Chapter 13. Deploying a Windows Application

Terms you'll need to understand:

• XCOPY

• Cabinet ( .cab ) files

• Merge Module

• File System Editor

• Registry Editor

• File Types Editor

• User Interface Editor

• Launch Conditions Editor

• Custom actions

• Delay signing

• Authenticode signing

• URL remoting

Techniques you'll need to master:

• Understanding how to use the four primary types of deployment templates available within Visual Studio .NET

• Using the Setup Wizard to quickly create a Setup Project

• Knowing how to use the Setup project to create a Windows Installer package for your application

• Using the various editors to customize a Setup project

• Understanding how digital signing is used when you're creating a strong name for an assembly

After creating and testing your application, you must provide the completed product to its users. This chapter focuses on the process involved in deploying simple and complex applications using XCOPY , the Windows Installer, and zero-touch Web-based deployment methods . We also briefly examine the use of shared assemblies as well as the application requirements for certification within the Microsoft Windows Logo program, which indicates that an application is properly designed for use under Windows.