Computer imaging
With a computer imaging solution, you can simplify the imaging process, maximize user uptime, and create a more secure and productive endpoint environment. Pick the right tool so that you can quickly set up and provision your computer systems when onboarding new employees or migrating users from one device to another.
What is computer imaging?
Computer imaging allows sysadmins to capture a golden image and deploy it to other computers. A golden image — AKA a master or base image — is a preconfigured copy of the contents on a reference computer’s hard disk drive or virtual disk.
IT typically images computers when they need to set up machines for new employees, repair or repurpose existing machines, or upgrade devices to the latest OS version.
Corporate OS images are configured according to company policies and standards for greater endpoint security and smoother operations. Created images can be deployed to user devices using offline media, over local networks, or even over the cloud.
Key computer imaging features
Guided interface
Create images, build deployment packages, and manage ongoing tasks easily from a central dashboard with wizard guides.
Build a virtual reference machine
Simplify computer imaging by building a single golden reference VM on your computer and save on storage and hardware costs.
Image capture with VM running
Keep your reference VM running, constantly updating, and ready for image capture at any time.
Capture and deploy Windows 11
Ready to take the leap? Capture and deploy Windows 11 images to compatible machines directly from your console.
Create WDS boot media
Already using Windows Deployment Services? You can create WDS boot media for network-based deployment via PXE boot.
Keep user profiles intact
Manage Windows upgrades and break-fix scenarios more efficiently by reimaging the OS layer — without affecting user files and settings.
Create custom answer files
Use custom answer files to automate OS deployments, application deployments, and post-deployment scripting.
Multicast images
For larger batches of computers, the multicast feature allows you to deploy images to multiple machines at the same time.
What are the benefits of computer imaging?
More efficient endpoint management
Computer imaging enables IT to manage and support PCs across the organization more efficiently. Streamline otherwise resource-intensive tasks like hardware rollouts, Windows migration, user migration, PC break-fixes, and lab refreshes.
Better endpoint performance and security
Deploying a custom, up-to-date corporate image to user devices removes unwanted bloatware or undetected security risks. By starting from the same known, clean state, you get more consistent endpoint performance and a lower risk of unplanned downtime.
Hear from real SmartDeploy
customers
SmartDeploy vs. leading competitor in computer imaging
Easy setup
Short ramp-up time
Wizard-driven guided interface
Suitable for any skill level
Additional training recommended
Requires complex configurations
Quick-start guides available
Easy setup
Yes
Short ramp-up time
Yes
Wizard-driven guided interface
Yes
Can be used by technicians of any skill level and experience
Yes
Additional training recommended
No
Requires complex configurations
No
Quick-start guides available
Yes
Easy setup
No
Short ramp-up time
No
Wizard-driven guided interface
No
Can be used by technicians of any skill level and experience
No
Additional training recommended
Yes
Requires complex configurations
Yes
Quick-start guides available
Yes
Frequently asked questions
What are the different types of computer imaging software?
There are two common types of computer imaging software: sector-based and file-based. Depending on the number and diversity of endpoints you support, the type of computer imaging software you use can impact efficiency and operational costs.
How do you deploy images to user devices?
Quickly deploy your Windows golden image, drivers, and applications to new PCs in less than an hour.
Whether users are onsite or remote, the best computer imaging software equips you to support and manage devices with ease and efficiency.
How to choose the right computer imaging software?
When choosing the right computer imaging software, consider its business value. Price matters, but low-cost or free computer imaging software can come with a steep learning curve (and often no user guides or technical support). The extra hours and resources required may simply not be worth it.
Instead, consider how a computer imaging tool can increase your team’s overall efficiency and productivity. Look at factors like these:
Ease of setup and use
Functionalities
Scalability
Device compatibility
Technical support
Always try before you buy. Check out product demos and free trials that allow you to image a computer or two and experience the software for yourself before deciding.
Ready to get started?
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