(1) Whenever a new user is created on a Windows XP SP3 system running Internet Explorer 8, their Favorites folder is automatically populated with a "Microsoft websites" folder and several links in the links toolbar (such as "Customize links", "Free Hotmail", etc.). I cannot accept this behaviour.
(2) Also, a new user gets a email shortcut (which usually defaults to Outlook Express) under their default browser (which is usually Internet Explorer), plus several other shortcuts (such as Windows Media Player), in the Start Menu upon first logon. I can't seem to change this either.
I am in the process of using sysprep to prepare a Windows XP SP3 image for deployment, is there anything I can do to deal with these pesky problems? I've Googled for answers but couldn't find any..... I've also tried to customize my Administrator profile before sysprepping (by removing those pesky Favorites items and fully customizing my Start Menu) and using the UpdateServerProfileDirectory=1 option in sysprep.inf, but nothing helps...
Is there anything I can do? Thanks!!
P.S. Yes, I am aware of the issues of still deploying Windows XP in this day and age. But for factors beyond my control I still need to do it.