PSADT V4
Read about Pckgr's upgrade to PSADT V4
What is PSADT?
The PowerShell App Deployment Toolkit (PSADT) is a widely-used open-source framework that simplifies the deployment of applications using PowerShell. It is designed to standardize and enhance software installations and updates in enterprise environments, offering powerful capabilities such as:
Interactive user prompts
Application deferral
Logging and auditing
Graceful handling of application conflicts
Pckgr integrates PSADT into its packaging workflows to ensure smooth, consistent deployment experiences across environments.
How Pckgr Uses PSADT
In Pckgr, PSADT is used to power Windows application deployments across the Private Repository. Each application package is automatically wrapped in PSADT logic to:
Perform silent installs and uninstalls
Support deferral and restart prompts for users
This framework is embedded into our packaging pipeline, meaning users benefit from PSADT’s capabilities without needing to manage scripts themselves.
Introducing PSADT v4 in Pckgr
With the release of PSADT v4, Pckgr is upgrading its deployment engine to support the latest capabilities of the toolkit. This upgrade is optional, and users can choose whether to enable it per application using a toggle in the Deployment Settings.
Key Improvements in PSADT v4
Fully Code Signed: Perfect when deploying applications in environments using Application Control
Enhanced Security: PSADT v4 removes the need for ServiceUI when displaying popups in Intune. It can now natively show notifications to users, even when running under the SYSTEM context
Improved UI Handling: Better user experience for on-screen prompts during app updates
Branding Support: Add your company name and logo to pop-up notifications
How Pckgr Uses These Improvements
Pckgr has upgraded its platform to take advantage of the improvements in PSADT v4. You can enable this version on any deployment by toggling it on in the Deployment Settings.
Here’s how Pckgr leverages the enhancements in PSADT v4:
1. Branded End-User Experiences
Pckgr now supports branded pop-up prompts during application updates and deferrals. You can include your company name and logo, helping reduce confusion and build trust with end users during deployments.
To learn how to set this up, see: Brand Your Pop-Up with Company Name and Logo
2. Improved Deployment Compatibility with Microsoft Intune
Deployments with PSADT v4 are fully compatible with Microsoft Intune. A new “Auto” deployment mode intelligently decides whether to show notifications or install silently, depending on the scenario.
3. Enhanced Deferral Handling
Pckgr has long supported flexible deferral and restart logic through the Deployment Settings - Advanced Installer panel. With the introduction of PSADT v4, the underlying deferral engine powering these workflows has been upgraded.
This means smoother handling of deferral prompts, clearer messaging for end users, and improved reliability during enforcement, while still maintaining the same familiar configuration options within Pckgr.
4. Enhanced Logging, Seamlessly Integrated
PSADT v4 introduces improved logging capabilities, which have been fully integrated into Pckgr’s existing install log workflows. These enhancements provide clearer insights during deployments and align with our structured approach to application diagnostics.
How to Enable PSADT v4
To enable PSADT v4 for any application:
Go to your Application Library
Click the three-dot menu next to the app
Select Deployment
Toggle on "Switch to PSADT v4"
Save your changes
Once enabled, all future deployments for that application will use PSADT v4. You can turn the setting off at any time to revert to the previous version.
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