| Lesson 8 | Customizing the Default User Profile with WDS |
| Objective | Modify the default user profile so that all users receive consistent desktop |
Default user Profile
Modify the default user profile so that all users receive a consistent desktop environment when logging into a system deployed via Windows Deployment Services (WDS).
The legacy content on the DispersedNet page discusses customizing the default user profile using Remote Installation Services (RIS) and RIPrep. Given that RIS has been deprecated in favor of Windows Deployment Services (WDS), it's essential to update the process to align with WDS methodologies.
The legacy content on the DispersedNet page discusses customizing the default user profile using Remote Installation Services (RIS) and RIPrep. Given that RIS has been deprecated in favor of Windows Deployment Services (WDS), it's essential to update the process to align with WDS methodologies.
Understanding the Default User Profile in WDS
In WDS deployments, the default user profile determines the initial desktop settings for new users. Customizing this profile ensures a uniform user experience across all deployed systems.
Steps to Customize the Default User Profile
By following these updated steps, you can effectively customize the default user profile in a WDS environment, ensuring a consistent and efficient deployment process across your organization.
Steps to Customize the Default User Profile
-
Configure the Reference Computer
- Install the desired operating system on a reference machine.
- Customize settings such as desktop background, application preferences, and system configurations.
- Install necessary applications and updates.([Lepide][1])
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Copy the Customized Profile to the Default User Profile
- Open the System Properties dialog (
sysdm.cpl). - Navigate to the Advanced tab and click on Settings under User Profiles.
- Select the customized user profile (e.g., Administrator) and click Copy To.
- In the Copy profile to field, enter
C:\Users\Default. - Click OK to initiate the copy process.([Reddit][2])
Note: Ensure that the permissions are set appropriately so that all users can access the default profile.
- Open the System Properties dialog (
-
Generalize the System Using Sysprep
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Navigate to
C:\Windows\System32\Sysprep. - Run the following command:
sysprep /generalize /oobe /shutdown - This process removes system-specific data, preparing the system for imaging.([www.windows-noob.com][3])
-
Capture the Image Using WDS
- Boot the reference computer using a WDS capture boot image.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to capture the system image.
- Save the captured image to the WDS server for deployment.([Microsoft Learn][4])
- Consistency: Ensures all users have a standardized desktop environment.
- Efficiency: Reduces the time required for post-deployment configurations.
- Scalability: Facilitates large-scale deployments with uniform settings.
By following these updated steps, you can effectively customize the default user profile in a WDS environment, ensuring a consistent and efficient deployment process across your organization.
The next lesson shows you how to create an image with the Remote Installation Preparation wizard.