Now Available: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2012 Beta 1

The next version of the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) —version 2012— is now available for beta download. To participate in the beta program, register for MDT 2012 Beta 1 at Microsoft Connect.

MDT is the recommended process and toolset to automate large-scale server deployments.  Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2012 Beta 1 rides the next wave of System Center releases with support for System Center Configuration Manager 2012. For Lite Touch installations, MDT 2012 Beta 1 improves the overall client-side user experience, while also providing behind-the-scenes enhancements for partitioning, UEFI, and user state migration. These features, combined with many small enhancements, bug fixes, and a smooth and simple upgrade process, make MDT 2012 Beta 1 more reliable and flexible than ever.

Key benefits include:

• Fully leverages the capabilities provided by System Center Configuration Manager 2012 for OS deployment
• Improved Lite Touch user experience and functionality
• A smooth and simple upgrade process for all existing MDT users

 New features include:

For System Center Configuration Manager customers:

• Support for Configuration Manager 2012 (while still supporting Configuration Manager 2007)

For Lite Touch Installation:

• More flexible partitioning
• Enhanced client-side user experience
• Integrated UEFI deployment capabilities
• New “Deploy to VHD” scenario

For all customers:

• Improved user state migration process
• Many small enhancements and bug fixes

Tell the MDT team what you think! To participate in the MDT 2012 Beta 1 program, download and test the tool in your environment and then provide timely feedback and suggestions to the development team. MDT 2012 Beta 1 runs through August 2011. Please submit your feedback through Connect and direct any support questions you may have to satfdbk@microsoft.com. Thank you for taking the time to help improve the MDT product feature and functions. Your time and assistance are much appreciated.

Next steps:

• Join MDT 2012 Beta 1 and tell the MDT team what you think!
• Help spread the word—share the beta invitation link with your friends.
• Send your comments to the MDT Team.
• Learn more about the MDT.

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