Super User is a question and answer site for computer enthusiasts and power users. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this community
I want to create a WIM image and use VMware to manipulate it. Is this doable?
Another option that has been offered is to install a fresh system on a virtual machine, set up the VM the way I want it, and then boot the VM to WinPE and image the VM.
Will the image function if I use it to image the host OS? Will only one of the above VM apps do that?
There are 2 methods you can follow.
For standard manipulation, like tossing in updates to an already built and captured WIM, you should try using DISM
DISM Tutorial
The other alternative is if you need to do not only updates, but potentially change out installed software (thick image.) If that is the case, then what I do is build my initial Windows install in a VM, and get it perfect. Then shut down the vm, copy it somewhere else (for backup) and sysprep/capture the new wim. Then, if you need to make changes, you have the copied one, that has not been sysprepped. Repeat. I rebuild the image completely about once every 4-8 months, just to make sure its as clean as possible.
Are you using MDT 2012? Look into it...its awesome.
