clone everything to other desktop ( windows 11 )

Question

I have 30 desktop with same specification , want to install same application , every thing in the desktop should be the same , I have already setup one desktop want to clone to another 29 desktop , would advise what is the best way to do that ?

thanks

Answer 1

Creating a "Golden image" involves setting up a system exactly as you want it, installing all necessary applications, and then using Sysprep to prepare the image for cloning. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create and deploy a golden image in Windows 11:

Note: Make sure you have the appropriate licenses for the software you're including in the golden image.

Set Up Your Reference System:

• On one of your desktops, set up Windows 11 with all the applications and configurations you want to include in the golden image.
• Install drivers, updates, and all necessary software.

1. Run Sysprep:
   • Press Win + R, then type "Sysprep" and press Enter.
   • In the Sysprep tool, choose "Enter System Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE)" and check "Generalize."
   • Choose "Shutdown" from the Shutdown Options.
   • Click "OK" to start the process. This will prepare the system for imaging.
2. Create an Image of the Reference System:
   • Boot the reference system using imaging software such as Clonezilla (https://pureinfotech.com/clone-windows-10-drive-clonezilla/), Macrium Reflect, or a similar tool.
     • Create an image of the entire reference system's hard drive or partition. Save the image to an external storage device.
3. Deploy the Golden Image:

• For each of the other 29 desktops, you will need to deploy the golden image using the imaging software you used in step 3.
  • Boot each desktop using the imaging software, and then restore the golden image from the external storage device.

Finalize the Deployed Systems:

• Once the image is deployed to a new desktop, it will go through the Windows Setup process.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup, including creating user accounts and configuring network settings.

Activate Windows and Install Drivers:

• After the setup is complete, you might need to activate Windows and install any drivers specific to the hardware of each individual desktop.

Remember that creating and deploying golden images can save time, but it's important to ensure that the applications and settings in the golden image are compatible with all the target desktops. Also, remember that the Sysprep process generalizes the image, meaning it might remove unique hardware-specific information. If your desktops have significantly different hardware configurations, you might encounter compatibility issues.