validating windows updates...help

[TaK]

ok so heres the deal.

i work in a retail store where we build hundreds of computers. i use complete images of the more common builds.

the normal practice is to build a machine with all the drivers and UPDATES and get it ready for delivery.

then i run sysprep witch takes out the number and makes it ready for a customer to enter there info and product key.

BUT NOW...

i cant get all the updates without activating the build and validating the copy of windows..

i cant run sysprep after activation. can i?

so now i dont know what to do. i am trying to make a new image for a very popular computer build. and im stuck.

are there any other system builders with the same problem out there.

or anybody with an idea

[hulksterjoe]

If your using a oem key in your image I dont see away around this, but a volume key might get you around this

[Phoenix86]

i cant run sysprep after activation. can i?I don't deal with activation (corp. VLA keys) but I would suspect that this is the way to go.

[Phoenix86]

but a volume key might get you around this
Not an option, he's a OEM selling the systems.

[TaK]

i just figured out how to disable the validation service. very cool.

now i shall proceed as planed..

tools> internet options> programs> manage ad- ons> click on windows genuine advantage validation tool. and disable it..

all is good again.