Identifying a vendor MSI

How do I identify whether the provided setup is an Msi?
1) Run the provided setup.exe.
2) Browse to the temp location – C:\Documents and Settings\Administrator\Local Settings\Temp (%temp%).
3) MSI will be extracted to the above-mentioned location.

Response File

What is it?

The response file contains predefined answers to the configuration questions that users are normally asked during a product installation, such as the installation drive o feature selections to install. A response file is an ASCII file that supplies the client-specific configuration information required during redirected installation of a product on a PC. It is used to automate the installation over the network PCs.

Remember that a response file can be created for the Instalshield Setup’s alone.

Packaging Questions

I hope these simple questions will help you to know the basics of packaging:

1)  What is Application Packaging?
Creation of an Installation Program for a piece of Software

2)  What is Application Repackaging?
Repackaging (Customized Installation) is the process of capturing the changes made by an Installation Program (Package) and it is designed to support company standards and distribution methods.

System Search Utility In InstallShield

The System Search view in InstallShield provides the Windows Installer capability to search for a particular file, folder, registry key, .ini file value, or .xml file value on a user’s system prior to an installation. This feature enables you to perform application, version, and configuration data searches.

Microsoft Virtual Labs

Hi,

You can try out Microsoft products in a virtual online environment. In 90 minutes or less, evaluate and test some of Microsoft’s newest products through a series of guided, hands-on labs. You can download a manual and work on the live environment. Follow this link and select virtual labs to get started. Hope this helps

http://msevents.microsoft.com/

Guided Tour of Microsoft SoftGrid Application Virtualization

This tour will introduce you to the core concepts, technologies, and components of the Microsoft SoftGrid Application Virtualization in less than 5 minutes.
http://www.microsoft.com/systemcenter/appv/evaluation/guidedtour.mspx

Windows Installer Questions – Answers

1. What is Windows Installer?

Windows Installer is a system service for installing and managing applications. It provides a standard method for developing, customizing, installing, and updating applications.

2. What is MSI file for?

MSI file is a database containing logic for managing the application installation.