What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
To back up a custom SCCM collection, export it to a Managed Object Format (MOF) file, then import that file in the same or another Microsoft Configuration Manager site. Microsoft documents collection export and import as a way to back up custom collections. This preserves a collection object—not a full site—and referenced collections are not included, so record and handle those dependencies separately.
“SCCM” is the familiar name for Microsoft Configuration Manager. For full site or database recovery, use the separate Backup Site Server process; a collection MOF is not a substitute.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choose the right backup scope
| What you need to preserve | Documented method | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| A custom collection definition | Export and import a collection MOF | The collection object; referenced collections are excluded. |
| A Configuration Manager site or database | Backup Site Server maintenance task or a manually recovered site database backup | The site database and specified site files and settings; use the recovery documentation for the restore workflow. |
| A saved Configuration Manager query | Export and import a query MOF | The query object, separately from the collection. |
Microsoft’s backup and recovery guidance describes site recovery paths. The collection procedure below is for preserving or moving a collection definition.
Export a custom collection
Using the Configuration Manager console
- Open the Configuration Manager console and go to Assets and Compliance.
- Select Device Collections or User Collections, as appropriate.
- Select the collection, then choose Export to open the Export Collection Wizard.
- Save the resulting MOF file somewhere you can archive and retrieve it. Microsoft also documents importing the file into another Configuration Manager site.
Microsoft’s collection management documentation describes the console export workflow.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
Using PowerShell
Run Configuration Manager cmdlets from the Configuration Manager site drive, for example, PS XYZ:>. Export a collection by name, ID, or collection object. Microsoft’s example is:
Export-CMCollection -Name "testUser" -ExportFilePath "C:collection.mof"For multiple collections, Microsoft documents retrieving collections and exporting them individually. Use a collision-safe filename strategy when automating this: names may not be unique or safe as filenames, so consider including the collection ID in the filename.
See Microsoft’s Export-CMCollection reference for cmdlet parameters and examples.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesRank #2
- 【Upgraded version】 - The mirror logo strip is combined with the striped non-slip design. The rounded corners of the shell are more suitable for holding. The strips play a heat dissipation function to ensure a stable and fast transmission process.
- 【Ultra-thin and quiet】 - The motherboard adopts JMicron 578 noise-free solution, giving you a quiet working environment. Lightweight and portable size designed to fit in your pocket for easy portability.
- 【Ultra-Fast Data Transfers】 - Pairing this external hard drive with JMicron 578 solution USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 interfaces enables blazing-fast data transfer. It boasts theoretical read speeds of up to 125MB/s and write speeds of up to 103MB/s.
- 【Plug and Play】 - With no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use.The hard disk chip is wrapped with an aluminum anti-interference layer to increase heat dissipation and protect data.
- 【What You Get】 - 1 x Portable Hard Drive, 1 x USB 3.0 Cable, 1 x User Manual, Gift-type shell packaging ,Three-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services.
Import the collection MOF
Import a previously exported collection MOF with the Configuration Manager PowerShell cmdlet:
Import-CMCollection -ImportFilePath "C:pathcollection.mof"Microsoft documents Import-CMCollection for reading a collection MOF. Test the import in an appropriate target site, then inspect the resulting collection and its behavior before depending on it operationally.
Preserve dependencies and validate the result
Microsoft warns: “When you export a collection, referenced collections aren’t exported.” A referenced collection is one used by the selected collection in an Include or Exclude rule. Keep an inventory of these dependencies and export or otherwise preserve each required collection separately.
Rank #3
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
After importing, check the following in the target site:
Recommended Free Tools
- The limiting collection and any Include or Exclude references resolve to the intended collections.
- Membership rules and the resulting observed membership are as expected.
- Other required collection settings are present and suitable for the target site.
Configuration Manager collection management also covers deployments, maintenance windows, and collection variables, but the available Microsoft documentation does not establish that every property or related object is captured by MOF export in every product version. Validate any such configuration separately rather than assuming the collection file restores all surrounding state.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When the requirement is site recovery
For recovery of a Configuration Manager site, use the site backup path rather than relying on collection MOFs. Microsoft describes two supported site recovery backup methods: a successful Backup Site Server maintenance task backup, or a manually recovered site database backup. The maintenance task backs up the site database, specific registry keys, folders and files, and the CD.Latest folder.
Rank #4
- High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
- Plug-and-play expandability
- Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
The task is available for a central administration site and a primary site, but not for secondary sites or site system servers. Microsoft’s maintenance-task reference says it is enabled for a central administration site, not enabled by default for primary sites, and unavailable for secondary sites. Check the documentation for your installed Configuration Manager release and your site’s recovery plan.
Site backup cadence and verification
Microsoft recommends running the default site backup task at least once every five days, tying that cadence to SQL Server change tracking retention. This recommendation applies to the site backup task, not to exporting individual collections.
To verify a site backup, Microsoft recommends checking:
Best Value
- Slim durable design to help take your important files with you
- Back up smarter with included device management software[2] with defense against ransomware
- Help secure your important files with password protection and hardware encryption
- 3-year limited warranty
- Timestamps in the configured destination folder for a recent run.
- SMS_SITE_BACKUP component status messages; message ID
5035indicates successful completion. Smsbkup.login the destination folder for “Backup completed” andSTATMSG: ID=5035.
For the full procedure, see Microsoft’s site backup and recovery guidance and maintenance task reference.
Export a saved query separately
If the saved Configuration Manager query itself must also be transferred, use Export-CMQuery to save it to MOF and import it with Import-CMQuery. A query export is a separate operation from exporting a collection. See Microsoft’s Export-CMQuery reference.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →
