Скачать или смотреть How to Modify machine.config Using an .msi Package

Learn how to easily modify the `machine.config` file via an `.msi` package to deploy your .NET Managed data provider seamlessly.
---
This video is based on the question https://stackoverflow.com/q/791455/ asked by the user 'Eli' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/9169/ ) and on the answer https://stackoverflow.com/a/76471257/ provided by the user 'Ant' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/11529/ ) at 'Stack Overflow' website. Thanks to these great users and Stackexchange community for their contributions.

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: How do I modify machine.config via an .msi package

Also, Content (except music) licensed under CC BY-SA https://meta.stackexchange.com/help/l...
The original Question post is licensed under the 'CC BY-SA 2.5' ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... ) license, and the original Answer post is licensed under the 'CC BY-SA 4.0' ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... ) license.

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
How to Modify machine.config Using an .msi Package: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the world of .NET application deployment, there are often configurations that need to be set at the machine level. One such task you might encounter is modifying the machine.config file to include a new data provider in the application drop-down lists. This is crucial for the proper integration of your .NET Managed data providers.

The Challenge: What is machine.config?

Before we dive into the solution, let’s clarify what machine.config is. This file contains global configuration settings for all .NET applications on a machine, making it a key component when deploying data providers.

In this case, you need to add your provider to the <dbProviderFactories> section of the machine.config. Here's the basic structure you are aiming to augment:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The Solution: Using WiX Toolset's XmlConfig

To modify machine.config effectively during the installation process, you can employ the WiX Toolset. It simplifies the process with the XmlConfig element, enabling you to target and modify XML configurations as needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Nest XmlConfig Elements: This allows for a concise management of multiple attributes in a neat manner. Here’s how you can set it up for your provider.

Define the Element Path: Specify where in the configuration the element should be inserted.

Here’s an example implementation using WiX:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Handle Uninstallation: It’s equally important to define how to clean up your modifications when your application is uninstalled. The following XmlConfig will handle this, ensuring the data provider entry gets removed:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Key Takeaways

Always Nest Elements: This structure not only keeps the code clean but reduces the need for repeating the File and ElementId attributes.

Include VerifyPath: Essential for uninstall procedures to ensure the correct element is targeted for removal.

Test Thoroughly: After installation and uninstallation, validate that your provider appears and disappears as expected.

By following these steps, you should be well on your way to modifying the machine.config file through your .msi package. This process is integral to ensuring a seamless integration of your .NET Managed data provider within your applications.