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Microsoft Configuration Manager Reviews

Vendor: Microsoft
4.1 out of 5
Badge Ranked 1
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What is Microsoft Configuration Manager?

Microsoft Configuration Manager streamlines IT management with features such as software deployment, patch management, and automation, centralizing operations for Windows environments. Integration with Microsoft products allows efficient oversight of workstations and servers.

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Microsoft Configuration Manager is the #1 ranked solution in top Software Distribution solutions, #1 ranked solution in top Patch Management solutions, #3 ranked solution in top Configuration Management solutions, and #6 ranked solution in top Server Monitoring 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 62% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a financial services firm, accounting for 12% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Microsoft Configuration Manager
August 2025
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Microsoft Configuration Manager mindshare

Product category:
Server Monitoring
As of August 2025, the mindshare of Microsoft Configuration Manager in the Server Monitoring category stands at 5.2%, down from 7.7% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Server Monitoring Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Microsoft Configuration Manager5.2%
Zabbix27.4%
Checkmk11.2%
Other56.2%
Server Monitoring

PeerResearch reports based on Microsoft Configuration Manager reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryServer MonitoringAug 25, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Configuration Manager vs ZabbixAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Configuration Manager vs ServiceNow DiscoveryAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Configuration Manager vs VMware vCenterAug 25, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Microsoft Intune4.1N/A94%298 interviewsAdd to research
Zabbix4.227.4%95%107 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Microsoft Configuration Manager offers software and application pushing, operating system deployment, patch management, and compliance reporting. It centralizes system management, enabling automated updates, remote control, and task automation. Its integration with Microsoft products simplifies environment management. Users appreciate the centralized console, inventory tools, and scalability, along with features like Intune Connector and Core Management. The graphical reports, flexible deployment options, and robust security management enhance administrative efficiency and reduce manual work.
  • "The product is suitable for our size, handling 800 devices."
  • "I find the product valuable for deployment recovery and it has done much more than that."
  • "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."

Room for Improvement

Microsoft Configuration Manager needs improvements in application deployment, performance, and PowerShell integration. Users request better WSUS control, multiple Intune subscriptions, and a more user-friendly interface. Integration with non-Microsoft products is limited, hindering asset management and patching. Documentation and support services are inadequate, and Linux compatibility is lacking. Reporting accuracy and automation features require enhancement. Reduced update time and extended cross-platform support are necessary. Current challenges include complex agent deployment and limited troubleshooting capabilities.
  • "Managing role-based access control within Microsoft Configuration Manager was not helpful because we had other identity management solutions specifically designated for identity management."
  • "There were misconfigurations by our team rather than issues with the product itself. However, it does seem a bit buggy from time to time, based on what I have heard."
  • "It does seem a bit buggy from time to time."

ROI

Microsoft Configuration Manager offers an impressive return on investment. Users report significant time savings and productivity increases due to advanced features and streamlined deployment processes. Although there is feedback regarding the need for improvement in Mac support, the overall experience is positive. The system is deemed critical for managing networks and devices, contributing to cost savings by bundling software and hardware solutions. Users appreciate the knowledgeable and responsive technical support.

Pricing

Microsoft Configuration Manager's pricing and licensing vary widely, with many users describing it as expensive, particularly for larger companies requiring multiple licenses. Costs are negotiable and can be considered affordable for small to medium businesses with flexible packages. Some users mention that SQL Server is included if run on the same server as SCCM, while others note that additional costs arise from needing other Microsoft products or services. Enterprise agreements often require negotiation.
  • "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 primarily use Microsoft Configuration Manager for managing Windows workstations and servers. Key functions include operating system deployment, application distribution, software updates, security patching, configuration management, and inventory management for hardware and software. It automates processes such as Windows and application updates, vulnerability management, and device deployment. It supports large-scale user environments and can manage both on-premises and cloud-based infrastructures, offering comprehensive endpoint management.

Service and Support

Customers report mixed experiences with Microsoft Configuration Manager support. Many find technical support satisfactory, with responsive service and effective problem resolution once past initial tiers. However, some encounter slow responses, less knowledgeable staff, and tier navigation challenges. Microsoft's resources, extensive documentation, and online communities are praised for self-education and troubleshooting. Paid support options provide enhanced service, while time zones and support licensing levels occasionally delay assistance.

Deployment

For many, Microsoft Configuration Manager's initial setup is straightforward; however, complexity can arise depending on organizational size and expertise. Familiarity with IT infrastructure and thorough planning are crucial to ease the process. While some find it takes just a few hours or a day, others acknowledge it can span weeks or months. The setup demands input from IT teams and understanding of configurations, emphasizing experience. Despite challenges, users report manageable deployment efforts.

Scalability

Microsoft Configuration Manager exhibits strong scalability, supporting various business sizes. Users appreciate the capability to scale from small to extensive environments, although addressing high-availability requires additional investment in clustering. Some highlight the ability to manage extensive device networks efficiently, while others note potential improvement possibilities. With proper configuration and knowledgeable management, scalability is effective, extending to cloud integration through Intune for remote device management. Organizations find it meets their scalability needs with ease.

