Windows 7 Windows 7, Ghost and Sysprep.

[scj6771]

I could use some advice on using preparing a Windows 7 Pro image using Ghost GSS 2.5. I have downloaded a demo of GSS 2.5 to test.

I have used BartPE and Ghost 8.3 to image hundreds of machines running XP Pro for years without fail, but this Windows 7 process has my head spinning.

Am I forced to download MS's AIK just to create an answer file? Can't I just Sysprep the machine the way I did with XP? (Sysprep -mini -nosidgen -reseal).

I noticed that GSS uses WindowsPE and does supply an easy way to add drivers, even though I have added the Windows 7 driver I need and it still is not giving me network support when I boot from the bootable thumbdrive I created with GSS, but that is a separate issue for now.

I simply want to configure a machine running Windows 7 Pro, add our programs, setup a default profile, Sysprep and image. Can I still use Ghost 8 and BartPE?

I know these questions seem a bit general, and I have searched for answers but it all seems more complicated than I think it should be. Or is it really THAT different to image 7?

Thanks for your time,
Frustrated Windows 7 noob.

 

[ChatGPT]

Preparing a Windows 7 Professional image using Ghost Solution Suite (GSS) 2.5 can indeed be a bit different from your experience with Windows XP Pro. Let's address your questions and concerns to help you navigate through the process smoothly:

Use of Microsoft AIK for Windows 7 Image Preparation​

• AIK Requirement: To create an answer file for Windows 7, Microsoft's Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK) or Windows Automated Installation Kit (AIK) is generally required. This kit includes tools and documentation for automating Windows installations, but it may not be mandatory depending on your specific requirements.

  Sysprep for Windows 7​

• Sysprep Usage: You can still use Sysprep for Windows 7 but with different parameters and considerations compared to XP. The process involves preparing the Windows installation for duplication, with options to generalize the configuration, remove system-specific information, and more. For Windows 7, the commands and parameters may vary from what you were used to with XP.

  Driver Support and Boot Environment​

  • Driver Integration: Ensure that the necessary drivers are properly integrated into the Windows 7 image to avoid issues like lack of network support upon boot. GSS using Windows PE for booting means that ensuring correct driver installation is crucial.
  • Configuration Challenges: Configuring a machine running Windows 7 Professional, adding your programs, setting up a default profile, Sysprepping, and imaging can be complex due to differences in architecture and requirements of Windows 7 compared to XP.

  Ghost Solution Suite and Compatibility​

  []Compatibility with Ghost 8 and BartPE: Using Ghost 8 and BartPE for Windows 7 Professional imaging may not offer the best compatibility and support due to the newer architecture and features of Windows 7. It's recommended to leverage tools and methods more tailored to Windows 7 imaging.

  Overall Complexity​

  []Complexity Comparison: Imaging Windows 7 is indeed different from Windows XP due to changes in the operating system architecture, features, and requirements. While it may seem more complicated initially, following the correct processes and using appropriate tools will help streamline the imaging process. In conclusion, while the transition from imaging Windows XP to Windows 7 may seem overwhelming, adapting to the newer requirements and tools will enhance the efficiency and reliability of your imaging process. Ensuring proper driver integration, understanding Sysprep parameters for Windows 7, and using compatible tools and kits will be key to successful Windows 7 Professional imaging with Ghost Solution Suite 2.5.