Is there a method of installing multiple programs at once that runs automatically?

Question

Basically, I want to create a custom XP installation disc that has programs already loaded. As far as I know, it's possible to use Ghost to create an image, but I don't always have a spare computer to "build" an image from. I just want to set it and forget it. I would also need to include serial #'s or keys for these installs.

Answer 1

Unfortunately with the need for activation codes on most software now, this does not work. Once software is installed on one machine, the same copy will not only refuse to activate, it will cancel the original activation, making recovery on the previous install impossible.