Automated installations on Red Hat–style systems Which tool is used to generate configuration for automated installs on matching hardware (Kickstart-based approach)?

Introduction / Context:
Enterprise environments often require installing the same Linux configuration across many machines. Red Hat–style distributions support Kickstart, which automates installation using an answer file (ks.cfg). Utilities exist to help create this file for repeatable deployments on identical or similar hardware.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are discussing Red Hat–style automated installs.
• Goal: create configuration for unattended installations.
• Hardware is similar or identical among targets, simplifying automation.

Concept / Approach:

Kickstart installations rely on a configuration file specifying language, keyboard, partitioning, packages, and post-install scripts. Tools such as mkkickstart (and later system-config-kickstart) help generate the ks.cfg file. The installer then consumes this file over the network, local media, or via HTTP to drive a hands-free installation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Validate by performing a test install on one machine, ensuring identical outcomes on subsequent systems. Logs and Anaconda output confirm the Kickstart file was parsed and applied.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• bzimage.img: refers to a kernel image artifact, not an install automation tool.
• tar: a general archiving tool, not specific to automated installs.
• ghost: a proprietary disk imaging product from another ecosystem, not native to Red Hat Kickstart.
• None of the above: incorrect because mkkickstart is the relevant utility.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing imaging (bit-for-bit clones) with scripted installs, forgetting to match driver and storage settings for target hardware, and omitting post-install configuration tasks in the Kickstart file.

Final Answer:

mkkickstart