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Quick Start Guide for Microsoft System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager

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Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2013 provides technology for deploying Windows operating systems, and Microsoft Office. This quick start guide helps you quickly evaluate MDT 2013 by providing condensed, step-by-step instructions for using it to install the Windows 8.1 operating system with Microsoft System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager. This quick start guide demonstrates how to perform the New Computer deployment scenario, which covers the deployment of Windows 8.1 to a new computer. This scenario assumes that there is no user data or profile to preserve.

Note

In this document, Windows applies to the Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Server® 2012 R2, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2008 R2 operating systems unless otherwise noted. MDT does not support ARM processor-based versions of Windows. Similarly, MDT refers to MDT 2013 unless otherwise stated.

After using this guide to evaluate MDT, review the rest of the MDT guidance to learn more about the technology's advanced features.

Prerequisites

Zero Touch Installation installations using Configuration Manager have the following prerequisites.

Required Software

To complete this guide, the following software is required:

  • Windows Server 2008 R2

  • Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2

  • SQL Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1)

  • SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 Cumulative Update 6 (CU6)

  • Windows 8.1

  • System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager

  • Microsoft .NET Framework version 3.5 with SP1

  • Windows PowerShell version 2.0

  • Windows Preinstallation Environment (Windows PE), which is included in Configuration Manager

  • Networking services, including Domain Name System (DNS) and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)

  • Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)

    See the Supported Configurations for Configuration Manager for additional software combinations that can be used for installing Configuration Manager.

Note

The Task Sequencer used in MDT deployments requires that the Create Global Object right be assigned to credentials used to access and run the Deployment Workbench and the deployment process. This right is normally available to accounts with Administrator-level permissions (unless explicitly removed). Also, the Specialized Security - Limited Functionality (SSLF) security profile removes the Create Global Object right and should not be applied to computers deployed using MDT.

Computer Configuration

To complete this guide, set up the computers listed in the following table. These computers can be either physical computers or virtual machines (VMs) with the system resources designated.

Computer Description and system resources
WDG-MDT-01 This computer runs the MDT infrastructure and Configuration Manager. The computer runs Windows Server 2008 R2 with the following networking services installed:

- AD DS
- DNS Server
- DHCP Server
- Windows Deployment Services

The system resources of the computer are as follows:

- Quad-core processor running at 2.66 gigahertz (GHz) or faster
- 4 gigabytes (GB) or more of physical memory
- A disk partition that has 40 GB or more of available disk space; it will become the drive C partition
- One CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive that will be assigned the drive letter D
- A disk partition that has 40 GB or more of available disk space; it will become partition E.
WDG-REF-01 This is the reference computer, which runs no current operating system. The system resources of the computer are as follows:

- Processor running at 1.4 GHz or faster
- 1 GB or more of physical memory
- 16 GB or more of available disk space
WDG-CLI-01 This is the target computer, which runs no current operating system. The system resources of the computer are as follows:

- Processor running at 1.4 GHz or faster
- 1 GB or more of physical memory
- 16 GB or more of available disk space

The resources listed in the preceding table reflect the system resources recommended to perform the steps in this guide. For information on the minimum system resource requirements for:

Note

This guide assumes that MDT is being evaluated on 64-bit (x64) physical or virtual computers. If evaluating MDT on 32-bit (x86) platforms, download and install the x86 editions of MDT and the components that this guide describes.

Step 1: Prepare the Prerequisite Infrastructure

For purposes of this guide, all the prerequisite infrastructure services run on the computer named WDG-MDT-01. Install the prerequisite software, server roles, and services on this computer before installing MDT.

Note

This section assumes that you are creating a new Configuration Manager infrastructure for MDT. If you are using an existing Configuration Manager infrastructure, review the steps in this section and substitute existing resource names for the resources created in this section (such as the computer name and shared network folders). After reviewing this section, proceed to Step 2: Prepare the MDT Environment.

Prepare the prerequisite infrastructure before installing MDT by:

Step 1-1: Install Windows Server 2008 R2

Information for Installing Windows Server 2008 R2. Accept default values unless otherwise specified.

When prompted for Provide these values
Where do you want to install Windows? Disk 0 Unallocated Space
Password Any strong password
Computer name WDG-MDT-01
Format for volumes C and E NTFS
TCP/IP configuration Configure with a static IP address configuration, with the other TCP/IP configuration options as appropriate for the environment

Step 1-2: Create the Required Folders and Network Shares

The MDT deployment process requires additional folders that are used as the source for files or to store files created during the MDT deployment process. Some of these folders need to be shared so that they can be accessed from other computers.

To create the required folders and share

  1. The MDT Deployment Process Requires several folders. Create the following folders and shares with the specified permissions for each share.

    Create this folder With this share name With these share permissions
    E:\Source$ Source$ Administrators: Co-owner

    Everyone: Read
    E:\Images$ Images$ Administrators: Co-owner

    Everyone: Read
    E:\Capture$ Capture$ Administrators: Co-owner

    Everyone: Read
    E:\Packages$ Packages$ Administrators: Co-owner

    Everyone: Read

  2. Create the following folders:

    • E:\CMDownloads

    • E:\Source$\CustomSettings

    • E:\Source$\Drivers

    • E:\Source$\Windows_8-1

    • E:\Source$\MDT_2013

    • E:\Source$\SQL2008R2

    • E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1

    • E:\Source$\SQL2008R2CU6

    • E:\Source$\ConfigMgr

    • E:\Packages$\Drivers

  3. Copy the device drivers for the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) and the target computer (WDG-CLI-01) to E:\Source$\Drivers.

Note

The processes in this guide assume that the reference computer and target computer have the same devices and do not require different devices drivers.

Step 1-3: Obtain the Required Software

Besides Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8.1, and Configuration Manager, certain software is required to evaluate MDT based on the processes in this guide. The following table lists the software required to perform deployments using MDT, where to obtain the software, and where to place the software on WDG-MDT-01.

Obtain this software Place in this folder
MDT 2013 E:\Source$\MDT_2013
Windows 8.1 distribution files from the product media E:\Source$\Windows_8-1
Device drivers required for the reference and target computers (WDG-REF-01 and WDG-CLI-01) E:\Source$\Drivers
SQL Server 2008 R2 from the product media E:\Source$\SQL2008R2
SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1, available at https://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=26113 E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1
SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 CU6, available at https://support.microsoft.com/kb/2679367 E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1CU6
Configuration Manager from the product media E:\Source$\ConfigMgr

Step 1-4: Install the AD DS Server Role

AD DS is required to provide authentication and act as a repository for configuration values for the Microsoft products and technologies that MDT uses, such as SQL Server 2008 R2 and Configuration Manager.

To install AD DS, run the DCPROMO Wizard to configure the computer as a domain controller. Install AD DS using the following information, accepting any defaults unless otherwise specified.

When prompted Do this
For the domain type Create a new domain in a new forest.
For the fully qualified domain name Type mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com.
For the forest functional level Select Windows Server 2008 R2.
To install the DNS Server service as part of the domain controller installation process Select Yes.

Step 1-5: Install the DHCP Server Server Role

The DHCP Server server role is required to provide automatic IP configuration for the target computers. Install DHCP Server using the following information, accepting any defaults unless otherwise specified.

Note

If you are using a virtualized environment, disable any DHCP configuration that the computer-virtualization software provides. Ensure that the DHCP Server service running WDG-MDT-01 is the only provider of IP configuration using DHCP.

On this wizard page Do this
Authorize DHCP server in Active Directory Authorize WDG-MDT-01 to provide client IP configuration.
DHCP scopes Create an appropriate scope that can be used to automatically configure TCP/IP for WDG-REF-01 and WDG-CLI-01.
DHCPv6 stateless mode configuration Disable DHCPv6 stateless mode for this server.

Step 1-6: Install the Web Services (IIS) Server Role

Install the Web Services (IIS) server role with the role services listed in the following table. These role services are required for SQL Server 2008 R2 and Configuration Manager. Unless otherwise specified, use the default values.

