How do I use StandAlone on WDS without a Domain?
The Client asks for a Domain Login when I boot to PXE. My server is running in StandAlone mode which I though would bypass this requirement.
I've read tutorials, but they require a lot of wim editing, registry settings, and don't apply to Windows Server 2012 r2. Most are three plus years old.
I'm avoiding a Domain since this is a home setup and every person has their own machine. They don't want the scenario of the AD DC going down and being stuck without a computer. These are personal computers. We run a PXE server to avoid looking for DVD's and risking a bad disc. Plus it gives the file server other helpful uses.
— Origin Problem —
Right now I'm using pxelinux though a third party tFTP server with PXE support. I have a WinPE DVD Image loading via memdisk which has the command to smb to a folder on the server and execute a bat file that is a menu for the various Windows Installs we use. In short, it's a dirty solution.
I want to use WDS so that I can drop a ton of files and clean up the system. I like the idea of using WIM files, but linuxpxe doesn't like them and I haven't figured out how. I'd also like to drop third party tftp software.
Best Answer
Have you tried using the Microsoft-Windows-Setup\WindowsDeploymentServices\Login settings in your Client unattend file? This will allow the system to log in automatically. In the domain field, you would use the server name (Freya).
The article Windows Deployment Services Getting Started Guide for Windows Server 2012 has instructions for both domain and non-domain WDS setups, and the Unattended Windows Setup Reference has all of the components and settings available, however I would recommend using WSIM to build your unattend files.
As Mbond65 mentioned, the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) is a great tool for deployments and can allow you to keep fewer images with MDT adding customization during the deployment, including contacting your WSUS or Windows Update to allow a fully updated system when the deployment is finished. Here are a few links that may help you with your deployments:
Deployment Day Session 3: Deployment using WDS
Windows 8.1 Deployment Jumpstart
Deployment Day Session 1: Introduction to MDT 2012
Deployment Day Session 2: MDT 2012 Advanced
Hope this helps,