Microsoft Configuration Manager (SCCM)
1. PowerShell from the Configuration Manager Console
The Configuration Manager console includes built-in PowerShell integration.
Administrators can launch a PowerShell session directly from the console to automate
tasks, run scripts, or manage SCCM objects. PowerShell helps with bulk operations,
repeatable tasks, and advanced administration without relying solely on the GUI.
Examples of what can be done with PowerShell in SCCM:
• Create and manage device collections
• Deploy applications and updates
• Run queries
• Automate reporting
• Monitor and troubleshoot clients
2. What is CMTrace and Why It is Used?
CMTrace (Configuration Manager Trace Log Tool) is a log file viewer provided with SCCM. It
simplifies reading Configuration Manager log files by providing color-coded highlighting,
real-time updates, and search capabilities. CMTrace makes troubleshooting much easier
compared to using standard Notepad or other text editors.
Key Benefits of CMTrace:
• Real-time log monitoring
• Color coding (Red = Errors, Yellow = Warnings, Blue = Information)
• Easy navigation and filtering
• Essential for administrators when diagnosing SCCM issues
3. Why CMTrace is an Essential Tool
Log files can be monitored in real time as they update, saving you valuable time.
You can combine multiple log files to view them as a single file.
The ability to highlight text according to your specific needs while navigating
through the logs is invaluable—don't overlook this feature!
You have the option to look up error codes effortlessly.
4. Creating Queries in Configuration Manager
Queries in Configuration Manager are used to retrieve information about resources
(devices, users, applications). Administrators can create custom queries to build collections
or generate reports.
Steps to Create a Query:
1. Open Configuration Manager Console
2. Navigate to Monitoring > Queries
3. Right-click Queries > Create Query
4. Provide a name and target class (e.g., System Resource)
5. Define criteria using attributes (e.g., Operating System, Installed Software)
6. Save and run the query
5. Turning On Health Check Communication for
Configuration Manager Computers
Health checks ensure that SCCM clients are properly communicating with site systems and
reporting status. This is enabled through Client Settings and Compliance Baselines.
Steps:
1. Go to Administration > Client Settings
2. Modify Default Client Settings or create Custom Client Settings
3. Enable Client Health Evaluation
4. Deploy the settings to device collections
5. Monitor results in the Monitoring workspace under Client Status
6. SCCM Inventory Collection
Inventory collection in SCCM is used to gather detailed information about devices and
software. Two main types of inventory exist:
• Hardware Inventory: Collects data such as CPU, RAM, disk, BIOS, and network details.
• Software Inventory: Collects installed applications, files, and executables on client
systems.
Benefits of Inventory Collection:
• Asset management and compliance
• Helps in license management
• Assists in planning upgrades and migrations
• Useful in troubleshooting and reporting