Windows Preinstallation Environment

Windows Preinstallation Environment (aka Windows PE, WinPE) is a lightweight version of Windows used for the deployment of workstations and servers or troubleshooting an operating system while it is offline. It is intended to replace MS-DOS boot disks and can be booted via PXE, iPXE,[1] CD-ROM, USB flash drive or hard disk. Traditionally used by large corporations and OEMs (to preinstall Windows client operating systems on PCs during manufacturing), it is now widely available free of charge via the Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK).