Figure 5. 4 Windows Server 2016 configuration levels
So how do you deploy Nano Server if it is not an installation option from the 2016
media? On the Windows Server 2016 media is a folder named Nano Server that
contains the core NanoServer.wim file, which is about only 150 MB, and separate
folders containing additional language-neutral packages with their associated
language-specific packages that can be added to a custom Nano Server image to add
functionality. Also in the folder is the PowerShell tool to create your custom Nano
Server VHD or WIM file: NanoServerImageGenerator.
In addition, a graphical tool is available for download from Microsoft that is being
delivered out-of-band (OOB) to enable Microsoft to continue to update and improve
the tool based on feedback. This tool is the Nano Server Image Builder, a wizard-based
tool that guides the user through the image creation process of both VHD and WIM
images. The graphical tool is intuitive and provides the same options available
through the PowerShell tool.
I prefer the PowerShell tool, as it enables the creation of the Nano Server instances to
be automated. I use the PowerShell tool in the example in this chapter. Microsoft has
a detailed document available at https://technet.microsoft.com/en-
us/library/mt 126167 .aspx that I recommend reviewing. In this example, I create a
Nano Server custom VHDX file. However, it is also possible to create custom WIM
files. The VHDX files you create can be used for virtual machines and for physical
deployments using the Windows Server native boot-to-VHD feature. A WIM file
would be expanded out and deployed to an actual physical system where the boot-to-
VHD is not desired.
Many parameters are available when using the New-NanoServerImage cmdlet to
create a custom image, including naming of the OS, joining a domain, setting IP
configuration, and indicating SKU version and packages. However, it is also possible to
pass in an unattended answer file that enables every other aspect of the configuration
in addition to configurations possible via the parameters. A good way to create the