Application Status
In an effort to enhance the user experience, Pckgr has introduced an innovative app tagging system. This system enables users to quickly assess the status of applications in the Pckgr library. The tags used in this system are: "Healthy", "Reported Issues", and "Investigating Issue". This guide will explain each of these tags and how they help you manage your applications.
Tags Overview
Healthy
The "Healthy" tag is assigned to applications that are operating as expected without any known issues. These applications have passed all Pckgr's and Microsoft Winget's thorough testing protocols, have been deployed to devices, and are functioning correctly. If an app is tagged as "Healthy", you can deploy it with confidence.
Reported Issues
The "Reported Issues" tag is used when users have reported problems with an application. This could be anything from minor bugs to significant functional issues. Applications with this tag are still available for deployment, but users are advised to proceed with caution and review the reported issues for context and potential impact.
Investigating Issue
The "Investigating Issue" tag is applied when the Pckgr team is actively investigating a reported issue with an application. While the investigation is ongoing, it is recommended to refrain from deploying these applications unless absolutely necessary. Once the issue has been resolved, the tag will be updated to either "Healthy" or "Reported Issues" based on the outcome of the investigation.
No Longer Supported
The "No Longer Supported" status is assigned to applications that the Pckgr team can no longer maintain or provide support for. This typically occurs when Microsoft has withdrawn the application from Winget due to incompatibility issues or when the application's vendor has implemented network restrictions.
Vanity URL
The "Vanity URL" status is assigned to applications which use a vanity URL in their manifest. A vanity URL is a user-friendly web address that links directly to the latest installer download. There are some implications involved when a package utilizes a Vanity URL:
Version and Hash Mismatch: If the vendor releases a new version of the application, the installer available at the download URL will change. This results in a mismatch between the application's content and its hash specified in the Winget manifest. Consequently, this can cause the Winget installation or upgrade process to fail until the manifest is updated to reflect the new version and its hash.
Dependence on Timely Updates: To prevent mismatches, it's essential for the manifest to be updated promptly whenever a new version is released by the vendor. We try to have the Vanity URL applications approved as quickly as possible to reduce any down time.
Tip: We advise to not include Vanity URL applications in the Autopilot process. If a Vanity URL application is in the process of approving the new Update from Winget it may break the Autopilot Process. For example, when there is a new update released for Google Chrome, it can take a couple of hours for the new version to be released from Winget. In that time new installations of the package will fail.
How to View App Tags
In the Pckgr Library, you will find the tag for each application displayed prominently when looking at the deployment options. This makes it easy to quickly assess the status of each application at a glance.
Conclusion
Pckgr's new app tagging system is designed to provide users with up-to-date information about the status of applications in the library. With this system, you can make informed decisions about which apps to deploy and when. As always, the Pckgr team is committed to maintaining the highest standards of application reliability and security. If you encounter any issues with an application, please report it so the team can investigate and take appropriate action.
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