Distributing Software

The software distribution process advertises packages, that contain programs, to members of a collection. The client then installs the software from specified distribution points. The order in which you create the components that comprise the software distribution process is important.

To distribute software

1. Create an instance of SMS_Package.
2. Create an instance of SMS_Program.
3. If an existing collection does not identify the users to whom you want to distribute the software, create a new collection by creating an instance of SMS_Collection. For more information, see Managing Collections of Resources.
4. If the package contains source files, define a distribution point for the package by creating an instance of SMS_DistributionPoint.
5. Create an instance of SMS_Advertisement.

The following topics show you how to create the software distribution components, check the status of packages and advertisements, and manage the software distribution site settings:

• Creating a Package and Programs Using SMS Classes
• Creating a Package and Programs Using a PDF Template
• Creating a Distribution Point
• Creating the Advertisement
• Determining Package Status
• Determining Advertisement Status
• Managing Software Distribution Site Settings

Note  You can only distribute software to those clients that have the Advertised Program Manager agent installed.