#1. Creating a Complete System Backup
Windows 11 includes the “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” feature, which allows you to create a system image.
Steps:
-
Access the Backup Tool:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to “System and Security” - “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)”.
-
Create a System Image:
- Click on “Create a system image” in the left pane.
- Choose a destination to save the backup (external hard drive, DVDs, or network location).
- Select the drives you want to include (ensure your system drive is selected).
- Proceed with the backup process.
-
Create a System Repair Disc (Optional):
- In the same window, select “Create a system repair disc.”
- Follow the prompts to create a bootable repair disc.
Considerations:
- This method creates a full image of your system, allowing for complete restoration.
- It’s suitable for personal use and doesn’t require additional software.
#2. Replicating Your Custom Settings to Other Machines
a) Using Windows Configuration Designer
Create a provisioning package to apply your settings to other devices.
Steps:
-
Install Windows Configuration Designer:
- Available from the Microsoft Store or as part of the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK).
-
Create a Provisioning Package:
- Launch the app and select “Provision desktop devices.”
- Configure the settings, policies, and applications you wish to deploy.
-
Export the Package:
- Build and export the provisioning package (.ppkg file).
-
Apply the Package to Target Machines:
- Transfer the .ppkg file to the target machine.
- Run the package by double-clicking it, or apply it during the initial setup process.
Considerations:
- Ideal for users who prefer a graphical interface.
- Suitable for small to medium deployments.
- May not capture all personal customizations or third-party application settings.
b) Using PowerShell Scripts
Automate the configuration process with scripts.
Steps:
-
Identify Configurable Settings:
- Determine which settings can be applied via PowerShell commands or registry edits.
-
Write the PowerShell Script:
- Script the desired changes.
-
Example to disable the lock screen:
New-Item -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization" -Force New-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization" -Name "NoLockScreen" -Value 1 -PropertyType DWORD -Force
-
Test the Script:
- Run the script on a test machine to ensure it works as intended.
-
Deploy the Script:
- Execute the script on target machines with administrative privileges.
Considerations:
- Requires some scripting knowledge.
- Highly customizable and repeatable.
- Good for version control with tools like Git.
c) Using User State Migration Tool (USMT)
Migrate user accounts, data, and settings.
Steps:
-
Install Windows ADK:
- Includes USMT for deployment purposes.
-
Capture User State on Source Machine:
- Use
ScanState
to collect user profiles and settings.
- Use
-
Apply User State on Target Machine:
- Use
LoadState
to deploy the collected data.
- Use
Considerations:
- Geared towards IT professionals.
- Does not migrate applications.
- Best suited for enterprise environments.
d) Creating a Custom Image with Sysprep and Deployment Tools
For deploying a standardized environment across multiple machines.
Steps: https://ib.bsb.br/sysprep