Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  In order to be able to deploy older operating systems like XP Pro using WDS, You must create an “image” in the WIM format to deploy to the server.

Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  In order to be able to deploy older operating systems like XP Pro using WDS, You must create an “image” in the WIM format to deploy to the server.  The first step is to do a clean install on a target computer, including all applications, updates, and settings.

Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  The next step is to create a subdirectory on the target machine called sysprep. This will just be in the C:\ root directory.

Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  The next step is to create a subdirectory on the target machine called sysprep. This will just be in the C:\ root directory.  Now insert the original Windows XP Install disk in the cd drive and browse to the Support\Tools folder.

Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  Find the cabinet named Deploy and extract it to the C:\sysprep folder you just created.

Using Windows Deployment System Create WIM Image  Find the cabinet named Deploy and extract it to the C:\sysprep folder you just created.  In the sysprep folder, double click setupmgr.exe to create a new answer file that will be used in a server based installation of XP Pro.