Deploying an MSI via GPO

1. Create a distribution point

The first step in deploying an MSI through GPO is to create a distribution point on the publishing server. This can be done by following these steps:

  • Log on to the server as an Administrator user

  • Create a shared network folder (this folder will contain the MSI package)

  • Set permissions on this folder in order to allow access to the distribution package

  • Copy the MSI in the shared folder

2. Create a Group Policy Object

An MSI package is deployed (distributed) through GPO as a Group Policy Object. In order to create an object for your package, you can follow these steps:

  • Click on the Start button and open Go to Start and open Group Policy Management (or press Win+R , then type gpmc.msc, then press Enter)

  • Expand Forest (your forest) > Domains (your domain)

  • Right-click on you domain and select “Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here...

  • Enter a name for your policy (for example "Install HES application v.3.3.10") and leave Source Starter GPO

3. Assign an MSI package

  • To edit a GPO, right click it in GPMC and select Edit from the menu. The Active Directory Group Policy Management Editor will open in a separate window.

  • You should see Computer Configuration and User Configuration, right-click Computer Configuration in the panel and select Edit

  • Expand Computer Configuration > Policies > Software Settings

  • Right-click Software Installation and select New > Package

  • Select your package from the previously configured network share

  • In the dialog that appears select Assigned and click OK

  • The selected package will appear in the Software Installation panel

  • Click OK

  • Close Group Policy Management Editor

4. Creating a key in the registry with HES server address

  • Right click it in GPMC and select Edit from the menu. The Active Directory Group Policy Management Editor will open in a separate window.

  • Expand Computer Configuration Preferences -> Windows Settings -> Registry and select New -> Registry Item

  • Enter the following values ​​for the key:

    - Action: Update

    - Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE

    - Key Path: SOFTWARE\Hideez\Client

    - Value Name: client_hes_address

    - Value Type: Reg_DWord

    - Value data:  the path to your server. For example http://192.168.1.1 or https://hideez.example.com

Now you need to restart the workstation and log in with a domain account with the rights to install programs and the Hideez application will be installed

To update, just delete the rule and create a new one with a new msi file.

For more information please read this instruction.

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