A quick question or two

[rlgordey]

When I install RabbitMQ on a Windows Box it sets the config and data directory to %APPDATA%\RabbitMQ which is translated to the user's home directory that is preforming the install. I know on Linux it uses ${install_prefix}/etc/rabbitmq/rabbitmq. Why on Windows, does the installer not put the config or data directory on something like C:\ProgramData\RabbitMQ Server?

Luckily I found this Web Article.

Having said that, when I upgrade said Windows box from RabbitMQ 3.9.8 to 3.9.9 it doesn't just upgrade and keep the existing config. I have to uninstall RabbitMQ completely and again follow the Web article above just to upgrade... Even on a Windows box with the default install I have to completely uninstall and reinstall to get it to work.

I understand that to make RabbitMQ work on various platforms some concessions had to be made, but for Windows this seems overly complicated for no reason.

[mkuratczyk]

Personally I probably won't be able to help with a Windows-related issue but my first question would be: what do you mean by "I have to completely uninstall"? What happens if you don't?

[rlgordey]

The install won't run as it can't find the config and data files. So I have to uninstall and install fresh.

[lukebakken]

Why on Windows, does the installer not put the config or data directory on something like C:\ProgramData\RabbitMQ Server?

The RabbitMQ team has not had the time to improve the Windows installation experience. At some point a paying customer who uses Windows may provide funds to improve how RabbitMQ works on Windows.

Having said that, when I upgrade said Windows box from RabbitMQ 3.9.8 to 3.9.9 it doesn't just upgrade and keep the existing config. I have to uninstall RabbitMQ completely and again follow the Web article above just to upgrade

Can you describe exactly how you are performing your initial installation on Windows as well as the upgrade? At what point are you setting the RABBITMQ_BASE environment variable? How are you setting it, etc etc?

[rlgordey]

I run a fresh install but deselect the Service. I set RABBITMQ_BASE like this: set RABBITMQ_BASE="C:\ProgramData\RabbitMQ Server" at a RabbitMQ Command Prompt. I then install the RabbitMQ service and run it, just like in the the web article I mentioned.

I get it... you need funds to support a better Windows experience. I just thought I would mention my current difficulties, kinda put a bug in your ear, so to speak. Here's hoping you get a "deep pockets" Sponsor soon.

[lukebakken]

I suggest setting RABBITMQ_BASE as a system environment variable. That way all installers will pick up the value. The value is "baked" into the registry when the Windows service is installed.

I'm reasonably certain that setting the RABBITMQ_BASE variable in this manner will enable upgrades to work.

[rlgordey]

@lukebakken This did work upgrading to .version 3.9.10.

[lukebakken]

Thank you for letting us know.