Microsoft Configuration Manager Reviews

Name: Microsoft Configuration Manager
Brand: Microsoft
Rating: 4.1 (83 reviews)

4.1 out of 5

83 reviews
91% willing to recommend

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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Featured Microsoft Configuration Manager reviews

MikeNelson2

IT Infrastructure Coordinator at NSW Government

While I do not use the product frequently, many issues were due to configuration rather than the product itself. I cannot give an exact recommendation as it is not my area of responsibility. The team that uses it finds it adequate. It is presently good enough for us not to investigate other options. Overall, I rate the product a six out of ten.

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Vladimir Cvijanovic

Managing Director & Principal ITSM Consultant at a consultancy with 1-10 employees

I cannot specifically say one feature, but I appreciate all features in general. The possibility or native capability of managing Microsoft networks and Microsoft endpoints is valuable for me. The initial setup for Microsoft Configuration Manager is simple. It was streamlined and fairly acceptable for us regarding the security patching process and maintenance system security through Microsoft Configuration Manager.

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Mani Bommisetty

Infrastructure patching Manager at a manufacturing company with 1,001-5,000 employees

The timeline for setting up this system depends on the number of endpoints or end-users involved. For example, during my time at Walmart, where we were supporting around 350,000 endpoints and 8,000 servers, it took a few months to get the environment settled. In my current organization, which is focused on internal services, it only takes about a week, sometimes even just a couple of days. The process, though, remains quite similar. It can be done by a lot of people but requires support from teams. The setup process typically involves configuring prerequisites, setting up SQL Servers (especially for larger environments), and dealing with any network restrictions. Some networks have specific requirements and restrictions that need to be accommodated. As mentioned earlier, ensuring that your system can communicate with agents across the environment is crucial. In more basic terms, you'll need relays or distribution points in each data center or location. These distribution points help in routing and redistributing the data efficiently. The complexity of the setup mainly hinges on the number of offices and locations you're dealing with. Fortunately, the setup itself is straightforward and user-friendly, so understanding it doesn't require much time if you're familiar with the process. The setup is extremely easy and I would rate it 10 out of 10.

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Microsoft Configuration Manager mindshare

Product category:

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

PeerResearch reports based on Microsoft Configuration Manager reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Server Monitoring	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	Microsoft Configuration Manager vs Zabbix	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	Microsoft Configuration Manager vs ServiceNow Discovery	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	Microsoft Configuration Manager vs VMware vCenter	Aug 18, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Microsoft Intune	4.1	N/A	94%	294 interviews Add to research
Zabbix	4.2	27.4%	95%	107 interviews Add to research

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

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Financial Services Firm

12%

Government

11%

Computer Software Company

Manufacturing Company

Healthcare Company

University

Educational Organization

Retailer

Energy/Utilities Company

Comms Service Provider

Non Profit

Media Company

Construction Company

Insurance Company

Performing Arts

Real Estate/Law Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Legal Firm

Hospitality Company

Transportation Company

Outsourcing Company

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Consumer Goods Company

Logistics Company

Engineering Company

Compare Microsoft Configuration Manager with alternative products

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.