Whether you are a seasoned system administrator or a casual tinkerer, you probably know the power of DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management). As a reminder, it allows you to manipulate images of the Windows operating system – whether active or stored in WIM files or directories – by allowing their mounting and unmounting, analysis of integrated drivers, as well as adding new drivers.
But admit it, its command line interface can sometimes give even the most seasoned among us a cold sweat.
So what if I told you that there now exists a tool that transforms this experience into a walk in the park?
Let me introduce you DISMToolsthe new kid on the block that will revolutionize the way you manage your Windows images!
Basically, it's a graphical interface for DISM which allows you to do:
1. From project management to Visual Studio : No more mess in your files! DISMTools lets you create projects to organize your edited images, response files, and temporary folders.
2. Have multi-version Windows compatibility : Whether you're working on Windows 8.1, 10 or 11, DISMTools adapts. It uses both the DISM API and the executable, which allows it to be compatible with virtually all versions of DISM, from Windows 7 to the latest versions of Windows 10 and 11. This way, you no longer need to juggle between different tools!
3. Offers rich and detailed information : It displays complete information about AppX packages, drivers, and even logos of Microsoft Store apps.
4. Automating complex tasks : Adding packages, enabling features, managing drivers… Everything becomes easier with DISMTools.
5. From creating ISOs to testing your images : Like this, if you want to check that your image is working correctly, it is possible with the ISO creation wizard.
But enough talking, let’s get down to business! Here's a little tutorial to get you started:
1. Installation : Go to the DISMTools GitHub repository and download the latest version. If you're a whiz at the command line (and I know you are), you can also use WinGet:
winget install CodingWondersSoftware.DISMTools.Stable
2. Creating a project : Launch DISMTools and click “New Project”. Give it a cool name (like “SuperImageWindows2024”) and choose a location for storage.
3. Editing an image : In your project, click “Mount Image”. Select your .wim file and choose the index of the image you want to mount. DISMTools takes care of the rest!
4. Editing the image : Now this is where the magic happens. Want to add a package? Click “Add Package” and select your .cab or .msu file. Need to activate a feature? Go to the “Features” tab. It's as easy as pie!
5. Creating an ISO : Once your changes are complete, why not create an ISO to test? Use the built-in ISO creation wizard. A few clicks, and you will have a bootable image ready to use. Note that you will need the Windows ADK and its Windows PE plugin for this functionality.
6. Disassembly and finalization : When you are satisfied, unmount the image saving the changes. DISMTools then ensures that everything is in order.
See, it's as simple as cooking pasta (okay, maybe a little more complicated, but not by much). And the best part of all this? DISMTools is completely free and open-source.
But be careful, with great powers comes great responsibilities. DISMTools makes manipulating system images much more accessible, but that doesn't mean you have to do anything. Take the time to understand what you are doing, make backups, and do not hesitate to consult the documentation if you have any doubts.
So, if you are an aficionado of Windows customization, you will be able to create and share pre-configured system images… Imagine a stripped-down Windows, optimized for gamers, or a special version for developers with all the necessary tools pre-installed. The possibilities are endless!
And for those wondering if DISMTools is really necessary when you can do everything from the command line, let me ask you a question: do you prefer to drive your car with a steering wheel or with a keyboard? It is certain that the DISMTools graphical interface does not replace the power of the command line, it complements it and makes it more accessible.
In short, in conclusion, DISMTools is super practical since it makes accessible to everyone what was once reserved for experts, while offering advanced features for experienced users. Whether you're a system administrator looking to optimize your deployments, a developer wanting to create custom test environments, or simply a tech enthusiast curious to explore the innards of Windows, DISMTools has something to offer you.
Thanks to Lorenper for sharing!
