Merge updates to a Fileset with Fileset Magic

Summary

Use Fileset Magic's merge option to capture an application update and merge its changed files into an existing file-level Fileset, rather than build a separate replacement Fileset. This is useful when the original application files are set to self-heal: verification can restore the older Fileset copy over files changed by the application's updater. It does not mean every PKG or MSI installation is reverted by FileWave. If you are choosing between FileWave-managed and vendor-managed updates, read Updating 3rd Party Software first.

Before merging, duplicate the original Fileset and test the duplicate. A merge changes the selected Fileset contents, so keep a known-good copy available until testing is complete.

Procedure

Start from a machine that has the original, non-updated software installed. Run the first Fileset Magic snapshot, install and test the update, then run the second snapshot. The comparison view shows added, modified, and deleted files. Added files are selected by default, while modified and deleted files are not selected by default. Review the differences carefully and select the modified files that should become part of the updated Fileset.

Steps

1. Duplicate the Fileset you plan to update.
2. On the capture computer, open Fileset Magic from Assistants > Fileset Magic in FileWave Central. For macOS captures, use the root-running administration application as described in Fileset Magic setup so the capture can read the required file-system changes.
3. Use a clean capture system with the original application version installed. Close unrelated applications, leaving only the installers or updaters needed for the capture, then take the first snapshot. This reduces unrelated file changes in the comparison.
4. Install the software update, launch the application if needed, and confirm the update completed.
5. Take the second snapshot.
6. In the comparison view, browse the changes, keep the required added files selected, select the modified files that should be merged, and click Continue.

7. Enable Merge To Fileset and click Choose....
8. Select the duplicate Fileset and click OK.
9. Continue through the assistant and verify that the selected changes were merged into the Fileset.
10. Test the updated Fileset before deploying it broadly.