How can I configure Dark Mode theme for all users in a VM image?

han sooloo 1 Reputation point
2021-02-23T13:11:30.8+00:00

Pretty simple use case:
I am preparing a virtual machine image that will be cloned to create lots of identical copies. I would like the users' desktop to have Dark Mode configured as a standard part of the experience. The users will be local to the VMs, so there is no AD involved here.

I would prepare the image using the following steps:

  1. Install Windows 10 as usual
  2. Go into Audit Mode after reboot to install some standard apps, e.g., Notepad++, etc
  3. Load the NTuser.dat file from C:\Users\Default\ into registry under a temporary location under HKEY_USERS
  4. Add the 2 dark mode related settings under Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize:
    1. AppsUseLightTheme, DWORD, 0
    2. SystemUseLightTheme, DWORD, 0
  5. Unload the temporary hive loaded in step-3
  6. Generalize with CopyProfile and Reboot.

Problem Statement:
When the system reboots, it gets stuck at a blue "Why did my PC Restart?" screen. If I remove these 2 changes to the Default user registry settings, then I don't run into this problem.

Question:
How can I get my image configured so that anyone with a local user account on the VM can get the Dark Mode experience in the cloned images?

Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10: A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.Setup: The procedures involved in preparing a software program or application to operate within a computer or mobile device.
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  1. Jenny Feng 14,146 Reputation points
    2021-02-24T02:30:29.88+00:00

    Hi,
    You may refer to the following link:
    Enable Dark Mode Synchronization
    https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-Fusion/12/com.vmware.fusion.using.doc/GUID-342C1158-1603-4FF4-8EB9-8E1B4FE292FC.html
    Please note: Information posted in the given link is hosted by a third party. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy and effectiveness of information.
    Hope above information can help you.

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