Zero Administration for Windows (ZAW) is a Microsoft technology that enables automated deployment and maintenance of Windows operating system components across a network. ZAW is the foundation for Windows Deployment Services and Desktop Standard Configuration Manager Service. The goal of ZAW is to reduce the complexity for administrators, allowing them to configure and deploy Windows PCs without having to install or manage client-side software.
In a ZAW environment, the Windows components are managed on a central server or core Windows server. This allows the administrator to set policies and the associated applications across the network from a single console. There is no need to install or configure each individual client machine.
This technology allows an administrative team to control various settings in the Windows environment, including user profiles, passwords, application configuration, software updates, and registry settings. This all happens without any additional intervention from the user.
ZAW also enables automated software deployment, allowing applications to be delivered to the end users from the central server or core Windows server. This reduces the amount of time it takes to deploy new applications and ensures that the same version of the software is running on all client machines.
Finally, ZAW can be used to manage the removal of applications from client systems. This helps streamline the removal process and ensure that the clients are free from any malicious software.
Overall, Zero Administration for Windows is a powerful tool for reducing administrative complexity and streamlining Windows-based deployments. By eliminating the need for manual configuration of client computers, ZAW simplifies the processes of deploying, maintaining, and removing Windows components. This, in turn, makes managing a network of Windows systems simpler and more secure.
