How To Patch a Software Installation Stored on a Network Server That Is Deployed Using Microsoft Software Installer

When a network share contains a software installation that is used with Active Directory for assigning and publishing programs, it may be necessary to apply update patches to the software. These patches are identifiable by having an .msp file name extension. This article describes how to patch such a software installation.

Procedure

Network software shares (or "flats") are updated by running the following command. This command updates the software with Microsoft Software Installer (MSI): This command replaces the necessary files on the network share and updates the .msi file for proper installation using the new components.

After you run this command, the program should be re-deployed in Active Directory to allow clients to receive the updates. To do so, use the Active Directory Users and Computers Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-in:

1. Right-click the domain, Organizational Unit (OU), or object with the policy that contains the deployed software, and then click Properties.
2. Click the Group Policy tab.
3. Click the policy that contains the program that was patched.
4. Click Edit to open Group Policy Editor for the deployed package.
5. Browse through the Computer Configuration or Software Settings section to the location in which the software package is deployed.
6. Right-click the deployed package in the right pane.
7. Click All Tasks.
8. Click Redeploy Application.

The redeployment takes place on next logon or reboot, depending on whether the package is user-based or computer-based.