partitioning and saving windows updates

[Cam Sager]

Last time I set up my HD I did 3 partitions. OS/program files/downloads

I copied windows service packs and updates to a separate HD but couldn't figure out how to install them.

What I'd like to do if it's possible, is to be able to install a fresh copy of Windows when I want, but not have to install all the windows updates and user profiles. Like display properties, themes, wall paper etc., and of course still have all my programs and files safe on a separate partition.

My laptop has two 60g HD which I'll set up in Raid 0 for performance. I have two older laptop HD's in usb boxes and I plan to look at cloning to one of these later.

Thanks

 

[JoshBrunelle]

It's called slipstreaming, and there are plenty of tuts out there for it. You need to use a tool called nlite, here is one such tutorial.

http://labnol.blogspot.com/2007/05/slipstream-windows-installer-cd-with.html

 

[Cam Sager]

Thanks josh,

Unfortunately my installation CD doesn't have sp2, but I'll google slipstreaming and see if I can find something that will work.

Can anyone tell me the best way to handle user profiles like themes and display properties

 

[Deleted member 3]

Additionally you can use WUD (Windows Updates Downloader) to download all updates and slipstream those as well. nLite is a simple tool to do it for you.