how to boot from a network boot disk

[sonna1945]

hello ,

I want to know how to install windows XP over a network. I have created a file server on a windows server 2003 machine and placed the contents of i386 directory on the sharing point.

Now I want to know how can i boot the computer where i want to install XP over the network. what sort of network boot disk is required and wat are the steps to boot.

Kindly reply.

Thanks.

[ErikD]

There are a variety of ways to install an OS over a network. Simply copying the CD to a shared folder isn't really one of them.

I would recommend you look into RIS (Remote Installation Services) or the replacement for it in Server 2003 R2 is Windows Deployment Service. You need to have a PC capable of PXE booting, and have an automated answer file setup and linked to the image of the OS to install. It isn't that hard to get working for a basic install.