An answer file is a text file that is used in conjunction with Setup to bypass normal Setup prompts. An unattended installation is run by specifying the /U switch with Winnt.exe or Winnt32.exe. For example: WINNT /U:{Answer File} /S:{Source Files}...

The Windows XP System Preparation file (Sysprep.exe), the Riprep tool, and answer file functionality are different from those same elements in Microsoft Windows NT 4.0. Additionally, the name and location of the answer file have been changed.

This article describes how to use the Sysprep deployment preparation tool in conjunction with Windows Product Activation or Volume License Media.