What is SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager)?

Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a systems management tool that helps IT administrators efficiently manage large groups of computers and devices within an organization.

SCCM provides a centralized platform for deploying software, managing updates, and ensuring security compliance across physical and virtual environments.

This article is a detailed guide on Microsoft SCCM, which will discuss the SCCM full form, its working, and its uses in the IT environment. We have also shared steps to download and install SSCM on your systems.

What is SCCM?

SCCM full form is System Center Configuration Manager. Now known as Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, it was originally developed as Systems Management Server (SMS) and first released in 1994.

It’s part of the broader Microsoft System Center suite of management tools and is specifically used for system management, configuration, software distribution, and ensuring compliance with IT policies.

Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) 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.

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 Microsoft SCCM Used? 

Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager is trusted by many businesses worldwide because of its deep integration with other Microsoft tools, which many organizations already use in their IT infrastructure.

Below are a few reasons why SCCM is so widely adopted: 

1. Seamless Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem and platforms like Windows Server, Active Directory, and Microsoft Intune (for cloud-based management). 

2. SCCM provides a single point of management for all IT assets in an organization.

3. It is Cost-Effective for Organizations that already using Microsoft products. 

4. SCCM can scale to meet the needs of organizations of all sizes—from small businesses with a few devices to large enterprises with thousands of systems.

History of SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager)

Microsoft SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager), originally developed as Systems Management Server (SMS) in 1994, was designed to manage Microsoft-native applications on various networks like Windows NT Server, NetWare, and LAN Manager.

Let's look at different System Center Configuration Manager versions over the years:

The evolution of SCCM reflects its shift from managing just Windows environments to offering a comprehensive, unified solution for modern IT infrastructures.

How Does SCCM Work? 

Here's a simplified breakdown of how SCCM works:    

Core Components of SSCM: 

1. SCCM Server    

2. SCCM Client

3. SQL Server Database

Working of SCCM

The working process of SSCM 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 Install SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager)

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

Prerequisites 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.

Cons of SCCM

● Limited support for non-Windows devices

● SCCM struggles with patching third-party applications, leaving potential security gaps for non-Microsoft software. 

● SCCM’s pricing can be expensive, with client licenses ranging from $41 to $430. 

SCCM vs. Other Management Solutions

While SCCM is one of the most widely used management tools, it’s not the only option available. Competitors like Microsoft Intune, Jamf, and VMware Workspace ONE provide similar functionality, but they differ in several ways:

SCCM vs. Microsoft Intune: While SCCM is primarily used for on-premises management, Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based solution that’s increasingly popular for managing mobile devices and remote workers. For organizations that need a hybrid solution, SCCM and Intune can be integrated to deliver both on-premises and cloud-based management capabilities.

SCCM vs. VMware Workspace ONE: VMware Workspace ONE provides enterprise mobility management (EMM) and unified endpoint management (UEM) similar to SCCM but focuses more on managing a variety of device types, including non-Windows devices like macOS, Android, and iOS.

SCCM vs. Jamf: Jamf is a device management solution focused primarily on Apple devices. While SCCM is more comprehensive and platform-agnostic, Jamf is specialized for organizations that rely heavily on macOS and iOS systems.

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.