Role service Status
Web Server Installed
Common HTTP Features Installed
Static Content Installed
Default Document Installed
Directory Browsing Installed
HTTP Errors Installed
HTTP Redirection Installed
WebDAV Publishing Installed
Application Development Installed
ASP.NET Installed
.NET Extensibility Installed
ASP Not installed
CGI Not installed
ISAPI Extensions Installed
ISAPI Filters Installed
Server Side Includes Not installed
Health and Diagnostics Installed
HTTP Logging Installed
Logging Tools Installed
Request Monitor Installed
Tracing Installed
Custom Logging Not installed
ODBC Logging Not installed
Security Installed
Basic Authentication Not installed
Windows Authentication Installed
Digest Authentication Not installed
Client Certificate Mapping Authentication Not installed
IIS Client Certificate Mapping Authentication Not installed
URL Authorization Not installed
Request Filtering Installed
IP and Domain Restriction Not installed
Performance Installed
Static Content Compression Installed
Dynamic Content Compression Not installed
Management Tools Installed
IIS Management Console Installed
IIS Management Scripts and Tools Not installed
Management Service Not installed
IIS 6 Management Compatibility Installed
IIS 6 Metabase Compatibility Installed
IIS 6 WMI Compatibility Installed
IIS 6 Scripting Tools Not installed
IIS 6 Management Console Not installed
FTP Publishing Service Not installed
FTP Server Not installed
FTP Management Console Not installed
IIS Hostable Web Core Not installed

Step 1-7: Add the Required Windows Server 2008 R2 Features

In addition to installing the required Windows Server 2008 R2 server roles, add the following required features in Server Manager in the Features Summary section:

  • Background Intelligent Transfer Service

  • Remote Differential Compression

Step 1-8: Create the Required User and Service Accounts

Configuration Manager and SQL Server 2008 R2 require user accounts during the installation process. Use the following information for creating these accounts.

Create this account With these settings
SQL Server Agent service account 1. In First name, type SQL Agent.
2. In Last name, type Service Account.
3. In User logon name, type SQLAgent.
4. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
5. Clear the User must change password at next logon check box.
6. Select the Password never expires check box.
7. Make the account a member of the Domain Admins security group.
8. In Description, type Service account used to run SQL Server 2008 R2 Agent service.
SQL Server Database Engine service account 1. In First name, type SQL DB Engine.
2. In Last name, type Service Account.
3. In User logon name, type SQLDBEngine.
4. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
5. Clear the User must change password at next logon check box.
6. Select the Password never expires check box.
7. Make the account a member of the Domain Admins security group.
8. In Description, type Service account used to run SQL Server 2008 R2 database engine.
SQL Server Reporting Services service account 1. In First name, type SQL Reporting.
2. In Last name, type Service Account.
3. In User logon name, type SQLReport.
4. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
5. Clear the User must change password at next logon check box.
6. Select the Password never expires check box.
7. Make the account a member of the Domain Admins security group.
8. In Description, type Service account used to run SQL Server 2008 R2 reporting services.
Configuration Manager Client Network Access account 1. In First name, type CM 2012.
2. In Last name, type Client Network Access.
3. In User logon name, type CMNetAccess.
4. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
5. Clear the User must change password at next logon check box.
6. Select the Password never expires check box.
7. In Description, type Service account used as the network access account for Configuration Manager Client.

Step 1-9: Install SQL Server 2008 R2

Before installing Configuration Manager, install SQL Server 2008 R2 with SP1 and CU6 for SP1.

Note

To enable all SQL Server 2008 R2 features, install the Web Services (IIS) server role before installing SQL Server 2008 R2.

To install SQL Server 2008 R2

  1. Start the SQL Server Installation Center.

  2. In the SQL Server Installation Center, in the navigation pane, select Installation.

  3. In the details pane, select New installation or add features to an existing installation.

    SQL Server 2008 R2 Setup Wizard starts.

  4. Install SQL Server 2008 R2 using the following information, accepting the defaults unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Setup Support Rules Select OK.
    Product Key Select Next.
    License Terms Select the I accept the license terms check box, and then select Next.
    Setup Support Files Select Install.
    Setup Support Rules Ensure that no critical results exist for the rules, and then select Next.
    Setup Role Select SQL Server Feature Installation, and select Next.
    Feature Selection 1. Select Database Engine Services check box.
    2. Select Reporting Services check box.
    3. Select Full-Text Search check box.
    4. Select Management Tools - Complete check box.
    5. Select Next.
    Installation Rules Select Next.
    Instance Configuration Select Next.
    Disk Space Requirements Select Next.
    Server Configuration 1. For SQL Server Agent, in Account Name, type MDT2013\SQLAgent, and in Password, type P@ssw0rd.
    2. For SQL Server Database Engine, in Account Name, type MDT2013\SQLDBEngine, in Password, type P@ssw0rd.
    3. For SQL Server Reporting Services, in Account Name, type MDT2013\SQLReport, in Password, type P@ssw0rd.
    4. Select Next.
    Database Engine Configuration Select Add Current User, and select Next.
    Reporting Services Configuration Select Next.
    Error Reporting Select Next.
    Installation Configuration Rules Select Next.
    Ready to Install Select Install.
    Complete Select Close.

  5. Close the SQL Server Installation Center.

To install SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1

  1. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1, and double-click SQLServer2008R2SP1-KB2528583-x64-ENU.exe.

    The Extracting Files dialog box displays the file-extraction process. When the process is complete, the SQL Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 Update Setup Wizard starts.

  2. Install SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 using the following information, accepting the defaults unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    SQL Server 2008 R2 update Select Next.
    License Terms Select the I accept the license terms check box, and then select Next.
    Select Features Select Next.
    Check Files In Use Select Next.
    Ready to update Select Update.
    Update Progress The progress is displayed on the wizard page as the update is performed and completes.
    Complete Select Close.

To install SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 CU6

  1. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1CU6, and double-click 446622_intl_x64_zip.exe.

    The Microsoft Self-Extractor dialog box appears.

  2. In the Microsoft Self-Extractor dialog box, select Continue.

  3. In the Microsoft Self-Extractor dialog box, in Select the folder where you want to unzip the files to, type E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1CU6, and then select OK.

    Note

    You can select the ellipsis (...) to browse for the E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1CU6 folder.

    The extraction process is displayed. When the process is complete, the completion status is displayed.

  4. In the Microsoft Self-Extractor dialog box, select OK.

  5. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Source$\SQL2008R2SP1CU6, and double-click SQLServer2008R2-KB2679367-x64.exe.

    The Extracting Files dialog box displays the file-extraction process. When the process is complete, the SQL Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 CU6 Update Setup Wizard starts.

  6. Install SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 CU6 using the following information, accepting the defaults unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    SQL Server 2008 R2 update Select Next.
    License Terms Select the I accept the license terms check box, and then select Next.
    Select Features Select Next.
    Check Files In Use Select Next.
    Ready to update Select Update.
    Update Progress The progress is displayed on the wizard page as the update is performed.
    Complete Select Close.

    The Install a SQL Server 2008 R2 Update dialog box appears prompting you to restart the computer to complete the setup.

  7. In the Install a SQL Server 2008 R2 update dialog box, select OK.

  8. Restart the computer.

  9. After installing SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 CU6, the SQL Server build number should be 10.51.2811.0.

    Tip

    You can verify the SQL Server build number by viewing the SQL Server updates applied in the Programs and Features Control Panel item by selecting View installed updates.

Step 1-10: Add the Site Server to the Administrators Security Group

When all computers are in the same forest, manually add the site server computer account to the local Administrators group on each computer. Complete this step before configuring the computer as a site system.

To add the site server to the Administrators security group

  1. Select Start, point to Administrative Tools, and then select Active Directory Users and Computers.

  2. In the Active Directory Users and Computers console tree, go to mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com/Builtin.

  3. In the preview pane, right-click Administrators, and then select Properties.

  4. In the Administrators Properties dialog box, select the Members tab, and then select Add.

  5. In the Select Users, Contacts, Computers, or Groups dialog box, select Object Types.

  6. In the Object Types dialog box, in Object types, select Computers, and then select OK.

  7. In the Select Users, Contacts, Computers, or Groups dialog box, in Enter the object names to select, type WDG-MDT-01. Select Check Names, and then select OK.

  8. Close any open windows.

Step 1-11: Install Configuration Manager

When the other products and technologies have been installed, install Configuration Manager. Before doing so, however, extend the Active Directory schema so that computers can locate the distribution points, service locator points, and other server roles. Also, you can extend the schema after you have installed Configuration Manager. For more information about how to extend the Active Directory schema for Configuration Manager, see the section, "Extend the Active Directory Schema," in the Configuration Manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

After extending the Active Directory schema, install Configuration Manager. The configuration of WDG-MDT-01 supports Configuration Manager for this sample. The configuration of computers in the production network may vary. To find out more about the prerequisites for installing Configuration Manager, see Supported Configurations for Configuration Manager.

