During the Online Configuration phase, Windows 7 performs customization tasks related to the computer's identity.

The Specialize pass, which runs during this phase, creates and applies computer-specific information. For example, you can use an unattended setup answer file (Unattend.xml) to configure network settings, international settings, and domain information, as well as run installation programs.

During the Online Configuration phase, you can use scripts to configure the destination computer. However, a task sequencer, which enables you to filter tasks based on conditions, such as whether a particular device is installed, is better suited to this purpose. A task sequencer also provides advanced features such as the ability to wait until a certain condition arises before continuing, and grouping tasks into folders and then filtering the entire group.