Creating a Custom Windows 7 Image

Hello everyone,

I've been tasked with creating an custom image of a reference PC reduce configuration time when a new user is hired. Can anyone recommend software that is able to do this that isn't overly difficult? It doesn't have to be able to deploy to multiple PC's at a time.

Thank you !

I haven't done an image for a while, but from what I remember all the PC's needed to have identical hardware. I could be wrong now, as like I said things could have changed.

The other solution is to SlipStream the OS.
https://www.pcworld.com/businesscent...g_and_usb.html

Hope this helps.

Thank you for the reply Shintaro. Indeed, all the computers we use are the same type, however, I was looking be able to load all the Windows Updates / Programs / Drivers into an image, save it on a server for storage and be able to deploy it to 1 or more systems.

I've tried using MDT 2010, but the program is always having some type of issue, whether it be something with the credentials or some other error, so I am hoping there is an alternate but similar solution.

Someone else has probably imaged PC more recently than me, but the last time I imaged PC's was with Norton's Ghost.

I am sure someone will have something else.

So all the PC's have identical motherboard, RAM, Video card, Hard drives, etc...?

Indeed, they order the same standard HP PC for a majority of the users, unless it's an executive.

I hope so, and I'm sure there is another imaging / deployment software out there besides MDT.

I just did a quick google search:
http://disk-imaging-software-review.toptenreviews.com/

That is if you have money to spend.

I found something that seems great!

http://www.application-install-guide...snap-deploy-4/

It can even do scheduled deployments and deployments to other machines with dissimilar hardware.

Hope this helps someone else who is curious about what lies beyond MDT.

Yes, but that license is per Workstation (PC) or server. So it might get exspensive quickly.

Acronis makes very good software. It looks like it could get pricey though.

If y'all want to save some cash, then try the Guru Guy's tutorial here: http://magalan.co.uk/Create_a_Custom...tallation.html

and this guide too if you've never worked with WAIK (Windows Automated Installation Kit). Go here: http://magalan.co.uk/Customise_Windo...ation_Kit.html

It looks rather comprehensive and will take some time to create the initial image disc(s). If you have the time and such, it should be not too difficult.

I personally have used WAIK in the past to make a couple of custom Windows 7 install discs with the drivers, favorite software and such. It only took about four hours or so.