To install Configuration Manager

  1. Start the System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager Setup splash screen.

  2. On the System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager Setup splash screen, select the Install link.

    The Microsoft System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager Setup Wizard starts.

  3. Complete the Microsoft System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager Setup Wizard using the following information, accepting the defaults unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Before You Begin Select Next.
    Getting Started Select Next.
    Product Key In Enter your 25-character product key, type product_key (where product_key is your product key for Configuration Manager).
    Microsoft Software License Terms Select the I accept these license terms check box, and then select Next.
    Prerequisite Licenses 1. In the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Express section, select the I accept these License Terms check box.
    2. In the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Native Client section, select the I accept these License Terms check box.
    3. In the Microsoft Silverlight 4 section, select the I accept these License Terms and automatic updates of Silverlight check box.
    4. Select Next.
    Update Prerequisite Components In Download and use the latest updates. Updates will be saved to the following location, type E:\CMDownloads, and then select Next.
    Server Language Selection Select Next.
    Client Language Selection Select Next.
    Site and Installation Settings 1. In Site code, type NYC.
    2. In Site name, type New York City Site.
    3. Select Next.
    Primary Site Installation 1. Select Install the primary site as a stand-alone site.
    2. Select Next.
    The Configuration Manager dialog box appears, confirming that you want to install this site as a stand-alone site.
    3. In the Configuration Manager dialog box, select Yes.
    Database Information Select Next.
    SMS Provider Settings Select Next.
    Client Computer Communication Settings Select Configure the communication method on each site system role, and then select Next.
    Site System Roles Select Next.
    Customer Experience Improvement Program Configuration 1. Select the appropriate participation in the Customer Experience Improvement program for your organization.
    2. Select Next.
    Settings Summary Select Next.
    Prerequisite Check Select Begin Install.
    Install 1. Monitor the installation process until it is complete.
    2. Select Close.

  4. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

    When the wizard is complete, Configuration Manager is installed.

Step 1-12: Configure the Network Access Account

The Configuration Manager client needs an account to provide credentials when accessing the Configuration Manager distribution points, MDT deployment shares, and shared folders. This account is called the Network Access account. The CMNetAccess account was created earlier in the process to use as the Network Access account.

To configure the Network Access account

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Administration.

  3. In the Administration workspace, go to Overview/Site Configuration/Sites.

  4. In the preview pane, select NYC - New York City Site.

  5. On the Ribbon, select Settings, select Configure Site Components, and then select Software Distribution.

  6. In the Software Distribution Component Properties dialog box, select the Network Access Account tab.

  7. In Network Access Account, select Specify the account that accessed network locations, select Set, and then select New Account.

    The Windows User Account dialog box appears.

  8. Complete the Windows User Account dialog box using the following information, and then select OK.

    For this Do this
    User name Type MDT2013\CMNetAccess.
    Password Type P@ssw0rd.
    Confirm password Type P@ssw0rd.

  9. In the Software Distribution Component Properties dialog box, select OK.

  10. Close any open windows.

Step 1-13: Configure the Configuration Manager Site Boundaries and Boundary Groups

The Configuration Manager client needs to know the boundaries for the site. Unless the site boundaries are specified, the client assumes that the computer running Configuration Manager is in a remote site. Add a site boundary based on the IP subnet that WDG-MDT-01, WDG-REF-01, and WDG-CLI-01 use. Then add the site boundary to a site boundary group.

To create a Configuration Manager site boundary

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Administration.

  3. In the Administration workspace, go to Overview/Hierarchy Configuration/Boundaries.

  4. On the Ribbon, select Create Boundary.

    The Create Boundary dialog box opens.

  5. Complete the Create Boundary dialog box using the following information, and then select OK.

    Note

    For this sample, the site boundary is specified by network address. However, you can also specify site boundaries using an AD DS site name or an IP address range.

    For this Do this
    Description Type IP Subnet Boundary.
    Type Select IP subnet.
    Network Type network_address (where network_address is the network address of the subnet where the computers are installed).
    Subnet mask Type subnet_mask (where subnet_mask is the subnet mask of the subnet where the computers are installed).

To add the Configuration Manager site boundary to a site boundary group

  1. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Administration.

  2. In the Administration workspace, go to Overview/Hierarchy Configuration/Boundary Groups.

  3. On the Ribbon, select Create Boundary Group.

    The Create Boundary Group dialog box opens.

  4. Complete the General tab of the Create Boundary Group dialog box using the following information.

    For this Do this
    Name Type New York City Boundary Group.
    Description Type This is the boundary group for the site boundaries at the New York City site.
    Boundaries 1. Select Add.
    The Add Boundaries dialog box appears.
    2. In the Add Boundaries dialog box, select site_boundary (where site_boundary is the site boundary you created earlier in the process), and then select OK.
    The site boundary appears in the list of boundaries.

  5. Complete the References tab of the Create Boundary Group dialog box using the following information, and then select OK.

    For this Do this
    Site assignment Select the Use this boundary group for site assignment check box.
    Content location 1. Select Add.
    The Add Site Systems dialog box appears.
    2. In the Add Site Systems dialog box, select \\WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    The site system server appears in the list of site system servers.

  6. Close any open windows.

Step 1-14: Configure the Publishing of Site Information in AD DS and DNS

The Configuration Manager client needs to locate the various Configuration Manager server roles. Modify the site properties to publish the site information in AD DS and in DNS.

To configure the publishing of site information in AD DS and in DNS

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Administration.

  3. In the Administration workspace, go to Overview/Site Configuration/Sites.

  4. In the preview pane, select NYC - New York City Site.

  5. On the Ribbon, select Properties.

  6. In the New York City Site Properties dialog box, on the Publishing tab, verify that the mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com Active Directory forest is listed, and then select Cancel.

  7. Close any open windows.

Step 2: Prepare the MDT Environment

The first step in the deployment process is to prepare the MDT environment. When this step is complete, you can create the reference computer and deploy a captured image of it to the target computer (WDG-CLI-01) using Configuration Manager integration with MDT.

Prepare the MDT environment by:

Step 2-1: Install MDT

To install MDT, complete the following steps:

  1. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Source$\MDT_2013.

  2. Double-click MicrosoftDeploymentToolkit2013_x64.msi (for 64-bit operating systems) or MicrosoftDeploymentToolkit2013_x86.msi (for 32-bit operating systems), and then select Install.

    The Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Setup Wizard starts.

  3. Complete the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Setup Wizard using the information in the following table. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Welcome to the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Setup Wizard Select Next.
    End-User License Agreement Select I accept the terms in the License Agreement, and then select Next.
    Custom Setup Select Next.
    Ready to install Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Select Install.
    Installing Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 The progress for installing MDT is displayed.
    Completing the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Setup Wizard Select Finish.

    The Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2013 Setup Wizard finishes, and MDT is installed on WDG-MDT-01.

Step 2-2: Enable Configuration Manager Console Integration

Before you can use the Configuration Manager integration features of MDT, run the Configure ConfigMgr Integration script. This script copies the appropriate integration files to the folder in which Configuration Manager is installed. The script also adds Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) classes for the new MDT custom actions. The classes are added by compiling a new Managed Object Format (.mof) file that contains the new class definitions.

To enable Configuration Manager console integration

Note

Ensure that the Configuration Manager console is closed while performing these steps.

  1. Select Start, and then point to All Programs. Point to Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, and then select Configure ConfigMgr Integration.

    The Configure ConfigMgr Integration Wizard starts.

  2. Complete the Configure ConfigMgr Integration Wizard using the information in the following table. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Options 1. Verify that the Install the MDT console extensions for System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager check box is selected.
    2. Verify that the Add the MDT task sequence actions to a System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager server check box is selected.
    3. In Site server name, verify that the value is WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com.
    4. In Site code, verify that the value is NYC.
    5. Select Next.
    Confirmation Select Finish.

    The Configure ConfigMgr Integration Wizard finishes, and MDT is integrated with Configuration Manager.

