>I would like to be able to install exe's on local machines on a lan and then have upgrades to the exe's downloaded from the server automatically when I put a new version on the server. I know how to check for a newer version (using fdate()etc.) from my exe, but the exe cannot be running when the filecopy is done.
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>Is there a good way for a windows shortcut to do the checking and copying before running the exe?
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>TIA
>Terry

I have done this in the past so the details are a little fuzzy. The first option is to use a loader program. The loader program looks at file versions and copies down any newer version. The loader program then fires off the true program and closes itself down.

The second option is to use the network operating system. I think ZEN or NAL for Novell Netware will allow you to write rules that can check for newer versions (based on date) of a program and copy it down. I have not done it under NT Server but my guess would be to look at system policies.

Hope this at least points you in the right direction.