Stability

Microsoft Configuration Manager is highly stable and reliable, with minimal bugs or glitches. Users have not faced significant issues, except for occasional necessary tweaking or maintenance due to external factors. It runs consistently without crashes. While stability remains solid, some adjustments may be needed during updates or compatibility checks with different Windows versions. Stability ratings typically range from eight to ten out of ten, reflecting user satisfaction with its consistent performance.
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

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business20
Midsize Enterprise12
Large Enterprise58
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business463
Midsize Enterprise414
Large Enterprise1456
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Financial Services Firm
12%
Government
11%
Computer Software Company
9%
Manufacturing Company
8%
Healthcare Company
5%
University
5%
Educational Organization
5%
Retailer
5%
Energy/Utilities Company
4%
Comms Service Provider
4%
Non Profit
3%
Media Company
3%
Construction Company
3%
Insurance Company
3%
Performing Arts
3%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Legal Firm
2%
Hospitality Company
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Outsourcing Company
2%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Engineering Company
1%

Compare Microsoft Configuration Manager with alternative products

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Learn more about Microsoft Configuration Manager

Microsoft Configuration Manager provides comprehensive IT management, offering software deployment, patch management, and application pushing. Automation reduces manual tasks, ensuring consistency across systems. Centralized management enables standardized OS deployments, application updates, and configuration integrity. Integration with Microsoft products facilitates seamless operations, while hardware and software inventory, compliance reporting, and remote control functions enhance IT management. Users seek improvements in application deployment for those without deep scripting knowledge and desire better WSUS control, PowerShell and Intune integration, Linux compatibility, and user interface enhancements. Performance improvements are requested for remote user management and third-party application support.

What features enhance Microsoft Configuration Manager?
  • Software Deployment: Efficiently distribute software across large networks.
  • Patch Management: Automate and streamline update processes for security and functionality.
  • Automation Capabilities: Reduce manual effort and enhance consistency in IT tasks.
  • Centralized Management: Standardize OS deployments and application updates.
  • Integration with Microsoft Products: Seamless operation with existing Microsoft infrastructure.
  • Hardware and Software Inventory: Comprehensive tracking for assets and resources.
  • Compliance Reporting: Ensure compliance with internal and external standards.
  • Remote Control Functions: Enhance support and troubleshooting capabilities.
What benefits should users expect when evaluating Microsoft Configuration Manager?
  • Decreased Manual Work: Automation reduces time spent on repetitive tasks.
  • Enhanced Security: Automated patch management keeps systems secure.
  • Consistent Configurations: Centralized updates ensure uniformity across systems.
  • Improved Integration: Seamless operation within Microsoft ecosystems boosts productivity.
  • Comprehensive Oversight: Detailed inventory and reporting tools aid in strategic planning.
  • Streamlined Support: Remote capabilities improve IT support and user satisfaction.

Microsoft Configuration Manager is widely implemented in organizations to manage Windows workstations and servers. It is essential for deploying operating systems and applications, managing software updates, and conducting hardware and software inventories. The tool is crucial for endpoint and configuration management, ensuring compliance, and automating processes like patching and vulnerability management. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and education rely on Microsoft Configuration Manager to keep systems secure and operational, adapting it to address their specific needs and challenges in maintaining diversified IT environments.

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

Microsoft Configuration Manager customers

Bank Alfalah Ltd., Wªrth Handelsges.m.b.H, Dimension Data, Japan Business Systems, St. Lucie County Public Schools, MISC Berhad

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Product Categories

Product Categories
Server Monitoring
Software Distribution
Configuration Management
Patch Management

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Microsoft Configuration Manager Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
IT Infrastructure Coordinator at NSW Government3.0I primarily use Microsoft Configuration Manager for image and application deployment. Its deployment recovery feature is particularly valuable. While I've recently started using it, it seems strongly oriented towards automation with full installations, which could be improved.
Managing Director & Principal ITSM Consultant at a consultancy with 1-10 employees4.5I used Microsoft Configuration Manager for patching, deployment, and inventory. It was stable, scalable, easy to set up, and well-integrated with Microsoft tools. Support improved over time, and I’d recommend it, rating it 9 out of 10.
Infrastructure patching Manager at a manufacturing company with 1,001-5,000 employees4.0We use Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager for OS patching, application deployment, and security. Its cloud account management is valuable, but a self-healing mechanism for agent issues and a built-in vulnerability scanner would significantly improve its functionality.
Systems Administrator DevOps at a university with 10,001+ employees4.0We use Microsoft Configuration Manager mainly for application deployment and Windows updates, enhancing our software distribution processes. Its application management is impressive, although we prefer a different system for device inventory and asset management. Remote control features exist but are underutilized.
Server Applications Senior Administrator at Home Hardware Stores Limited5.0We utilize Microsoft Configuration Manager for software updates, patching, and application installs both on-premises and in the cloud. Its ease of use stands out as its most valuable feature, and we have experienced a positive return on investment.
Assistant Manager-Networks at Amrita4.5We use Microsoft Configuration Manager to manage our enterprise devices, benefiting from its scalability and security for remote connections. Although its Linux compatibility needs improvement, it has provided significant ROI by increasing productivity and reducing costs compared to other solutions.
Manager at DATA AND CLOUD4.0I use Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager in construction and architecture, focusing on software updates, analytics, and system deployments. While I find its features valuable, improvements are needed in web server performance monitoring and antivirus integration.
Service Delivery Manager at Almoayyed Computers4.0I use Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager for desktop management, benefiting from its update capabilities and Intune integration. However, system updates are slow. It stands out for its reliability compared to previously used solutions like ManageEngine.