The idea:
All installation files are stored together in one folder, and the script accesses them simply by filename.
Why This Is a Gamechanger
This sounds trivial at first but has huge advantages:
- No more changing paths
- No need to adjust the script for new versions
- Clear, reproducible installations
The script runs and immediately finds the matching file. This saves time and reduces errors.
Practical Example
Suppose you use a PowerShell script that searches for MSI files on a server or network share:
- Check if the file exists
- Copy it to the local machine
- Execute the installation
Simple, reliable, automatable.
The Decisive Advantage During Updates
When an update comes, you only replace the file in the folder.
The filename stays the same—the script remains unchanged.
Result:
- No script modifications
- No distributing new versions
- A central location for all updates
This is especially valuable when managing multiple computers or entire networks.
Consistency and Error Reduction
Since every installation runs exactly the same way:
- Fewer manual errors
- Easier troubleshooting
- Clean, traceable process
Fixing a script is much easier than searching for installation errors on individual machines.
Conclusion
Collect all software in one folder and install via script:
- Saves time
- Reduces errors
- Makes updates trivial
Once set up, you won't want to manage it any other way.
Example Script (PowerShell)
$UNCPath = "\\Server\Share\Software\"
$FilePrefix = "Dateiname" # adjust desired filename
$MSIParams = "/qn" # additional MSI parameters optional
$TargetPath = "C:\temp" # local destination folder
# Search for MSI files with the defined prefix
$MSIFiles = Get-ChildItem -Path $UNCPath -Filter "$FilePrefix*.msi"
# Check if matching files were found
if ($MSIFiles.Count -eq 0) {
Write-Host "No matching MSI file found. Script will exit."
exit
} elseif ($MSIFiles.Count -gt 1) {
Write-Host "Multiple matching MSI files found. Using the first file."
}
$MSIFileName = $MSIFiles[0].Name
$FullUNCPath = Join-Path $UNCPath $MSIFileName
$LocalFile = Join-Path $TargetPath $MSIFileName
# Create target folder if it does not exist
if (-not (Test-Path $TargetPath)) {
New-Item -Path $TargetPath -ItemType Directory -Force | Out-Null
}
# Copy MSI file locally
Copy-Item -Path $FullUNCPath -Destination $LocalFile -Force
# Start installation
Start-Process -FilePath "msiexec.exe" `
-ArgumentList "/i `"$LocalFile`" $MSIParams" `
-Wait -NoNewWindow
# Optional: delete MSI after installation
# Remove-Item -Path $LocalFile -Force