Systems Management Server (SMS)

What is it?

Microsoft's Systems Management Server (SMS) provides a comprehensive tool for change and configuration management for Microsoft Windows XP/2000 platforms.  It enables organizations to push out relevant software and updates to Windows users quickly and cost-effectively.

Many Windows users already take advantage of automated tools like Windows Update to keep their systems up-to-date.  SMS allows us to assure that every XP/2000 system managed on our network stays current. 

This protects each individual PC from exploitation of software vulnerabilities, and improves overall network security for everyone.

Which systems receive the service and which do not?

If your Windows XP/2000 is in the "managed" group of the Medical network, you will be included in SMS updates.  You can tell if your system is in the managed group by looking in the Control panel (use "Start" > "Control Panel") for a "Systems Management" icon.

If no such icon appears, your Windows system is "unmanaged" and you will have to set up automatic updating on your own.  For instructions and information about that process, click here.

We are unable to provide the SMS updating service to Windows systems located off campus, or to those running Windows 95, 98 and NT.  If you are using a PC with those operating systems, we urge you to upgrade to a Windows XP computer. 

We are also unable to provide this updating service to Macintosh computers, or to Windows systems operated off campus.  Mac users can click here for information about enabling automatic updating.

How does it work?

SMS's processes will usually be invisible to you.  Software updates are transmitted to your computer “in the background,” at a speed that allows your computer tasks to proceed without interruption or delay.

The updates will be applied when you next power on your computer.  For that reason -- among others -- it's desirable that you turn your computer off at the end of the work day (or at least every once in a while).

In rare cases – usually when the PC is infected with spyware or other damaging software – an SMS update may cause a system crash.  If that happens, you will see a "blue screen" or other indication of abnormal functioning.  Contact our Help Desk at 305-243-5999, and we will promptly send a technician to repair your system.

If you have questions or concerns about the software update process, contact our Desktop Support group.

Learn more

Microsoft SMS web site
Everything you could ever want to know