Merging multiple Windows editions into one install.esd file can simplify deployment and save space. This guide walks you through the process using the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).
Step 1: Prepare the Environment
- Create a working directory, for example C:\ESD.
- Copy the Windows edition files you want to merge (e.g., home11install.esd and pro11install.esd) into this directory.
For related tasks, you may find tutorials on checking ISO details, extracting editions, and converting between .esd and .wim formats useful.
Step 2: Merge Images One at a Time
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands:
Export the first edition:
dism /Export-Image /SourceImageFile:C:\ESD\home11install.esd /SourceIndex:1 /DestinationImageFile:C:\ESD\combinedinstall.esd /Compress:recovery /CheckIntegrity
Export the second edition:
dism /Export-Image /SourceImageFile:C:\ESD\pro11install.esd /SourceIndex:1 /DestinationImageFile:C:\ESD\combinedinstall.esd /Compress:recovery /CheckIntegrity
Key Parameters:
- /SourceImageFile: Path to the source .esd file.
- /SourceIndex: Index number of the edition to extract.
- /DestinationImageFile: Path for the combined .esd file.
- /Compress:recovery: Applies recovery-level compression.
- /CheckIntegrity: Ensures image integrity during export.
Step 3: Verify the Combined File
Run the following command to confirm both editions are included:
dism /Get-ImageInfo /ImageFile:C:\ESD\combinedinstall.esd
If you plan to use the combined file directly, copy it into the sources folder of your Windows installation media. Rename it to install.esd and remove the original file.
Notes on Compression
The /Compress argument controls the compression level:
- max: Highest compression, smallest size, slower processing.
- fast: Balanced speed and size (default).
- none: No compression, faster export, larger file.
- recovery: Highly compressed recovery images, ideal for .esd files.
Combining editions into a single install.esd file streamlines your installation media and makes managing multiple Windows versions more efficient. With DISM, the process is straightforward and adaptable to your needs.
By following these steps, you’ll have a unified install.esd ready for deployment, saving time and effort in future installations.