Configuration Manager Servicing

The latest Configuration Manager systems management product has two servicing branches: a rapid update cadence, where customers must remain current to receive support, and a long-term branch that offers stability, but with major feature limitations. Most customers will have to learn about and deal with the rapid update cadence if they want to be able to manage future Windows and application updates with Configuration Manager.

Configuration Manager Overview

Introduced as Systems Management Server (SMS) in 1994, System Center Configuration Manager is Microsoft’s most comprehensive technology for managing hardware, distributing and managing software, applying patches, tracking licenses, and remotely diagnosing problems. Configuration Manager deploys OSs, updates, patches, and applications over a corporate network (or over the Internet using a virtual private network connection) and collects inventories of Windows and other clients and servers. It can also help customers manage power settings and policies and configure and update Microsoft’s endpoint antimalware software on Windows computers. Configuration Manager integrates with Microsoft’s Intune online service, allowing management of PCs and mobile devices from the Configuration Manager console.