Microsoft Configuration Manager Reviews

Name: Microsoft Configuration Manager
Brand: Microsoft
Rating: 4.1 (80 reviews)

Vendor: Microsoft

4.1 out of 5

80 reviews
91% willing to recommend

3,192 followers

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What is Microsoft Configuration Manager?

Microsoft Configuration Manager helps IT manage PCs and servers, keeping software up-to-date, setting configuration and security policies, and monitoring system status while giving employees access to corporate applications on the devices that they choose. When Configuration Manager is integrated with Microsoft Intune, you can manage corporate-connected PCs and Macs along with cloud-based mobile devices running Windows, iOS, and Android, all from a single management console.

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Microsoft Configuration Manager is the #1 ranked solution in top Patch Management solutions, #2 ranked solution in top Server Monitoring solutions, and #3 ranked solution in top Configuration Management solutions. PeerSpot users give Microsoft Configuration Manager an average rating of 8.2 out of 10. Microsoft Configuration Manager is most commonly compared to Microsoft Intune: Microsoft Configuration Manager vs Microsoft Intune. Microsoft Configuration Manager is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 65% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 12% of all views.

Buyer's Guide

Microsoft Configuration Manager

November 2024

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Featured reviews

Sachin Vinay

Assistant Manager-Networks at Amrita

I give the solution a nine out of ten. Maintenance is required for some client requests because a few of our cases involve clients reporting issues with their applications. We need to maintain their laptops because they usually run into issues while running other applications. However, in the case of personal computers, there is no problem. We can maintain them with only 20% of the typical maintenance requirements. I would recommend that everyone try out the Endpoint Manager solution from Microsoft. It is a great product because it integrates well with Microsoft products, which most organizations use. This reduces the number of integration and troubleshooting problems. Even if Microsoft products are not used in an organization, I still recommend this product. Other solutions are available but there may be some integration and troubleshooting problems.

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Abul Fazal

Service Delivery Manager at Almoayyed Computers

The initial setup for Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager is simple. However, the configuration and management are not simple. Most of my clients are using the on-premise configuration. Cloud deployment is cumbersome because It requires lots of system communication to open from the cloud, and every client has to communicate with the cloud. We follow the Microsoft best practices procedure and white papers for implementation. Which includes single and multiple server deployments. The time it takes for deployment depends on the client's environment, such as the configuration and customization needed. However, the process can typically take two to three weeks to complete.

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Trevor Watkins

Server Applications Senior Administrator at Home Hardware Stores Limited

We use this solution for software updates, patching, and application installs. We're using the current version. This solution is deployed on-premises, but we also deploy it on the cloud. About four or five people use this solution in my organization. We have plans to increase usage It helps us…

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Microsoft Configuration Manager mindshare

Product category:

As of November 2024, the mindshare of Microsoft Configuration Manager in the Server Monitoring category stands at 9.5%, down from 11.4% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Server Monitoring

Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Users appreciate Microsoft Configuration Manager for its robust deployment capabilities, seamless software updates, and comprehensive asset management. Many highlight its effective security features and detailed reporting functionalities. Automated patch management and centralized control are frequently mentioned as key benefits, enhancing IT efficiency and reliability. Integration with other Microsoft products is also valued for streamlining processes and improving overall management.

"The tool's most valuable features include security updates and patch management, which are critical functions for maintaining security. The automated software distribution and the ability to manage deployments are also highly useful. Enforcing compliance with set policies on systems is another key functionality we leverage."
"The dashboards have information about our assets."
"The tool's most valuable features are easy patch management and software deployment."

Room for Improvement

Microsoft Configuration Manager requires support across all operating systems, especially better integration with cloud solutions like Intune. Reports updating and processing should be faster, and GUI enhancements are necessary. Asset management is missing, making SCCM less competitive. More automation and simplified deployment would be beneficial. Enhanced support for Mac, Linux, and mobile devices is needed. Improved documentation, particularly with videos, is essential. The complexity of use and heavy resource requirements are consistent challenges.

"The solution should incorporate AI. It should also incorporate real-time capabilities. If we could get real-time information about challenges or issues, it would allow us to take immediate action. For example, with the recent outage caused by the Windows issue, having a real-time warning system could have helped us avoid or reduce the downtime we experienced."
"The solution is crowded with information."
"The tool's deployment can be cumbersome."

ROI

Organizations have highlighted that Microsoft Configuration Manager provides considerable return on investment mainly by saving time and increasing productivity. Users have noted satisfaction with the support level and responsiveness from technical support. While some noted issues with Mac application deployment, the manager remains critical infrastructure for running networks and supporting devices, leading to cost savings by combining hardware and software solutions. Overall, there is a consensus on substantial return and productivity benefits.

Pricing

Pricing for Microsoft Configuration Manager varies, with users noting its expense and dependency on offer negotiations. Enterprises often find it part of broader Microsoft licensing packages, including Windows and Office 365. Licensing is complex, changing per client needs, infrastructure size, and subscription details. Annual operating costs apply, with separate fees for related components like SQL Server. Despite its high cost, especially for large organizations, many users still find the pricing competitive when considering Microsoft's comprehensive suite.

"The solution is expensive. Microsoft Configuration Manager would likely be considered high-priced for small businesses because they may not fully utilize all of its features and capabilities."
"We use the tool's free license. It is expensive."
"I rate the price of Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager an eight out of ten."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations use Microsoft Configuration Manager for packaging, imaging, patching, and deploying software and operating systems. It manages environments with thousands of machines and users, handles client and server deployments, facilitates security patching, and tracks software inventories. This tool automates workstation setups, manages virtual machine configurations, and assists in competitive analysis. It is also used for monitoring servers, applying group policies, and managing both endpoint protection and antivirus solutions.

Service and Support

Most users find Microsoft Configuration Manager's support responsive and helpful. Paid tiers offer faster, higher-quality assistance. Some users experience delays and variable expertise levels. Online resources and forums are beneficial for troubleshooting. Premium support is praised for its promptness and professionalism, while others find it challenging to navigate tiered support. Despite occasional slow responses and mixed experiences, many users solve issues internally or with third-party partners.

Deployment

Initial setup of Microsoft Configuration Manager varies from straightforward to somewhat complex. Time frames range from hours to months based on factors like environment size and dependencies. Some found it easy and quick, while others noted it required precise planning and experienced personnel. Deployment times differed significantly, from a few hours to several months, often influenced by the customer's infrastructure and readiness. Most users emphasized the need for a knowledgeable team for effective deployment and maintenance.

Scalability

Microsoft Configuration Manager is praised for its strong scalability. Many users find it easy to expand, maintaining good performance even with large deployments. It's utilized in both private and public sectors, and while some find it challenging without expertise, most agree it scales efficiently. Integrations with tools like Intune enhance its scalability. Users appreciate its ability to support thousands of endpoints seamlessly, living up to expectations even in extensive environments.

Stability

Microsoft Configuration Manager is highly stable and reliable. Users frequently mention its minimal issues with bugs, crashes, or glitches. It usually requires proper management and fine-tuning to maintain its performance. Many rate its stability between 8 to 10 out of 10, acknowledging it as a mature and enterprise-grade tool. Despite occasional downtime and the need for updates, users consistently emphasize its dependability and effectiveness in managing systems without major problems.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Microsoft Configuration Manager Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

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Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Financial Services Firm

12%

Computer Software Company

12%

Government

11%

Manufacturing Company

Healthcare Company

University

Educational Organization

Energy/Utilities Company

Retailer

Insurance Company

Construction Company

Comms Service Provider

Non Profit

Real Estate/Law Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Media Company

Performing Arts

Hospitality Company

Legal Firm

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Outsourcing Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Transportation Company

Logistics Company

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Consumer Goods Company

Engineering Company

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Learn more about Microsoft Configuration Manager

New features of Configuration Manager, such as the support of Windows 10 in-place upgrade, co-management with Microsoft Intune, Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise Servicing Dashboard, integration with Windows Update for Business, and more make deploying and managing Windows easier than ever before.

Microsoft Configuration Manager was previously known as Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM ).