some kind of script for common tasks

[Newbie]

Hi All

This is probably a big ask, but I'm going to ask it anyway.

I work for a number of schools and when I get a new batch of PCs in or have
to work on an existing set of PCs (all diff makes and models as you'd
expect!!), I'm clicking and configuring the exact same features every time,
eg go to Advanced set it for best performance, set classic start menu, make
screensaver come on after 15 mins, turn off hibernate and standby,
auto-arrange desktop icons, etc.

Is there any way you can think of where I can create a sort of script or
prog that will enable me to simply drop it onto a desktop, click a button
and all of these settings are done for me???

I'm open to any kind of ideas you have. I don't think Send Keys would work
(might be wrong), as it might bomb out after waiting for say the ScreenSaver
window to save.

NOTE: we only use WinXP Pro no others so the OS layout would be the same
everytime.

Thanks

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

When you say 'existing' I assume you mean already installed with windows. If
not, running setup can use an INF file to do almost all of what you want.
Extract the Deploy.CAB file found on any windows setup disk. This contains a
set of files created for exactly that. Read REF.CHM, and it's attendant
entries on the use of the 'unattend.txt' file
Q155197 - HOWTO Unattended Setup Parameters for Unattend.txt File:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q155197

If existing, perhaps a 'default profile' is what you want.
305709 - HOW TO Create a Custom Default User Profile:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;305709

Using Regedt32.exe would let you create most of the settings, if you
understood what entry was required. This is actually what the above two
methods do. Take a look at the text of some of the *.reg files you can
download from Kellys-korner.com :
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

It's a big subject, but you can feel sure that millions of people have been
finding ways to do exactly the same thing for years. You are probably
approaching the point where studying LAN administration is right for you.
Using GPEdit.msc is the most powerful way to manage that.