Creating a Custom Windows 7 Image

[ZMiDZ]

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 !

 

[Shintaro]

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/businesscen...ws_7_installs_with_slipstreaming_and_usb.html

Hope this helps.

 

[ZMiDZ]

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.

 

[Shintaro]

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...?

 

[ZMiDZ]

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.

 

[Shintaro]

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

That is if you have money to spend.

 

[ZMiDZ]

I found something that seems great!

http://www.application-install-guide.com/acronis-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.

 

[Shintaro]

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

 

[Nibiru2012]

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_Windows_7_Image_For_Network_Installation.html

and this guide too if you've never worked with WAIK (Windows Automated Installation Kit). Go here: http://magalan.co.uk/Customise_Windows_7_Deployment_Automated_Installation_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.