SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is a software management tool developed by Microsoft. It provides organizations with a comprehensive solution for managing and deploying software, applications, updates, and operating systems across a network of computers. SCCM helps streamline the management of IT infrastructure, ensuring software compliance, and facilitating centralized administration.
Key features and capabilities of SCCM include:
1. Software Deployment: SCCM allows administrators to deploy software packages, applications, and updates to targeted devices or user collections within an organization. It supports various deployment methods, including MSI, EXE, scripts, and more.
2. Patch Management: SCCM enables administrators to centrally manage and deploy software updates and patches to ensure that systems are up to date and secure. It provides tools for deploying and scheduling updates, as well as reporting and compliance monitoring.
3. Operating System Deployment: SCCM facilitates the deployment of operating systems to new or existing computers. It supports creating standardized OS images, driver management, and task sequences for automated deployment.
4. Inventory and Asset Management: SCCM collects and maintains an inventory of hardware and software across the network, providing administrators with detailed information about the organization's IT assets. This data can be used for software license compliance, hardware auditing, and reporting.
5. Endpoint Protection: SCCM integrates with Microsoft Endpoint Protection (Windows Defender) to provide endpoint security management. It allows administrators to manage antimalware policies, distribute definition updates, and monitor security status.
6. Reporting and Monitoring: SCCM offers comprehensive reporting and monitoring capabilities, allowing administrators to track software deployment, compliance status, inventory details, and other relevant data. It provides a range of predefined reports and allows customization to meet specific reporting requirements.
7. Client Health and Remediation: SCCM includes features to monitor and maintain the health of client devices. It can identify and remediate issues such as failed software installations, outdated software versions, or connectivity problems.
8. Role-Based Administration: SCCM supports role-based administration, allowing administrators to define security roles and assign appropriate permissions to different user groups. This helps enforce access control and delegate management tasks within the SCCM environment.
SCCM is a powerful tool for managing and maintaining an organization's software infrastructure. It provides automation, scalability, and centralization of management tasks, saving time and effort for IT administrators.