Exchange Server Cookbook

2.9. Using Exchange Setup in Unattended Mode

Problem

You want to deploy multiple Exchange servers without manual intervention, or you want to automate the installation of an Exchange service pack.

Solution

Use the Exchange Setup /createunattend switch to create an unattended installation answer file. This file can then be used in conjunction with Setup's /unattendfile option to duplicate the configuration specified in the answer file. This works both for Exchange installations and Exchange service packs.

Using a graphical user interface to create the unattended answer file

1. Launch the appropriate setup utility (setup.exe for Exchange installs, update.exe for service packs) with the /createunattend switch. You also have to specify the path to the answer file you want to create, like this:

   C:\temp\e2k3-sp1\i386\update.exe /createunattend c:\temp\sp1-answer.udf

2. If you're installing Exchange, click Next to dismiss the welcome screen, then accept the license agreement and click Next.

3. If prompted, enter your 25-character product key and click Next.

4. On the Component Selection page, select the components that you want to install. You can use the typical, minimum, or custom installation types for Exchange installations. For service packs, the action will default to Update; for clean installations, you'll have to make sure that Install is selected. (Remember, you can install only the system management tools if you like).

5. If desired, use the Change Path button to select where the Exchange binaries ...