14 DAY TRIAL // A new release of the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008 Update 1 has gone live on the Microsoft Download Center. The collection of process and toolset bundled as a Microsoft Solution Accelerator designed to enable an automatic deployment process for the latest of the Redmond company's software solutions has been made initially available at the end of July 2008. However, the most recent release was offered on September 4, 2008 under the same label of Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2008 Update 1.
"Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008 Update 1 unifies the tools and processes required for desktop and server deployment into a common deployment console and collection of guidance. The fourth generation deployment accelerator adds integration with recently released Microsoft deployment technologies to create a single path for image creation and automated installation. MDT’s tools and end-to-end guidance reduce deployment time, standardize desktop and server images, limit service disruptions, reduce post-deployment help desk costs, and improve security and ongoing configuration management," reads an excerpt from the product's description.
According to Microsoft, MDT 2008 Update 1 is designed to streamline the deployment of a variety of technologies including Windows Vista RTM and SP1 (the Business, Enterprise, and Ultimate editions), the Office 2007 System (the Professional, Professional Plus, Enterprise, and Ultim SKUs), but also Windows Server 2008 and Windows Sever 2003 R2, as well as Windows XP Professional SP2 and SP3 and Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. MDT 2008 Update 1 delivers support for both the 32-bit and the 64-bit versions of the platforms enumerated above.
"Microsoft Deployment Toolkit technologies eliminate interaction time required to install desktop and server operating systems. Interaction at the targeted computer may take a few moments using the Lite Touch Installation (LTI) method or it can be completely automated using Zero Touch Installation (ZTI). Zero Touch Installation utilizes Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 or System," Microsoft added.
Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008 Update 1 is available for download here.