Chapter 16. Deploying Windows

In the early days of operating systems (OSs), there were not many configurations to perform during an installation; most desktop OSs were installed manually, and an operator answered minor questions as needed. As OSs grew in complexity, however, the number of components needed for installation also grew, thus increasing the questions asked during the installation process. To help in the deployment of newer OSs, both desktop and server solutions were created.

Microsoft introduced Remote Installation Services (RIS), which enabled a computer to boot over the network via a Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) that downloaded a minimal operating environment to the computer. This enabled the computer to pull down the OS ...

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