Step 3: Create and Configure a Task Sequence to Create a Reference Computer

When you have prepared the MDT environment, create the reference computer. The reference computer is the template for deploying new images to the target computers. Configure this computer (WDG-REF-01) exactly as you will configure the target computers. You will then capture an image of the reference computer and deploy the image to the target computers.

Create the reference computer, WDG-REF-01, by:

Step 3-1: Create an MDT Task Sequence for Deploying the Reference Computer

Use the Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard in the Configuration Manager console to create task sequences in Configuration Manager that are integrated with MDT. MDT includes the Standard Client Task Sequence template, which you can use to deploy the reference computer.

The Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard substitutes the packages and images selected for the placeholders in the task sequence templates. After completing the wizard, the new task sequence references the appropriate packages and images.

Note

Always use the Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard to create task sequences based on the MDT task sequence templates. Although you can manually import the task sequence templates, Microsoft does not recommend this process.

To create a task sequence for deploying the reference computer

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Task Sequences group, select Create MDT Task Sequence.

    The Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard using the information in the following table. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Choose Template Select Client Task Sequence, and then select Next.
    Choose Template: General 1. In Task sequence name, type Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment.
    2. In Task sequence comments, type Task sequence for deploying Windows 8.1 to the reference computer (WDG-REF-01), and then select Next.
    Choose Template: Details 1. Select Join a workgroup.
    2. In Workgroup, type WORKGROUP.
    3. In User name, type Woodgrove Bank Employee.
    4. In Organization name, type Woodgrove Bank.
    5. In Product key, type product_key (where product_key is the product key for Windows 8.1).
    6. Select Next.
    Choose Template: Capture Settings
    1. Select This task sequence may be used to capture and image.
    2. In Capture destination, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\WDG-REF-01.wim.
    3. In Capture account, select Set.
    4. Complete the Windows User Account dialog box by performing the following steps:

      1. In User name, type MDT2013\Administrator.
      2. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
    5. Select OK.
    6. Select Next.
    Boot Image 1. Select Create a new boot image package.
    2. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\WINPE_Custom, and then select Next.
    Boot Image: General Settings 1. In Name, type Windows PE Custom.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type Customized version of Windows PE to be used in deployment of reference and target computers, and then select Next.
    Boot Image: Options Under Platform, select x64, and then select Next.
    Boot Image: Components Select Next.
    Boot Image: Customization Select Next.
    MDT Package 1. Select Create a new Microsoft Deployment Toolkit Files package.
    2. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\MDT_Files, and then select Next.
    MDT Package: MDT Details 1. In Name, type MDT Files.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type Provides access to MDT files during Configuration Manager deployment process, and then select Next.
    OS Image 1. Select Create a new OS install package.
    2. In OS installation folder location, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Source$\Windows_7.
    3. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\Windows_7, and then select Next.
    OS Image: Image Details 1. In Name, type Windows 8.1.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type Windows 8.1 package used to deploy to reference computers, and then select Next.
    Deployment Method Select Next.
    Client Package Select Create a new ConfigMgr client package, and then select Next.
    USMT Package 1. Select Create a new USMT package.
    2. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\USMT, and then select Next.
    USMT Package: USMT Details 1. In Name, type USMT.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type USMT files used to capture and restore user state migration information, and then select Next.
    Settings Package 1. Select Create a new settings package.
    2. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\CustomSettings_Reference, and then select Next.
    Settings Package: Settings Details 1. In Name, type MDT Reference Computer Custom Settings.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type Configuration settings for MDT deployment process (such as CustomSettings.ini) for the reference computer, and then select Next.
    Sysprep Package Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the task sequence is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Finish.

    The new task sequence appears in the preview pane.

Step 3-2: Select the Distribution Points for the New Packages and Images

The Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard creates a number of packages and images. After these packages and images are created, select the distribution points from which the packages and images will be copied and available to target computers.

Note

In this sample, there is only one distribution point (WDG-MDT-01). However, most production networks have multiple distribution points. When performing this step in a production environment, select the appropriate distribution points for the network.

To select the distribution points for software distribution packages

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Distribute Content.

    The Distribute Content Wizard starts.

  6. Complete the Distribute Content Wizard using the information in the following table. Accept default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General Select Next.
    General: Content Select Next.
    General: Content Destination 1. Select Add, and then select Distribution Point.
    The Add Distribution Points dialog box appears.
    2. In the Add Distribution Points dialog box, select WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    WDG-MDT-01.corp.woodgrovebank.com appears in the Content destination list.
    3. Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for distributing the software is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

  7. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 3-3: Add the Necessary Device Drivers

When the MDT task sequence has been created, add any device drivers required for the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) to the Windows PE boot image and to the Windows 8.1 image. Add the device drivers in the Drivers node in the Configuration Manager console. Create a package that contains the device drivers, and inject the drivers into the custom Windows PE image created earlier in the process.

After creating the package that contains the device drivers, select the distribution point to which the package will be deployed.

To add the necessary device drivers

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Drivers.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Import Driver.

    The Import New Driver Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Import New Driver Wizard using the information in the following table. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Locate Driver In Source folder, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Source$\Drivers, and then select Next.
    Locate Driver: Driver Details Select Next.
    Locate Driver: Add Driver to Package
    1. Select New Package.
    2. Complete the New Driver Package dialog box by performing the following steps:

      1. In Name, type device_driver_name Package (where device_driver_name is a descriptive name for the device drivers).
      2. In Comment, type Device drivers that are necessary for the reference and target computers.
    3. In Driver package source, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\Drivers, and then select OK.
    4. Select Next.
    Locate Driver: Add Driver to Boot Images 1. In the list of images, select the Windows PE Custom check box.
    2. Select the Update distribution points when finished check box, and then select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for importing the device drivers is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Close.

To select the distribution points for the driver package

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Driver Packages.

  4. In the preview pane, select device_driver_name Package (where device_driver_name is a descriptive name for the device drivers).

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Distribute Content.

    The Distribute Content Wizard starts.

  6. Complete the Distribute Content Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General Select Next.
    General: Content Select Next.
    General: Content Destination 1. Select Add, and then select Distribution Point.
    The Add Distribution Points dialog box appears.
    2. In the Add Distribution Points dialog box, select \\WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    \\WDGMDT01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com appears in the Content destination list.
    3. Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for distributing the software is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

  7. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 3-4: Enable MDT Deployment Process Monitoring

Prior to deploying the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) with the task sequence bootable media, enable MDT monitoring of the ZTI deployment process. You enable monitoring on the Monitoring tab on the deployment share Properties dialog box. Later in the process, you will monitor the ZTI deployment process using the Deployment Workbench or the Get-MDTMonitorData cmdlet.

To enable MDT monitoring of the ZTI deployment process

  1. Select Start, and then point to All Programs. Point to Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, and then select Deployment Workbench.

  2. In the Deployment Workbench console tree, go to Deployment Workbench/Deployment Shares.

  3. In the Actions pane, select New Deployment Shares.

    The New Deployment Share Wizard starts.

  4. Complete the New Deployment Share Wizard using the following information

    On this wizard page Do this
    On this wizard page Do this
    Path In Deployment share path, type C:\DeploymentShare$, and then select Next.
    Share Select Next.
    Descriptive Name Select Next.
    Options Select Next.
    Summary Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the deployment share is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Finish.

    The New Deployment Share Wizard finishes, and the new deployment share—MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$)—appears in the details pane.

  5. In the details pane, select MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$).

  6. In the Actions pane, select Properties.

    The MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$) Properties dialog box opens.

  7. In the MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$) Properties dialog box, on the Monitoring tab, select the Enable monitoring for this deployment share check box, and then select Apply.

  8. In the MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$) Properties dialog box, on the Rules tab, notice that the EventService property has been added to the CustomSettings.ini file, and then select OK.

    The EventService property is as follows:

    EventService=http://WDG-MDT-01:9800

  9. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 3-5: Customize the MDT Configuration Files for the Reference Computer

When the MDT task sequence has been created, customize the MDT configuration files that provide the configuration settings for deploying Windows 8.1 to the target computer. Specifically, customize the CustomSettings.ini file.

When the CustomSettings.ini file customization is finished, save the updated files to the source folder for the MDT Reference Computer Custom Settings package created earlier in the process (E:\Packages$\CustomSettings_Reference). Then, add the DoCapture and EventService properties and corresponding values to the CustomSettings.ini file so that the MDT deployment process captures an image of the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) after deploying Windows 8.1.

To customize the MDT configuration files for the reference computer

  1. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Packages$\CustomSettings_Reference, and then double-click CustomSettings.ini.

  2. Open Microsoft Notepad, and then add the following lines to the end of the CustomSettings.ini file:

    DoCapture=YES
EventService=http://WDG-MDT-01:9800

    Example of CustomSettings.ini file after adding the DoCapture property:

    [Settings]
Priority=Default
Properties=MyCustomProperty

[Default]
OSInstall=Y
SkipCapture=YES
SkipAdminPassword=NO
SkipProductKey=YES
DoCapture=YES
EventService=http://WDG-MDT-01:9800

  3. In Notepad, save the file, and then exit Notepad.

Step 3-6: Update the Distribution Points for the Custom Settings Files Package

When the source folder has been updated for the MDT Reference Computer Custom Settings package in Configuration Manager, update the distribution points for the MDT Reference Computer Custom Settings Files package. Updating the distribution points copies the updated version of the CustomSettings.ini file to the deployment shares specified in the package.

To update the distribution points for the Custom Settings package

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Application Management/Packages.

  4. In the preview pane, select MDT Reference Computer Custom Settings.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Update Distribution Points.

    The Configuration Manager dialog box opens, notifying you that you are going to update the package on all distribution points.

  6. In the Configuration Manager dialog box, select OK.

  7. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

    Configuration Manager starts updating the distribution points with the latest versions of the CustomSettings.ini file. This process could take several minutes. Check the status of the package until the Last Update value of the package status has been updated to a recent date and time.

Step 3-7: Customize the Task Sequence for the Reference Computer

For most deployments, the Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment task sequence created earlier in the process performs all the necessary steps without modification. In this sample, modify the task sequence to set the password for the local Administrator account to a known value. By default, the task sequence sets the password for the local Administrator account to a random value. Further customization of the task sequence may be required depending on the environment.

To customize the Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment task sequence

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Task Sequence group, select Edit.

    The Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment Task Sequence Editor dialog box opens.

  6. In the Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment Task Sequence Editor dialog box, go to PostInstall/Apply Windows Settings.

  7. On the Properties tab, select Enable the account and specify the local administrator password.

  8. On the Properties tab, in Password and Confirm Password, type P@ssw0rd, and then select Apply.

  9. Make any additional modifications to the task sequence that the environment requires, and then select OK.

  10. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 4: Deploy Windows 8.1 and Capture an Image of the Reference Computer

When you have created the task sequence to deploy Windows 8.1 to the reference computer and captured an image of the reference computer, start the task sequence. Create the operating system capture by using the Task Sequence Media Wizard in the Configuration Manager console.

Deploy Windows 8.1 and capture an image of the reference computer by:

Step 4-1: Add the Reference Computer to the Configuration Manager Site Database

To deploy an operating system without stand-alone media to a new computer that Configuration Manager does not currently manage, add the new computer to the Configuration Manager site database prior to initiating the operating system deployment process. Configuration Manager can automatically discover computers on the network that have a Windows operating system installed; however, if the computer has no operating system installed, use the Import Computer Information Wizard to import the new computer information.

To add the reference computer to the Configuration Manager site database

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Assets and Compliance.

  3. In the Assets and Compliance workspace, go to Overview/Devices.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Import Computer Information.

    The Import Computer Information Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Import Computer Information Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Select Source Select Import single computer, and then select Next.
    Select Source: Single Computer 1. In Computer Name, type WDG-REF-01.
    2. In MAC address, type mac_address (where mac_address is the media access control [MAC] address of the primary network adapter for the reference computer, WDG-REF-01).
    3. Select Next.
    Select Source: Data Preview Select Next.
    Select Source: Choose Target Collection Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for importing the computer is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Close.

    For more information on adding a new computer to the Configuration Manager site database, see the section, "To import computer information for a single computer," in the section "How to Deploy Operating Systems in Configuration Manager," in the Configuration Manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 4-2: Create a Collection That Contains the Reference Computer

In the Configuration Manager console, create a collection that includes the reference computer (WDG-REF-01). This computer collection is used later when advertising the task sequence created earlier in the process.

To create a collection that includes the reference computer

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Assets and Compliance.

  3. In the Assets and Compliance workspace, go to Overview/Device Collections.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Create, and then select Create Device Collection.

    The Create Device Collection Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Create Device Collection Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General
    1. In Name, type Microsoft Deployment - Reference Computer.
    2. In Comment, type Computer that is to be the reference computer for the target computers to be deployed.
    3. In Limited Collection, select Browse.

      The Select Collection dialog box appears. Complete the dialog box by performing the following steps:

      1. In Name, select All Systems.
      2. Select OK.
    4. Select Next.
    Membership Rules
    1. Select Add Rule, and then select Direct Rule.

      The Create Direct Membership Rule Wizard starts.
    2. Complete the Create Direct Membership Rule Wizard by performing the following steps:

      1. On the Welcome page, select Next.
      2. On the Search for Resources page, in Resource class, select System Resource; in Attribute name, select Name; in Value, type WDG-REF-01; and then select Next.
      3. On the Select Resources page, select WDG-REF-01, and then select Next.
      4. On the Summary page, select Next.
      5. On the Progress page, view the progress for creating the new membership rule.
      6. On the Completion page, select Close.
    3. Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the device collection is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

    For more information, see the section, "How to Create Collections in Configuration Manager," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 4-3: Deploy the Reference Computer Task Sequence

In the Configuration Manager console, deploy the task sequence created earlier in the process to the device collection that includes the reference computer created earlier in the process.

To deploy the task sequence

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Deploy.

    The Deploy Software Wizard starts.

  6. Complete the Deploy Software Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General 1. In Collection, select Browse.
    2. In the Browse Collection dialog box, select Microsoft Deployment - Reference Computer, and then select OK.
    3. In Comment, type Deploy Windows 8.1 to the reference computer and then capture an image of the reference computer.
    4. Select Next.
    Deployment Settings 1. In Purpose, select Available.
    2. Select the Make available to boot media and PXE check box.
    3. Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Schedule Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: User Experience Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Alerts Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Distribution Points Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for deploying the task sequence is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

    For more information, see the section, "How to Deploy a Task Sequence," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 4-4: Create the Task Sequence Bootable Media

To initiate the MDT process, provide a method for starting the computer with Windows PE and the necessary software by creating the task sequence bootable media disk. Use the Task Sequence Media Wizard in the Configuration Manager console to create bootable media for storage on a USB flash drive, CD, or DVD.

To create a task sequence bootable media disk

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Create Task Sequence Media.

    The Create Task Sequence Media Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Create Task Sequence Media Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Select Media Type 1. Select Bootable media.
    2. Clear the Allow unattended operating system deployment check box.
    3. Select Next.
    Select Media Type: Media Management Select Site-based media, and then select Next.
    Select Media Type: Media Type In Media file, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\CM2012_TS_Boot_Media.iso, and then select Next.
    Select Media Type: Security In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd, and then select Next.
    Select Media Type: Boot Image 1. In Boot image, select Browse.
    2. In the Select a Boot Image dialog box, select Windows PE Custom, and then select OK.
    3. In Distribution point, select \\WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    4. In Management point, select \\WDG-MDT-01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    5. Select Next.
    Select Media Type: Customization Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the task sequence media is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

    The wizard creates the CM2012_TS_Boot_Media.iso file in the WDG-MDT-01Capture$ shared folder.

  6. If WDG-REF-01 is a physical computer, create a CD or DVD of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) file. If WDG-REF-01 is a VM, start the VM directly from the ISO file.

    For more information on creating the task sequence bootable media disk, see the section, "How to Create Bootable Media," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 4-5: Start the Reference Computer with the Task Sequence Bootable Media

Start the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) with the task sequence bootable media disk created earlier in the process. This medium starts Windows PE on the reference computer and initiates the MDT process. At the end of the MDT process, Windows 8.1 is deployed on the reference computer and an image of the reference computer is saved to \WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\WDG-REF-01.wim.

Note

You can also initiate the MDT process by starting the target computer from Windows Deployment Services.

To start the reference computer with the task sequence bootable media

  1. Start WDG-REF-01 with the task sequence bootable media created earlier in the process.

    Windows PE starts, and then the Task Sequence Wizard starts.

  2. Complete the Task Sequence Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Welcome to the Task Sequence Wizard In Password, type P@ssw0rd, and then select Next.
    Select a Task Sequence In the list box, select Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment, and then select Next.

To monitor the reference computer deployment process using the Deployment Workbench, complete the following steps on WDG-MDT-01

  1. On WDG-MDT-01, select Start, and then point to All Programs. Point to Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, and then select Deployment Workbench.

  2. In the Deployment Workbench console tree, go to Deployment Workbench/Deployment Shares/MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$)/Monitoring.

  3. In the details pane, view the deployment process for WDG-REF-01.

  4. In the Actions pane, periodically select Refresh.

    The status of the deployment process is updated in the details pane. Continue to monitor the deployment process until the process is complete.

  5. In the details pane, select WDG-REF-01.

  6. In the Actions pane, select Properties.

    The WDG-REF-01 Properties dialog box is displayed.

  7. In the WDG-REF-01 Properties dialog box, on the Identity tab, view the monitoring information provided about the deployment process as follows:

    Information Description
    ID Unique identifier for the computer being deployed.
    Computer Name The name of the computer being deployed.
    Deployment status The current status of the computer being deployed; the status can be one of the following:

    - Running. The task sequence is healthy and running.
    - Failed. The task sequence failed, and the deployment process was unsuccessful.
    - Completed. The task sequence has finished.
    - Unresponsive. The task sequence has not updated its status in the past four hours and is assumed to be nonresponsive.
    Step The current task sequence step being run.
    Progress The overall progress of the task sequence. The progress bar indicates how many task sequence steps have been run out of the total number of task sequence steps.
    Start The time the deployment process started.
    End The time the deployment process ended.
    Elapsed The length of time the deployment process has been running or took to run if the deployment process has finished.
    Errors The number of errors encountered during the deployment process.
    Warnings The number of warnings encountered during the deployment process.
    Remote Desktop This button allows you to establish a remote desktop connection with the computer being deployed using the Windows Remote Desktop feature. This method assumes that:

    - The target operating system is running and has remote desktop support enabled
    - mstsc.exe is in the path Note: This button is always visible but may not be able to establish a remote desktop session if the monitored computer is running Windows PE, has not completed installation of the target operating system, or does not have the Remote Desktop feature enabled.
    VM Connection This button allows you to establish a remote desktop connection to a VM running in HyperV®. This method assumes that:

    - The deployment is being performed to a VM running on Hyper-V
    - vmconnect.exe is located in the %ProgramFiles%\Hyper-V folder Note: This button appears when ZTIGather.wsf detects that Hyper-V integration components are running on the monitored computer. Otherwise, this button will not be visible.
    DaRT Remote Control This button allows you to establish a remote control session using the remote viewer feature in the Diagnostics and Recovery Toolkit (DaRT).

    This method assumes that:

    - DaRT has been deployed to the target computer and is currently running
    - DartRemoteViewer.exe is located in the %ProgramFiles%\Microsoft DaRT 7\v7 folder Note: This button appears when ZTIGather.wsf detects that DaRT is running on the monitored computer. Otherwise, this button will not be visible.
    Automatically refresh this information every 10 seconds Check box that controls whether the information in the dialog box is automatically refreshed. If the check box is:

    - Selected, the information is refreshed every 10 seconds
    - Cleared, the information is not automatically refreshed and must be manually refreshed using the Refresh Now button
    Refresh Now This button immediately refreshes the information displayed in the dialog box.

  8. In the WDG-REF-01 Properties dialog box, select OK.

  9. Close the Deployment Workbench.

To monitor the reference computer deployment process using the Get-MDTMonitorData cmdlet, complete the following steps on WDG-MDT-01

  1. On WDG-MDT-01, select Start, the select Administrative Tools, and then select Windows PowerShell Modules.

    The Windows PowerShell Modules command prompt opens.

  2. Create a PowerShell drive that uses the MDT PowerShell provider by running the New-PSDrive cmdlet as shown in the following example:

    New-PSDrive -Name DS001 -PSProvider mdtprovider -Root d:\DeploymentShare$

  3. View the MDT monitoring process by running the Get-MDTMonitorData cmdlet as shown in the following example:

    Get-MDTMonitorData -Path DS001:

    This command returns the monitoring data collected by the MDT monitoring service running on the same computer that hosts the deployment share, as shown in the following example output:

    Name               : WDG-REF-01
PercentComplete    : 96
Settings           :
Warnings           : 0
Errors             : 0
DeploymentStatus   : 1
StartTime          : 6/7/2012 6:45:39 PM
EndTime            :
ID                 : 1
UniqueID           : 94a0830e-f2bb-421c-b1e0-6f86f9eb9fa1
CurrentStep        : 130
TotalSteps         : 134
StepName           : Gather
LastTime           : 6/7/2012 8:46:32 PM
DartIP             :
DartPort           :
DartTicket         :
VMHost             : XYL-DC-02
VMName             : WDG-REF-01
ComputerIdentities : {}

  4. Close the Windows PowerShell console.

    If any problems occur during the deployment, consult the MDT document Troubleshooting Reference. When completed, a captured image of the reference computer should exist in \\WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\WDG-REF-01.wim.

Step 5: Create and Configure a Task Sequence to Deploy the Target Computer

After the task sequence to deploy the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) finishes, a captured image of the reference computer is stored in \\WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\WDG-REF-01.wim. Now, create a task sequence that will deploy the captured image of the reference computer to the target computer (WDG-CLI-01). When this step is complete, you can deploy the captured image of the reference computer to the target computer.

Create and configure a task sequence to deploy the target computer by:

Step 5-1: Import the Captured .wim File into Configuration Manager

After the image of the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) is captured in to the .wim file, import the captured .wim file into Configuration Manager. Import the captured .wim file into the Operating System Images node using the Add Operating System Image Wizard.

The captured .wim contains two images, one for each partition on the reference computer. Identify which of the images has the captured Windows 8.1 operating system by checking the image description containing Windows 8.1. You will use the image index when you create the task sequence for deploying the captured image to the target computer.

To import the captured .wim file into Configuration Manager

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Operating System Images.

  4. On the Ribbon, in the Create group, select Add Operating System Image.

    The Add Operating System Image Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Add Operating System Image Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    On this wizard page Do this
    Data Source In Path, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Capture$\WDG-REF-01.wim, and then select Next.
    General 1. In Name, type Windows 8.1 Reference Image.

    1. In Version, type 1.00.

    1. In Comments, type Windows 8.1 captured image of reference computer (WDG-REF-01) used to deploy to target computers, and then select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for importing the operating system image is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

  6. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Reference Image.

  7. In the preview pane, select the Details tab.

    The list of operating system partitions captured in the .wim is displayed. The image index that contains Windows 8.1 is the image index you will specify later during the Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard.

  8. Record the image index that contains Windows 8.1.

    Tip

    For the purposes of this example, image index 2 should have the Windows 8.1 operating system.

Step 5-2: Create an MDT Task Sequence to Deploy the Captured Image

After the image is captured, create a task sequence to deploy the captured image of the reference computer (WDG-REF-01) to the target computer (WDG-CLI-01). Most of the packages needed for this task sequence were created earlier in the process. However, you must create a new MDT Custom Settings package that has the proper configuration settings for the target computer and creates an operating system image of the captured image of the reference computer.

To create a task sequence template to deploy the captured image to the target computer

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Task Sequences group, select Create MDT Task Sequence.

