The dreaded "Evaluated to False" message in SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) can be incredibly frustrating. It indicates that a condition within a deployment or query isn't meeting its criteria, effectively halting the intended action. This isn't always a critical error, but it can certainly disrupt your workflow and prevent crucial updates or software deployments from reaching target devices. This guide will help you understand the root causes and provide straightforward solutions to resolve this common SCCM issue.
What Causes "Evaluated to False" in SCCM?
The "Evaluated to False" message is usually triggered by a problem in your SCCM deployment's query or collection rules. This could be due to several factors:
- Incorrect Query Syntax: A simple typo or logical error in the query language can lead to unexpected results and the dreaded "Evaluated to False" message. Double-check your query for accurate syntax and correct operators.
- Missing or Incorrect Device Properties: The query relies on specific device properties (e.g., operating system, hardware, software). If these properties are missing or inaccurate on the target devices, the evaluation will fail.
- Outdated Device Information: SCCM relies on regular hardware and software inventory updates. If a device hasn't reported its inventory data recently, the query might evaluate to false due to outdated information.
- Conflicting Rules: Multiple overlapping or conflicting rules within a deployment can cause unexpected behavior and lead to a failed evaluation.
- Incorrectly Defined Collections: A poorly configured collection can lead to inaccurate targeting, resulting in the "Evaluated to False" status.
- Client Issues: Problems with the SCCM client on the target device can prevent accurate data reporting and evaluation.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix "Evaluated to False"
Let's break down the troubleshooting steps to address the "Evaluated to False" error.
1. Verify Query Syntax and Logic
Carefully review your query: Start by thoroughly examining the query used in your deployment or collection. Pay close attention to:
- Operators: Are you using the correct operators (AND, OR, NOT)? Are parentheses correctly placed to define the order of operations?
- Property Names: Ensure that all property names used in the query are accurate and case-sensitive. Refer to the official SCCM documentation for correct property names.
- Wildcards: If using wildcards (* or ?), ensure they are used appropriately.
Use the Query Builder: The SCCM Query Builder is a valuable tool to help you construct and test queries visually, reducing syntax errors.
2. Check Device Properties and Inventory
Run Hardware Inventory: Make sure the target device has recently performed a hardware inventory. You can trigger this manually or check the device's last inventory update time. Outdated inventory can lead to incorrect query evaluations.
Verify Software Inventory: Similarly, confirm that software inventory is up-to-date on the target device. This is crucial if your query includes software-related criteria.
Examine Device Properties: Check the specific device properties used in your query directly on the target device through the SCCM console. Are they accurate? Do they match the values specified in your query?
3. Review and Simplify Deployments
Simplify Queries: If your query is complex, try simplifying it to isolate the problem. Break down the query into smaller, simpler queries to identify the problematic component.
Identify Conflicting Rules: Look for any potential conflicts between multiple deployments or rules affecting the same device or application. Adjust or remove conflicting rules as needed.
4. Correctly Define Collections
Re-create Collections: If you suspect a problem with your collections, consider re-creating them from scratch. This will ensure that they're correctly defined and accurately target the intended devices.
Use the "Directly Assigned Devices" Feature: For specific deployments, you might use the "directly assigned devices" method, which bypasses query evaluation based on collections.
5. Address Client-Side Issues
Restart the SCCM Client: A simple restart of the SCCM client on the affected device can often resolve temporary issues preventing correct inventory reporting.
Client Health: Review the client's health status in the SCCM console. Any errors or warnings might indicate underlying issues affecting the evaluation.
6. "People Also Ask" related questions and answers
Q: How do I debug SCCM deployments?
A: SCCM provides various tools for debugging. The primary method is to examine the deployment status in the console, review logs for errors (particularly the SMSProv.log and AppEnforce.log), and use the query builder to carefully check your targeting criteria. Step-by-step simplification of your queries can often pinpoint the issue.
Q: What are the common causes of SCCM deployment failures?
A: Common causes range from incorrect query syntax and outdated client inventory to network connectivity problems, conflicting deployments, and issues with the SCCM client itself. Understanding your deployment's components and employing proper troubleshooting steps is key.
Q: Why is my SCCM application deployment failing?
A: Application deployment failures can stem from various factors, including incorrect dependencies, issues with the application package itself, client-side problems, incorrect deployment settings, and failing prerequisites. Careful review of the deployment status and logs will often highlight the root cause.
By following these steps and understanding the potential causes of "Evaluated to False," you'll be well-equipped to resolve this common SCCM challenge and keep your software deployments running smoothly. Remember to always meticulously document your findings and adjustments to maintain a well-managed SCCM infrastructure.
