The dreaded "Evaluated to False" error in SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) can be incredibly frustrating. This message usually appears when a specific condition within a Configuration Item (CI), deployment type, or other management object isn't met, preventing the intended action (like software installation or policy application). This comprehensive guide will walk you through troubleshooting this common issue, offering solutions and insights to help you resolve it efficiently.
Understanding the "Evaluated to False" Error
Before diving into troubleshooting, it's crucial to understand why you're seeing this error. The "Evaluated to False" message means a condition within your SCCM configuration has failed. This could be due to a variety of factors, ranging from simple typos in your queries to more complex issues with client health, network connectivity, or even the application itself. The key is to pinpoint the specific condition that's failing.
Locating the Failing Condition
The first step is identifying the precise location of the "Evaluated to False" error. This usually involves examining the following:
- Configuration Items (CIs): Check the CI's settings. Look closely at the detection methods and rules defined within the CI. Are there any specific registry keys, files, or WMI queries that are not being met on the target device?
- Deployment Types: Within deployment types, examine the prerequisites and installation conditions. A failed prerequisite or condition will result in the deployment failing with this message.
- Software Update Deployments: For software updates, ensure that the target devices meet the required criteria (operating system, architecture, etc.) and that there aren't any conflicts with existing software.
- Compliance Settings: Review any compliance settings related to the policy. Are there specific compliance rules that the client is failing to meet?
- Logs: The SCCM logs are your best friend. Examine the
CcmExec.log,PolicyAgent.log, and other relevant logs on both the client and server to find more detailed information about the failure. Search for keywords related to the CI or deployment type.
Common Causes and Solutions
Here are some of the most common causes of the "Evaluated to False" error and how to troubleshoot them:
1. Incorrect Query Syntax or WMI Filter
Problem: A common cause is an incorrect query in a CI's detection method, particularly when using WMI or registry queries. Typos, incorrect object paths, or invalid syntax will lead to the query evaluating to false.
Solution: Carefully review the query syntax for accuracy. Test the query using tools like PowerShell or the SCCM console's query builder to verify it returns the expected results.
2. Missing or Incorrect Dependencies
Problem: The intended action might depend on other software or components being installed first. If those dependencies are missing or incorrectly configured, the main condition might evaluate to false.
Solution: Verify all prerequisites and dependencies are met on the client machine. Consider adding them as explicit prerequisites in your deployment.
3. Client Health and Connectivity Issues
Problem: Network connectivity problems, client certificate issues, or a malfunctioning SCCM client can prevent the client from communicating with the server or properly evaluating the condition.
Solution: Verify the client's network connection, ensure the client is properly registered with the SCCM server, check for certificate errors, and examine the client's health status. Restart the client's SMS Agent Host service.
4. Incorrectly Configured Detection Methods
Problem: The detection method may not be properly configured to accurately reflect the desired state. For example, using an incorrect file path or registry key.
Solution: Double-check the detection method settings to make sure they correctly target the intended resource and use the appropriate operators.
5. Timing Issues
Problem: The condition might depend on events or actions that haven't completed yet.
Solution: Consider adding delays or waiting periods to your deployment to allow sufficient time for prerequisites or other events to finish.
6. Permissions Issues
Problem: The SCCM client may lack the necessary permissions to access specific registry keys, files, or WMI classes required for the detection method.
Solution: Review and adjust the permissions on the relevant resources to ensure the client has the necessary access rights.
7. Software Conflicts
Problem: The deployment may be conflicting with other software installed on the client machine.
Solution: Investigate potential conflicts and consider using alternative approaches or adjusting the deployment settings to avoid conflicts.
Further Troubleshooting Steps
- Review the SCCM logs: As previously mentioned, SCCM logs are a goldmine for debugging issues like this. Pay close attention to error messages and warnings related to the specific CI or deployment type.
- Test on a pilot group: Before deploying to a large number of clients, test your changes on a small group of pilot machines to avoid widespread issues.
- Use the SCCM console's troubleshooting tools: The SCCM console offers various tools to assist with troubleshooting deployments and CIs.
- Check for known issues: Search the Microsoft forums and community sites for known issues related to the specific CI or deployment type you're working with.
By systematically examining these potential causes and applying the recommended solutions, you should be able to effectively resolve the "Evaluated to False" error and get your SCCM deployments back on track. Remember, patience and careful attention to detail are key to troubleshooting these kinds of issues.
