In this post, we will have a look at the best SCCM alternatives for managing the patching and monitoring of small-to-medium as well as larger enterprise networks.
Administrators know that Microsoft’s System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a comprehensive tool for change and configuration management of its Windows platform. But, we also know that there are alternatives out there that perform as well as, if not better than, SCCM.
Here is our shortlist of the best SCCM alternatives:
- NinjaOne Patch Management EDITOR’S CHOICE Centralize patch management for geographically-dispersed endpoints with this cloud-based service. It is suitable for use by IT operations teams and managed service providers. Start 14-day free trial.
- Atera (FREE TRIAL) This SaaS package of remote monitoring and management systems includes a patch manager with an integrated software installation utility that mimics SCCM. This tool can also be used to launch automated configuration scripts. Get a 30-day free trial.
- ManageEngine Endpoint Central (FREE TRIAL) A tool for automating the complete endpoint management life cycle. It allows users to collaborate on ensuring the security of a network and the assets on it – all from a single integrated point. Download a 30-day free trial.
- Ivanti UEM An SCCM alternative that manages all major operating systems during their entire life cycles; it handles migration, patching, reporting, and policy enforcement.
- SecPod SanerNow CyberHygiene Platform This cloud-based system provides vulnerability scanning for networks, endpoints, and cloud platforms and includes a patch manager to update outdated software and operating systems.
- Quest KACE Systems A comprehensive device management tool for a wide array of connected assets; discovery, reporting, and vulnerability scanning are all features of this highly-integrated SCCM alternative.
- SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor NPM is a popular product from one of the leading makers of server and network management solutions. It is a complete SCCM solution that comes with advanced features that outshine most competing products.
- Jump Cloud A tool for full control of connected devices that also helps with security and updating of software and operating systems; all controlled from a central location.
- Symantec Client Management Suite Another well-established management tool for patching, updating, monitoring, and securing applications and operating systems; it keeps track of the security of assets throughout their lifetimes.
Note: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager and Systems Management Server (MSCCM) is now called Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM).
What is SCCM?
Microsoft SCCM is one of the most popular computer endpoint management systems used today. It is used for managing, deploying, and securing devices and applications across an enterprise.
The SCCM Agent feeds data to the console. Once the agent is active the tool can inventory hardware and software, distribute software, and initiate remote admin tasks.
This software management suite allows users to manage large numbers of computers and servers. It also helps with software distribution, operating system deployment, remote control, network protection, security management, patch management, as well as hardware and software inventory, and many other services.
SCCM allows for the setting of configurations and security policies, keeping software solutions updated, and monitoring system statuses while giving employees access to corporate applications from whatever devices they choose.
It is versatile as users can manage computers using macOS, Windows UNIX, or Linux, and mobile devices running iOS, Windows, or Android operating systems. It also integrates with Microsoft Intune to allow for the management of all the computers connected to a network.
They can manage PCs and servers, keep software updated, configuration and security policy settings, as well as monitor system statuses while allowing employees access to corporate applications using any devices that they choose.
On the other hand, SCCM provides a quick and easy overview of client settings, including running services and Agent settings in an insightful and easy-to-use user interface (UI).
What are SCCM’s outstanding features?
Users of SCCM find that it is a stable and flexible solution that has many outstanding features.
Let’s have a look at some of these features:
- Mass creation and deployment of computer images and distribution of silent installations of software solutions using a common software library.
- Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) booting allows administrators to boot a raw or un-configured computer against the SCCM environment to receive instructions for imaging.
- Mobile device management capabilities, including the ability to reboot or lock the devices remotely.
- The Task Sequences feature enables automation of tasks that include (but are not limited to) applying license keys, performing Active Directory joins, as well as software deployment.
- Can inventory hardware and devices on the entire network and proactively manage their life cycles, starting from purchase to retirement.
- End-users can use the Self-Service portal to update their devices at their convenience.
What are SCCM limitations?
As great as SCCM is, it does have some limitations. Here are some of them:
- Although SCCM does, to a certain extent, cater to imaging of non-Windows devices, it could still be a bit challenging to work in hybrid environments where operating systems like Linux and macOS are involved.
- Setting up a new SCCM infrastructure could pose a challenge because it is only available as an on-premises solution requiring self-management of servers.
- It is also an expensive solution as it comes with a larger suite of Microsoft solutions – throw in various licensing fees and it becomes a viable solution for larger enterprises only.
- This also means the client needs to install and maintain a full version of Microsoft SQL Server – another installation that needs expertise.
What to look for in an SCCM alternative
Features to look for when searching for alternatives to SCCM include:
- Various operating systems deployment, support, and several deployment options.
- Centralized management of infrastructure and devices.
- Full coverage of networks with features like remote control, management of compliance, and configuration of settings of devices.
- Critical features like software distribution, patch management, inventory control, management of updates, application deployment, and mobile management.
- The quality and administration capabilities of its UI and dashboards.
- Scalability to cover businesses as they transform from SMBs into larger businesses and enterprises.
- Reporting ability to present comprehensive data in insightful and interactive ways.
- The tool’s price when compared to SCCM.
We too have looked for these features in our selections of the six best SCCM alternatives in our list.
Our methodology for selecting the best SCCM alternative tool
We’ve broken down our analysis for you based on these key criteria:
- Ability to integrate with existing network environments.
- Range of features offered for software and patch management.
- Compatibility with different operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
- Flexibility and scalability for different organizational sizes, especially for IT departments and managed service providers.
- User experience, including ease of setup, usability of the interface, and quality of customer support.
The Best SCCM Alternatives
Let’s now move on and have a look at the six best SCCM alternatives:
1. NinjaOne Patch Management (FREE TRIAL)
NinjaOne Patch Management provides patch management for devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux. The tool is based in the cloud, so you aren’t restricted to using it for those desktops and servers that are connected to one network – your managed devices can be anywhere in the world.
Key Features:
- Manage any device that is connected to the internet, either directly or over a network. This means that you can centralize the management of multiple sites and also include patch management for individual remote computers.
- Includes the server to run the patch management system plus storage space to hold patch installers and log files.
- Multi-tenant architecture, which enables managed service providers to keep the data for different clients separate. However, the tool is also available for corporate IT operations teams.
- Generates a software inventory, identifying the version numbers of the operating systems and software packages in use.
- Checks for available updates to the software it knows it is managing and copies over the installers when they become available.
Why do we recommend it?
NinjaOne Patch Management enables centralized management for devices worldwide, making it ideal for businesses with remote or distributed networks. The tool’s multi-tenant architecture caters to both managed service providers and corporate IT teams, allowing them to keep data separate for different clients. NinjaOne’s ability to generate software inventories, apply patches, and handle patch version dependencies simplifies the patch management process.
The management console of NinjaOne includes patching profiles definition screen. This tells the SaaS platform when it can install patches on your endpoints. When patches become available, the NinjaOne system queues them up and applies them at the next available maintenance window. The Patch Manager is able to detect patch version dependencies, applying patches in the appropriate order.
After applying all patches, the NinjaOne system will reboot each endpoint if necessary and produce a completion status report. Failed patches can be tested, rerun manually, or revived to be run again at the next maintenance window. The Patch Management screen in the NinjaOne console can also be used to deploy new software or run task automation scripts.
NinjaOne RMM offers a range of functions beyond patch management, including real-time monitoring of device health and performance, automated alerts for system issues, remote access for troubleshooting, and comprehensive reporting. It also supports endpoint security, software deployment, and inventory management, enabling IT teams to maintain and secure their IT infrastructure efficiently.
Who is it recommended for?
NinjaOne Patch Management is suitable for businesses that require efficient and secure patch management for devices located anywhere in the world. It caters to a range of users, from managed service providers with multiple clients to corporate IT teams seeking comprehensive patch management. Its flexibility and ability to automate patch installations, handle patch dependencies, and deploy new software make it a valuable asset for organizations of various sizes.
