The meeting covered an overview of Microsoft Configuration Manager, its integration with the Microsoft Intune family, and its role in device and infrastructure management.
Key features, supported integrations, and user interfaces including the Configuration Manager console and Software Center were reviewed.
Attendees discussed best practices for planning, deployment, and ongoing management, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation.
Additional resources and next steps for training and certification were provided.
Action Items
No action items were assigned during this meeting.
Overview of Configuration Manager
Configuration Manager is now part of the Microsoft Intune family, providing an integrated solution for managing all organizational devices.
It enables continued use of existing investments with a simplified transition to cloud services and licensing.
The Intune family includes Configuration Manager, Intune, Endpoint Analytics, and Windows Autopilot under a unified brand.
Capabilities and Integration
Configuration Manager helps increase IT productivity by automating manual tasks and supporting key systems management activities.
Main features include secure, scalable deployment of applications, updates, and operating systems; real-time actions on devices; cloud-powered analytics; compliance management; and comprehensive device management.
Integrates with technologies such as Microsoft Intune (for co-management), Azure, WSUS, Certificate Services, Exchange, Group Policy, DNS, Windows ADK/USMT, WDS, and remote assistance tools.
Utilizes Active Directory/Entra ID for security and discovery, SQL Server for change management and reporting, and network optimization via peer caching technologies.
User Interfaces
The main administrative tool is the Configuration Manager console, supporting multi-site management, role-based access, and installation on multiple computers.
End users interact with Software Center to request and install applications, view compliance status, and perform other device-related tasks; administrators can customize its interface to meet business requirements.
Planning, Deployment, and Next Steps
Emphasis on thorough planning and testing to ensure successful deployment in production environments due to Configuration Manager's extensive reach and impact.
Recommended next steps include reviewing fundamental concepts, exploring features and capabilities, evaluating management solutions, setting up a lab, and accessing support and help resources.
Decisions
No formal decisions were made during this meeting.