Windows Installer 4.5 - Available for Download
Hi Friends,
Few professionals know it, but since the beginning of June Microsoft released the version 4.5 of Windows Installer for download. For those who don’t know, the Windows Installer allows the install of software and the configuration of services in Windows systems, using the *.msi files and its derivates (For example, the *.msu files allow the installation of HotFix).
The version 4.5 of Windows Installer brings some interesting functions, like:
- Multiple Package Transaction: Now you can create a single transaction from multiple packages. In a multiple package transaction, a chainer is used to dynamically include packages in the transaction. If any of the packages do not install as expected, you can roll back the installation.
- Embedded UI Handler: You can embed a custom user interface (UI) handler in the Windows Installer package. This makes a custom UI easier to integrate. You can also invoke an embedded UI handler from the Add or Remove item in Control Panel.
There are other interesting things, like the Shared Component Patching Resiliency During Uninstall and the Custom Action Execution On Update Uninstall.
But, the problem is that this version of Windows Installer is not installed automatic via Windows/Microsoft Update utilities. Users must download the installer according their version and language of Windows.
That why some users are experiencing problems in installing some standalone components of SQL Server 2008. When you start the SQL Server 2008 installation, the setup program installs the .NET Framework 3.5 and the Windows Installer 4.5, so no errors will arise. But, if you download and try to install a component, such as the Books Online, an error will appear, telling that the Windows Installer version is out of date.
To download the installer of this new version of Windows Installer, go to the URL http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=5a58b56f-60b6-4412-95b9-54d056d6f9f4 and download the file according to the version of your Windows system.
This version supports all editions of Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP1, Windows Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008.
Regards,
Herleson Pontes
MVP | MCT | MCITP | MCTS | MCP | MOS
Culminis Speaker Member - Brazil
Writer of SQL Magazine, WebMobile and .net Magazine
Site: http://www.herlesonpontes.com.br/
Office.CE User Group Leader: http://www.officeceara.com.br/