Howto: Create an application in SCCM 2012 R2

This blog describes how to create an application in SCCM 2012 R2, which you can deploy to your users and devices. 

In this example, we have created an application called 'Audacity'. Bare in mind that this is an MSI application. For an executable the steps are similar, but some extra windows in the wizard need to be overcome.
Below are the steps that need to be taken to implement the application:


First, you open your SCCM console.

Then, you browse to Software Library, rightclick Applications, and choose 'Create Application'.

 Choose the above option, and browse to the unc path (\\servername\sources$\softwarelocation)

 You can click browse, and doubleclick on the MSI to let SCCM automatically fill out the information based on what is available in the MSI file.

 Follow the wizard to complete the 'Import Information' step.

 Fill out the missing fields, and give the correct parameter in the 'Installation program' field.

 Follow the wizard by clicking next next next (etcetera).

 Once finished, lookup you package and rightclick it, select properties.

 Place the check mark for the 'Allow this application to be installed from the Install Application task sequence action without being deployed' option. It's pretty much self explanatory...

 I also tend to add the /l*v switch in the MSI property, for troubleshooting reasons.

 Also add the product code for the Windows Source management option

It's possible to change the detection method or user experience if needed. Also you can specify requirements or custom return codes, or dependencies (other applications).

Once done, you are ready to deploy your application to your user collection(s) or device collection(s)!

Top 5 new features in Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 is RTM

Windows 8.1 is out now for a couple of weeks.

So what has been changed in Windows 8.1 in regards to its predecessor Windows 8? Below you will find a top 5 listed!

On 1: The Start button has returned!

On of the big boos of the users that migrated to Windows 8 was the missing Star button. Now in Windows 8.1 it has returned. However, notice that it's only the button. The old-skool menu hasn't returned, it still opens the Metro UI Start menu.





Also when you rightclick the start button, it opens a new small start menu, which is similar to the Windows + X shortcut you could use in Windows 8.

On 2: Boot to desktop

Another option is to boot directly to the desktop after the computer has started, instead of showing the Metro UI Start menu. This was also a wish of the old skool users, which were used to the Desktop.






 

 

On 3: ImprovedSearch

 

The search possibilities have been improved greatly in Windows 8.1. When you search for certain things, the relevant links will be shown directly. Also the apps that can be used to open it will be showed directly. For instance, Media Player to open music or Internet Explorer to open the links.

 

On 4: More possibilities for showing windows

There are now more possibilities in showing content on your screen. It can be split in half, or with a sidebar (1/4 and 3/4 of your screen). If you own a multi-monitor display setup, it is now possible to show 8 apps at a time.

 

 On 5: More robust settings

There are more settings available in the PC settings menu then previously. Think about settings to change for your Display, mouse, keyboard, autoplay, account etcetera. Also, you can find CPU / Memory information, and much much more!

Some handy freeware links!

Below you can find some useful FREEWARE links!

But first, what exactly is 'freeware'? Freeware is a commonly used term for software of which the author has given a license for use and distribution in an unmodified form, without asking for any kind of fee. With other words, free to use software! Enough of the theory! Here are some links :)

AUTORUNS

Autoruns is a small tool created by Microsoft what you can use to see and manage the programs that start with your computer. It can come in real handy when your computer is slow at starting up.

PSTOOLS

PSTOOLS is a toolsuite from Microsoft, comparable to Autoruns. Both are very convenient tools to manage your computerenvironment as a user or even as a system administrator. Follow the link for further instructions!