For advanced SCCM troubleshooting, use Support Center to collect and review client diagnostics, CMTrace to inspect Configuration Manager logs, and CMPivot to query real-time client data. They address different questions rather than forming a ranked list. Microsoft’s current documentation calls the product Configuration Manager; “SCCM” remains a familiar shorthand.
Choose the tool by the question you need to answer
| Tool | Best fit | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Support Center | What is happening on this client, and what evidence should I collect? | Collects client diagnostic information and provides views for examining client state. |
| CMTrace | What does this Configuration Manager log show? | Opens and monitors logs, with filtering, highlighting, and error lookup. |
| CMPivot | What is the current state of managed clients? | Queries real-time data from clients. |
Microsoft describes these as tools for supporting and troubleshooting Configuration Manager infrastructure, not as a formally ranked “top three.” The tools are available through the Configuration Manager ecosystem; for current-branch environments, use the versions supplied with the matching site server release.
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Support Center: collect and review client diagnostics
Start with Support Center when a difficult client problem calls for a repeatable diagnostic bundle or a broader view of client state. It can create a troubleshooting ZIP containing client log files and display logs, certificates, registry settings, debug dumps, and client policies. Its diagnostic views include inventory, policy, and client cache information. Microsoft’s Support Center documentation describes its role in client troubleshooting and capturing state for later analysis.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The bundle is evidence to investigate, not an automatic diagnosis or guaranteed fix. Its value is that it gathers relevant material in one place for review or handoff.
#1 Best Overall
- Lightweight Hard Case : The tools are conveniently secured in place in a lightweight yet durable, high-quality portable case that is perfect for home, office, or even outdoor use. The user’s manual makes it easy to use by professionals and amateurs alike. No more fumbling around looking for the tools that you need
- High Quality Network Crimper: The RJ11/RJ45 crimper is ergonomically designed crimping/stripping/cutting/twisting tool that is perfect for Cat5E/Cat6A/Cat7/Cat7A/Cat8 connectors, shielded (STP) and unshielded (UTP) cables and other 20-30 gauge wires. Blade guard helps reduce risk for injury while still maintaining blade sharpness
- Electric Network Cable Data Tester: Easily tests for connection for LAN/ethernet Cat5/Cat6 cable that is necessary for any data transmission installation job (9 volt batteries not included)
- 66 110 Punch Down Installation Tool: This tool is professionally designed for work on high-volume punch downs of Cat5 to Cat6A cable installations
- Multifunction Screwdriver And Knife Set: The kit comes with a 2-in-1 screwdriver and a razor sharp utility knife ideal for a variety of uses
Starting with Configuration Manager version 2103, Microsoft split Support Center into separate Client Data Collector and Client Tools components. The broader Support Center family also includes Viewer, OneTrace, and Log File Viewer.
CMTrace: follow activity in Configuration Manager logs
Use CMTrace when you have a log to examine and need to follow activity or narrow down errors. Microsoft documents support for Configuration Manager and Client Component Manager-format logs, as well as plain ASCII and Unicode text files. Highlighting, filtering, and error lookup make it easier to focus on relevant entries without treating the viewer as a repair utility. See Microsoft’s CMTrace documentation.
Rank #2
- ✅【All-in-One Professional Kit with Sturdy Case】This premium network tool kit comes in a lightweight yet heavy-duty case that keeps all tools securely organized. Perfect for easy transport and storage, it’s your go-anywhere solution for home, office, server rooms, engineering projects, and network installations.
- ✅【Complete Tool Set for Pros & DIYers】Equipped with a high-performance Cat6A/Cat6/Cat5e/Cat5 pass-through crimper, wire tracker, 110/88 punch down tool, network stripper, wire cutter, 10 Cat6 pass-through connectors, and RJ45 boots. Everything you need for reliable and lasting connections.
- ✅【Versatile Ethernet Crimper with Tool-Free Adjustment】Master cable making with this multi-function crimping tool. Works with both pass-through and non-pass-through RJ45/RJ11/RJ12 connectors. Also strips, cuts, and crimps metal dovetail clips & terminals. The unique rotating knob allows quick adjustments—no screwdriver needed!
- ✅【Ergonomic 110/88 Punch Down Tool】Features a comfortable grip and interchangeable, reversible blades for 110 and 110/88 standards. Makes clean terminations in one smooth action—ideal for Cat6a, Cat6, Cat5e, and Cat5 cables.
- ✅【Smart Wire Tracker & Cable Tester】Quickly locate breaks and identify wires across connected devices like routers, switches, and PCs. Supports tracking of RJ11, RJ45, and other metal cables (with adapter). Tests network and telephone lines for opens, shorts, miswires, and reversed connections.
