Learning Windows Server 2003

Installing an Application

If you want to install an application on the terminal server that is in application mode so that users can access it from thin clients, the proper way is to install the application through the Add/Remove Programs applet inside the Control Panel and not through the application’s default installation method. By using the Add/Remove Programs applet, Windows ensures that program files are installed to the Windows root directory on the server, as opposed to the Windows subfolder under the user’s home directory. Windows also ensures the programs are installed properly for multiple use of the same memory space; both steps make the programs available for multisession access. Any program that displays the Certified for Windows logo will be able to handle the differences between normal local access and usage in a Terminal Services scenario. Other applications can cause problems, so be sure to test each application before deployment.

Also, it’s prudent to check for prewritten scripts that help ensure an application is installed properly for multiuser execution. Microsoft tests some common applications for compatibility and comes up with templates and modifications so that these programs will install correctly for use with Terminal Services. You can find these scripts in %SystemRoot%\Application Compatibility Scripts\Install.

Tip

Installing programs on the terminal server machine using RDC (for remote administration) works like any other software installation program, ...