VMware includes a great solution, templates, for consistent virtual machine deployments. A template is essentially a master image of a virtual machine that typically includes a guest operating system and applications. Using templates allows you to deploy virtual machines with a consistent configuration. Additionally, below is a step list of steps for creating a template.

  • Install the Microsoft Windows 2012 R2 operating system
  • Install VMware Tools
  • Install Windows Updates
  • Run sysprep (C:\Windows\System32\Sysprep\sysprep.exe)
    • System Cleanup Action: Enter System Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE)
    • Generalize
    • Shutdown Options: Shutdown
  • Right click the virtual machine and select Convert to Template….