the installation on the machine that a
legacy setup technology cannot. In my opinion, the number of
advantages are too numerous to name and the disadvantages too few to be
concerned with.
Make sure you study all the ins and out of Windows Installer before you
really dive into it though. Some people go head long into the project
and are too deep in it before they realize how repair and advertised
entry points work. I have seen many people frustrated by the inability
to dynamically update certain files when they are under the protection
of Windows Installer. That is just one example of one of the things
you have to watch for, but I am sure others will agree, Windows
Installer is a whole new animal to deal with.
-AJ
Jonny
Hi, where can I get some info on entry points etc...
Plus common problems. Is there a FAQ?
AJ
Windows Installer is one of the more thoroughly documented services
from Microsoft.
Windows Installer SDK:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/msi/setup/windows_installer_start_page.asp
As far as common problems, etc., you'll want to start by browsing these
newgroups as well as participating the community. Microsoft often has
chats and webinars with the Windows Installer team, you can also make
suggestions and report bugs to msi...@microsoft.com
A few of the Windows Installer MVPs / active community members maintain
blogs that contain some great information and links as well. You may
want to check them out:
http://msmvps.com/michael/
http://geekswithblogs.net/rikoe
http://blogs.msdn.com/robmen/
http://geekswithblogs.net/vagmi.mudumbai
Good luck and feel free to ask any questions about the technology or
concerns you have migrating to it.
-AJ