How do you manage Windows Deployment Services?

1 Create and configure a WDS server

To create a WDS server, you need to install the Windows Deployment Services role on a Windows Server machine that is connected to the same network as the target computers. You can use the Server Manager or the PowerShell cmdlets to install the role. After installing the role, you need to configure the WDS server by specifying the server name, the network settings, the boot and install images, and the unattended answer files. You can use the WDS console or the WDSUtil command-line tool to configure the server.

2 Add and manage boot and install images

Boot images are the files that contain the Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE) that runs on the target computers when they boot from the network. Install images are the files that contain the Windows operating system that you want to deploy. You need to add at least one boot image and one install image to your WDS server to enable network deployment. You can add images by using the WDS console, the WDSUtil tool, or the ImageX tool. You can also manage images by modifying their properties, updating their contents, or removing them from the server.

3 Configure and apply unattended answer files

Unattended answer files are XML files that contain the settings and parameters that you want to apply during the deployment process. They can automate tasks such as partitioning disks, setting computer names, joining domains, and installing drivers. You can create and edit unattended answer files by using the Windows System Image Manager (WSIM) tool or a text editor. You can apply unattended answer files to your boot and install images by using the WDS console or the WDSUtil tool.

4 Deploy Windows operating systems to target computers

To deploy Windows operating systems to target computers, you need to enable them to boot from the network. You can do this by configuring their BIOS or UEFI settings to use the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) protocol. Alternatively, you can use a bootable media such as a CD, DVD, or USB drive that contains a boot image. Once the target computers boot from the network or the media, they will contact the WDS server and download the boot image. Then, they will run the Windows Setup program that will guide them through the installation process. You can choose to install the operating system manually or automatically by using the unattended answer files.

5 Monitor and troubleshoot WDS deployment

To monitor and troubleshoot WDS deployment, you can use various tools and methods. For example, you can use the WDS console or the WDSUtil tool to view the status and logs of the WDS server and the target computers. You can also use the Event Viewer or the Performance Monitor to check for errors and performance issues on the server. Additionally, you can use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool or the System File Checker (SFC) tool to repair corrupted or missing files on the boot and install images.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?