Pros:
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux patch management.
- Multi-tenant architecture ideal for managed service providers.
- Automated patch management with maintenance window scheduling.
Cons:
- Limited to patch management, lacks broader IT management tools.
Try NinjaOne Patch Manager on a 14-day free trial.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
NinjaOne Patch Management is our top pick for an SCCM alternative because its patch management capabilities cover Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, which gives it much more breadth than SCCM. It automates the patching process, ensuring devices are up-to-date with the latest security updates and bug fixes. NinjaOne’s AI-driven sentiment analysis for patches helps IT teams make informed decisions by providing insights into potential risks and community feedback. This reduces the complexity and time required for manual patch testing and deployment. NinjaOne’s cloud-based infrastructure eliminates the need for on-premises servers, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution. The package also includes a ticketing system and role-specific consoles for technicians, team leaders, and managers. NinjaOne Patch Management enhances security and simplifies IT operations for managed service providers (MSPs) and small to mid-sized businesses.
Download: Get a 14-day free trial
Official Site: https://www.ninjaone.com/freetrialform/
OS: Cloud based
2. Atera (FREE TRIAL)
Atera is remote monitoring and management (RMM) package that is delivered as a SaaS platform. The service includes a patch manager that has an integrated software deployment system. This utility can also be used to launch scripts. The whole software management package operates on servers and workstations that are located on other sites, so technicians don’t have to be in front of each device in order to update its software.
Key Features:
- Searches a network and records all of the devices that it encounters. This leads to the creation of a hardware inventory with details about each listed device.
- Scans each of the discovered devices and makes a list of all of the software installed on it. With this information, Atera compiles a centralized software inventory for the business.
- Inventory forms the basis of patch management, The record of each OS or software package installation includes that system’s version number, which indicates its patch status.
- Console enables technicians to create software installation bundles, which enables new devices to be set up quickly. There can be a library of different installers for different device types and different user roles.
- Operates on Windows systems, with devices running macOS can also be included in the system’s capabilities for an extra fee.
- Set to wake up devices for software management, restart them after software installation, or turn the devices off when the software update process has finished.
- Runs on a schedule so that devices can be updated while workers are not using them. The update run records the completion status of each update or installation action.
Why do we recommend it?
Atera is recommended as an SCCM alternative due to its robust remote monitoring and management capabilities. It offers a comprehensive software management package, including patch management and software deployment. Atera simplifies software updates and installations across servers and workstations, even when technicians are not physically present at the devices. Its multi-tenant architecture is suitable for both IT departments and managed service providers (MSPs), making it a versatile choice for businesses of various sizes.
The full Atera system provides automated monitoring for networks, servers, and applications. The tool also provides a ticketing system that enables users to request help. That service also routes tickets for attention and records progress on resolution. The technician console includes a package of remote access and remote control tools to access servers and workstations.
Atera is available in versions for IT departments and managed service providers (MSPs). The MSP version has a multi-tenant architecture. That means that an MSP with an account on the Atera SaaS platform can create sub-accounts – one for each of their clients. That keeps access systems, operational data, and logs separate for each client.
The software management system in Atera is highly automated and can be set to install or update software out of office hours without the attendance of technicians. The system also enables task automation scripts to be run by the patch manager, which will perform setup activities on remote devices.
Who is it recommended for?
Atera is an ideal choice for IT departments and MSPs seeking an SCCM alternative that provides automated network, server, and application monitoring. Its multi-tenant architecture allows MSPs to create sub-accounts for different clients, ensuring data separation and management flexibility. Businesses looking for efficient remote access and control tools, along with a ticketing system for user support, will find Atera to be a valuable solution for their software management needs.
Pros:
- Comprehensive remote monitoring and management capabilities.
- Automated software and patch management system.
- Multi-tenant architecture suitable for MSPs.
- Flexible scheduling for software updates and task automation.
Cons:
- Additional fee for macOS compatibility.
