Is it ok to image and deploy an installed OS after sysprep?

[ARKaMAN]

I am wondering if it is ok to run sysprep "Generalize & oobe" then image it with a software like Acronis or Macrium to deploy it on OEM PCs? I have been using Imagex to make images, but this would be faster for multiple versions of windows I think.

 

[ARKaMAN]

Well, the ISO is right from microsoft. I install it on VM then make a image. Then I want to deploy it on the new PCs I build. I know you have to have a key all our new PCs have standard Windows COA.

 

[ARKaMAN]

Can you explain why I should not use it?

 

[ARKaMAN]

ok

1 Yes we activate all our computers with the key on the computer COA.
2 Yes I understand versions have to match I have both a Home & Pro image for both Win 7 & 8
3: When you run generalization on sysprep it should remove all drivers. Just like a New System.
4: This are systems we configure. We put a large set of utils we like on all our systems we deploy. Firefox, Chrome, Java, Flash, Imgburn, Open Office, Reader, Malwarebytes, VLC, Gimp, Notepad++, cutePDF, etc

I don't want to insult you, and I thank you for helping me, but do you understand how sysprep works. I mean I think I understand it, but I could be wrong.

 

[Computer0304]

No no I'm sorry.

 

[Kari]

I am wondering if it is ok to run sysprep "Generalize & oobe" then image it with a software like Acronis or Macrium to deploy it on OEM PCs? I have been using Imagex to make images, but this would be faster for multiple versions of windows I think.

Of course you can do exactly as you described. This is a sample scenario, this is how I personally do it:

1. Install Windows 7 on a virtual machine or a physical one
2. Enter Audit Mode to customize your Windows 7 image from first OOBE boot dialogs before entering the product key
3. Update Windows 7 fully
4. Install the software you want to / needs to be included in the image
5. Sysprep with Generalizing, OOBE and Shutdown switches to remove all hardware specific information
6. Boot with any WinPE disk containing your preferred imaging tool (Macrium Boot Disk in my case)
7. Create an image with your imaging tool, again in my case Macrium Reflect Free
8. Deploy (install) the image to any PC you want to
9. Activate the deployed image with a valid OEM or Retail key according to Windows version and edition of the image used

Read more: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/319903-windows-7-image-customize-audit-mode-sysprep.html

Kari

 

[Computer0304]

I'm sorry Kari, I should have waited for someone with better knowledge like you.

 

[ARKaMAN]

Thanks! I figured I was able to do this. I just wanted to make sure.

 

[Kari]

Yes, the key is the Audit Mode. You enter it after installation has done the first OOBE boot before Windows has asked the product key, customize and capture your image without any activation or hardware related information and simply deploy it. Works for deploying to multiple computers or simply instead of reinstall on your personal PC.

 

[gregrocker]

Kari brought SysPrep to the consumer with http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...lation-transfer-new-computer.html#post1161038Windows 7 Installation - Transfer to a New Computer - Windows 7 Help Forums.

Before then it was considered mainly for IT Pro's. This was given as an example at Microsoft MVP Global Summit for why Seven Forums excels as a tech forums.

I'd rep you again if I could Kari.

 

[Kari]

Greg, my vanity forces me to correct you .
The first of my Sysprep tuts was actually this: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...reate-move-during-windows-7-installation.html

 

[SIW2]

LOL Kari.

Good stuff.

 

[Computer0304]

I have deleted my posts with info since the info is wrong.