Software Deployment Options |
Publish (User Only) |
Assign (User) |
Assign (Computer) |
After deployment of the GPO, the software is available for installation: |
The next time a user logs on. |
The next time a user logs on. |
The next time the computer starts. |
Typically, the user installs the software from: |
Add Or Remove Programs in Control Panel (Windows XP) or Programs And Features (Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista, Windows 7). |
Start menu or desktop shortcut. An application can also be configured to install automatically at logon. |
The software is installed automatically when the computer starts up. |
If the software is not installed and the user opens a file associated with the software, does the software install? |
Yes (if auto-install is enabled). |
Yes. |
Does not apply; the software is already installed. |
Can the user remove the software by using Control Panel? |
Yes, and the user can choose to install it again from Control Panel. |
Yes, and the software is available for installation again from the Start menu shortcuts or file associations. |
No. Only a local administrator can remove the software; a user can run a repair on the software. |
Supported installation files: |
Windows Installer packages (.msi files), .zap files. |
Windows Installer packages (.msi files). |
Windows Installer packages (.msi files). |