Pricing starts at $129 per technician. You can assess the Atera platform with a 30-day free trial.
3. ManageEngine Endpoint Central (FREE TRIAL)
ManageEngine Endpoint Central dashboard with patching information and health status
ManageEngine Endpoint Central helps manage devices, servers, laptops, mobile phones, and Point-of-Sales (POS). It works with multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.
This suite is an efficient Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) and security software that comprehensively addresses the requirements of business network administrators.
Key Features:
- Automates the entire endpoint management life cycle – it secures networks by automating the patch deployment of Windows, Mac, and the applications on them.
- Users can deploy software to endpoints with just a few clicks using over 4,500 predefined application templates.
- Imaging and deployment of operating systems can be done even if the device is offline.
- Manages endpoints with a similar approach to managing both Windows 10 and mobile devices; allows for the central configuration, management, and securing of mobile devices without the need for extra work.
- Users can collaborate on troubleshooting remote desktops and transfer files, record videos, and do much more.
- Includes dozens of pre-defined configurations including Power Management, USB Device Management, and Security Policies; can be further extended with the help of Endpoint Security Add-on which includes vulnerability assessment, application control, device control, BitLocker Management, and browser security.
- Software management is easy – Offers templates for distribution that dictate what to install and install; it also has features for metering, license management, and blocking unauthorized software.
- Scans and detects missing operating systems and application service packs and, in case there are any, automates the updating process.
- Ensures security with the help of hardware policies to, for example, deny or control the usage of USB devices unless they have been whitelisted.
- Great collaboration tool as it allows teams to work on issue resolution with the help of file transfers, video recording, and many more useful features.
- Secures clients’ connections to the internet by filtering accessible websites, compliance with security standards (like STIG and CIS), and monitoring plug-ins, add-ons, and extensions that are being used by clients on the network.
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine Endpoint Central effectively manages a wide range of devices, including servers, laptops, mobile phones, and Point-of-Sales (POS) systems across various operating systems. One of its standout features is its ability to automate patch deployment for Windows, Mac, and applications, enhancing network security. With over 4,500 predefined application templates and support for imaging and deploying operating systems, it streamlines endpoint management.
Who is it recommended for?
The tool is an ideal choice for network administrators and businesses seeking efficient endpoint management and security. It suits organizations that need to manage a diverse range of devices and operating systems, ensuring their network is secure and up-to-date. Its collaboration features make it a valuable tool for troubleshooting and remote assistance. Additionally, its security policies and compliance adherence are beneficial for businesses looking to enhance endpoint security and regulatory compliance. This platform caters to various industries and businesses of different sizes.
Pros:
- Unified Endpoint Management for diverse devices.
- Over 4,500 predefined application templates for easy deployment.
- Extensive configuration and security policies.
- Integrated hardware and software management tools.
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming due to its extensive features.
Get ManageEngine Endpoint Central for on a 30-day free trial.
4. Ivanti UEM
Ivanti Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) incident report dashboard and current status of assets
Ivanti Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) is another SCCM alternative that helps manage user profiles and client devices running Windows, macOS, or Linux and including Chrome OS and even IoT OS. UEM can be used to manage devices at all stages of their entire life cycle – including onboarding, provisioning, securing, and decommissioning.
Key Features:
- Dashboard and reports can be easily created to integrate business and IT data into insightful presentations with no coding or BI expertise required.
- Manages and secures devices running Windows, Mac, or Linux operating systems – as well as iOS and Android devices – from the same dashboard; add-ons extend the tool’s capabilities.
- Administrators can save time while migrating or deploying the latest operating systems; even the ensuing updates are quick.
- Automatically discovers devices – and the applications and operating systems running on them – and uses the data to build insightful reports that can give details like users, device type, application types, and running services that can all be plotted in a comprehensive map of the entire IT landscape.
- Operating systems and applications are automatically patched to keep endpoints secure while infected or compromised devices are also automatically isolated to prevent security compromises.
