How do I import an operating system into MDT?

by · Published · Updated

Applies to: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 8456 and later
Last updated: May 2025

Problem

You’ve created a Deployment Share in MDT and now need to add an operating system (OS) image to deploy.

Solution

Importing an operating system into MDT allows you to build Task Sequences and deploy Windows to target machines. MDT supports importing full Windows installation sources (like from ISO) or custom WIM images.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the OS Files

Option A: Using a Windows ISO

  • Mount the Windows ISO (right-click > Mount), or extract it to a folder (e.g., C:\ISOs\Win10_21H2).

Option B: Using a Custom WIM

  • If you have a custom captured .wim file, make sure it’s accessible and you know which edition or index to use.

2. Launch Deployment Workbench

  • Open Deployment Workbench > Expand your Deployment Share > Right-click Operating Systems > Import Operating System.

3. Choose Import Type

Select one of the following options:

  • Full set of source files – for official Windows media (ISO/DVD).
  • Custom image file – for a captured WIM file.
  • Windows Deployment Services images – if pulling from a WDS server.

Most common: Full set of source files.

Click Next.

4. Specify Source Directory

  • For ISO installs: Browse to the root of the extracted or mounted ISO (e.g., D:\sources).
  • For custom WIMs: Browse to the .wim file location and specify:
    • Destination directory name
    • If necessary, the specific image index

Click Next.

5. Destination Directory Name

  • Give the OS a meaningful name (e.g., Windows 10 22H2 x64).
  • MDT will create a subfolder under the Operating Systems directory with this name.

Click Next, then Finish.

After Importing

  • You will now see your imported OS listed under Operating Systems in Deployment Workbench.
  • You can now use this OS in a Task Sequence.

Notes

  • Avoid using install.esd files. If needed, convert them to install.wim using DISM.
  • Keep OS names consistent and clear—especially if managing multiple versions.
  • You can import multiple versions or editions of Windows into the same Deployment Share.

Tags:

You may also like...