FileZilla MSI Installer: Overview

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FileZilla is a popular, open-source FTP client that allows users to transfer files via FTP, SFTP, and FTPS. For IT administrators, the FileZilla MSI installer provides a seamless way to deploy and manage FileZilla installations across multiple computers in an enterprise environment. This guide will walk you through the steps to install FileZilla using the MSI installer and provide key options and deployment methods.

Downloading the FileZilla MSI Installer

The latest MSI installer for FileZilla can be downloaded from the official FileZilla website. Ensure you download the correct version for your architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) depending on the target computers.

MSI Installer Options for FileZilla

The FileZilla MSI installer comes with several parameters that allow you to customize the installation process:

• /quiet – Install FileZilla silently without user interaction.
• INSTALLDIR=”path” – Specify a custom installation directory for FileZilla.
• ADDLOCAL=”Feature” – Install specific features. You can include features like “Client” for the FileZilla client.
• REMOVE – Uninstall FileZilla.

Deploying FileZilla via Group Policy

You can deploy FileZilla across multiple machines using Group Policy. Follow the steps below to deploy it across your network.

Steps to Deploy FileZilla via Group Policy

1. Place the MSI Installer in a Network Share: Save the FileZilla MSI installer to a network location that is accessible by client computers (e.g., a network share).
2. Create a New Group Policy Object (GPO):
   • If you’re performing a new site install, right-click on the appropriate Organizational Unit (OU) or top-level domain, then go to Properties > Group Policy tab, and click New to create a new Group Policy Object.
   • If you’re upgrading an existing site install, edit the existing GPO that handles software installations.
3. Add the FileZilla MSI Package:
   • In the GPO, navigate to Computer Configuration > Software Settings > Software Installation.
   • Add the FileZilla MSI package and choose Advanced to configure additional options, such as specifying the installation method (e.g., assigned or published).
4. Deploy the MSI:
   • For new installs, simply add the MSI package from the network location (e.g., \\server\share\filezilla\filezilla-x.x.x.x.msi).
   • For upgrades, specify the older FileZilla versions in the Upgrades tab to ensure the new version replaces the existing installation.

Deploying FileZilla via Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager

For larger organizations, deploying FileZilla via Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (formerly SCCM) allows you to manage installations and updates efficiently across many systems.

Steps to Deploy FileZilla Using Configuration Manager

1. Download the MSI Installer: Make sure you have the FileZilla MSI installer ready from the FileZilla website.
2. Place the MSI on a Network Share: Store the installer in a network location accessible by the Configuration Manager.
3. Create a New Application in Configuration Manager:
   • Go to Software Library > Application Management > Applications, and click Create Application.
   • Select Windows Installer (.msi) and browse to the location of the FileZilla MSI file.
4. Configure Deployment Type:
   • In the Deployment Type settings, customize the installation command if necessary. For example, use the /quiet parameter for silent installations.
5. Deploy the Application:
   • After creating the application, right-click on it and select Deploy.
   • Select the device collection where FileZilla should be installed and configure the deployment as available or required.
6. Monitor the Deployment:
   • Monitor the deployment under Monitoring > Deployments to ensure all devices receive the application successfully.

Conclusion

Deploying FileZilla using the MSI installer, Group Policy, or Configuration Manager provides flexibility for both small and large organizations. The use of parameters and deployment options allows IT administrators to customize installations according to their specific needs.