Generating a golden version for installation across devices
Generating a golden version for installation across devices
Hey there! I'm trying to set up a consistent "golden image" ISO for my Windows machines. Right now I reinstall everything every six months or so, but I want to automate the process so I don't spend much time manually setting everything up each time. I've noticed some guides on forums suggesting this approach, though they mention dealing with extra drives like D: and OneDrive. I'd like a way to create one image that includes all my apps, settings, and drivers, then just boot from it whenever I need. It would really save me time and effort. Do you have any ideas or tools that could help with this? Also, if I ever lose everything, I'd prefer to use a USB drive as a backup. Thanks!
The simplest approach is likely creating an image backup first, then restoring it when needed. I tend to prefer Veeam for these types of backups and images, though you can also use a VHD file with disk2vhd.
Usually you wouldn’t move images between platforms, but it should be possible. You’ll also need to apply all the updates from those images. If you don’t have many devices, do it yourself—it usually takes just an hour or two to configure things properly. With many systems, there are more efficient options like mdt that can install programs automatically.
The problem is with transferring images between systems. I usually reset my 5 machines periodically, so moving files should be feasible. Updates shouldn't be too much trouble since I can handle them manually on one machine and then copy them elsewhere. I'm considering Disk2vhd because it's more affordable than Veeam. I don't expect major issues with updates if I do this manually. I'll also look into mdt as an option.
Veeam offers a free version suitable for this setup. It’s likely you’re not using different hardware. You seem to be installing frequently, but your systems with old Windows versions are working fine. Just stick with the installer and close it when done.
I just figured it out, thanks! I understand why I was searching for a method to adjust an installer so I wouldn't end up with a final image after it. There are several reasons—I often tweak things at a low level, which might last only a few weeks, and then it breaks eventually. I prefer a fresh install because it helps clear up the issues I created. EDIT: fixed some typos
Wouldn't it be better to maintain every system's backup? That way, when something fails, you can revert to a stable version without needing complete overhauls or full restarts.
I used to do that before it stopped working a few months ago. It meant keeping an external hard drive with all my systems backed up. After the drive failed, I started reinstalling it manually whenever I wanted. I did this for all the machines during Christmas and New Year holidays, but it took a lot of time. The issue is that these systems aren’t all in one place, so even though I have a NAS, I’d need to use a VPN to connect two machines to it, which isn’t ideal.
Consider using a separate external HDD for each system. Modern external drives are affordable, so simply connect them and enable automatic backups.