- Enforces policy and privileges everywhere with just a few clicks – and then discover and patch threats predictively and quickly.
- Discovered assets help uncover shelf-ware, ghost assets, and out-of-warranty assets – administrators can help avoid unnecessary purchases to lower expenses across IT software budgets.
Why do we recommend it?
Ivanti Unified Endpoint Management offers robust endpoint management and security solutions. It covers user profiles and client devices running various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, and IoT OS. What sets Ivanti UEM apart is its user-friendly dashboard and report creation tools, making it accessible for both IT and business users, without the need for coding or BI expertise. It offers comprehensive device management and security, automating tasks such as device discovery, patching, and threat mitigation.
Who is it recommended for?
Ivanti UEM is suitable for businesses and organizations looking for an SCCM alternative that simplifies endpoint management, security, and reporting. It caters to IT professionals, administrators, and business users, providing a holistic view of their IT landscape. With its cross-platform support and automated security measures, Ivanti UEM is an excellent choice for managing diverse devices and operating systems. It is ideal for businesses aiming to streamline operations, optimize IT budgets, and enhance security across their organization.
Pros:
- Simplified management of diverse operating systems.
- Automated discovery and patching processes.
- Policy enforcement and predictive threat patching.
Cons:
- Might be more than required for smaller organizations.
Try Ivanti UEM for FREE.
5. SecPod SanerNow CyberHygiene Platform
SanerNow CyberHygiene Platform is a cloud-based SaaS package that includes a vulnerability manager that searches for 160,000 known vulnerabilities in network devices, endpoints, and cloud platforms. The tool provides solutions for discovered misconfigurations and triggers a patch manager in the platform to update outdated software.
Key Features:
- Installs agents on endpoints and cloud platforms to give the cloud-based server access to local resources.
- Scours the network to discover all devices and then scan each endpoint to identify the operating system and all installed software.
- Agents upload data to the SecPod server, which compiles hardware and software inventories.
- Keeps constant contact with the producers of operating systems and 400 software packages to identify new patches.
- Verifies all discovered patches and then stores them in a library.
- Looks for 160,000 vulnerabilities and creates a list of discovered weaknesses in the cloud-based console.
- Vulnerability list provides solutions for discovered misconfigurations.
- Identifies out-of-date software for which patches are available.
- Acquires a list of patches that need to be installed, and schedules rollout for the next available maintenance window.
- Able to patch Windows, macOS, and Linux plus software packages.
- Documents all vulnerabilities and mitigation actions, including the operations of the patch manager.
- Provides reporting for HIPAA, PCI DSS, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, and ISO.
Pros:
- Cloud-based platform with broad OS support.
- Automated patch management and misconfiguration solutions.
- Compliance management with multiple standards.
Cons:
- May require some technical expertise for full utilization.
Access a 30-day free trial online.
6. Quest KACE Systems Management Appliances
Quest KACE Systems Management Appliances (SMA) dashboard for hardware and deployment information
Quest KACE Systems Management Appliances (SMA) offers a set of comprehensive management of connected devices like computers, mobile devices, servers, peripheral devices, storage devices, and connectivity devices – including those on the IoT. SMA is a fully integrated solution for the management of endpoint systems – from deployment to retirement.
Key Features:
- Discovers and registers all connected hardware and software assets.
- Helps with the securing and automatic patching of operating systems and applications as well as vulnerability scanning and security configuration enforcement.
- Software usage reporting capabilities to help with better allocation of resources and management of license compliance.
- Administrators can block the installation of unnecessary or risky software and deny access to unauthorized hardware devices.
- Patching status of every device in the asset inventory is presented in the Security Dashboard for easy monitoring while the Patch Schedule Wizard allows for the creation of set patching timetables; the IT Asset Management (ITAM), meanwhile, keeps track of compliance statuses.
- Integrated service desk included and a self-service portal for a better user experience (UX) at the endpoints.
- Process template wizard that makes it easy to design and manage IT processes and approval workflows.
Why do we recommend it?
