How to Remotely Install Software on Multiple Windows Machines

Remote software installation is a must-have for IT teams managing distributed workplaces, growing networks, and strict security requirements. Instead of spending hours manually updating individual endpoints, you can use centralized deployment tools to install applications, patches, and updates across hundreds of devices in just a few clicks. This approach not only saves time and ensures consistency but also strengthens security by reducing human error and eliminating gaps that attackers could exploit.

What is Remote Software Installation?

Remote software installation is the process of deploying applications, updates, or programs to multiple computers across your network without requiring you to be physically present to access each device. This centralized approach allows IT administrators to push software installations, configurations, and updates to hundreds or thousands of endpoints simultaneously from a centralized location.

What’s the Best Way to Remotely Install Software on Multiple Windows Machines?

The best way to install software on many Windows computers from the comfort of your own desk is to use specialized management tools that can reach out to all of those computers across your network and install programs automatically. These centralized deployment tools let you automate distribution, apply consistent configurations, keep an auditable record of installations, and push out installations to dozens or hundreds of other computers across your office or company. 

Professional-Grade Remote Deployment Solutions:

• Microsoft Group Policy: Built into Windows Server environments for domain-joined machines
• Microsoft Intune: Cloud-based mobile device management (MDM) solution for modern workplaces
• System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM): Enterprise-scale deployment and patch management
• Third-party platforms

Critical Security and Compliance Benefits:

IT security professionals rely on centralized remote installations to:

• Reduce human error in software deployments by up to 90%
• Eliminate shadow IT through controlled software distribution
• Maintain real-time visibility across all digital assets
• Significantly reduce organizational attack surface

Research from the Ponemon Institute demonstrates that organizations implementing comprehensive security automation, including automated software deployment, achieve an average cost avoidance of $3.05 million per data breach incident.

Implementation Best Practice: Start with your existing Microsoft infrastructure (Group Policy for on-premises, Intune for cloud-hybrid environments) before evaluating third-party solutions, as this leverages your current Active Directory investments while providing immediate deployment capabilities.

Why Does Remote Software Installation Matter for Security?

When unmanaged or outdated applications linger in your environment, they introduce vulnerabilities. Installing software manually on each endpoint is not only time-consuming but also risky, especially in distributed workforces. The 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report shows that 74% of breaches involve the human element, including manual configuration errors.

A consistent, automated approach gives you:

• Standardized software baselines across the organization
• Reduced exposure from unpatched or unauthorized applications
• Audit trails for compliance and incident investigations
• Time savings for IT teams, freeing them to focus on higher-value security tasks

What Are the Steps to Remotely Install Software?

Regardless of the tool you choose, the process follows a predictable pattern:

1. Discover Assets: Identify every Windows device on your network using network discovery tools. 
2. Package Software: Create MSI, EXE, or script-based installation files following Microsoft packaging guidelines. 
3. Define Policies: Specify which devices or groups will receive the software. 
4. Deploy & Monitor: Push the installation remotely, track status, and troubleshoot failures. 
5. Audit & Report: Document successful installs for compliance and future security reviews.

Best Practices for Security and Efficiency

• Test before deploying widely to avoid system conflicts.
• Automate patching alongside installations to maintain security.
• Restrict permissions to prevent unauthorized software distribution.
• Use reporting dashboards to verify coverage and identify gaps.
• Integrate with vulnerability management so new installs align with your threat reduction strategy.

Boost Your Remote Deployment Process With Lansweeper

Lansweeper’s Technology Asset Intelligence platform eliminates deployment blind spots that expand your attack surface. Complete visibility across every endpoint ensures that no machine is skipped in your software deployment, eliminating blind spots and guaranteeing an up-to-date environment, so vulnerabilities have no chance to become threats.

Watch the free demo to see how focused IT teams benefit from Lansweeper’s comprehensive visibility.

Lansweeper Demo

See Lansweeper in Action – Watch Our Demo Video

Sit back and dive into the Lansweeper interface & core capabilities to learn how Lansweeper can help your team thrive.

WATCH DEMO

FAQ

• Can I install non-MSI applications remotely? + –

  Yes. Tools like Intune, SCCM, or deployment scripts can handle EXE packages and custom installers.

• What’s the safest method for sensitive environments? + –

  Solutions that provide full auditing, role-based access control, and integration with identity systems—like SCCM or Intune—are preferred.

• How do I verify installations were successful? + –

  Use reporting features within your deployment tool, or cross-check via asset management platforms that log installed software.

• Is it worth paying for third-party deployment tools? + –

  If you manage more than a few dozen endpoints or require strict compliance, the investment pays off in reduced risk and time savings.