Can I work on several packages at the same time? #
Yes. Each package has its own files, settings, phases and test settings. Switch between packages from the Packages Workspace. The Free edition is limited to 10 packages.
Do I need an internet connection? #
Most features work offline. An internet connection is needed for:
- downloading the .NET runtimes during the first installation (only if they are missing)
- the App Catalog, and creating packages from it
- downloading or checking for PSADT updates
- uploads to Intune or Azure Storage, and timestamping signatures
- MECM deployments, which need access to your Configuration Manager site and content share
Is my data sent anywhere? #
There is no telemetry. The app only connects to other services for features you use:
| Service | Used for |
|---|---|
| GitHub | PSADT releases |
| Evergreen API and winget repository | App Catalog |
| Vendor download sites | Installers from the catalog |
| Microsoft Entra ID and Graph | Intune uploads |
| Your Azure Storage account | Storage uploads |
| A timestamp server | MSIX signing |
| Your MECM site | MECM deployments |
Connection secrets never leave your computer unencrypted.
Where are my packages saved? #
In %AppData%\XOAP\PackageWizard\ (see File locations), or in the shared folder if Package Storage is active.
How do I back up my work? #
Copy the whole %AppData%\XOAP\PackageWizard\ folder, and the shared folder if you use one. Connection secrets and certificates are encrypted for your Windows user, so they cannot be restored under another user account. Set those up again after a restore on another computer.
How do I use an exported PSADT package? #
Extract the ZIP and run it:
# Interactive install
.\Invoke-AppDeployToolkit.exe -DeploymentType Install
# Silent install
.\Invoke-AppDeployToolkit.exe -DeploymentType Install -DeployMode Silent
# Uninstall
.\Invoke-AppDeployToolkit.exe -DeploymentType Uninstall -DeployMode Silent
You can also deploy it with MECM, Intune or any tool that runs PowerShell. With the Pro edition, the app can upload or deploy it for you.
How do I get a PSADT package into Intune? #
There are two ways:
- Pro: upload it from its card to an Intune connection. It is wrapped and published as a Win32 app automatically.
- Any edition: export the ZIP and wrap it yourself with Microsoft’s Win32 Content Prep Tool.
Can I import my old PSADT v3 packages? #
Yes. Use Import Local. Commands, variables and parameters are translated to v4. Places that need your attention are marked with # TODO.
How do I test a package without installing it on my own computer? #
Use Test in Sandbox on the Preview step (see Testing packages).
Why can’t I create an MSIX from my setup.exe directly? #
An MSIX must contain the installed application, not its installer. Put the installer in a PSADT package and use Convert…. The Conversion Assistant repackages the installer, or tells you honestly why the app cannot work as MSIX.
My MSIX does not install on the target machine. What should I check? #
Most of the time, the target machine does not trust the signing certificate:
- Install the
.cerfile from the build into Local Machine → Trusted People on the target. - Or sign with a certificate from your company’s certificate authority.
App Attach packages trust the certificate automatically in their Stage script.
Why do I see an administrator (UAC) prompt when I build App Attach? #
Windows only allows administrators to create disk images. The app asks for administrator rights just for the build. Choose Yes in the prompt. If you decline, the build stops and you can start it again.
My catalog package shows “needs review”. What do I do? #
The wizard could not find the silent switches for this installer. Open the Install phase, enter the silent install command yourself (check the vendor’s documentation), and remove the line that stops the script.
The application won’t start. What do I check? #
- Look at the logs in
%AppData%\XOAP\PackageWizard\logs\:desktop-*.logshows startup errors.api-*.logshows service errors.
- Check that .NET 9 is installed. Run
dotnet --list-runtimesand look for bothMicrosoft.WindowsDesktop.App 9.0.xandMicrosoft.AspNetCore.App 9.0.x. - Reinstall the application. Your packages are kept.
How do I update XOAP Package Wizard? #
Run the installer of the new version. Your packages and settings are kept.
Can I change the installation folder? #
Yes, in the installer. The default folder is recommended because it makes later upgrades smoother.
What do the lock badges mean? #
They mark Pro features. See Free and Pro editions.
How do I report a problem? #
Use Help → Report a Bug in the header. Attach the event from the Activity Log (Download JSON) and, if possible, the log files from the logs folder.