Microsoft should really improve their unattended process. This is where Linux really outshines Windows. I can configure a Linux installer with all my favorite software integrated, user accounts, configurations, etc—but with Windows I essentially have to install Windows, install my apps (leaving tons of randomly scattered files and registry entries all over the system), and then sysprep the WIM.

The unattended setup on Windows is very confusing, there are like 3 different ways and 6 steps to configure, and the tools are mostly designed with GUI in mind. Could you imagine being able to configure, install drivers and apps using a single YAML file for Windows?

I when’s through creating and deploying a Windows image last year. It’s a really painful and convoluted process and the tools don’t help much.

I think most of the more serious ones require an Active Directory setup, which kind of reflects their traditional focus on enterprise users.

Can confirm; recently configured a Surface tablet for family, and no workarounds were possible.