    The Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Choose Template Select Client Task Sequence, and then select Next.
    Choose Template: General 1. In Task sequence name, type Windows 8.1 Target Deployment.
    2. In Task sequence comments, type Task sequence for deploying captured reference computer image to the target computer (WDG-CLI-01), and then select Next.
    Choose Template: Details
    1. Select Join a domain.
    2. In Domain, type mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com.
    3. In Account, select Set, and then complete the Windows User Account dialog box by performing the following steps:

      1. In User name, type MDT2013\Administrator.
      2. In Password and Confirm password, type P@ssw0rd.
      3. Select OK.
    4. In User name, type Woodgrove Bank Employee.
    5. In Organization name, type Woodgrove Bank.
    6. In Product key, type product_key (where product_key is the product key for Windows 8.1).
    7. Select Next.
    Choose Template: Capture Settings Select Next.
    Boot Image 1. In Specify an existing boot image package, select Browse.
    2. In Select a Package dialog box, select Windows PE Custom, and then select OK.
    3. Select Next.
    MDT Package 1. In Specify an existing Microsoft Deployment Toolkit Files package, select Browse.
    2. In the Select a Package dialog box, select MDT Files, and then select OK.
    3. Select Next.
    OS Image 1. Select Specify an existing OS image.
    2. In Specify an existing OS image, select Browse.
    3. In the Select a Package dialog box, select Windows 8.1 Reference Image, and then select OK.
    4. Select Next.
    OS Image: OS Image Index 1. In The selected operating system image (WIM) file contains multiple images. Specify which image you would like to deploy, select image_index (where image_index is the image index of the image that contains Windows 8.1, which was identified in the section Step 5-1: Import the Captured .wim File into Configuration Manager; for the purposes of this guide, select 2).
    2. Select Next.
    Deployment Method Select Next.
    Client Package 1. In Specify an existing ConfigMgr client package, select Browse.
    2. In the Select a Package dialog box, select Microsoft Configuration Manager Client Upgrade, and then select OK.
    3. Select Next.
    USMT Package 1. In Specify an existing USMT package, select Browse.
    2. In the Select a Package dialog box, select USMT, and then select OK.
    3. Select Next.
    Settings Package 1. Select Create a new settings package.
    2. In Package source folder to be created, type \\WDG-MDT-01\Packages$\CustomSettings_Target, and then select Next.
    Settings Package: Settings Details 1. In Name, type MDT Target Computer Custom Settings.
    2. In Version, type 1.00.
    3. In Comments, type Configuration settings for MDT deployment process (such as CustomSettings.ini) for the target computer, and then select Next.
    Sysprep Package Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the task sequence is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Finish.

    The list of task sequences is displayed. The task sequence that you just created (Windows 8.1 Target Deployment) is listed in the list of task sequences.

Step 5-3: Select the Distribution Points for the New Packages and Images

The Create MDT Task Sequence Wizard creates a number of packages and images. After these packages and images are created, select the distribution points from which the packages and images will be copied and available to target computers.

Note

In this sample, there is only one distribution point (WDG-MDT-01). However, most production networks have multiple distribution points. When performing this step in a production environment, select the appropriate distribution points for the network.

To select the distribution points for software distribution packages

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Target Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Distribute Content.

    The Distribute Content Wizard starts.

  6. Complete the Distribute Content Wizard using the following information. Accept default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General Select Next.
    Content Select Next.
    General: Content Select Next.
    General: Content Destination 1. Select Add, and then select Distribution Point.
    The Add Distribution Points dialog box appears.
    2. In the Add Distribution Points dialog box, select \\WDGMDT01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com, and then select OK.
    \\WDGMDT01.mdt2013.corp.woodgrovebank.com appears in the Content destination list.
    3. Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for distributing the software is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

  7. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 5-4: Customize the MDT Configuration Files

When the task sequence for the target computer has been created, customize the MDT configuration files that provide the configuration settings for deploying Windows 8.1 to the target computer—specifically, CustomSettings.ini.

When the CustomSettings.ini file has been customized, save the updated files to the source folder for the MDT Custom Settings package created earlier in the process (E:\Packages$\CustomSettings_Target).

To customize the MDT configuration files for the target computer

  1. In Windows Explorer, go to E:\Packages$\CustomSettings_Target folder, and then double-click CustomSettings.ini.

  2. Open Notepad, and then add the following lines to the CustomSettings.ini file:

    EventService=http://WDG-MDT-01:9800

    This setting will configure monitoring of the target computer deployment.

    Note

    Make any other changes that are required by your environment.

    Example of the edited CustomSettings.ini File:

    [Settings]
Priority=Default
Properties=MyCustomProperty

[Default]
OSInstall=Y
SkipCapture=YES
SkipAdminPassword=NO
SkipProductKey=YES
EventService=http://WDG-MDT-01:9800

  3. Save the file, and then close Notepad.

Step 5-5: Update the Distribution Points for the Custom Settings Package

When the source folder has been updated for the MDT Target Computer Custom Settings package in Configuration Manager, update the distribution points for the MDT Target Computer Custom Settings package. Updating the distribution points copies the updated version of the CustomSettings.ini file to the deployment shares specified in the package.

To update the distribution points for the Custom Settings package

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Application Management/Packages.

  4. In the preview pane, select MDT Target Computer Custom Settings.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Update Distribution Points.

    The Configuration Manager dialog box opens, notifying you that you are going to update the package on all distribution points.

  6. In the Configuration Manager dialog box, select OK.

  7. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 5-6: Customize the Task Sequence for the Target Computer

For most deployments, the Windows 8.1 Target Deployment task sequence created earlier in the process performs all the necessary steps without modification. In this sample, modify the task sequence template to set the password for the local Administrator account to a known value. (By default, the task sequence sets the password for the local Administrator account to a random value.) The task sequence may require further customization depending on the environment.

To customize the Windows 8.1 Target Deployment task sequence

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Task Sequence group, select Edit.

    The Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment Task Sequence Editor dialog box opens.

  6. In the Windows 8.1 Reference Deployment Task Sequence Editor dialog box, go to PostInstall/Apply Windows Settings.

  7. On the Properties tab, select Enable the account and specify the local administrator password.

  8. On the Properties tab, in Password and Confirm Password, type P@ssw0rd, and then select Apply.

  9. Make any additional modifications to the task sequence that the environment requires, and then select OK.

  10. Close all open windows and dialog boxes.

Step 6: Deploy the Captured Image of the Reference Computer to the Target Computer

When you have captured the image of the reference computer and created and configured the task sequence, deploy the captured image. Configure MDT to provide all the necessary configuration settings to deploy to the target computer. After initiating the deployment process, the image of the reference computer running Windows 8.1 is automatically deployed to the target computer and configured with the settings defined.

Deploy the captured image by:

Step 6-1: Add the Target Computer to the Configuration Manager Site Database

To deploy an operating system without stand-alone media to a new computer that Configuration Manager does not currently manage, add the new computer to the Configuration Manager site database prior to initiating the operating system deployment process. Configuration Manager can automatically discover computers on the network that have a Windows operating system installed; however, if the computer has no operating system installed, use the Import Computer Information Wizard to import the new computer information.

To add the target computer to the Configuration Manager site database

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Assets and Compliance.

  3. In the Assets and Compliance workspace, go to Overview/Devices.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Import Computer Information.

    The Import Computer Information Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Import Computer Information Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Select Source Select Import single computer, and then select Next.
    Select Source: Single Computer 1. In Computer Name, type WDG-CLI-01.
    2. In MAC address, type mac_address (where mac_address is the MAC address of the primary network adapter for the target computer, WDG-CLI-01).
    3. Select Next.
    Select Source: Data Preview Select Next.
    Select Source: Choose Target Collection Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for importing the computer is displayed.
    Confirmation Select Close.

    For more information on adding a new computer to the Configuration Manager site database, see the section, "To import computer information for a single computer," in the section, "How to Deploy Operating Systems in Configuration Manager," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 6-2: Create a Computer Collection That Includes the Target Computer

In the Configuration Manager console, create a collection that includes the target computer (WDG-CLI-01). You use this computer collection later when advertising the task sequence created earlier in the process.

To create a computer collection that includes the target computer

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Assets and Compliance.

  3. In the Assets and Compliance workspace, go to Overview/Device Collections.

  4. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Create group, select Create Device Collection.

    The Create Device Collection Wizard starts.

  5. Complete the Create Device Collection Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    On this wizard page Do this
    General
    1. In Name, type Microsoft Deployment - Batch 01.
    2. In Comment, type Computers that are to be included in the first batch of computers deployed.
    3. In Limited Collection, select Browse.

      The Select Collection dialog box appears. Complete the dialog box by performing the following steps:

      1. In the Select Collection dialog box, in Name, select All Systems.
      2. Select OK.
    4. Select Next.
    Membership Rules
    1. Select Add Rule, and then select Direct Rule.

