Mastering MDT and SCCM

Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT)

• The primary use of MDT is to deploy Windows operating systems and applications.
• MDT is a free tool, whereas SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is a paid tool.
• MDT can be installed on Windows 10.
• MDT is more lightweight and focused on deployment, whereas SCCM offers more features, such as software updates, inventory management, and software distribution.
• SCCM is now called Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM).

Benefits of MDT

• MDT should be used because it provides a flexible and customizable way to deploy Windows operating systems and applications.

MDT vs WDS

• MDT is more advanced and feature-rich compared to WDS (Windows Deployment Services), which is a basic deployment tool.

Deployment Capabilities

• MDT can deploy Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
• A requirement for MDT deployment is a Windows ADK (Assessment and Deployment Kit).

Logging and Monitoring

• MDT log files are stored in the MININT\SMSOSD\OSDLOGS folder during the deployment process.
• To enable monitoring in MDT, ZTI (Zero Touch Installation) and UDI (User-Driven Installation) monitoring need to be configured.
• MDT log files are moved to the C:\MININT folder at the completion of the deployment.

Distribution Points

• A distribution point (DP) in SCCM is used to store and distribute software packages and operating system images.
• The role of a DP in SCCM is to provide a localized storage point for clients to access software and operating system images, reducing the load on the central server.