Question

Creating MSI packages to distribute software in a domain.

Asked by: Dan560

Hi,

I am reading this guide:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/257718

I want to manage all of the software that gets distributed in my domain. The article sounds like something I need but it tells me I need a copy of Veritas Software Console. I do not have windows server 2000 CD, can I still obtain this software? I am running a windows 2003 Domain.

I basically just need some guidance of how to deploy software to my computers in my domain.
Thanks

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Asked On
2009-10-20 at 01:59:19ID24826145
Topics

Windows 2003 Server

,

Active Directory

Participating Experts
4
Points
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Comments
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Answers

 

by: oBdAPosted on 2009-10-20 at 02:13:38ID: 25612138

That article is outdated; try this one, for example:
Advanced Installer
http://www.advancedinstaller.com/

A nice collection of installer tools is here:
Windows Installer Resources for System Administrators
http://www.installsite.org/pages/en/msi/admins.htm

 

by: hkunnanaPosted on 2009-10-20 at 03:13:38ID: 25612505

I think you can use this software to create MSI packages of the software to distribute:

http://www.softpedia.com/get/Authoring-tools/Setup-creators/MAKEMSI.shtml

 

by: metspPosted on 2009-10-20 at 04:46:43ID: 25613015

Hi,

You can use group policy to distribute and manage the software.

Refer the below link.
http://www.microsoft.com/mspress/books/sampchap/5867.aspx

 

by: NetcraftPosted on 2009-11-02 at 08:42:03ID: 25720954

Hi Dan560,

it all depends on what you want of need, your budget and your technical skills.

You ask about creating MSI packages, but just want to manage the software distribution. MSI's can help you, but require certain technical skills and standardisation of your workstations and perhaps servers.

There are several deployment tools that do not require you to make MSI's, such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, or Altiris Deployment Solution. With these tools you use the installation of the vendor and create silent installations by adding the '/q' parameter after their Setup.exe (to keep it simple).

If your budget is low, you can even create installations using logon scripts (Google for TqcRunas) or startup-scripts in Active Directory.

Good luck.

20120131-EE-VQP-002

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