Install VSTO without using Clickonce

Question

I just created my first VSTO add-in for Excel. I am trying to find a way to easily install an add-in on a destination machine.

If I copy the .dll file and try to add it from the COM add-in manager in Excel, I get this error:

<ProjectName> .dll is not a valid Office add-in.

If I use the publish wizard, this does not give me the opportunity to choose where to install the files on the client PC. Instead, it uses the path to the installation files.

So, how can I install my VSTO add-in without using the Publish Wizard (AKA clickonce)?

Answer 1

You should use the Visual Studio Installation Project and add your vsto project output. See the Deployment Bypass Guide Using VSTO 4.0.

Answer 2

The Visual Studio installation project overwrites the registry keys with its own. I used Installshield, which worked perfectly.