computer lab desktop restore program

f1sh3r

Senior member
Oct 9, 2004
636
0
0
I work at a continuing education computer lab, and we are looking for software that restores the computers back to the original config after every restart. we are currently using Clean Slate, but we are running into problems with it.

from http://www.fortresgrand.com
Clean Slate restores your computer to its original configuration discarding unwanted computer changes. Blocks unwanted programs from running. Restores on reboot or logoff, you decide. Easily accommodates Windows Updates and virus protection signature downloads while security is active with no configuration required. Eases management of all your public access computers.

We are running XP, adobe suite, macromedia suite, ms office suite, mcafee enterprise, spss, and some other stuff.

Software suggestions other than clean slate?
 

mechBgon

Super Moderator<br>Elite Member
Oct 31, 1999
30,699
1
0
One of my sisters recommends Deep Freeze, which she uses on laptops at a library.
 

Schadenfroh

Elite Member
Mar 8, 2003
38,416
4
0
Originally posted by: mechBgon
One of my sisters recommends Deep Freeze, which she uses on laptops at a library.

We used that in the public computer labs at my old college when I worked in the IT department. Worked like a charm. Although, IIRC the guys over it had trouble on patch tuesday.
 

BehindEnemyLines

Senior member
Jul 24, 2000
979
0
76
There's a FREE program from Microsoft. It's called Windows SteadyState.

It requires a genuine (validate at download and installation) of Windows XP Home and Professional. It doesn't work with Windows 2000 or Vista. The program has a slight limitation. You have to dedicate in ADVANCE the size of the "snapshot". It suggests you should set it at least half of the free space although this is not necessary.

SteadyState also allows you to discard changes after a number of days or number of restarts. This is especially useful for testing software that requires restarting before it works. PowerShadow doesn't have this feature.

I am also using PowerShadow. It works very well for me so far. You can even enable the "shadow" mode while Windows is running and any subsequent restart would discard all changes after the shadow mode is enabled.