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Re-Imaging
In brief
Re-imaging (also spelled reimaging) is the reinstallation of a complete system image on a computer, that is, operating system, drivers, applications and settings in one step. Companies use it to set up devices uniformly or to reset them to a defined state after problems. In refurbishment, re-imaging is the step that gives an erased device a fresh, ready-to-sell operating system.
How re-imaging works
An image is a template that is created once and then transferred to many devices, for example over the network or via a USB medium. This produces many identically set-up computers in a short time, for example in a Hardware rollout. Many companies now replace classic images with methods such as Windows Autopilot, in which the preinstalled system is configured via the cloud at first startup.
Re-imaging is not data erasure
A new image overwrites only the areas it occupies itself. Old data in the remaining areas, in reserve blocks of an SSD or in hidden areas of a hard drive can remain. Before a device is passed on, a verified erasure with documentation should therefore come first, followed by the new operating system. What matters when selling older Windows computers is shown in the guide Selling used PCs.
At Second IT, devices are first erased with Blancco and receive a digitally signed erasure certificate. In the Refurbishment old software and data are then removed, current operating systems and security updates are installed and drivers are set up so that the devices are immediately ready for operation.
Frequently asked questions about re-imaging
Does re-imaging replace data erasure?
No. An image does not reliably overwrite all areas of a data carrier. Before handing over, a verified erasure with a report is necessary.
What happens to the Windows license during re-imaging?
That depends on the license type. Licenses tied to the device generally stay with the device, whereas a company's volume licenses do not. For refurbished PCs, manufacturer and refurbisher programs regulate licensing.
Is re-imaging still up to date?
In many companies it is supplemented or replaced by cloud-based provisioning. In refurbishment, installing a clean system remains a standard step.
What is an image on computers?
An image is a template with operating system, drivers, applications and settings. It is created once and then transferred to many devices over the network or via a USB medium. This produces many identically set-up computers in a short time.
What is the difference between re-imaging and Windows Autopilot?
With re-imaging, a complete system image is installed on the device. With Windows Autopilot, by contrast, the preinstalled system is configured via the cloud at first startup. Many companies therefore replace classic images with Autopilot.
First erase with certification, then set up anew and resell.
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