Reference

Using Batch Mode Setup

The Internet Explorer Customization wizard enables you to control functionality and user experience during setup. You can further control the setup process by using a batch file. You can use this method whether Internet Explorer is installed alone or with Microsoft Office.

When installing Internet Explorer 4.0, you could further control the setup process with command-line switches. This method is also supported in Internet Explorer 5, and some new switches are available. To use command-line switches, you typically use the IExpress wizard or another program to package your Setup files.

You can also use a combination of the batch file and the command-line switches. For an example, see Internet Explorer Batch Mode Setup Switches.

In most cases, the batch-file method gives you more control over the installation of individual components and involves fewer steps. The command-line switches are provided for backwards compatibility and to support custom solutions.

Creating the batch file

To create the batch file, use a text editor such as Microsoft Notepad, and name the file Iebatch.txt. For more information, see Batch File Syntax. For an example, see Sample Setup Batch File.

You can use a batch file in two ways:

Include it in your IEAK package.
Include it with setup when you distribute your custom package.

You create the batch file the same way for both methods.

Using the batch file to modify setup

To include the batch file as part of your IEAK package, place it in the \Iebin\<Language>\Optional folder. <Language> represents the language of the version you are creating; for example, English language versions are created in the En folder.
If you distribute Internet Explorer over the Internet or an intranet, you can post the batch file to the site where users download Internet Explorer. If you distribute Internet Explorer on other media, such as a compact disc or floppy disk, you can add the batch file to the disk. Place it in the same folder as the Ie5setup.exe file.

To learn more about situations in which batch files are helpful, see Customizing Setup.