Tell me more ×
Super User is a question and answer site for computer enthusiasts and power users. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 0 down vote favorite

I have set up the installer for my app to offer a choice between "all users" and "just for me". The app needs admin access to install.

If I install for all users a shortcut and start menu entry goes onto everyone's desktop and each users INI file goes into their profile app data folder the first time they run it. The EXE goes into C:\Program Files\xyz...

If I install "just for me" a shortcut goes onto my desktop only and my INI file goes into my profile app data folder. The EXE still goes into C:\Program Files\xyz...

If I logon as a limited user, I can still navigate the C:\Program Files and execute the app. If I want to keep the app private to the user who installed it, where is the best place (the "proper" place) to put the executable?

I notice that Chrome puts it in the Local AppData folder. Is there a convention?

What about Vista and Windows 7? Is C:\Program Files even possible with all users installs anymore?

share|improve this question

1 Answer

up vote 2 down vote accepted

You can put the program anywhere you want. Most programs will behave. You are going to have to modify whatever registry keys the setup program changed however.

Probably the best place to put a program IMO would be the Appdata area. Only someone with admin credentials can access that part of your profile, outside of yourself.

If you don't want even admins executing the program, you'll have to use EFS encryption. Just go under Properties/Advanced when you right click the files.

share|improve this answer
Thanks for your comments. I'm not sure what you are referring to when you say: You are going to have to modify whatever registry keys the setup program changed however. – rossmcm Jul 24 '11 at 3:15
If you move the program after it has gone through setup, there may be registry keys pointing to the old location. FYI. – surfasb Jul 24 '11 at 6:23
OK @surfasb. I wasn't planning on moving the program files after setup. Rather, I will install them into the alternate location straight off. I assume that InnoSetup will fill the registry with whatever it uses as the {app} location. – rossmcm Jul 24 '11 at 10:13
@rossmcm: Unless it is poorly written and sucks a mother monkey's fist, yes. – surfasb Jul 24 '11 at 15:57

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.