Adding Firewall exception for merge modules

[prmartin]

Is there any way of configuring the Windows Firewall for items in a merge module?

We have a common core service that we package in our own merge module. I know I can add the firewall exceptions in the main installer, but I can't find a way of adding Program exceptions for the files in the merge module (it only lists executables listed in the main installer not in the merge module).
And there aren't any options to configure Firewall Exceptions in a merge module project.

As a workaround I can add port exceptions to the main installer, but as the ports are user configurable then it is not ideal.

[mihai.petcu]

Hello,

Unfortunately, there is no predefined support for this functionality in Advanced Installer. However, you can implement it yourself from within your own custom action.

Best,
Mihai

[prmartin]

OK, thanks.

Do you have a recommended method of configuring the firewall exceptions by custom actions, as there seems to be lots of options suggested based on a quick google search?

[mihai.petcu]

Hi,

After further investigating, I think I found a way so you don't have to create your own custom action.

Please try the following and let me know how it turns out:

• in your merge module project go to Table Editor Page -> File table -> File column and copy the ID of the file you want to reference as a program exception in your main project( it should have the merge module GUID appended e.g YourFile.exe.BEC207CE_0A92_476B_99C1_1B5665A23F0E )
• in your main project make sure you have the merge module in the Merge Modules Page
• in your main project go to Windows Firewall Page -> Exceptions tab -> Add Program -> the Program Path field you should be set to something like:

  Code: Select all

  [#YourFile.exe.BEC207CE_0A92_476B_99C1_1B5665A23F0E]

• build, install and verify if the exception is added correctly

I also discussed the matter with the development team and we will consider adding predefined functionality for configuring the Windows Firewall from within the merge module project.

Best,
Mihai

[prmartin]

Thank you very much. I've just tried your suggestion and it works perfectly for me.

If the you could add an option, in a future version of AI, to configure the firewall as part of a merge module that would be brilliant.

Thank you again.
Paul