System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), now known as Microsoft Endpoint Manager, is a powerful tool for managing endpoints. However, encountering the error "Evaluated to False" during various SCCM operations can be frustrating. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the common causes of this error and provides effective troubleshooting steps to get your SCCM environment back on track. We'll explore various scenarios and offer solutions backed by practical experience.
What Does "Evaluated to False" Mean in SCCM?
The "Evaluated to False" error in SCCM typically indicates that a specific condition or query within your configuration manager has not been met. This condition could be related to hardware inventory, software deployment, compliance settings, or other aspects of SCCM management. The error doesn't pinpoint the exact problem; it merely signifies that a crucial evaluation within the system returned a negative result. This lack of specificity makes troubleshooting crucial.
Common Scenarios and Troubleshooting Steps
Let's explore some common situations where you might encounter this error and how to effectively resolve them:
1. Software Deployment Failures: "Evaluated to False"
This is a prevalent scenario. A software deployment might fail because a prerequisite isn't met, a specific setting isn't configured correctly on the client machine, or there's a problem with the application package itself.
Troubleshooting:
- Check Deployment Requirements: Carefully review the deployment's prerequisites. Are all necessary components installed on the target devices? Are there any specific registry keys or file versions required? Use the SCCM console to review the deployment status and look for detailed error logs on the client machine.
- Examine Client Logs: Check the
C:\Windows\CCM\Logsfolder on the affected client computer. Files such asAppDeploy.logandExecmgr.logoften contain valuable details regarding deployment failures. Search for error messages related to the software deployment. - Verify Package Integrity: Ensure the application package is correctly built and hasn't been corrupted. Re-create the package if necessary. Check for any issues with the package source files.
- Review Client Settings: Confirm the client's settings align with the deployment requirements. Things like network connectivity, policy settings, and proxy configurations can impact deployments.
2. Hardware Inventory Issues: "Evaluated to False"
Inaccurate or missing hardware inventory can lead to the "Evaluated to False" error when using queries based on hardware information.
Troubleshooting:
- Client Health: Verify that the client machine is correctly reporting hardware inventory to the SCCM server. Check the client agent status and ensure it's functioning properly. Review the
CcmExec.logfile for any errors. - Inventory Agent Settings: Ensure the SCCM client's hardware inventory settings are configured correctly. Check the schedule for hardware inventory collection.
- Resource Explorer: In the SCCM console, use the Resource Explorer to review the hardware inventory data for the affected client. This helps determine if the expected hardware information is reported accurately.
- Reschedule Inventory: Try manually triggering a hardware inventory scan on the problematic client.
3. Compliance Settings: "Evaluated to False"
Compliance settings are another common source of this error. If a device doesn't meet defined compliance rules, it might generate this error message.
Troubleshooting:
- Review Compliance Rules: Carefully examine the defined compliance rules and ensure they are accurately configured. Check for any typos or incorrect settings.
- Client Evaluation Cycle: Confirm that compliance evaluations are running correctly on the client. Check the client agent's logs and scheduled tasks for compliance evaluations.
- Remediation Scripts: If remediation scripts are associated with the compliance rules, check if they're working as expected. Test the scripts independently.
4. Query Issues: "Evaluated to False"
Queries used in SCCM deployments or reporting can return "Evaluated to False" if they have errors or don't accurately reflect the desired conditions.
Troubleshooting:
- Verify Query Syntax: Thoroughly review the query's syntax for errors. Test the query in the SCCM console to see if it retrieves the expected results.
- Query Variables: Ensure that any variables used in the query are correctly defined and have the expected values.
- Data Consistency: Confirm the accuracy and consistency of the data used in the query. Inconsistent data can lead to inaccurate query results.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the occurrence of "Evaluated to False" errors in the future:
- Regularly review and update your SCCM environment.
- Proactively monitor client health and address any issues promptly.
- Thoroughly test all deployments and configurations before deploying them to production.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date hardware inventory.
- Document your SCCM environment configurations and processes.
By following these troubleshooting steps and preventive measures, you can effectively resolve "Evaluated to False" errors in SCCM and maintain a stable and efficient endpoint management environment. Remember to always consult the official Microsoft documentation and community forums for the most up-to-date information and support.
