How should I implement an auto-updater?

Question

Many programs include an auto-updater, where the program occasionally looks online for updates, and then downloads and applies any updates that are found. Program bugs are f

Answer 1

The simplest approach would be to have your program query a server (website) to see if there is an update. If there is an update you could display a message to the user that prompts them to download a newer version and provides a link.

An alternative and more complex solution would be to create a small windows service (or unix daemon) that checks periodically to see if there are updates, this service can download the update and launch the installer.

The general architecture is that you have a central server that you control that knows the latest version and where to get it. Then the programs query the server. I am not going to include sample code because it is highly defendant on the server and the format you choose. It is not terrible difficult though.