[mdt] unattend.xml

[garethEds]

In an unattend.xml file I can define a computer name like this:

 

machine01

 

I can get the install to prompt for a computer name by removing the actual name and using this:

 

 

So as with sysprep.inf can I get the unattend.xml file to pick up the prestaged name using this:

 

%machinename%

 

If not, how can I get the newly deployed machine to pick up the name we have pre-staged it with?

 

Cheers everyone

 

Gareth

[saundersmatt]

Gareth,

 

Did the %machinename% work for you in the end or did you find another solution?

 

I'm interested in using MDT for task sequences, but don't want to have to re-enter computer names etc.

 

TIA,

 

Matt

[mbrunt]

im a bit confused, if your using MDT one of the first things you do is type in a computer name, this name then stays with the computer thoughout the deployment...

[saundersmatt]

Point being i'm not using MDT as yet. I'm using Plain WDS with prestaged accounts (mac address to computer name association).

 

I'd like to avoid having to re-type computer names into another system, and I like that I can disallow unknown clients to boot to the wds server.

 

Matt

[mbrunt]

ahhh gotya, to be honest i didnt even know WDS could do this! where in the gui do you prestage an account?

[saundersmatt]

It's non-obvious i'll admit.

Either open ADU&C on the WDS server, go to computer properties -> Remote Install tab and enter the computer GUID or MAC Address,

or,

WDS Server properties, PXE Response tab -> Respond to all client computers & Require administrator approval, this will make the pxe booting computer wait for approval via pending devices -> name and approve

 

Matt

[garethEds]

Gareth,

 

Did the %machinename% work for you in the end or did you find another solution?

 

I'm interested in using MDT for task sequences, but don't want to have to re-enter computer names etc.

 

TIA,

 

Matt

 

Hi Matt,

 

We didn't follow this path in the end. Deciding instead to use the database functionality. All of our machines are now in the database and names are linked to mac address.

 

Gareth

[mbrunt]

gareth, what is this database you speak of?

[mbrunt]

ignore that, i know what it is, having a google now thanks