Install for all users and data access

Question

What\'s the best way to modify my installer application to install my exe and several data files into a location that all users can access? I want any XP/Vista/Win7 user to

Answer 1

First you need to change your installation type to per-machine:

• select your setup project in Solution Explorer
• in its Properties pane set InstallAllUsers to True

After that, you can configure the default installation folder:

• go to your setup project File System Editor
• select Application Folder

• in its Properties pane set DefaultLocation to:

  [CommonAppDataFolder][Manufacturer]\[ProductName]

• add your files in Application Folder

You can read more about CommonAppDataFolder here: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/aa367992(v=vs.85).aspx

Finally, in the File System Editor you can add your shortcuts in User's Desktop folder. It uses DesktopFolder property which is automatically resolved to the All Users desktop for a per-machine installation.