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Packt Publishing

If you’re a systems administrator or a Windows administrator hands on Even if you do not have any prior knowledge of System Center Configuration Manager, do not worry. This Learning Path will address your need.

System Center Configuration Manager (ConfigMgr) is a flagship systems management product from Microsoft that provides a comprehensive management solution for computer systems. It enhances administrative tasks such as keeping your software and security policies up-to-date, managing PCs and servers, and monitoring systems for your organization.

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If you’re a systems administrator or a Windows administrator hands on Even if you do not have any prior knowledge of System Center Configuration Manager, do not worry. This Learning Path will address your need.

System Center Configuration Manager (ConfigMgr) is a flagship systems management product from Microsoft that provides a comprehensive management solution for computer systems. It enhances administrative tasks such as keeping your software and security policies up-to-date, managing PCs and servers, and monitoring systems for your organization.

SCCM: Building Concepts with Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager is Packt’s Video Learning Path that is a series of individual video products put together in a logical and stepwise manner such that each video builds on the skills learned in the video before it.

This Learning Path will get you started with this powerful solution and eventually enable you to effectively manage your resources. We'll teach you how to install and configure ConfigMgr, manage your devices, deploy operating systems in the enterprise, and deploy and manage applications.

Then, you will learn to secure SCCM by configuring public key infrastructure, validating HTTPS mode, and configuring site roles to support HTTPS. Finally, you will learn to manage your Mac OS X using Configuration Manager, where you will be taught how to enroll your Mac device, deploy applications and settings, and explore different third-party applications.

By the end of this course you will be well versed with the various advanced, yet real-world scenarios that you may come across using Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager.

The goal of this course is to help you manage your professional systems efficiently by exploring SCCM.

This Learning Path is authored by some of the best in the field.

About the Author

Gerry Hampson is an author, blogger and speaker. He is a senior consultant engineer with over twenty years of experience as an IT professional. He has worked for Ergo Group, based in Dublin, Ireland, for 12 years. Gerry specializes in designing and deploying Microsoft solutions, with a particular interest in System Center Configuration Manager and Intune. He was awarded Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) in Enterprise Client Management for 2015.

Peter Daalmans is a technical consultant and Enterprise Mobility Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) with a speciality in System Center Configuration Manager, Enterprise Mobility (Microsoft EMS) and Exchange Server.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn configuration manager site planning and network design.
  • How to install and upgrade configuration manager
  • Learn to use the configuration manager console
  • How to create and manage collections
  • Getting started with hardware and software inventory.
  • Look into advanced application deployment and troubleshooting using sccm
  • Secure microsoft sccm by configuring public key infrastructure prerequisites
  • Deploy applications and settings for your device using various third-party options

Syllabus

Introducing System Center Configuration Manager

This video will an overview of the entire course.

This video is a Configuration Manager overview. You will get a basic understanding of what the product is about.

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In this video, you will learn about Configuration Manager sites and hierarchies. We will also discuss site servers and roles and how the Configuration Manager environment can be integrated into Active Directory.

In this video, you will learn about the various configurations that must be carried out before Configuration Manager can be installed.

In this video, you will learn how to install Configuration Manager Current Branch 1606 and create a site. You will also learn how to verify the installation.

In this video, you will learn how to upgrade Configuration Manager sites using the Easy Setup process. These upgrades are carried out in-console.

In this video, you will learn about the ConfigMgr console. You will see some of the components that make up the console. Finally, you will learn how to install a remote console.

In this video, you will explore how PowerShell can be used to manage Configuration Manager sites. You will learn some PowerShell basics and how to connect to a ConfigMgr site using PowerShell. You will also get an introduction to some common PowerShell cmdlets for ConfigMgr.

In this video, youwill start to configure the Configuration Manager site. You willlearn about the various discovery methods and see how to enable Active Directory System and Active Directory User Discoveries. You willalso learn about the various boundary types and see how and why youare added to boundary groups.

In this video, you will learn about the Configuration Manager client agent and how to configure some of the many client settings. We will also discuss the various methods in which the agent can be installed and monitored afterwards.

In this video, you will learn about Configuration Manager collections. We will discuss how collections can be created using membership rules and also look at some considerations for updating collections.

In this video, you will learn about Configuration Manager compliance. You will see how to implement compliance settings using configuration items and baselines and discover what devices can be managed in this way. You will also learn how to use ConfigMgr reports to track compliance.

In this video, you learn about hardware and software inventory with ConfigMgr. You willsee how to configure, extend and view hardware inventory before discussing software inventory and what that actually means.

In this video, you learn some important security concepts. You will learn about the security issues to consider when implementing ConfigMgr. Youwill also see how ConfigMgr is actually used to manage security features in the environment.

In this video, you learn about role-based administration in Configuration Manager.

In this video, you learn about additional ways to secure administrative access to ConfigMgr, including access to Active Directory and the site database. You will also see methods of securing the ConfigMgr infrastructure.

In this video, you will learn how to implement reporting in ConfigMgr. Youwill see how reporting is based on SQL Server Reporting Services and requires the addition of the Reporting Services Point. You will also see how reports can be viewed and customized before discussing how to create report subscriptions.

In this video, you learn about backup and recovery procedures, which are the vital components in a disaster recovery plan. You will also learn about ConfigMgr site maintenance and monitoring.

This video will give an overview of entire course.

The aim of the video is to learn about the components of the application model and some advanced scenarios while deploying applications.

The aim of the video is to learn how to use Powershell for creating your applications, configuring them, and deploying them.

The aim of the video is to learn how to create applications in Configuration Manager with the help of third-party tools.

The goal of the video is to learn how to use a console to troubleshoot and make use of the log files for troubleshooting.

The goal of this video is to understand why third-party management is needed.

The goal of this video is to configure and integrate the System Center Updates Publisher (SCUP)using the Configuration Manager.

The aim of this video is to understand what we need to do when deploying third-party updates.

In this video, we will understand why we need to secure Configuration Manager.

The goal of this video is to configure the PKI components for the Configuration Manager.

The aim of this video is to configure the Configuration Manager to support HTTPS.

The goal of the video is to validate that everything is correctly configured.

The aim of the video is to prepare the Configuration Manager for Mac OS X support.

The aim of this video is to configure the devices to enroll in the Configuration Manager for Mac OS X support.

The aim of the video is to learn how to enroll Mac devices in the Configuration Manager.

This video is about applications, inventory, and settings.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers site planning and network design, which are essential for managing computer systems within an organization
Explores PowerShell for managing sites, which is useful for automation and advanced configuration
Taught by Gerry Hampson and Peter Daalmans, who are Microsoft MVPs with expertise in System Center Configuration Manager
Teaches how to secure SCCM by configuring public key infrastructure, which is a critical aspect of system administration
Explores the use of third-party tools for creating applications, which can expand the capabilities of Configuration Manager
Focuses on Configuration Manager Current Branch 1606, which may not be the latest version, so learners should verify its relevance

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learning Path: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager with these activities:
Review Active Directory Concepts
Solidify your understanding of Active Directory concepts, as SCCM integrates heavily with it for user and device management.
Browse courses on Active Directory
Show steps
  • Review the structure of Active Directory domains and forests.
  • Understand Group Policy Objects (GPOs) and their application.
  • Familiarize yourself with user and computer object management.
Review 'Mastering System Center 2012 Configuration Manager'
Deepen your understanding of SCCM architecture and design principles by reviewing a comprehensive guide.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on site hierarchy and client management.
  • Study the sections on software distribution and patch management.
  • Review the chapters on reporting and monitoring.
Practice Application Deployment Scenarios
Improve your skills by practicing different application deployment scenarios using SCCM.
Show steps
  • Deploy a simple MSI package to a collection of devices.
  • Deploy a complex application with dependencies and custom scripts.
  • Troubleshoot failed application deployments using SCCM logs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Set up a lab environment
Gain hands-on experience by setting up a lab environment to practice SCCM installation, configuration, and management tasks.
Show steps
  • Install a virtualized environment using Hyper-V or VMware.
  • Set up a domain controller and a few client machines.
  • Install SCCM in the lab environment.
  • Configure basic SCCM settings and deploy a test application.
Document SCCM Deployment Process
Reinforce your understanding by creating a detailed document outlining the steps involved in deploying SCCM in an enterprise environment.
Show steps
  • Outline the prerequisites for SCCM installation.
  • Describe the steps for installing and configuring SCCM.
  • Document the process for client deployment and management.
  • Include screenshots and diagrams to illustrate the process.
Review 'System Center Configuration Manager Current Branch Unleashed'
Expand your knowledge of advanced SCCM features and best practices by studying a comprehensive guide.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on operating system deployment and software updates.
  • Study the sections on compliance settings and reporting.
  • Review the chapters on cloud integration and mobile device management.
Contribute to an SCCM PowerShell Module
Deepen your understanding of SCCM and PowerShell by contributing to an open-source PowerShell module for SCCM management.
Show steps
  • Find an open-source SCCM PowerShell module on GitHub.
  • Identify a bug or missing feature in the module.
  • Contribute a fix or new feature to the module.
  • Submit a pull request to the module maintainers.

Career center

Learners who complete Learning Path: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator is responsible for the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems, especially multi-user systems such as servers. This course provides a strong foundation for a Systems Administrator, focusing on the use of Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager to manage systems and deploy software. The course will help you master key administrative tasks such as keeping software and security up to date, managing PCs and servers, and monitoring systems. This course goes into detail about managing devices with Configuration Manager, covering crucial aspects such as hardware and software inventory, and securing configurations by implementing public key infrastructure, validating HTTPS mode, and configuring site roles to support HTTPS. This course also explores how to manage Mac OS X devices, which is a growing need for many organizations. This course provides an administrator with the skills needed to manage systems efficiently.
Software Deployment Specialist
A Software Deployment Specialist is responsible for deploying software applications across an organization's systems. This course may greatly benefit a Software Deployment Specialist since it is focused on Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, a key tool for software deployment. The course teaches advanced application deployments and troubleshooting, which directly translates into the work of the Software Deployment Specialist. It covers managing devices, deploying operating systems, and securing Configuration Manager itself. The course teaches how to manage third party applications which is important for a Software Deployment Specialist. This course will help a Software Deployment Specialist perform their role with confidence.
Endpoint Administrator
An Endpoint Administrator is responsible for the management and security of endpoint devices, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. This course is a great fit for an Endpoint Administrator because it teaches how to use Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager to manage and secure endpoints. The course will teach the Endpoint Administrator how to deploy operating systems, manage applications, and secure the configuration manager itself. The course also covers advanced topics such as how to manage Mac devices. For the Endpoint Administrator, knowledge of how to utilize Configuration Manager's capabilities will be very valuable.
Desktop Support Technician
A Desktop Support Technician is responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting desktop computer systems. This course helps a Desktop Support Technician by teaching how to use Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager to manage operating systems and deploy applications. The course covers key aspects such as hardware and software inventory, managing devices, application deployment, and troubleshooting techniques. A Desktop Support Technician will benefit from using the Configuration Manager to remotely fix many of the common problems they encounter. The course also provides skills to learn security by configuring public key infrastructure. This course may be very useful for a Desktop Support Technician who wants to enhance their skills in system management.
System Engineer
A System Engineer is responsible for the design and implementation of computer systems. This course may be useful for an System Engineer because it covers how to install, configure, and manage Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, an important tool for system management. This course reviews key aspects such as site planning, network design, and the integration of Configuration Manager with Active Directory. By learning to deploy operating systems and manage applications the System Engineer can use these skills to manage the full system lifecycle. The course will provide a solid foundation in system management for the System Engineer.
Infrastructure Engineer
An Infrastructure Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the IT infrastructure of an organization. This course will be helpful for an Infrastructure Engineer as it teaches how to plan, install, and configure Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, a core component of many IT infrastructures. The course covers installation, configuration, upgrades and integration with Active Directory, all critical aspects of infrastructure management. By learning to deploy operating systems and applications, an Infrastructure Engineer can use the Configuration Manager to streamline processes. The course also teaches securing Configuration Manager, which protects infrastructure against vulnerabilities. This course provides a solid understanding of System Center Configuration Manager, a vital tool for an Infrastructure Engineer.
IT Consultant
An IT Consultant provides expert advice and support to businesses regarding their IT needs. This course may be useful for an IT Consultant as it helps them learn a crucial tool, Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, which many businesses use to manage their IT infrastructure. The course covers how to install, configure, manage, and secure Configuration Manager. By understanding how to manage devices, deploy applications, and troubleshoot issues, the IT Consultant will be more able to advise clients. The course will help the IT Consultant understand how to manage both Windows and Mac devices. This course may greatly enhance an IT Consultant's ability to recommend solutions to businesses.
IT Systems Analyst
An IT Systems Analyst evaluates and improves IT systems to meet business goals. This course will be of value for an IT Systems Analyst because it demonstrates how to manage systems effectively using Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. The course teaches the basics of Configuration Manager, how to manage devices, deploy software, and troubleshoot issues. By understanding the capabilities of tools like these, an IT Systems Analyst can recommend improvements to systems. The course teaches how to take inventory of hardware and software and secure the configuration manager, which also supports the IT Systems Analyst in their role. This course may improve the ability of an IT Systems Analyst to make informed recommendations about system upgrades and configurations.