Quest KACE SMA provides an extensive management solution for a wide range of connected devices, from computers to IoT devices. It offers features for hardware and software asset discovery, automatic patching, vulnerability scanning, and security configuration enforcement. SMA also includes software usage reporting to optimize resource allocation and license compliance. The integrated service desk and self-service portal enhance the user experience, making it a strong alternative to SCCM for endpoint management.
Who is it recommended for?
Quest KACE SMA is recommended for organizations seeking an SCCM alternative with a holistic approach to device management, security, and asset tracking. It caters to administrators and IT professionals responsible for maintaining diverse devices and ensuring compliance. The solution is suitable for businesses looking to streamline IT processes, enhance security, and improve user experiences across their endpoint systems.
Pros:
- Comprehensive endpoint systems management.
- Automatic patching and security configuration enforcement.
- Integrated service desk and self-service portal.
Cons:
- The wide range of features may lead to a steep learning curve.
Try Quest KACE Systems Management Appliances for FREE.
7. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) dashboard showing full network coverage and management capabilities
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) is a product from one of the leading makers of server and network management tools. It offers multi-vendor network monitoring that can scale and expand as a business network grows.
Key Features:
- Can be deployed in the cloud or on-premises, has real-time views, and also has an intuitive dashboard to monitor network performance, detect, and resolve issues before failures or crises occur.
- Network insights and advanced alerting capabilities for deeper visibility.
- Tools for automatic discovery, network path analysis (NetPath), cross-stack IT data correlation (PerfStack), Wi-Fi heat maps, as well as intelligent maps for easy troubleshooting.
- Easy to use and provides network monitoring, link analysis, and network latency testing capabilities; it requires no additional training or experience to perform operations.
- Provides fault, availability, and performance monitoring; administrators can quickly detect, troubleshoot, and fix network performance issues with minimal downtime.
- Monitors both logical and physical networks including the logical components of software-defined networking (SDN) environments including tenants, Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controllers (Cisco APICs), application profiles, and endpoint groups.
Why do we recommend it?
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) is a highly recommended SCCM alternative due to its robust multi-vendor network monitoring capabilities. It provides advanced features such as automatic discovery, network path analysis, and cross-stack IT data correlation, allowing for deep network insights and intelligent troubleshooting. NPM stands out for its scalability, real-time monitoring, and the ability to monitor both logical and physical networks, making it a comprehensive solution for organizations of all sizes.
SolarWinds NPM is a complete network monitoring solution that comes with features that are above and beyond those included with SCCM. For example, it can scale up to a million elements per instance, depending on licensing.
Who is it recommended for?
SolarWinds NPM is an excellent choice for a wide range of businesses, including those anticipating growth, small organizations, and larger enterprises. Its scalability and diverse feature set make it suitable for organizations seeking a solution to effectively manage their networked assets. This alternative offers network monitoring, fault detection, and performance management, making it ideal for businesses aiming to proactively resolve network issues and minimize downtime.
Pros:
- Advanced alerting and troubleshooting features.
- Intuitive dashboard and real-time network views.
- Includes unique features like Wi-Fi heat maps and NetPath.
Cons:
- Might be complex for smaller networks.
You can try SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) through a free and fully functional 30-day trial.
8. JumpCloud
JumpCloud Directory Platform – dashboard showing user and password information
JumpCloud Directory Platform is an SCCM alternative that enables IT admins to control both system and user management from a central location, beef up security using policies, enable full disk encryption, automatic updating of operating systems, and setting of screen-lock timers.
Key Features:
- Unlike SCCM, which lacks the capability for meeting the needs for system management in mixed-platform environments, JumpCloud delivers on this issue as a cloud-based solution that works with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Easy to manage patching and upgrading of both soft- and hardware.
- Directory-as-a-service (DaaS) that performs system management as well as user management tasks to help administrators with access control and asset monitoring.
- Centralizes control over the devices that are being used on a network as well as the identity and access of the users logging into the assets making it easy to achieve, and remain compliant with, security standards.
