Can I deploy the ClickOnce application via CD and update via the Internet?

Question

We have a provider application that we are expanding and deploying with ClickOnce. The vendor also provides a “Deployment Manager” that packs the application and any extensions into the ClickOnce deployment that we publish on the web server. I mention this detail to understand that we do not have much control over changes to the deployment process.

So, we publish the application on our web server. This works fine and the updates work correctly. When downloading the application, it will prompt the user to update the application.

Several of our customers requested an MSI installer. Their users often switch tables, which requires them to reload the application, since it is stored in the user's local folder, and not in the roaming profile.

It is important for us that updates come out as quickly as possible. Therefore, requiring customers to download the latest update in MSI form and deploy using Group Policy, there is no image.

So, as a compromise, we would like to offer an initial installation, which can go through Group Policy, but requires that application updates be performed over the Internet.

Is this possible, and how can I achieve this?

A rough answer to my question on MSDN, but not a very good description of how to achieve it.

What files / directories will I need to create the initial standalone installer? There are already several versions sitting on the web server on our deployment.

How do I manipulate the "Update URL" after deployment?

Answer 1

• Click the Publish tab on the main page of the project properties screen.
• Then, on the Publish Folder Location specify the local folder. (This will be where your initial setup will be created)
• Save Install Folder Location blank
• Click the Updates.. button.
• Indicate your Update Location website.

Set other options as you wish.

Edit:

If you want to create / modify a manifest outside VS, you can use MageUI.exe