preventing uninstallation of c++ redistributable

Question

I'm using Advanced Installer in my product. as part of the installation, the installer installs c++ redistributables that my product needs in order to run. my question is how to prevent the user from removing the c++ redistributable installation in add/remove programs? is there an option to use reference counting on 3rd party products that the installer installs?

Answer 1

Have you considered using merge modules to install your redistributables? Instead of separate standalone installers. This is supported by Advanced Installer too.

This should prevent them from appearing in Control Panel, but they will also be uninstalled together with your application.