- Administrators can implement a wide range of configurations – including Zero Trust security – to implement secure access for all devices and solutions, and grant control based on user and group profiles, the devices they use, or the network they are from.
- All operating systems can be managed from a single cloud console using a single identity and credential making it a truly centralized management system.
- Administrators can create and execute command scripts – using a selection of languages – to monitor device health, create compliance reports, track installed applications, and remotely install software solutions on client endpoints.
Why do we recommend it?
JumpCloud Directory Platform offers a cloud-based alternative to SCCM, focusing on both system and user management, enhancing security through policies, encryption, automatic updates, and access control. It stands out with its multi-platform support, working seamlessly with Windows, macOS, and Linux. The platform simplifies patching and hardware management and allows administrators to implement various configurations, including Zero Trust security, for comprehensive device and access control.
Who is it recommended for?
JumpCloud Directory Platform is recommended for organizations seeking a cloud-native SCCM alternative that excels in cross-platform system and user management. It suits IT administrators looking for centralized control over device and user identity management while adhering to security standards and achieving compliance. This platform is ideal for businesses that prioritize secure access control and device monitoring across a diverse network.
Pros:
- Cloud-based solution for mixed-platform environments.
- Extensive configuration options, including Zero Trust security.
- Simplified management with single identity across OS.
Cons:
- Might be overkill for simple network environments.
Try Jump Cloud Directory Platform for FREE.
9. Symantec Client Management Suite – from Broadcom
Symantec Client Management Suite (CMS) dashboard with insightful information on connected devices
Symantec Client Management Suite (CMS) is an administrator tool for managing, patching, and performing application and OS configurations for connected devices like desktops, laptops, and thin clients throughout their life cycle to strengthen endpoint security and optimize their production capabilities.
Key Features:
- Centralizes and simplifies the patch management of devices running major operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Helps with the detection and resolution of security vulnerabilities of the operating systems as well as the applications running on them.
- Administrators can automate the patching process for a quicker and more reliable securing of endpoints.
- All changes and issues are reflected in real-time in detailed compliance reports to help with informed decision-making regarding steps needed to protect and secure production endpoints.
- Mass deployment of operating systems and applications is easy thanks to the tool’s ability to create unique reference systems that allow for hardware-independent images to be replicated onto new or existing systems.
- Scans and discovers all the connected resources on a network which are then inventoried for automatic determination of updates and patches which are downloaded and installed directly from the vendors’ repositories.
- CMS collects, and reports on, information of each device on the network and allows for the control of the configuration of software and users based on set policies.
- Performs follow-ups on all software assets to ensure they remain installed, configured correctly, and are working as expected.
- Web-based UI that is browser-agnostic and helps administrators see everything they need to perform their jobs including search and view inventory details, run tasks remotely, and deliver or install software solutions on one or more endpoints.
Why do we recommend it?
Symantec Client Management Suite by Broadcom offers comprehensive device management, patching, configuration, and endpoint security. It centralizes and streamlines patch management for major operating systems, automated patching, detects and resolves vulnerabilities, and provides real-time compliance reports. With its ability to automate mass deployments, scan network resources, and maintain software assets, CMS simplifies endpoint management and enhances security.
Who is it recommended for?
Symantec CMS is recommended for administrators and organizations looking to efficiently manage and secure connected devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s ideal for those seeking centralized control over patch management, vulnerability resolution, and endpoint configuration. Businesses aiming to automate mass deployments, inventory management, and compliance reporting will benefit from this robust tool.
Try Symantec Client Management Suite (CMS) by contacting Broadcom.
Installing SCCM alternatives is a wise decision
The six best SCCM alternatives we have seen all have one thing in common; they help keep connected software and hardware assets secure. They are indispensable solutions in today’s world of constant security breaches.
Any administrator would be wise to implement one of these tools as part of their overall IT security plan.
Let us know what you think. Do you have a personal choice? Have you tried one of these tools? Leave us a comment below.