ClonePrep is a VMware customization process run during instant clone deployment to personalize each desktop clone created from the parent image.

Important: When you use ClonePrep power-off or post-synchronization scripts, ensure that the scripts are located in the /var/userScript folder, owned by the root user, and have the file permissions set to 700.

ClonePrep Processes

ClonePrep ensures that all instant clones join an Active Directory domain. The clones have the same computer security identifiers (SIDs) as the golden image. ClonePrep also preserves the globally unique identifiers (GUIDs) of applications, although some applications generate a new GUID during customization.

During the initial startup of each desktop, ClonePrep:
  • Creates a new computer account in Active Directory for each desktop.
  • Gives the instant clone desktop a new name.
  • Joins the desktop to the appropriate domain.
The following table shows the effect of various ClonePrep operations on the security identifiers (SIDs) of instant clones.
Creation Push Image On User Logout
ClonePrep Parent Image's SID are used for the desktops SIDs are preserved unless parent image is changed SIDs are preserved unless parent image is changed

ClonePrep Guest Customization Scripts

When you add an instant-clone desktop pool, you can specify a script so that it runs immediately after a clone is created and another script to run before the clone is powered off.

Refer to the following guidelines when creating ClonePrep customization scripts.

  • Path to ClonePrep Scripts

    You can specify the scripts when you create or edit the desktop pool. The scripts must reside on the golden image in the /var/userScript folder, be owned by the root user, and have the file permissions set to 700. You cannot use a UNC path to a network share.

  • ClonePrep Script Timeout Limit

    By default, ClonePrep stops a script if the execution takes longer than 20 seconds. Alternatively, you can specify a script that runs another script or process that takes a long time to run.

  • ClonePrep Script Account

    ClonePrep runs the scripts using the same account that the VMware Horizon 8 Instant Clone Agent service uses. Do not change this login account. If you do, the clones can fail to start.