What is SCCM? - Full Form, Uses and Cost

Microsoft SCCM is a systems management tool that helps IT administrators efficiently manage large groups of computers and devices within an organization. It provides a centralized platform for deploying software, managing updates, and ensuring security compliance across physical and virtual environments.

In this article, we have provided information about Microsoft's System Center Configuration Manager(SCCM). We have covered the installation and uses of SCCM, and also provided the cost for the tool.

What is SCCM?

SCCM stands for System Center Configuration Manager. It is a Windows tool used for system management, configuration, software distribution, and ensuring compliance with IT policies.

It was released in 1994 and has now been rebranded to Endpoint Configuration Manager. It’s part of the broader Microsoft System Center suite of management tools.

Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager automates tasks such as deploying operating systems, monitoring application health, and ensuring compliance with security policies, thereby reducing manual workloads for IT teams.

SCCM integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products like Active Directory and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), providing a unified platform for managing a variety of devices, including Windows PCs, servers, and mobile devices.

SCCM Costs

To use SCCM, you need a license from the Microsoft System Center suite, which comes in two editions: Standard and Datacenter. In addition, you must purchase Client Management Licenses (CMLs) for every user or device you want to manage.

The Standard Edition is ideal for managing physical servers with minimal virtualization needs. In contrast, the Datacenter Edition is designed for highly virtualized environments and allows you to manage an unlimited number of virtual machines.

The costs for SCCM Licenses are given below:

SCCM Pricing

1. Server License Costs

● Standard Edition: Approx. $1,323  (₹110,000) for a 16-core, 2-processor server.

● Datacenter Edition: Approx. $3,607 (₹300,000) for the same hardware.

2. Client Management Licenses (CMLs)

● Monthly cost per user: $6 to $12 or ₹500 to ₹1,000

● Annual cost per user: $70 to $140 or ₹5,800 to ₹11,600

● Enterprise pricing (1,000+ users): Starts at $50 per user/year or ₹4,150 per user/year

Key Features of SCCM

Some of the key features of System Center Configuration Manager are:

1. Software Deployment: Deploy OS, applications, patches, and updates to keep devices secure and up-to-date.

2. OS Deployment: Automate OS installations across devices for consistency and efficiency.

3. Inventory Management: Collect hardware and software data for asset management and compliance.

4. Remote Control: Troubleshoot and resolve issues on remote computers without physical access.

5. Security and Compliance: Enforce security policies, apply patches, and block unauthorized apps.

Why is SCCM Popular in Organizations?

SCCM is popular because it helps IT teams manage computers and devices from one central place. It makes tasks like installing software, updating systems, and checking security settings easier and faster.

It works well with other Microsoft tools like Active Directory, WSUS, and Intune, which makes it even more useful in Windows environments.

SCCM also saves time by automating many tasks and can handle large numbers of devices, making it a great choice for big companies that need reliable and secure IT management.

Different Versions of System Center Configuration Manager

Here is a SCCM Version Timeline & Key Milestones:

How Does SCCM Work?

SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) works as a centralized platform to manage devices, deploy software, enforce security policies, and monitor system health across an organization. It uses a combination of servers, clients, and databases to automate and streamline these tasks.

Core Components of SCCM

There are three components of SCCM that work together to enable its proper functioning:

1. SCCM Server: It is a central system that manages configurations and deployments.

2. SCCM Client: A software that is installed on devices to receive instructions and updates.

3. SQL Server Database: This database Stores all configuration, inventory, and deployment data.

Step-by-Step: How SCCM Works?

The working process of SCCM is explained by below steps.

Step 1: SCCM discovers devices on the network and adds them to its inventory.

Step 2: Administrators create software packages and deploy them to specific devices or groups.

Step 3: The SCCM client receives the deployment and installs the software.

Step 4: SCCM downloads updates from Microsoft Update or other sources and distributes and installs these updates on managed devices.

Step 5: SCCM collects information about hardware and software installed on devices, which can be used for reporting and troubleshooting.

Step 6: Administrators can configure settings on devices, such as security policies, network settings, and software settings.

Step 7: SCCM generates reports on software usage, hardware inventory, and other relevant metrics.

Step 8: It also monitors the health of devices and alerts administrators to potential issues.

How to Download and Install SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager)?

The following is a streamlined guide for installing SCCM on a Windows Server.

Requirements for Installing SCCM

Before you install SCCM, ensure the following prerequisites:

1. Server Requirements:

● Windows Server OS (2016, 2019, or 2022) is recommended.

● SQL Server (SQL Server 2016 or later).

● Active Directory (for domain services) and a dedicated SCCM service account with administrative privileges.

2. Software Dependencies:

● .NET Framework version 4.8 or later.

● Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK) for Windows 10.

● WSUS (Windows Server Update Services) for patch management.

3. Networking and Permissions:

● Ensure that DNS and DHCP are configured correctly.

● Open necessary ports (80, 443, 445, etc.) in the firewall.

● Active Directory schema extension for SCCM.

Step-by-Step Process to Install SCCM

Step 1: Prepare SQL Server

First, install SQL Server on either the same or a separate machine. The server must allow remote connections, and TCP/IP must be enabled. Install SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for managing databases.

Step 2: Install Windows Server

Make sure the Windows Server 2022/2019/2016 operating system is up to date with the latest patches. Also, ensure the server is part of the Active Directory (AD) domain.

