Using SysPrep to deploy XP workstations?

[hayabusaukuk]

We have 50 workstations delivered to my workplace with XP already installed on them from Dell (But not configured)

I have been told that i can use "sysprep" to assist the rollout of these machines, but i dont know how and could use a little help

The steps are?

1) Configure the OS on a reference PC and jpin it to the domain and install Office etc

2) Prepare the computer for duplication using Sysprep and create an optional Sysprep.inf answer file.

Ok, i ca do that following the steps here

http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-22_11-5838633.html#comments

But then what? How do i then use this to rollout the other machines? I know they have XP there, but how can i tell it to use the sysprep file without configuring the OS (which is the whole point of using this cloning, right?)

And how do the apps get installed?


Im just very confused on what to do after creating the Sysprep.inf file



thanks for any help

 

[linney]

How to use the Sysprep tool to automate successful deployment of Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302577

How To Use Setup Manager to Create an Answer File in Windows 2000

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308662/

Items That Can or Cannot Be Added During Unattended Upgrade Using Answer Files

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/216300/EN-US/

Securing Windows XP Professional Clients in a Windows Server Environment

http://www.microsoft.com/canada/smallbiz/sgc/articles/sec_winxp_pro_server_env.mspx

Local Security policy's
thread779-1399157


An image is a full copy of a master machine.
An image is basically a copy of an existing machine that you want to deploy to other machines. (The copy includes everything... OS, Applications and settings, etc..)



Anything here allow you to bypass Sysprep altogether?


HOW TO: Create a Custom Default User Profile (Q305709)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q305/7/09.asp

The Desktop.ini File Does Not Work Correctly When You

Create a Custom Default Profile

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q321281

Q310516 HOW TO: Distribute Registry Changes to Computers in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q310/5/16.asp

Q310514 HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop Theme to Users in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q310/5/14.asp