Sccm Execute A Copied File

8 min read Oct 01, 2024
Sccm Execute A Copied File

How to Execute a Copied File Using SCCM

SCCM, or System Center Configuration Manager, is a powerful tool for managing and deploying software to computers in a network. One common task is to copy files to client machines and then execute them. This can be useful for deploying scripts, applications, or other files that need to be run on the client.

This article will guide you through the process of executing a copied file using SCCM.

Understanding the Process

The process of executing a copied file in SCCM involves two main steps:

  1. Deployment of the File: SCCM is used to copy the desired file to the client machines.
  2. Execution of the File: A mechanism is employed to trigger the execution of the copied file on the client machines.

Methods to Execute a Copied File

There are several methods you can use to execute a copied file using SCCM. Here are some of the most common approaches:

1. Using a Package and Program

  • Creating a Package: Create a new package in SCCM and add the copied file to it. This package will contain the file that needs to be executed.
  • Creating a Program: Create a new program within the package and define the command line to execute the copied file. This program will be responsible for running the file on the client.
  • Deploying the Package: Deploy the package to the target client machines.

Example:

Imagine you have a batch file named "install.bat" that you want to execute on client machines. You can follow these steps:

  1. Create a Package: In SCCM, create a new package named "Install Application Package" and add the "install.bat" file to it.
  2. Create a Program: Create a new program within the "Install Application Package" named "Run Install Script" and define the command line as: "%ProgramFiles%\install.bat".
  3. Deploy the Package: Deploy the "Install Application Package" to the target client machines.

Note: The command line in the program should point to the location where the copied file is stored on the client machine. This might involve specifying the ProgramFiles directory or a custom location.

2. Using a PowerShell Script

  • Create a PowerShell Script: Write a PowerShell script that copies and then executes the file.
  • Add Script to a Package: Create a new package in SCCM and add the PowerShell script to it.
  • Create a Program: Create a new program and specify the PowerShell script as the command line.
  • Deploy the Package: Deploy the package to the target client machines.

Example:

Let's say you have a Python script named "run_script.py" that you want to execute. Here's a PowerShell script to copy and execute it:

# Copy the script to the target directory
Copy-Item "\\path\to\run_script.py" -Destination "C:\Temp"
# Execute the script
& "C:\Temp\run_script.py"

Save this script as "run_script.ps1". In SCCM, create a package containing "run_script.ps1". Create a program that runs the script with the command: powershell.exe -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -File "%ProgramFiles%\run_script.ps1". Deploy the package to the desired clients.

3. Using a Task Sequence

  • Create a Task Sequence: Create a task sequence in SCCM. This sequence will include the steps required to copy and execute the file.
  • Add Steps to Copy and Execute: Add a "Copy Files" step to copy the desired file to the client machine and an "Execute Command Line" step to run the copied file.
  • Deploy the Task Sequence: Deploy the task sequence to the target client machines.

Example:

You can use a task sequence to deploy an application installer (e.g., "setup.exe") to the client and then run the installation.

  1. Create a Task Sequence: Create a new task sequence in SCCM.
  2. Add a Copy Files Step: Add a "Copy Files" step, specifying the source location (SCCM server) and the destination folder on the client machine (e.g., "C:\Temp").
  3. Add an Execute Command Line Step: Add an "Execute Command Line" step and define the command line to execute the copied file: "C:\Temp\setup.exe".
  4. Deploy the Task Sequence: Deploy the task sequence to the target client machines.

Best Practices

  • Use a consistent folder structure: Choose a specific location on the client machine to store copied files. This makes it easier to manage and track files.
  • Consider file permissions: Ensure that the copied file has the appropriate permissions for execution on the client machine.
  • Test thoroughly: Before deploying to all clients, test the file execution process on a small group of machines to ensure everything works as intended.

Conclusion

By following these methods and best practices, you can successfully execute copied files using SCCM. This allows you to deploy and run scripts, applications, and other files efficiently across your network. Remember to choose the method that best suits your specific needs and ensure that your file execution process is well-tested and secure.

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