An Easier Way to Install Patches
By Jonke Korzelius
With the release of Uniface versions 10.3.03 and 10.4.01, we have introduced a new installation and patching mechanism. In the past, we provided each patch update as an overlay—a zip file that you unzipped and copied over your existing installation. We now provide a self-executing electronic distribution (edist) of the latest version.
Community Edition users might have already noticed this feature with their patch updates. Now we're making it standard for Enterprise Edition users as well.
Note: This feature is only available for Windows platforms.
How does it work?
Using the provided edist (e.g., swinuf100401w64.exe), the installer automatically detects that there is an existing installation in the specified location and will then go into upgrade mode. There is no need to install a new version alongside your existing one or migrate your sources. Simply double-click the executable and the installer will do the rest to seamlessly update your Uniface version to the latest patch. Although you do not need to migrate your sources, we always recommend compiling all objects after an update.
What are the benefits?
The Uniface installer will modify files in your existing installation, such as updating configuration files where applicable, something a patch overlay is not able to do. The installer also removes installed files that have become obsolete. The biggest advantage is that if you decide to start using Uniface 10.4.01 from a later release, for example when patch 034 is already available, you can directly install the latest patch. Previously, you had to install the GA version and overlay the latest patch, using the zip file, on top.
Uniface still delivers the installation package zip files (e.g., PPRE_p104010010.exe) for those who like to use these or those who have written their own installation scripts that make use of them. Together with the improved installer experience, we feel using the edist is a better way going forward to keep your Uniface installations current.
Do you have more questions about the updates that have come with version 10.4? Go to Introducing Rocket Uniface 10.4.01 for all the information you need or contact your Account Manager to discuss updating.
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