RDP2MSI

RDP2MSI.exe is a command-line tool that converts a .rdp file into a .msi installer for easier deployment of RemoteApps. It comes with RemoteApp Tool.

Purpose

This utility simplifies RemoteApp distribution by packaging RDP connections into standard Windows Installer packages (a feature discontinued after Server 2008R2). It uses the WiX Toolset to generate .msi files, which can be installed manually or distributed via Group Policy, SCCM, or other deployment tools.

Basic Usage

RDP2MSI.exe MyApp.rdp

This creates a MyApp.msi in the same directory.

Command-Line Options

• /D – Create a desktop shortcut.
• /S – Create a Start Menu shortcut.
• /N – Avoid creating a Start Menu subfolder.
• /A – Use a consistent UpgradeCode (based on the app name).
• /T – Remove the default "(remote)" suffix from shortcut names.
• /U – Install for current user only (per-user install).

Notes

• Requires the WiX Toolset (both candle.exe and light.exe must be in the system PATH).
• If a .ico file exists with the same base name as the .rdp file, it will be used for the shortcut icon.
• Output .msi files are named after the input .rdp file.

Example

RDP2MSI.exe /D /S /T /A MyApp.rdp

This will:

• Create both desktop and Start Menu shortcuts,
• Omit "(remote)" from the shortcut name,
• Use a stable UpgradeCode for versioning.