How to load Firebird 2.1.X fbclient.dll on Windows XP wihout installing Microsoft C++ 2005 Redistributable (vcredist_x86.exe)?

Question

Using fbclient.dll in Firebird 2.1.X in fresh install Windows XP that never install with Microsoft C++ 2005 Redistrubable will cause problem.

I wish to deploy my application that contain fbclient.dll and all related Microsoft C++ 2005 redistributable libraries without installing the redistributable libraries. Can I do that? I am running the application in limited account. Install the VC++ redistributable is not an option here.

My application is developed with Delphi using LoadLibrary to load the fbclient.dll

Answer 1

It's possible to just copy the MSVC runtime into your application directory. However, a standard installer would be better for automatic updates. And the installer will run under an administrator account, so your limited account is not a problem.

Answer 2

As i remenber (havent code near me), you can use manifest files. A little hint can be seen here: http://www.firebirdnews.org/?p=2248
http://www.destructor.de/firebird/minimumclient.htm.

Relating posts: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/230715/mixed-mode-library-and-crt-dependencies-help
http://stackoverflow.com/questions/1265792/visual-studio-2005-security-updates-and-crt-dll-versions-in-manifest