Jack Dee
asked on
Want to push .exe install using Group Policy Editor
Hello. I have a .exe file that basically installs some custom fonts. I would like to be able to use Group Policy Editor to push this install out to end users on our network. I know Microsoft would rather me do this via a .MSI file, but we do not want to spend the money for packaging software such as InstallShield. What is the easiest way to do what I want to do via a .exe file? Would a .bat login file work? If so, how do I go about setting it up? Also, most domain users are in the local power users group on their WinXP Pro machines. Will local admin access be needed to install the pushed software? Thanks.
Here is the Microsoft link that describes the utility that Dimante mentioned. I would suggest that this only be used for simple executables. The packaging is somewhat limited when compared to other enterprise apps. On the other hand it is free (or at least it comes with windows 2000).
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/windows2000serv/howto/winstall.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/windows2000serv/howto/winstall.mspx
Winstle is limited but can perform adequite functions. I like Wise installer but it costs $1100 too :-(
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Boy! That Winstle program is a MAJOR PAIN!! If only there were a simple .EXE to .MSI conversion program I would be set.
ASKER
Thanks jhautani.
After a little more research, here is what my script looks like. It works and it runs very well.
@ECHO off
IF EXIST %systemdrive%\"Fonts Logos_Templates" GOTO END
IF NOT EXIST %systemdrive%\"Fonts Logos_Templates" GOTO NEXT
:NEXT
net use B: /d
net use B: \\servername\share
CD\
CD B:
B:\application.exe
net use B: /d GOTO END
:END
EXIT
After a little more research, here is what my script looks like. It works and it runs very well.
@ECHO off
IF EXIST %systemdrive%\"Fonts Logos_Templates" GOTO END
IF NOT EXIST %systemdrive%\"Fonts Logos_Templates" GOTO NEXT
:NEXT
net use B: /d
net use B: \\servername\share
CD\
CD B:
B:\application.exe
net use B: /d GOTO END
:END
EXIT
I suggest you look at the link i originaly provided. It whould be simple enough. You will have better control of what PC you want to run the program. Since you have active directory, that's what GPO is for and you will have to live with it, why not try it out. For this one, you can put the exe in a batch file. Then create a GPO>Computer Serttings>Windows settings>Script>Startup script for your batch file. Once this GPO is linked to the OU where your computers placed, it will install upon the reboot of the computer.
opps, wrong thread...
Hope this helps!
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