Release Packaging
Overview
Prepare secure, updateable installers for desktop distribution.
Definition of done (DoD)
- MSIX or ClickOnce manifest configured with correct identity
- Release builds signed with valid certificate
- Auto-update URL configured and tested
- Version number incremented in publish profile
- Installer tested on clean machine (no dev tools)
- Uninstall leaves no orphan files/registry entries
Workflow
- Choose packaging method (MSIX or ClickOnce).
- Configure signing certificate and pipeline secrets.
- Set update channel and feed location.
- Produce release artifacts and verify install.
Guidance
- Prefer MSIX for modern deployment if available.
- Keep ClickOnce for legacy environments.
- Always sign release builds.
References
references/msix.mdfor MSIX packaging.references/clickonce.mdfor ClickOnce guidance.references/signing.mdfor certificate setup.