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing computer networks in an organization. This course may be useful for a Network Administrator because it covers key skills needed to manage devices, deploy software, and maintain network security and configurations using System Center Configuration Manager. The course emphasizes Configuration Manager site planning, network design, and integrating with Active Directory. The Network Administrator will use the skills taught in the course to ensure that network resources are available to all users. The course teaches hardware and software inventory which can be critical when planning for new hardware. By learning to configure PKI and HTTPS, the administrator will ensure a secure network. This course will enhance the efficiency of a Network Administrator.
IT Manager
An IT Manager is responsible for the overall management of an organization's IT department. This course can be helpful for an IT Manager since it helps them understand how to manage systems using Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. The course provides details on Configuration Manager site planning, network design, and device management. An IT Manager needs to understand system management in order to direct resources and implement effective strategies. The course also covers managing security with PKI and HTTPS which are important aspects for the IT infrastructure. This course may give an IT Manager a strong foundation to better manage an IT department.
Technical Support Engineer
A Technical Support Engineer provides advanced technical support to customers or internal users. This course may be helpful for a Technical Support Engineer because it will give them experience with Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. The course teaches how to troubleshoot, deploy applications, manage operating systems and other aspects of system administration which are skills that will complement a support engineer. The course will show the Technical Support Engineer how to manage security with PKI components. This course may enhance the Technical Support Engineer's ability to solve complex problems related to system configuration.
Security Analyst
A Security Analyst is responsible for monitoring and protecting an organization's IT systems from security threats. This course may be helpful for a Security Analyst since it teaches key security aspects of Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. In this course, you learn how to secure SCCM by configuring public key infrastructure, validating HTTPS mode, and configuring site roles to support HTTPS. The course also covers role-based administration and methods to secure administrative access as well as methods of securing the ConfigMgr infrastructure. These topics will help the Security Analyst to better understand best practices for securing system management tools. This course may help a Security Analyst understand how Configuration Manager fits within their security strategy.
IT Support Specialist
An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to users within an organization. This course will be helpful for an IT Support Specialist as it provides skills for using Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager to troubleshoot issues, manage devices, and deploy applications. The course material covers key areas, such as software deployment, managing operating systems, and using the console to troubleshoot. The IT Support Specialist will then be able to better assist end users with software-related and other technical challenges. This course teaches how to create and manage collections of devices, which can be valuable for targeted support. The IT Support Specialist may also learn to secure systems by configuring public key infrastructure. This course may improve the efficiency of the IT Support Specialist by providing the knowledge needed to use Configuration Manager to it's fullest.
Solutions Architect
A Solutions Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the implementation of IT solutions that meet business needs. This course may be useful for a Solutions Architect because it covers Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, a crucial tool for managing enterprise systems. The course will teach the Solutions Architect site planning, network design, and how to integrate with Active Directory. An architect may use Configuration Manager to ensure consistency across the enterprise. The course teaches the architect the full range of how Configuration Manager is used and why it is essential to large organizations. This course may enhance the Solutions Architect's ability to design and recommend appropriate solutions.
Cloud Administrator
A Cloud Administrator is responsible for the management and maintenance of cloud-based computer systems. This course may be helpful for a Cloud Administrator since system management principles can be applied to cloud environments. The course teaches Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager which can be relevant in hybrid environments. Specifically, this course teaches device management, software deployment, and security concepts like public key infrastructure and HTTPS configuration. A Cloud Administrator may benefit by understanding the importance of securing Configuration Manager and how to implement security measures. This course may help a Cloud Administrator who works with a hybrid cloud environment.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learning Path: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager.
Provides in-depth coverage of SCCM Current Branch, including advanced features and best practices. It's a valuable resource for understanding the latest capabilities of SCCM and how to effectively manage modern devices. This book is commonly used by industry professionals. It adds more depth to the existing course.
Provides a comprehensive guide to SCCM 2012, which predecessor to the current branch. While the interface and some features have evolved, the core concepts remain relevant. It's particularly useful for understanding the underlying architecture and design principles of SCCM. This book can be used as a reference to understand the fundamentals.

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