HOW TO: Use Cmdlines.txt File During Sysprep.exe Setup Wizard

This article describes how to include a Cmdlines.txt file to run commands when you are running the mini-Setup portion of Sysprep.exe. These commands can include tools to gather information, install programs, or make changes to the system.

For information about creating and using the Cmdlines.txt file, please consult the Windows Resource Kit or the OEM Preinstallation Kit (OPK) documentation.

Specifying a Cmdlines.txt File During the Mini-Setup Portion of Sysprep

1. Create a Sysprep.inf file to be used by Sysprep. Note that this step is a requirement and cannot by bypassed. Also, the Sysprep.inf file must be named Sysprep.inf and must be located in a folder named Sysprep off of the root of the volume that contains the %SystemRoot% folder.
2. Place the following entry in the [Unattended] section of the Sysprep.inf file, where path is any folder you want to use. Microsoft recommends that drive be the volume containing the %SystemRoot% folder:
   InstallFilesPath = drive:\path
3. Create the drive:\path folder. You can use any folder name you want, but it must match the location you specified in the Sysprep.inf file.
4. In the drive:\path folder, create a folder named $oem$. Place your Cmdlines.txt file in this folder.

This file is processed at the end of the mini-Setup wizard, before saving any settings.