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Unattended W2k install with sysprepped image- help!

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by kabuki_969

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Hello all~

I have a sysprepped W2k image on my network and want to deploy it to about 100 computers (all same hardware). I'd like to use the imaging boot disc to download the image onto the target machine, then use an answer file on a floppy to automate the setup. I can't get the answer file to work and don't even know if what I'm trying to accomplish is possible. Thanks in advance!

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by the altruist

(I smell refurbs. Boy, that brings back memories!)

Just add the answer file to sysprep image.

Deploy the image onto a virtual test machine (WITHOUT DOING THE INSTALL), then copy the answer file to the virtual hard drive (if necessary with a Windows PE of your choice). Create a new image of the drive, and you're ready to deploy.

Best wishes, fellow refurbisher!

EDIT: Oh, hey, before I forget. If these are indeed refurb units, image a diskette with MemTest86+. Run that first. Make as many diskettes as you can. I had about a hundred and ran through them like water. Also, do you have a air compressor handy? You'll need it. Open each unit, and blow them out. Don't use a vacuum; they create static. For a first time setup, two people can do this in two days. 1 person will need up to a week. After the first time setup, 1 person can do between 40 and 50 units a day.

by kabuki_969

Thanks for your quick reply! However, I'm still not sure what to do. Where would the answer file go so the setup would find it? Also, if I want to deploy 100 machines, I need 100 images on the network?

by the altruist

Your answer file (I'm assuming Sysprep.inf) should go where you put Sysprep itself (I'm assumming C:\Sysprep.)
And no you won't need 100 images. One will be fine.
As far as license keys, do what you like there, but my recommendation is to image all with one license key, then change them later. Perhaps you could setup a file on your deployment server to contain all the license keys (this will take a while, but it's worth it), then use Magical JellyBean Keyfinder (I'm not kidding that's its actual name) from http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/ to cut and paste from the file to change the keys.

Now, here's an important question. What deployment software are you using? Ghost, Altiris, DriveImage XML, Clonezilla, FOG (Free Open Source Ghost)? What's your weapon of choice?

by kabuki_969

I use Acronis for the imaging. The floppy was going to be used for the answer file so I could have a floppy for each target pc with the license key, computer name, etc. already entered. Also, doesn't the sysprep folder disappear after it's run? When I restart the target pc after downloading the image, the sysprep folder will not be there, so how will the answer file be used in the setup?

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