Qualification:
Cambridge Advanced Nationals in Computing (AAQ)
Certificate:
Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129)
Unit:
F161: Developing Application Software
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Application installation
5.2 - Application Software Installation
You need to know how different installation processes (e.g. clean, remote, cloud, network and mobile installs) work as well as their advantages, disadvantages and appropriate uses.
What You Need to Know
Application Installation
Application software can be installed using different methods depending on factors such as the number of devices, their location, network availability and the requirements of the users or organisation.
Ghost / Image
A ghost is a master copy (known as an image) of a correctly configured system containing the required software and settings, which is created and deployed to other devices.
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This is used when the same applications and configuration need to be installed on many devices, such as computers in a school or business.
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It allows many devices to be configured quickly and consistently, reducing repetitive installation work and ensuring they have the same software and settings. However, creating and maintaining the image takes time, devices may need compatible hardware and an error or outdated application in the master image could be copied to every device.
Upgrade
An upgrade is when a newer version is installed over an existing version, usually retaining the user's existing data, settings and configuration.
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It is required when users need to move to a newer version of an application without completely reinstalling it.
Upgrading is usually quicker and more convenient than a clean install and allows existing settings and data to be retained. But existing problems, unnecessary files or incompatible settings may remain and compatibility issues can occur between versions.
Clean Install
A clean install is when any previous installation is removed and a completely new copy of the application is installed.
It is used when installing an application for the first time, or when an existing installation has serious problems and a fresh installation is required.
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A clean install provides a fresh installation without problems or unwanted settings from an older version, which can improve reliability. However, it can be more time-consuming and existing settings or application data may be lost if they are not backed up first.
Repair/Modify Install
A repair install (or modify install) is when an existing installation is reopened to repair damaged or missing files. Installed features can be added or removed without completely reinstalling the application.
This is used when an application is not functioning correctly or when its installed features need to be changed.
It is usually quicker than completely reinstalling the application and can retain existing settings and data. But it may not fix more serious problems, and the required installation or repair files must be available.
Remote Install
A remote installation is when an administrator installs an application onto another device from a different location using remote management software.
It is used when IT staff need to manage devices without physically accessing them, such as employee computers across different offices.
A remote install saves time and travel, allows centralised management and can enable IT staff to install software on many geographically separated devices. However, it requires network connectivity, appropriate permissions and remote management tools. Connection problems could interrupt the installation.
Unattended Install
An unattended installation is automated using predefined settings, allowing it to complete without the user responding to installation prompts.
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It is used when installing the same application and settings on many devices or when installations need to occur without staff being present.
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Advantages are that it requires little or no user interaction, saves staff time and ensures consistent installation settings across devices. However, it requires careful configuration beforehand, and incorrect predefined settings could cause the same installation problem across multiple devices.
Cloud Install
With a cloud install, files are downloaded from an internet-based cloud service and then installed onto the device.
It's suitable for when users or organisations need to download applications directly over the internet, particularly across different locations and devices.
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Cloud installs can be accessed from many locations and devices, it does not require physical installation media, can support automatic updates and may allow installations to be scheduled for convenient times. But it depends on a reliable internet connection, interrupted downloads can cause problems, large applications can use significant bandwidth and the device must meet the software's requirements.
Mobile Install
A mobile install is when an application is downloaded and installed through a mobile app store onto a smartphone or tablet.
It's needed for applications designed for mobile devices, such as installing a revision app onto a student's tablet.
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It is usually simple and convenient for users as app stores can manage installation and updates. Also, applications can be installed directly onto the user's device. However, it requires sufficient storage and a compatible operating system and downloads can consume mobile data. Connectivity problems can interrupt installation and app stores may restrict what applications can be distributed.
Network Install
With a network install, files are stored in a central location on a local network and accessed by devices connected to that network.
It is used when an organisation needs to install software on multiple devices connected to the same network, such as computers around a school.
Advantages are that installation files can be managed centrally, physical installation media is not required for each device and many devices can access the same installation files. But it requires a working network connection, installing on many devices can increase network traffic and problems with the network or central server could prevent installations.
Questo's Questions
5.2 - Application Software Installation:
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1. Describe how each application software installation method is completed: ghost/image, upgrade, clean install, repair/modify, remote, unattended, cloud, mobile and network installation. ​[2 each]
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2. Give an example of when each installation method would be appropriate to use. ​[1 each]
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3. Give the advantages and disadvantages of each application software installation method. ​[4 each]
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4. Explain the differences between remote, unattended, cloud and network installation. ​[3]
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5. For installing new software in a school, recommend a suitable installation method and justify why it would be appropriate. [4]
The PC version of Baldur's Gate was originally released on five CDs in 1998, with players swapping discs during installation. As games became larger, lengthy multi-disc installations became common, sometimes leaving players waiting hours before they could start playing.
Did You Know?
