Create a Configuration Set

The following procedure describes how to create a configuration set by using Windows System Image Manager (Windows SIM).

A configuration set is a smaller version of a distribution share, which is more easily copied to removable media or a network share. It is a collection of files converted to binary form. These files are a self-contained alternative to referencing a distribution share.

Because a configuration set contains only internal references, it can be used for both online and offline installations. It can be duplicated and edited for different types of installations.

To create a configuration set

  1. Open Windows SIM.
  2. Open an answer file. For more information, see Open an Answer File.
  3. On the Tools menu, select Create Configuration Set.
    The Create Configuration Set window opens.
  4. Browse to the destination folder for the configuration set or type a folder name.
  5. Select a folder to copy to $OEM$ (optional), and then click OK.

Important

If a configuration set is used during Windows Setup, all the contents at the root of the media where the answer file exists are copied to the Windows installation. If there are many files and folders at the same level as the answer file, Windows Setup copies all the files and folders to the Windows installation. Be aware that this might slow down installation, and, in some cases, you might run out of disk space.

See Also

Concepts

Validate an Answer File
Understanding Distribution Shares and Configuration Sets