Step 3: Install Required Software Dependencies

First, install the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK), which is necessary for operating system deployment. Next, ensure that .NET Framework 4.8 or higher is installed on the server. Finally, install Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to manage software updates.

Step 4: Extend Active Directory Schema

Run the `extadsch.exe` command to extend the Active Directory schema. This step is necessary for SCCM to integrate with AD and manage devices.

Step 5: Run SCCM Setup

1. Download SCCM: Download the SCCM installation media from the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center or the Microsoft Download Center.

2. Launch Setup: Start the `setup.exe` to begin the SCCM installation process.

3. Site Server: In the wizard, select Primary Site to configure SCCM as the main management site.

4. Accept License: Review and accept the licensing terms.

5. Select SQL Server: Provide the name of your SQL Server instance and authentication method.

6. Configure Communication Settings: Choose whether you want SCCM to communicate over HTTP or HTTPS.

7. Choose Features: Select the SCCM features you need, such as Software Updates, OS Deployment, and Endpoint Protection.

Step 6: Configure Site Roles

After installation, configure SCCM roles.

Step 7: Set Up Boundaries and Boundary Groups

Configure boundaries based on your network configuration (such as IP subnets or AD sites) to define where clients are located. Set up boundary groups for content distribution and site assignment.

Step 8: Install the SCCM Client

Use the Client Push Installation method to install the SCCM client on your devices. You can also manually install the client if required.

Step 9: Verify Installation

Once the installation is complete, verify that the SCCM client is successfully installed on all devices. Test key features such as software deployment, OS deployment, and software updates to ensure proper functionality.

Post-Installation Configuration

After SCCM is installed, perform the following configurations:

1. Set up Software Update Management by configuring WSUS.

2. Create Software Packages for deployment across your network.

3. Configure Operating System Deployment (OSD) for imaging and deploying the OS to clients.

4. Set up monitoring and alerts to track SCCM performance and client health.

Benefits of SCCM

● It automates and simplifies software configuration, deployment, and management across multiple devices, freeing up IT administrators for other tasks.

● It keeps systems updated with the latest patches and security updates, preventing unauthorized software installations and ensuring proper configuration.

● It reduces manual intervention and errors through automation, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic projects and boosting overall productivity.

● It manages software updates and configurations remotely, reducing the need for on-site IT support and maintenance, and helps avoid costly downtime and troubleshooting.

Limitations of SCCM

1. Complexity and Learning Curve

SCCM is a powerful tool, but its setup and management can be complex. New users often face a steep learning curve due to its wide range of features, intricate configurations, and reliance on multiple components like SQL Server and Active Directory.

2. Limited Cross-Platform Support

While SCCM supports macOS and Linux to some extent, its capabilities are primarily optimized for Windows environments. Non-Windows systems often receive limited functionality, making SCCM less suitable for diverse IT ecosystems.

3. Dependency on Microsoft Ecosystem

SCCM works best when integrated with other Microsoft tools like WSUS, Intune, and Active Directory. This tight coupling can be a drawback for organizations using non-Microsoft platforms or seeking vendor-neutral solutions.

4. High Infrastructure Requirements

Running SCCM efficiently requires significant infrastructure, including dedicated servers, storage, and network resources. This can be costly and may not be ideal for smaller organizations with limited IT budgets.

5. Licensing and Cost

SCCM’s licensing model can be complex and expensive, involving costs for server licenses, client access licenses (CALs), and SQL Server. This can be a barrier for small to mid-sized businesses.

Choosing the Right Tool: SCCM and Its Alternatives

While SCCM is one of the most widely used management tools, it’s not the only option available. Competitors like Microsoft Intune, JamfPro, and ManageEngine Endpoint Central provide similar functionality and some benefits over SCCM.

SCCM vs. Microsoft Intune

SCCM is best suited for on-premises environments and offers deep control over Windows systems, but it requires significant infrastructure and manual setup. In contrast, Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based solution that excels in managing remote and mobile devices, especially in hybrid or cloud-first organizations.

Intune supports modern device management, integrates with Azure Active Directory, and is ideal for organizations embracing BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and remote work. While SCCM provides granular control, Intune offers flexibility and ease of use with less overhead.

SCCM vs. Jamf Pro

SCCM is primarily focused on Windows environments, with limited support for macOS. Jamf Pro, on the other hand, is purpose-built for managing Apple devices.

It offers advanced features for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, including zero-touch deployment, Apple-specific security controls, and seamless integration with Apple Business Manager.

Organizations heavily invested in Apple hardware often prefer Jamf Pro for its native support and user-friendly interface, whereas SCCM may struggle to deliver the same level of functionality for non-Windows platforms.

SCCM vs. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

While SCCM is powerful and enterprise-grade, it can be complex and resource-intensive. ManageEngine Endpoint Central (formerly Desktop Central) provides a more lightweight and user-friendly alternative for small to mid-sized businesses.

It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices, offering features like patch management, remote control, and asset tracking. Endpoint Central is easier to deploy and manage, with a more intuitive interface, making it a good choice for organizations that need multi-platform support without the complexity of SCCM.

Conclusion

SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is an essential tool for organizations that need to manage, configure, and secure their IT environments.

Whether you're deploying software, monitoring compliance, or securing devices, SCCM offers a comprehensive set of features to simplify IT management and improve security.

For organizations that are heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, SCCM remains one of the most cost-effective and efficient tools to manage their IT infrastructure.