      The Create Direct Membership Rule Wizard starts.
    2. Complete the Create Direct Membership Rule Wizard by performing the following steps:

      1. On the Welcome page, select Next.
      2. On the Search for Resources page, in Resource class, select System Resource; in Attribute name, select Name; in Value, type WDG-CLI-01; and then select Next.
      3. On the Select Resources page, select WDG-CLI-01, and then select Next. Note: The process for adding the target computer (WDG-CLI-01) to All Systems can take a few minutes to complete. If WDG-CLI-01 does not appear in the list, repeat steps b and c until WDGCLI01 appears.
      4. On the Summary page, select Next.
      5. On the Completion page, select Close.
    3. Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for creating the device collection is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

    For more information, see the section, "How to Create Collections in Configuration Manager," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 6-3: Deploy the Target Computer Task Sequence

In the Configuration Manager console, deploy the task sequence created earlier in the process for the target computers. Deploy the task sequence to the collection of target computers created earlier in the process.

To deploy the task sequence

  1. Select Start, point to All Programs, and then point to Microsoft System Center 2012. Point to Configuration Manager, and then select Configuration Manager Console.

  2. In the Configuration Manager console, in the navigation pane, select Software Library.

  3. In the Software Library workspace, go to Overview/Operating Systems/Task Sequences.

  4. In the preview pane, select Windows 8.1 Target Deployment.

  5. On the Ribbon, on the Home tab, in the Deployment group, select Deploy.

    The Deploy Software Wizard starts.

  6. Complete the Deploy Software Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    General 1. In Collection, select Browse.
    2. In the Browse Collection dialog box, select Microsoft Deployment - Batch 01, and then select OK.
    3. In Comment, type Deploy Windows 8.1 to the first batch of target computers.
    4. Select Next.
    Deployment Settings 1. In Purpose, select Available.
    2. Select the Make available to boot media and PXE check box.
    3. Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Schedule Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: User Experience Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Alerts Select Next.
    Deployment Settings: Distribution Points Select Next.
    Summary 1. Review the information in the Details box that you provided while completing the previous wizard pages.
    2. Select Next.
    Progress The progress for deploying the task sequence is displayed.
    Completion Select Close.

    For more information, see the section, "How to Deploy a Task Sequence," in the Configuration manager Documentation Library, which is installed with Configuration Manager.

Step 6-4: Start the Target Computer with the Task Sequence Bootable Media

Start the target computer (WDG-CLI-01) with the task sequence bootable media created earlier in the process. This medium starts Windows PE on the reference computer and initiates the MDT process. At the end of the MDT process, Windows 8.1 is deployed on the target computer.

Note

You can also initiate the MDT process by starting the target computer from Windows Deployment Services.

To start the target computer with the task sequence bootable media

  1. Start WDG-CLI-01 with the task sequence bootable media created earlier in the process.

    Windows PE starts, and then the Task Sequence Wizard starts.

  2. Complete the Task Sequence Wizard using the following information. Accept the default values unless otherwise specified.

    On this wizard page Do this
    Welcome to the Task Sequence Wizard In Password, type P@ssw0rd, and then select Next.
    Select a Task Sequence In the list box, select Windows 8.1 Target Deployment, and then select Next.

To monitor the reference computer deployment process using the Deployment Workbench

  1. On WDG-MDT-01, select Start, and then point to All Programs. Point to Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, and then select Deployment Workbench.

  2. In the Deployment Workbench console tree, go to Deployment Workbench/Deployment Shares/MDT Deployment Share (C:\DeploymentShare$)/Monitoring.

  3. In the details pane, view the deployment process for WDG-CLI-01.

  4. In the Actions pane, periodically select Refresh.

    The status of the deployment process is updated in the details pane. Continue to monitor the deployment process until the process is complete.

  5. In the details pane, select WDG-CLI-01.

  6. In the Actions pane, select Properties.

    The WDG-CLI-01 Properties dialog box is displayed.

  7. In the WDG-CLI-01 Properties dialog box, on the Identity tab, view the monitoring information provided about the deployment process as described in the following table:

    Information Description
    ID Unique identifier for the computer being deployed.
    Computer Name The name of the computer being deployed.
    Deployment status The current status of the computer being deployed; the status can be one of the following:

    - Running. The task sequence is healthy and running.
    - Failed. The task sequence failed, and the deployment process was unsuccessful.
    - Completed. The task sequence has finished.
    - Unresponsive. The task sequence has not updated its status in the past four hours and is assumed to be nonresponsive.
    Step The current task sequence step being run.
    Progress The overall progress of the task sequence. The progress bar indicates how many task sequence steps have been run out of the total number of task sequence steps.
    Start The time the deployment process started.
    End The time the deployment process ended.
    Elapsed The length of time the deployment process has been running or took to run if the deployment process has finished.
    Errors The number of errors encountered during the deployment process.
    Warnings The number of warnings encountered during the deployment process.
    Remote Desktop This button allows you to establish a remote desktop connection with the computer being deployed using the Windows Remote Desktop feature. This method assumes that:

    - The target operating system is running and has remote desktop support enabled
    - mstsc.exe is in the path Note: This button is always visible but may not be able to establish a remote desktop session if the monitored computer is running Windows PE, has not completed installation of the target operating system, or does not have the Remote Desktop feature enabled.
    VM Connection This button allows you to establish a remote desktop connection to a VM running in Hyper-V. This method assumes that:

    - The deployment is being performed to a VM running on Hyper-V
    - vmconnect.exe is located in the %ProgramFiles%\Hyper-V folder Note: This button appears when ZTIGather.wsf detects that Hyper-V integration components are running on the monitored computer. Otherwise, this button will not be visible.
    DaRT Remote Control This button allows you to establish a remote control session using the remote viewer feature in the Diagnostics and Recovery Toolkit (DaRT).

    This method assumes that:

    - DaRT has been deployed to the target computer and is currently running
    - DartRemoteViewer.exe is located in the %ProgramFiles%\Microsoft DaRT 7\v7 folder Note: This button appears when ZTIGather.wsf detects that DaRT is running on the monitored computer. Otherwise, this button will not be visible.
    Automatically refresh this information every 10 seconds Check box that controls whether the information in the dialog box is automatically refreshed. If the check box is:

    - Selected, the information is refreshed every 10 seconds
    - Cleared, the information is not automatically refreshed and must be manually refreshed using the Refresh Now button
    Refresh Now This button immediately refreshes the information displayed in the dialog box.

  8. In the WDG-REF-01 Properties dialog box, select OK.

  9. Close the Deployment Workbench.

To monitor the reference computer deployment process using the Get-MDTMonitorData cmdlet

  1. On WDG-MDT-01, select Start, point to Administrative Tools, and then select Windows PowerShell Modules.The Windows PowerShell Modules command prompt opens.

  2. Create a PowerShell drive that uses the MDT PowerShell provider by running the New-PSDrive cmdlet as shown in the following example:

    New-PSDrive -Name DS001 -PSProvider mdtprovider -Root d:\DeploymentShare$

  3. View the MDT monitoring process by running the Get-MDTMonitorData cmdlet as shown in the following example:

    Get-MDTMonitorData -Path DS001:

    This command returns the monitoring data collected by the MDT monitoring service running on the same computer that hosts the deployment share as shown in the following example output:

    Name               : WDG-REF-01
PercentComplete    : 96
Settings           :
Warnings           : 0
Errors             : 0
DeploymentStatus   : 1
StartTime          : 6/7/2012 6:45:39 PM
EndTime            :
ID                 : 1
UniqueID           : 94a0830e-f2bb-421c-b1e0-6f86f9eb9fa1
CurrentStep        : 130
TotalSteps         : 134
StepName           : Gather
LastTime           : 6/7/2012 8:46:32 PM
DartIP             :
DartPort           :
DartTicket         :
VMHost             : XYL-DC-02
VMName             : WDG-REF-01
ComputerIdentities : {}

Name               : WDG-CLI-01
PercentComplete    : 26
Settings           :
Warnings           : 0
Errors             : 0
DeploymentStatus   : 1
StartTime          : 6/7/2012 3:07:13 AM
EndTime            :
ID                 : 2
UniqueID           : 94a0830e-f2bb-421c-b1e0-6f86f9eb9fa1
CurrentStep        : 49
TotalSteps         : 134
StepName           : Capture Network Settings using MDT
LastTime           : 6/7/2012 3:08:32 AM
DartIP             :
DartPort           :
DartTicket         :
VMHost             :
VMName             :
ComputerIdentities : {}

  4. Close the Windows PowerShell console.

    If any problems occur during the deployment, consult the MDT document Troubleshooting Reference. When successfully completed, the target computer is running a Windows 8.1 operating system configured like the reference computer.