I'm looking for a way to install Windows Faster and let it run automaticly.
We do daily installations of Windows XP, Windows Vista and soon Windows 7.
We are currently using the following procedure:
- Install from CD/DVD.
- Install all the drivers.
- Install the service pack if the CD/DVD doesn't provide it.
- Install all the remaining windows updates.
Sometimes we get computers from brands where we use the following procedure:
- Install from hard-drive image.
- Install the service pack as the hard-drive image does not provide it.
- Install all the remaining windows updates.
An USB stick is indeed part of the solution, but these tend to be too small to cover all possible combination's. So, you don't have to suggest this as we might continue using CD/DVD or an external USB drive as I already know. I want to point out here that we want to discuss speeding and automating the procedure regardless of the used media/hardware.
We know of the existence of the Windows AIK tools and nlite, although we stopped this technique as it takes too much time to slipstream the service pack, updates and drivers in each Windows version (For example in Vista: Home Premium, Ultimate, ...). It seems you can't do all versions at the same time... And doing them all apart is a bit wicked if you just want to integrate some new updates in an already slip-streamed installation ISO.
It currently takes around 1-2 hours to complete the installation procedure.
My questions:
- Is there an easier way to slipstream drivers, packs and updates for all versions at the same time?
- Is there a way to boost the brand computers in the same way without breaking the contract?
- If not, would it be wise to develop an update tool that performs all these actions in a row?
- ... (I thought I had more questions, but if I come up with one I'll update it right away)