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Apr 17

Deploying Windows Server 8 Consumer Preview with MDT 2012

I tested MDT 2012 to deploy Windows Server 8 as a domain controller. Had a small issue with product key missing. I tried to find a product key for Windows Server 8 on the Microsoft Pages, but could not find it. I ended up finding it on the installation media.

Mount the iso file or extract it to a folder. Then browse your way into the sources folder. Look for the product.ini file, here you will find the different “default” product keys that is used during a standard DVD installation.

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I found the key I needed and updated my customsettings.ini file with

ProductKey=HMG6P-C7VGP-47GJ9-TWBD4-2YYCD
(Yes, I am installating Standard edition)

It then comes to almost the end of the installation and I received this error:
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Windows could not parse or process the unattend answer file C:\Windows\Panther\unattend.xml for pass [specialize]. A component or setting specified in the answer file does not exist.

I first thought this was the product key that was wrong. But after hitting Shift+F10 and browsing c:\windows\panther folder and looking at the unattend.xml file I noticed that the product key was injected just fine.

I started the deployment workbench and got up properties on the task sequence.

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And then I edited the unattended.xml file. (This takes some time the first time since it needs to generate a catalog file)

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I deleted the amd64_Microsoft-Windows-IE-InternetExplorer_neutral from the 4 Specialize phase. Then I saved the XML file.

 

And voil’a the server 8 deployed just fine.

I still have not got the roles and services to work, since this is no yet supported with Server 8. Will have to create a Powershell script to automate that part (later). Smilefjes

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