SCCM – version 1511 New Features

by | Dec 12, 2015 | Features, SCCM

SCCM Version 1511 – New Features Overview

With the release of version 1511, Microsoft introduced a major shift in how System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is updated and versioned. Instead of the expected “SCCM 2016,” Microsoft adopted a continuous update model, naming releases based on the year and month. SCCM 1511, for example, was released in November 2015.

This update marked the beginning of Microsoft’s “as-a-service” approach to Configuration Manager, providing more frequent updates and enhanced integration with Windows 10 and Microsoft cloud services. Below is a summary of the new features introduced in this release.

Windows 10 Management

  • Windows 10 servicing support for streamlined update management
  • Support for sideloading Windows 10 applications
  • Enhanced compliance settings tailored for Windows 10

Infrastructure Improvements

  • Preferred management points for optimized client communication
  • Single primary site supports up to 150,000 clients
  • Hierarchy support extended up to 700,000 clients
  • Full support for Microsoft Azure virtual machines
  • Diagnostics and usage data for proactive management
  • Support for servicing server clusters
  • SQL Server AlwaysOn support for high availability
  • Integration with Windows Update for Business

Console Enhancements

  • Native management of Office 365 desktop client updates
  • Deploy apps from the Windows Store for Business
  • Support for multiple automatic deployment rules
  • Improved client deployment status visibility in the console
  • WSUS cleanup task can be scheduled and run from the console
  • New updates and servicing dashboard
  • Client piloting to pre-production collections
  • Enhanced Software Center experience

Operating System Deployment

  • In-place upgrade task sequences for Windows 10
  • Peer cache support for Windows PE

Mobile Device Management

  • Feature parity between Intune stand-alone and SCCM-managed MDM
  • Mobile Application Management (MAM) capabilities
  • Data protection and security enhancements for mobile devices
  • Support for on-premises mobile device management
  • App deployment to Windows 10 devices via on-prem MDM
  • Certificate provisioning for managed Windows 10 devices
  • Streamlined workflow for creating mobile configuration items
  • Bulk enrollment of Windows 10 devices
  • Wipe and retire functionality for on-prem MDM

SCCM 1511 set the foundation for modern device management and Windows 10 readiness. These updates offered enhanced flexibility, scalability, and integration for enterprise IT environments moving toward a hybrid or cloud-first model.