A golden image, otherwise known as a clone, base, or master image, is the template for a virtual machine, server, or hard disk drive. A golden image is a pre-figured, fully functional “snapshot” of a computer system or software configuration—the “golden” standard of what you are trying to replicate. (The term’s etymology comes from the old practice of recording CDs with a gold film, letting people know that gold-colored CDs are the original data source).
IT administrators use golden images to streamline and optimize the deployment process (or when applying USB-based zero-touch provisioning). This is because mission-critical applications are no longer dependent on the device being used but on the server or network itself. This not only saves time, especially if you’re a larger organization, but also eliminates the need for repetitive configuration changes that could increase the risk of human error.
Golden images are often used in new device setups.
What’s included in a golden image?
To create a golden image, an IT administrator must first set up the computing environment with the exact specifications and configurations needed and then capture and save this image for future replication. Typically, a golden image includes:
- An operating system
- Line-of-business software
The NIST Special Publication 800-53, “Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations” (at the time of writing, currently in Revision 5) refers to golden images as “baseline configurations”, wherein:
“Baseline configurations serve as a basis for future builds, releases, or changes to systems and include security and privacy control implementations, operational procedures, information about system components, network topology, and logical placement of components in the system architecture.
Maintaining baseline configurations requires creating new baselines as organizational systems change over time. Baseline configurations of systems reflect the current enterprise architecture.”
It’s worth noting that your golden image can differ depending on whether it’s a thick, thin, or hybrid disk image.
What is the difference between thick images and thin images?
| Thick images | Thin images |
| An “all-in-one” image created by IT admins. Once deployed, all applications are already present and need only minor tweaking. | It is more process-based, in which the disc image is deployed, and then any updates, applications, and configurations are part of a task sequence or group policy. |
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Hybrid images fall in between the two. It’s crucial to determine what type of image you want your golden image to be. While it’s easy to assume that thick images may be better, you must also consider your existing systems and other resources.
Benefits of using a golden image
Golden images are essential in device provisioning and any process that ensures endpoints are secured and compliant.
- Saves time. Golden images may contribute to your overall operational efficiency since you don’t have to configure devices individually. For example, golden images can help you roll out new software without compromising the consistency or performance of your fleet. (Check out our guide on the 10 Best Software Deployment Tools in 2024 for further guidance).
- Ensures consistency. A golden image significantly reduces the risk of any inconsistencies across your device fleet. Your master image ensures that all future clones are the same. This is definitely a point worth considering, as the latest IT Industry Outlook 2024 by CompTIA suggests that consistency is (and will be) foundational to any data governance plan for cybersecurity now and in the future.
- Minimizes bloatware. Golden images remove bloatware that can impact device performance. However, keep in mind that this also depends on how you made your golden image. A poorly taken image may not provide maximum benefit to your organization. (We’ve written another guide on how to find and remove bloatware from Windows 11 here).
Golden image best practices
- Patch your operating system. It’s highly recommended that you patch your operating system before you capture and deploy your golden image. This reduces any security vulnerability in your fleet. Work with a vendor like NinjaOne for automated and robust patch management.
NinjaOne, rated #1 in patch management, helps you identify, evaluate, and deploy patches to any device, anywhere.
- Use virtual machines. If possible, use a virtual machine to create your golden image. This helps save physical space and any possible software costs. Virtual machines are also easier to scale—making them useful for expanding MSPs, MSSPs, and IT enterprises.
- Disable antivirus software (when creating your image). In general, disable any antivirus or other third-party apps while creating and deploying your golden image. This prevents the new device from erroneously identifying the new image as malware and deploying various security measures against you. You can always install your antivirus software post-imaging.
- Test your golden image. Create self-contained testing environments for your golden image, especially if it’s your first time capturing one. This ensures that your master image will work as it should in your intended deployment process.
- Keep your images up-to-date. Your golden image is only as good as the snapshot of time when it was created. It’s highly recommended that you keep your operating systems up to date (and, consequently, your image library) to make life easier during deployment and provisioning.
NinjaOne and golden images
While NinjaOne does not create golden images, it helps you use them correctly in your device provisioning process. 17,000+ clients worldwide choose NinjaOne for provisioning devices for its strong automation functionality, efficient software deployment, and time-saving capabilities.
NinjaOne’s IT management software has no forced commitments and no hidden fees. If you’re ready, request a free quote, sign up for a 14-day free trial, or watch a demo.
