Windows enthusiasts who love to manipulate or modify the Windows operating system installation CD or DVD will familiar with Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK), which helps to install, customize, and deploy the Windows family of operating systems.

The Windows Automated Installation Kit (Windows AIK) is a set of tools and documentation that support the configuration and deployment of Windows operating systems. By using Windows AIK, user can automate Windows installations, capture Windows images with ImageX, configure and modify images using Deployment Imaging Servicing and Management (DISM), create Windows PE images, and migrate user profiles and data with the User State Migration Tool (USMT). Windows AIK also includes the Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT), which enables IT professionals to automate and centrally manage the volume activation process using a Multiple Activation Key (MAK).

Microsoft updates Windows AIK on every major version release of Windows operating system. With the release of Windows 7 RC and Windows Server 2008 R2 RC, the new Windows Automated Installation Kit for Windows 7 RC has been released in Microsoft Download Center. The new Windows Automated Installation Kit for Windows 7 RC supports Windows Server 2003 R2 SP3, Windows Vista SP1, Windows Server 2008 family, Windows 7 family and Windows Server 2008 R2 family of operating system.

Download Windows Automated Installation Kit (AIK) for Windows 7 RC: KB3AIK_EN.iso

The Windows AIK is available in DVD ISO image format, and can be burnt to a DVD disc media using any burning software. WAIK can then be installed from the DVD.

Update: Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK) for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 RTM