Backdrop Windows Client - Automatic Update

*Requires Backdrop Windows Client Version 5.0.80 or higher*

The Backdrop Windows Client contains an automatic update component designed to keep the client up to date and running the latest version. The latest version will contain the most recent fixes and enhancements as well as any new features so getting updated is recommended.

Rather than needing to deploy the full .MSI package to your systems with each release, the automatic updater runs from the Windows device client you have already deployed, checks for a newer version and if one is available downloads and installs it.

Below we explain how the automatic updater works and what configuration settings you can change to manage it.

How it works 

1. The automatic updater runs as a component of the "Backdrop.UpdateService.exe" installed with the Backdrop Windows client.
2. At Start-up the updater checks for a newer version and if one is available it will begin to download it. If an update is not available then the Windows client will start up as normal.
3. If a new version was found then that update is downloaded. the Windows client won't run until the new version has been installed.
4. Once downloaded and installed, The Windows client will launch and try to connect to Backdrop.

Configuration Settings

By default, the automatic updater is enabled to ensure users have access to the latest features and improvements as soon as they are available. This is can be altered by a simple Windows registry key value change to turn off this feature. This can be updated on mass to your devices using Group Policy, SCCM or similar deployment tools that support Windows.

Update Channel

Update channels allow for different versions of the client to be available to users. The channels and the purpose of each is as follows;

Production - Live release used by all customers, is always the latest approved version available

Beta - Beta tester release used by customers on the Beta program. Available to non-beta customers through request (please contact support). It is not recommended you use this channel unless approved by Impero

Development - Internal test builds used by Impero. Can include unfinished work and breaking changes. Do not use this channel unless approved by Impero

Updater Enabled

Allows for the automatic updater to be turned on or off. By default, it is set to on. This value can only be changed in the registry. Edit the "UpdaterEnabled" by selecting modify.

Change the Value Data to turn on automatic updates.

0 = Automatic Updates are disabled. Windows client will remain on current version until a new MSI is ran

1= Automatic UPdates are Enabled. Windows client will check for updates on each system boot up

*Running the full .MSI package will overwrite and registry keys you have edited and will return the Automatic updater to enabled and on the Production channel of updates.