Distributing .exe Files

[jimcroisdale]

Hi all,

So ive recently upgraded to the full version and can create standalone BBC4W files.

Problem is, sending them anywhere is almost impossible!

Can't email directly... can use facebook Messenger - even a zipped file via Mailbigfile gets picked up.

How do you guys send .exe files to people that aren't always massively computer literate?

Regards,
Jim

[RichardRussell]

even a zipped file via Mailbigfile gets picked up.

Sometimes simply renaming the .zip file to something else (e.g. .jpg) is sufficient to work around email providers' filters. The recipient must rename it back to .zip of course.

How do you guys send .exe files to people that aren't always massively computer literate?

Typically I will upload it to an online repository (e.g. Dropbox or another cloud service, or private web space that commonly your ISP will provide, or similar) and then just send a download link to the recipient.

On a related topic, I would strongly recommend that any EXE file you distribute contains a filled-in VERSION INFO resource (via the supplied utility) since this can be helpful in convincing a virus scanner that it is safe. Also, if you are prepared to suffer the expense, digitally signing your EXEs with a Code Signing Certificate is very worthwhile.

[Pete]

Where I can find the VERSION INFO resource supplied utility? Many thanks.

Currently with my .exe files the virus checker comes up "highly unusual program - these usually contain viruses" then it checks and finds it's OK.

I will get my programs digitally signed as well.

[Pete]

I have found the VERSION INFO utility, but I don't know what it does or how to use it. I think it said Do I want to install to socket 7?

If it would be sufficient to get my program/s signed, then is that sufficient for the virus checkers? It's no problem or great expense to get that done.

[DDRM]

Hi Pete,

Sorry, missed this. You should find VersionInfo already installed, if you look in the Utilities menu of BB4W. If not, you can install it in a slot of your choice, as you note.

If you run it from the Utilities menu, it will open a window allowing you to add details about your program.

Best wishes,

D

[RichardRussell]

You should find VersionInfo already installed

Absolutely, it is installed by default (in slot 7). It's also referenced in the main Help documentation under Add-in Utilities.