Bypass winnt.sif?

[mopie]

I have created an unattended install cd, everything works great. But lets say I want to use the recovery console, do a repair install, or use differnt options then are specified by winnt.sif...

Is there any key to press which will make the cd perform as a normal boot cd?

[arablizzard2413]

No, there is no way to have the setup bypass the winnt.sif file, you could however make a "dual boot" setup cd that has the option for an unattended setup and a reqular.

Check out Gosh's page for instructions:

gosh.msfnhosting.com

[Bâshrat the Sneaky]

Yes it's possible to do what you want, but not through bypassing winnt.sif. Did you SEARCH? I don't think so.

Look for Multi-boot CD/DVD

[mopie]

That is great, thanks. Yes I did search...

[prathapml]

Here's a guide which explains in detail, step-by-step to make a multi-boot CD:

http://flyakite.msfnhosting.com/

[Lawnchair]

The recovery console (repair option) screen

can be made available on custom installs using

"Winnt.sif" if "[unattended]" entries are

commented out or deleted. Other winnt.sif

data will still work, like ComputerName,

Language, ProductKey, etc.

[prathapml]

Oh! now this is good news. Instead of needing 3 multi-boot options, 1 will suffice.

[mopie]

Alright so I followed your advice and made a multi boot cd. Using cdshell to make a menu i added these options:

1) Unattended install

2) Regular Microsoft install

3) Boot into PE

I was then able to add my PE cd to my windows install cd. Now when I tested option #2 the install went as it should however my applications were installed from cmdlines.txt -> installs.cmd, and I assume the regtweaks as well, even though this was not an unattended install.

How can I prevent that?

Thanks in advance for suggesting I search

[meagain35]

All you need to do to bypass your winnt.sif file is create a blank winnt.sif file on a floppy disk and insert that once you have booted to your cd.

good luck!