CMTrace is identified in the site server’s CD.LatestSMSSETUPTOOLS folder, and Microsoft also describes availability with the Configuration Manager client. For supported current-branch versions, Microsoft directs administrators to use the tools from the site server’s CD.Latest folder. Tool contents and locations can change between releases, so use the copy associated with the site version you are troubleshooting.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsCMPivot: ask questions about current client data
Choose CMPivot when the problem is about present client state across managed devices rather than the contents of one log or a diagnostic archive. Microsoft lists the standalone CMPivot tool among the additional tools in the site server’s Configuration Manager tools folder and describes it as a way to query real-time data from clients. That makes it useful for fleet investigation when you need to check what clients report now.
Rank #3
- Cable Tester with Graphical Interface: Graphical wiremap, length, cable ID, and distance to fault displayed on one screen
The documentation cited here establishes CMPivot’s real-time query purpose, but not a particular query-language tutorial or a full list of supported entities. Consult the documentation for the Configuration Manager release in use before relying on specific query syntax or data coverage.
Which log viewer works in Windows PE?
OneTrace and the Support Center Log File Viewer are newer options in the Support Center family. Microsoft says OneTrace works similarly to CMTrace with improvements, and that the Support Center Log File Viewer replaces CMTrace for modern log viewing. However, both newer viewers use Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), which is unavailable in Windows PE. For task-sequence deployments in boot images, Microsoft says to continue using CMTrace. Details are in Microsoft’s log-file guidance.
Rank #4
- Professional Network Tool Kit: Securely encased in a portable, high-quality case, this kit is ideal for varied settings including homes, offices, and outdoors, offering both durability and lightweight mobility
- Pass Through RJ45 Crimper: This essential tool crimps, strips, and cuts STP/UTP data cables and accommodates 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors, including RJ11/RJ12 standard and RJ45 Pass Through, perfect for versatile networking tasks
- Multi-function Cable Tester: Test LAN/Ethernet connections swiftly with this easy-to-use cable tester, critical for any data transmission setup (Note: 9V batteries not included)
- Punch Down Tool & Stripping Suite: Features a comprehensive set of tools including a punch down tool, coaxial cable stripper, round cable stripper, cutter, and flat cable stripper, along with wire cutters for precise cable management and setup
- Comprehensive Accessories: Complete with 10 Cat6 passthrough connectors, 10 RJ45 boots, mini cutters, and 2 spare blades, all neatly organized in a professional case with protective plastic bubble pads to keep tools orderly and secure
Get the tools for the Configuration Manager version you run
- On the site server, locate the Configuration Manager tools in the
CD.Latestfolder; CMTrace is documented underSMSSETUPTOOLS. - Use the tool copies matching the supported current-branch release in your environment.
- Select the utility based on the troubleshooting task: collect and inspect client state with Support Center, examine a log with CMTrace, or query real-time client data with CMPivot.
Microsoft’s Configuration Manager Tools overview lists the tools as aids for supporting and troubleshooting the infrastructure. Check the release-specific documentation and site-server copy if a tool’s contents or location differ in your environment.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Take command of your network with the Cable Matters Network Toolkit with Carrying Case; 7-in-1 Ethernet cable tool kit includes tools to build, test, and deploy an Ethernet network with custom Ethernet cables; Ethernet network tester and builder kit is ideal for IT professionals and DIYers alike
- Build the perfect Ethernet cables with the RJ45 Ethernet crimper kit; Ethernet crimping tool features a built-in cutter, stripper, and crimper in one; Cat6 crimping tool supports 8P8C/RJ-45, 6P6C/RJ-12, 6P4C/RJ11 network cables; The network cable crimping tool includes a 8-pack of Cat6 RJ45 modular plugs and boots; Get started immediately with an ethernet connector kit
- The toolkit also includes a punch down tool and punch down stand for simple crimping work; 110 block tool uses spring-action for fast, low-effort cable seating and termination with reversible cut/punch blade; Punch down tool kit stand provides a stable, level surface to work with in the field; Solid keystone jack palm tool supports RJ11 and RJ45 connectors while using a punch tool
- Test your network cables with the network cable tester; Network & cable testers ensure the correct pin connections in RJ11, RJ45, and ISDN cables; Ethernet tester verifies integrity of cable shielding for noise reduction; RJ45 tester features LED lights and an easy-to-use interface for verifying cable status quickly
- The network cable toolkit includes a durable carrying case for storage and transport; Network tools fit securely in the bag for easy access in the field; Access all networking tools quickly, including the punchdown tool, Ethernet crimping tool, Cat5 crimper kit, and Cat6 ends
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