installing exe via gpo

AB123 351 Reputation points
2021-09-22T12:25:09.99+00:00

Hi all,

How do I deploy exe via gpo? I am trying to install Python but they only do EXEs now!

Help!

Windows
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  1. SUNOJ KUMAR YELURU 13,946 Reputation points MVP
    2021-09-22T12:29:32.767+00:00

    Hi @AB123

    You can install exe's via active directory GPO.

    Refer below link it is explained step-by-step.
    https://community.spiceworks.com/how_to/160869-how-to-install-exe-with-group-policy

    If the Answer is helpful, please click Accept Answer and up-vote, so that it can help others in the community looking for help on similar topics.

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  2. Limitless Technology 39,381 Reputation points
    2021-09-23T07:43:54.523+00:00

    Hello @AB123 ,

    The most common way would be to create a logon script that verifies the installation (installed/not installed).

    The GPO would be:
    Computer Configuration > Policies > Windows Settings > Scripts (Startup/Shutdown).

    You will need to save a script in a DFS share accessible for the clients (such as Netlogon, or other if configured) and store a BAT script.

    Examples of the script:

    IF EXIST "c:\myapp - Installed.txt" GOTO END

    \servername\sharename\<path>\installfilename.exe
    echo "Myapplication is installed on this computer" > "c:\myapp - Installed.txt"
    goto END

    :END

    Basically it checks if a TXT file is already created, if yes: it finishes, if not: proceeds with install and then write the file. You may need to check the install parameters of your app for things like /passive or /silent to run on background without user interaction.

    Hope this helps in your case,

    --If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept as answer--

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  3. AB123 351 Reputation points
    2021-09-22T12:54:38.02+00:00

    Hi @SUNOJ KUMAR YELURU

    Is there not a way without using a MSI converter to deploy exes?

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  4. cthivierge 4,056 Reputation points
    2021-09-22T13:06:00.543+00:00

    You cannot deploy ".exe" through GPO. It has to be .msi.

    You need to convert the .exe to .msi first and then you will be able to install the .msi

    hth

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  5. AB123 351 Reputation points
    2021-09-22T14:15:25.653+00:00

    Hi @cthivierge @SUNOJ KUMAR YELURU

    I have tried to use : https://www.exemsi.com/ to convert python 3.5.2 exe into a msi but no luck! Any ideas on what I am doing wrong or if there is a better way to do it

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