Setting Up Applications on Shared Network Servers

You can set up software applications on shared network servers and enable client computers to run the applications directly on a server. To do so, complete the following tasks (and make sure to address any licensing issues):

• Place the files for the network version of the application in the package source directory.
• Create the package. You can select the Share distribution folder as option and specify the name that you want to assign to the shared package when it is installed on the server.
• Create a program that installs the network version of the application.
• Specify at least one distribution point to host the source files needed to install the shared application on the collection of target distribution points.
• Create a collection of network servers.
• Advertise the program to the collection of network servers.

After you set up the application on shared network servers, do the following:

• Create a program that installs any dynamic-link libraries (DLLs) and shortcuts needed on clients.

• Change from SMS 1.2    SMS no longer provides an interface on the client (Program Group Control) to run the shared application.

• Create a script that removes any DLLs and shortcuts installed for this shared network application and select the Remove software when it is no longer advertised check box in the Advanced tab of the Program Properties dialog box.

• Note    The deinstallation program must be able to run without access to a distribution point.

• Specify access accounts for the package.
• Specify distribution points for the package.
• Advertise the program to clients.

Related Topics

Distributing Software to Clients

About Packages

About Programs

Distributing Software to Clients Overview