Abstract: This invention includes a method for more efficiently installing a subset of software components and data files contained in a component pool in a distributed processing network such as the Internet. An installation package delivered to a requesting end user is custom configured at a remote server location prior to delivery to a client system operated by the user, in response to the user's inputs. The delivered installation package contains only the programs, data, and local installation tools required for the user's unique installation requirements. The user initiates the installation process by connecting to the remote server system via a telecommunications link within a distributed processing network, such as the Internet. Engaging in a dialog with the server which provides informational links to server-side databases, the user chooses all software components and options that he desires his software package to have. Such a package may be, for example, a subset of a software suite.