A replica image of a computer system is loaded to a target computer system being built. A detection program running on the target computer system detects configuration information and attached devices and provides this information to a build program. The build program provides needed program components, applications, prerequisites and device drivers for the target computer according to build rules defined for the target computer type/model. Optionally, the detection program further detects that there are updates required for the detection program and installs the updates before proceeding with the build process.