This chapter discusses the following new features in Windows Server 2003 that pertain to automated installations:
Setup Manager. The Setup Manager utility is used to create unattended installation scripts. The updates to the utility in Windows Server 2003 simplify creating a script and permit encrypting the local administrator password. The utility is also valuable for creating Remote Installation Services (RIS) setup scripts and mini-setup scripts to run as part of Sysprep.
Sysprep improvements. Several updates to the Sysprep packaging feature permit modifying a base Sysprep image by installing the original package then making changes and resealing the package. Options exist to manage plug-and-play operations, as well.
Remote Installation Services (
RIS ). The updates to RIS include support for installing servers with RIS and a richer environment for creating RIS scripts.
Headless server operation. It is now possible, using Windows Server 2003, to deploy the operating system to a machine with no mouse, keyboard, or video adapter. Headless operation also makes it possible to view the startup console and blue screens following a crash, something that is not possible using Remote Desktop or remote control programs.