Question : Rolling out software to specific laptops

Hi All

Out of entire company, I need to roll out some specific software to about 150 laptops. Points worth noting:

- Our users don't have local admin rights on their laptops
- We are using AD 2003
- We also use a 3rd Party application deployment software

I am not sure of the best method to deploy this software, we could either use Group Policy or the 3rd party application deployment software. Does anyone know the advantages/disadvantages of either?

To actually carry out the installation via Group Policy, I assume we use these instructions? http://support.microsoft.com/kb/816102

But how can I assign this deployment GPO? Can it be assigned to users (e.g by creating an AD group), or does it need to be applied to an OU?

Answer : Rolling out software to specific laptops


bruce_77,

You didn't mention which third party deployment package you're using, so I'm afraid I cannot comment there. However, if you have a properly defined and documented deployment system, you should really stick to deploying the software with that. Mixing and matching deployment will become difficult to track from an administrative standpoint, plus unlike most dedicated software deployment solutions, Group Policy software deployment doesn't really have any substantial reporting capabilities.

If you do use Group Policy, you need to assign the package in the Computer Configuration > Software Deployment section of the policy, and link your policy to an OU containing the computer objects. If you define it in the user configuration area, you will actually have the unintended consequence of deploying that software to any machine the affected user logs into.

Yes, the document you linked to is the correct procedure. You would need to follow the "Assign a Package" section and ensure you use computer assignments, not user assignments.

-Matt
Random Solutions  
 
programming4us programming4us