User Guide

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Chapter 13
Upgrading Applications
Windows Installer provides 2 main methods for upgrading installations: patching and
upgrading. You can also have the end user upgrade by uninstalling and then reinstalling,
although this method is not recommended. You can create upgrades and patches for
installations using the UpgradeSync tool, Patch Creation tool, and the Upgrades page.
Topics include:
! Preparing for Software Updates.
! UpgradeSync (a tool that improves the quality of patches).
! Patches.
! Upgrades.
For information on upgrading, see the following topics in the Windows Installer SDK
Help.
Patching and Upgrades
Preparing an Application for Future Major Upgrades
Small Updates
Minor Upgrades
Major Upgrades
UpgradeCode Property
Patching
Changing the Product Code