For the last couple of days, I have been trying out the latest beta version of Microsoft Business Deployment Desktop, currently called Deployment 4 Beta 3.
Using this beta, you are ready to create images and deploy Windows Server 2003 and pre-release versions of Windows Server 2008 using the Deployment Workbench. It integrates with the new System Center Configuration Manager 2007 features for OS deployment and task sequencing, and leverages the new multicasting functionality coming in Windows Server 2008 Windows Deployment Services.
You can also perform server deployment effortlessly. This release continues to support Zero Touch Installation (ZTI) of desktop operating systems using Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003 with the Operating System Deployment Feature Pack and adds new deployment and task sequencing capabilities for desktops and servers using System Center Configuration Manager 2007. Deployment 4 also continues to provide Lite Touch Installation (LTI) support without infrastructure requirements
BDD is one of the family of Microsoft Solutions Accelerators, and it’s mission is to:
1) Create a software and hardware inventory to assist in deployment planning.
2) Test applications for compatibility and mitigate the compatibility issues discovered during the process.
3) Set up an initial lab environment with deployment and imaging servers.
4)Customize and package applications.
5)Automate desktop image creation and deployment.
6)Ensure that the desktop is hardened to improve security within the environment.
7)Manage processes and technologies to produce a comprehensive and integrated deployment
Jeremy Chapman, a product manager on the Solutions Accelerators team for Microsoft has an informative post here including an open invite to all to try it.
Coupled with Windows Vista™ Hardware Assessment, these two tools are one of the free ways Microsoft allows you to plan, test, and deploy Windows, client and server, around your enterprise.
Join the fray here or email me at john.obeto@absolutevista.com.
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