Test the Preferred Configuration

After you've set up your test computers with Windows NT Workstation 4.0, you'll need to run a variety of tests to make sure that the operating system runs correctly on your network and that you can still perform all of your usual tasks. The planning and installation teams should both be involved in this step.

Use your own testing methodology or test the following to verify correct system operation:

If you have several test computers, compare your old client configuration from your previous operating system and your new preferred configuration running Windows NT Workstation 4.0. Compare the two in terms of the following:

If the specified client configuration did not work as expected, modify and document the differences until a working preferred client configuration is installed. Try removing related features from the proposed configuration as a solution. Document any changes made to the original configuration.

If the preferred client configuration works as expected, you may also want to conduct additional testing of the optional software features and components in Windows NT Workstation 4.0. This can help you determine whether you are running Windows NT Workstation 4.0 optimally. For this kind of testing, conduct side-by-side evaluations on two computers, changing individual features on each one, to determine the following:

Ensure that you have identified a configuration that meets the needs of all the different hardware configurations used in your organization. Note which options you want to predefine as entries for an answer file. The answer file can then be used to automate the installation process.