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Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a powerful tool for managing IT infrastructure. Below is a breakdown of its core components and their roles in enterprise environments.
1. SCCM Site Server
The primary component responsible for managing operations, policies, and client communication.
– Primary Site: Manages clients in a specific region.
– Secondary Site: Optional, helps manage remote locations with bandwidth optimization.
– Central Administration Site (CAS): Used in large enterprises with multiple primary sites.
2. SCCM Database (SQL Server)
Stores all SCCM-related data, including:
- Client inventory
- Software deployment logs
- Compliance reports
3. SCCM Management Point (MP)
Acts as a communication bridge between clients and the Site Server.
– Retrieves policies and deployment instructions.
– Supports HTTP/HTTPS (PKI-based for security).
4. Distribution Point (DP)
Stores and distributes:
- Software packages
- OS images
- Updates
Optimizes bandwidth with BranchCache and Prestaged Content.
5. Software Update Point (SUP)
Integrates with WSUS to manage:
- Windows updates
- Office patches
- Third-party software updates
6. Reporting Services Point (RSP)
Generates custom reports using SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS).
– Tracks deployments, compliance, and security policies.
7. Endpoint Protection Point (EPP)
Integrates Microsoft Defender Antivirus for centralized security management.
8. Asset Intelligence Synchronization Point (AISP)
Tracks licensed and unlicensed software usage.
9. Fallback Status Point (FSP)
Helps troubleshoot client installation failures.
10. Cloud Management Gateway (CMG)
Enables internet-based client management via Azure, eliminating VPN dependency.
You Should Know: Essential SCCM Commands & Practices
1. Checking SCCM Client Health
Test-SCCMClientHealth -Detailed
Or via WMI:
Get-WmiObject -Namespace "root\ccm" -Class "CCM_Client" | Select-Object *
2. Forcing Policy Retrieval
Invoke-WMIMethod -Namespace "root\ccm" -Class "SMS_Client" -Name "TriggerSchedule" -ArgumentList "{00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000021}"
3. Redistributing SCCM Content
Update-DistributionPoint -ContentID "ABC00001" -DistributionPoint "DP-Server01"
4. Deploying Applications via PowerShell
Start-CMApplicationDeployment -Name "Adobe Reader" -CollectionName "All Workstations" -DeployAction Install -DeployPurpose Required
5. Checking Pending Updates
Get-CMSoftwareUpdate -Fast | Where-Object { $<em>.IsDeployed -eq $true -and $</em>.IsInstalled -eq $false }
6. Monitoring Client Logs
Key SCCM log files:
- Client: `C:\Windows\CCM\Logs\ClientIDManagerStartup.log`
- Policy: `C:\Windows\CCM\Logs\PolicyEvaluator.log`
- Deployment: `C:\Windows\CCM\Logs\AppEnforce.log`
7. Reinstalling the SCCM Client
[cmd]
ccmsetup.exe /uninstall
ccmsetup.exe /mp:SCCM-MP01 /SMSSITECODE=ABC
[/cmd]
8. Enabling Verbose Logging
Modify C:\Windows\CCM\Logging\Logging.ini:
[Logging] LogLevel=1
# What Undercode Say
SCCM remains a cornerstone in enterprise IT management, offering robust deployment, patching, and security features. Mastering its core components ensures efficient device management, compliance enforcement, and seamless software distribution.
For further learning:
# Expected Output:
A structured SCCM management workflow with automated deployments, real-time compliance checks, and secure remote administration.
References:
Reported By: Shamseer Siddiqui – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
