> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.foundryosd.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.foundryosd.com/foundry-osd/media.md).

# Create deployment media

The Start page validates configuration and creates or updates Foundry deployment media.

## Review readiness

Resolve every blocking readiness item before starting. Checks cover Windows ADK and Windows PE, architecture, language, boot-image source, output paths, USB target, media options, drivers, networking, runtime configuration, secrets, customization, and Windows Autopilot.

<figure><img src="/files/Z10yGMHFka49hfCVof8G" alt="Foundry OSD media creation readiness overview"><figcaption><p>Resolve every blocking item before creating or updating deployment media.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Choose an operation

| Consideration      | ISO                                                                          | USB                                                                                   |
| ------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Best for           | Virtual machines, remote-management virtual media, or external imaging tools | Repeated deployment to physical devices                                               |
| Boot method        | Mount the ISO directly or write it with another tool                         | Boot directly from the prepared USB drive                                             |
| Source cache       | Windows sources are downloaded when required by the deployment workflow      | A dedicated cache partition retains downloaded Windows sources for reuse              |
| Time and bandwidth | Repeated deployments may download the same Windows sources again             | Reuses cached sources to reduce deployment time and bandwidth consumption             |
| Updating media     | Create a new ISO                                                             | Update the boot partition while preserving the cache partition                        |
| Main trade-off     | Portable file, but no persistent source cache                                | Requires a dedicated USB drive and its initial preparation erases the selected device |

Choose [Create an ISO](/foundry-osd/media/create-iso.md), [Create a USB drive](/foundry-osd/media/create-usb.md), or [Update an existing USB drive](/foundry-osd/media/update-usb.md).

During creation, Foundry reports workspace preparation, driver resolution, image customization, language and component processing, runtime payload provisioning, media creation, verification, and cleanup.


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