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DeploymentDeployment is the process used to distribute

a finished application (or component) to be installed on other computers

Deployment ProjectsWhat to DeployWhere to Deploy ItHow to Deploy It

Deployment Strategies• ClickOnce Technology• Windows Installer Deployment

– Traditional Setup

• Selecting a Strategy– Type of Application– Type and Location of Users– Frequency of Updates– Installation Requirements

ClickOnce TechnologyPublish Wizard to package the applicationPublish it to a web site or network driveUser installs and launches application from

the file location (single step)You (programmer) creates application and

deployment instructions and publish them with the files for the user to install

ClickOnce TechnologyTypically provides a better installation

Easier for End UserLess Effort for the Developer

Simplifies the process of installing and updating an application

Self-Updating (with Network Connectivity)Self-Contained ApplicationsUses 2 XML Manifest Files

Application Manifest (about the application)Deployment Manifest (about the installation)

ClickOnce TechnologyNot as flexible as Windows InstallerMust have Network Connectivity for UpdatesSecurity Issues may require advanced

computer knowledge by the usersMay require elevated permissions

Windows InstallerAdd a Setup Project to your Solution

Creates a Setup file for usersWizard for user to run for installation

You (programmer) creates the installer package which the user runs and steps through a wizard

Windows InstallerUpdates require reinstall of entire applicationRely on Shared ComponentsRequires Administrator Permissions

Creating ClickOne ProjectApplication Manifest Created with Publish

WizardRequired Administrative PrivilegesCopied to Deployment Location

Deployment Manifest Created with Publish WizardCopied to Deployment Location

Web Server Network Share File Media (CD, DVD)

Downloaded and Installed by the End User

Windows Installer ProjectCreate Windows Project

Visual Basic Project in Project Types PaneWindows Application in Template PaneName the Project (example: MySample)Event Handling:

Shell (“MySample.exe”, AppWinStyle.NormalFocus)

Build Menu Build MySample

Windows Installer ProjectBuild Deployment Project

File Menu Add Project New Project Project Types Setup and Deployment Projects Templates Setup Project Name MySample Installer OK

Solution Explorer MySample Installer ProductName Property MySample

Windows Installer ProjectAdd the Windows Application to the Installer

Solution Explorer MySample InstallerFile System Editor Application Folder NodeAction Menu Add Project OutputAdd Project Output Group

MySample from Project drop-down list OK

Build Menu Build MySample Installer

Windows Installer – Additional CapabilitiesCreating a ShortcutCreating File AssociationsAdding Registry EntriesCustom Install Dialog Boxes