In a method of generating a virtual map to a plurality of data files necessary for installing software on a computer that is coupled to a network, a primary directory that includes a plurality of links is generated. Each link points to a subdirectory that lists at least one file that is necessary for installing the software. Any subdirectories pointed to by any of the of links that contain redundant files are detected and any links pointing to redundant files are removed from the primary directory. All conflicts between files pointed to by any links of the plurality of links are detected and listed in a conflict report.