Starting managed Windows deployment

automated-installdesktop-managementinstallationwindows-xp

I want to start providing managed Windows XP images to my users, however I've only done this with Linux servers, and I'm unsure of where to begin.

Ideally, I want to start buying machines in groups, but until then, I'm stuck with differing models.

The particulars: I will always have local physical access to the machine. I don't need PXE boot, since I'll be working with 3-4 machines at a time, maximum, but PXE boot would be alright, too. Not all of the machines are the same model. I'm alright with creating multiple images if I have to, though an auto-install ala-kickstart would be great. Free OpenSource Software (FOSS) would be ideal, although if a commercial product (like Ghost or whatever) is the only way (or has useful features that I need that free softwares lack), then I can accept that, too.

What is the best way to do this?

Also, I don't have bulk licenses (yet). Each machine has its own XP license. I'm sure this complicates things, but I don't really know how. I apologize profusely for my ignorance.

Best Answer

You can use Windows Deployment Services (the new RIS) if you have a 2003/2008 server. This provides PXE boot capabilies for your XP clients. You configure a 'template' on the server to answer the setup questions, but you will be prompted for anything you didn't enter (Windows Key in your case). Don't miss the intro video.

You might also find Unattended interesting, if you're using Linux servers. Features:

* Automated install of operating system, hotfixes and applications.
* Full documentation and source code.
* Support for floppy, CD-ROM, and "nothing but net" installs.
* True unattended installation, not disk imaging.
* No Windows servers required; use your Unix servers instead.
* No Unix servers required; use your Windows servers after all.
* Completely free.
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