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Microsoft SCCM update deployment best practices

sccm deployment

Microsoft SCCM update deployment best practices

Microsoft SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is a powerful tool for deploying updates to Windows-based computers. However, deploying updates with SCCM can be tricky if you don’t follow best practices. In this article, we will discuss some of the best practices that Microsoft recommends for deploying Microsoft Updates from SCCM 2012.

Limit Software Updates to 1000 in a Single Deployment

One of the best practices recommended by Microsoft is to limit the number of software updates to 1000 for each software update deployment. When you create an automatic deployment rule or manually deploy software updates, do not select more than 1000 updates to deploy. This will prevent the deployment from becoming too large and overwhelming the systems that are receiving the updates.

Create a New Software Update Group for Every Deployment

Another best practice is to create a new software update group each time an automatic deployment rule runs for “Patch Tuesday” or for general deployment. There is a limit of 1000 software updates for a software update deployment. When you create an automatic deployment rule, you can specify whether to use an existing update group or create a new update group each time the rule runs. If you specify criteria in an automatic deployment rule that results in multiple software updates and the rule runs on a recurring schedule, specify to create a new software update group each time the rule runs. This will prevent the deployment from surpassing the limit of 1000 software updates per deployment.

Use an Existing Software Update Group for Endpoint Protection Definition Updates

When you use an automatic deployment rule to deploy Endpoint Protection definition updates on a frequent basis, it is recommended to always use an existing software update group. Otherwise, potentially hundreds of software update groups will be created over time. Typically, definition update publishers will set definition updates to expire when they are superseded by four newer updates. Therefore, the software update group that is created by the automatic deployment rule will never contain more than four definition updates for the publisher: one active and three superseded.

Test updates before deploying them

It’s always a good idea to test updates in a non-production environment before deploying them in a production environment. This can help identify any issues or conflicts that may arise during the deployment process.

Use maintenance windows

Maintenance windows can be used to specify a period of time during which updates can be installed on client machines. This can help prevent updates from being installed during critical business hours or when users are actively working on their computers.

Monitor deployment status

It’s important to monitor the deployment status of updates to ensure that they are being installed successfully. SCCM provides various reports that can be used to monitor deployment status.

Keep SCCM up-to-date

It’s important to keep SCCM up-to-date with the latest updates and hotfixes. This can help ensure that SCCM is functioning properly and can help prevent any issues or bugs from affecting the update deployment process.

SCCM Update Deployment FAQs

QuestionAnswer
What is SCCM?
SCCM stands for System Center Configuration Manager. It is a software management tool that allows organizations to manage and deploy software, updates, and patches across multiple devices and systems.
What are some best practices for deploying updates with SCCM?
Some best practices for deploying updates with SCCM include scheduling updates during non-business hours, testing updates on a small group of devices before deploying to the entire organization, and creating a rollback plan in case of issues. It’s also important to regularly monitor the deployment process and report any issues or errors.
How should updates be prioritized for deployment?
Updates should be prioritized based on their criticality and potential impact on the organization. Security updates should always be prioritized, followed by critical updates and then important updates. Updates that are not critical or important can be deferred or postponed.
How often should updates be deployed?
The frequency of updates deployment can vary depending on the organization’s needs and policies. However, it’s generally recommended to deploy updates at least once a month to ensure that systems are protected against known vulnerabilities and threats.
How can SCCM help with update deployment?
SCCM provides a centralized platform for managing and deploying updates across multiple devices and systems. It allows administrators to automate the update deployment process, monitor the deployment status, and report any issues or errors. SCCM can also help ensure that updates are deployed in a consistent and standardized manner, reducing the risk of errors and inconsistencies.
Should you have a Patching Process / Schedule?
Yes, a patching process will schedule when you regularly deploy your updates. It helps monitor and track when patches should be deployed to which environment.
What should be included in a rollback plan?
A rollback plan should include steps for undoing the update deployment, as well as a plan for communicating with end-users and stakeholders. It should also identify any potential risks or challenges associated with rolling back updates, and outline strategies for mitigating those risks.
You can also use SnaPatch, which automates a snapshot of your servers prior to patch deployment. This will allow you to easily roll back should a patch cause an issue to your sever fleet.
How can SCCM help with update reporting?
SCCM provides a variety of reporting tools that allow administrators to monitor the status of update deployments, identify any issues or errors, and report on compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements. These reports can help ensure that systems are up-to-date and secure, and can also provide valuable insights into the overall health and performance of the IT environment.

 

SCCM Update Deployment Final Thoughts

What is SCCM update deployment? 

SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is a software management tool used by IT administrators to deploy updates to client machines. SCCM update deployment involves deploying software updates to client machines in a controlled and efficient manner.

Why is SCCM update deployment important? 

SCCM update deployment is important because it helps ensure that client machines are up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates. This can help prevent security vulnerabilities and improve the overall performance and stability of client machines.

What are some best practices for SCCM update deployment? 

Some best practices for SCCM update deployment include limiting the number of software updates to 1000 per deployment, creating a new software update group for each automatic deployment rule, using an existing software update group for Endpoint Protection definition updates, testing updates before deployment, using maintenance windows, monitoring deployment status, and keeping SCCM up-to-date with the latest updates and hotfixes.

How do I monitor the deployment status of updates in SCCM? 

SCCM provides various reports that can be used to monitor the deployment status of updates. These reports can be accessed from the SCCM console and can provide information on the success or failure of update deployments.

How often should I deploy updates in SCCM? 

The frequency of update deployments in SCCM can vary depending on the organization’s needs and policies. However, it is generally recommended to deploy updates on a regular basis, such as monthly or quarterly, to ensure that client machines are up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates.

 

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