Are you in search of alternatives to Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), aiming to streamline and enhance your patch management processes? You've come to the right place! We at SecOps take pride in our specialty and we're committed to researching existing tools to curate a shortlist of top contenders for your consideration.

SCCM Alternatives List

Several alternatives to SCCM offer unique features and pricing plans tailored to different business needs. Let's delve into the top 10 SCCM alternatives and what sets them apart:

1. SecOps Solution

SecOps Solution provides a complete solution to cybersecurity by adopting vulnerability management and patch management tool that empowers organizations to promptly identify, prioritize, and remediate vulnerabilities across their infrastructure and applications.‍

Features:

• SecOps Solution provides the status of every individual patch at every stage of patch process, so that the user can monitor the process
• Provides feature to create custom patch policies as well as gives few predefined policies for keeping the systems secure
• Our solution offers pre-validated and revertible patches, ensuring one-click deployment and minimal disruption to operations.
• It supports driver as well as offline patching.
• Serves as a one-stop shop for vulnerability management. This eliminates the need for acquiring additional scanners or tools.

Pricing: Please contact the SecOps teams for pricing.

How is it better than SCCM:

• Unlike SCCM, which primarily relies on an agent-based architecture, SecOps Solution supports both agentless and agent-based architectures. This flexibility caters to diverse infrastructure needs, including on-prem installations, offering organizations greater adaptability and choice in deploying security solutions.
• SecOps Solution provides transparent patch process management, offering detailed status updates for each patch stage. In contrast, SCCM may lack such granular insights. This transparency in patch management enables organizations using SecOps to have better visibility and control over their patching operations.
• SecOps Solution delivers both summary and in-depth reports for all patch jobs, simplifying analysis and decision-making for IT teams.
• Provides detailed reporting and remediation guidance.

2. Automox

‍Automox is a comprehensive patch management solution designed to streamline the process of identifying, prioritizing, and deploying software patches across IT environments. With Automox, organizations can proactively address security vulnerabilities, ensure compliance, and maintain system integrity with minimal manual intervention. 

Features:

• Automox utilizes a cloud-native architecture, making it easy to deploy and manage patches across Windows, MacOS, and Linux endpoints without the need for on-premises infrastructure.
• Automox offers patching capabilities not only for operating systems but also for third-party applications, allowing organizations to address vulnerabilities across a wide range of software.
• Automox provides a user-friendly setup process, enabling organizations to quickly implement patch management solutions without the need for complex network configurations or extensive training.

Pricing: For pricing details, please refer to the Automox website or contact their sales team for personalized quotes based on your organization's requirements.

Disadvantages:

• Automox provides reporting based on patch policies, but generating detailed reports can be challenging compared to other solutions like SecOps.
• Automox lacks vulnerability scanning capabilities as part of its patch management solution, relying on integrations with third-party solutions like Rapid7 for vulnerability management. 

3. ManageEngine

ManageEngine offers a robust patch management solution with comprehensive vulnerability scanning, transparent patch processes, and customizable policies. Its on-premises agent-based architecture provides flexibility and control, although setup complexity and limited Linux support may pose challenges for some users. ManageEngine remains a solid choice for organizations seeking a customizable and comprehensive patch management solution tailored to their specific IT environments and requirements.

Features:

• Manages and deploys patches to over 850+ 3rd party applications such as Adobe, Java, WinRAR, and more.
• Creates test groups, and test patches, and approves for deployment to production environments automatically.
• Prioritizes deployment by declining less critical patches; declined patches can be rolled back and revoked for deployment.
• You can integrate ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus with a diverse range of products, leveraging its capabilities and empowering users with a comprehensive solution.

Pricing: For pricing details, please refer to the ManageEngine website or contact their sales team for personalized quotes based on your organization's requirements.

Disadvantages:

• While ManageEngine offers extensive features, the setup process can be challenging, particularly for organizations with complex IT environments.
• ManageEngine's agent setup may not offer proper support for Linux environments, limiting its effectiveness for heterogeneous operating system environments.
• ManageEngine's patch management solution may lack some of the modern cloud-based features and integrations offered by competitors like SecOps and Automox, potentially limiting scalability.
• ManageEngine's patch management solution may not provide as seamless an experience as cloud-based alternatives like SecOps, particularly for organizations looking for quick deployment and minimal infrastructure requirements.

4. SolarWinds

SolarWinds Patch Manager offers comprehensive automation features designed to streamline patch management processes. From automated patch deployment to scheduling and reporting, SolarWinds Patch Manager empowers IT teams to efficiently manage software updates across their entire infrastructure.

 Features:

• SolarWinds Patch Manager offers comprehensive patch management capabilities, allowing users to effectively manage both Microsoft and third-party patches. 
• Features a user-friendly dashboard with color-coded graphics and an interactive layout, providing IT administrators with critical information on patch updates and vulnerability metrics.
• Built on the Orion Platform, Patch Manager seamlessly integrates with other SolarWinds products, facilitating centralized monitoring and management of the entire IT environment. 

Pricing: Please refer to SolarWinds website for the exact pricing and subscription options.

Disadvantages:

• While SolarWinds Patch Manager offers robust features for patch management, it lacks certain capabilities present in SecOps Solution. 
•  For instance, SolarWinds Patch Manager may not provide as comprehensive and accurate vulnerability scanning as SecOps Solution.
• Additionally, SolarWinds Patch Manager may not offer the same level of transparency in the patch process status, reporting, and post-patch machine status validation as SecOps Solution does.

5. SysAid

SysAid revolutionizes IT management by offering a seamless patch management solution that empowers IT managers to enhance productivity and service quality. Moreover, SysAid's custom-built quote generation system enables the company to respond promptly to market demands, setting it apart as an industry leader. By leveraging self-managing help desk systems, SysAid ensures streamlined operations and optimized performance, making it the go-to choice for businesses seeking innovative IT management solutions.

 Features:

• Streamlined setup process for quick integration into existing systems and environments.
• Enjoy automated patch management with extensive configuration options to tailor updates to specific needs.
• Scale patch management solutions effortlessly to accommodate growing organizational requirements.
• Seamlessly integrates with all versions of SysAid for comprehensive patch management capabilities.

Pricing: Please contact SysAid to learn more about their plans and subscriptions. 

Disadvantages:

• While SysAid offers robust patch management capabilities, it has limited support for third-party integrations compared to SecOps. SecOps provides extensive support for third-party integrations, allowing organizations to integrate with other software and systems.
• SysAid's reporting and analytics capabilities are not as advanced as those offered by SecOps. SecOps provides more comprehensive reporting tools and analytics features, allowing organizations to gain deeper insights into their performance.

‍6. NinjaOne

Being the company's all-encompassing IT management arsenal of tools, NinjaOne’s capabilities span from device management to automation, to even patch management. NinjaOne’s ability to eight-in-one IT management system has made it an excellent option for those who are seeking centralized solutions. Being an IT ops service focused on ease of management of all IT operations and increasing efficiency of the infrastructure, NinjaOne presents itself as a nice option for businesses aiming to be use patch management as its motto.

 Features:

• NinjaOne offers a holistic approach to endpoint management, combining patch management, IT asset management, remote monitoring, and antivirus capabilities within a single platform.
• Its intuitive interface and customizable dashboards provide IT administrators with real-time visibility into endpoint status, software inventory, and security vulnerabilities.
• NinjaOne's patch management module allows for automated deployment of software updates across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints, ensuring timely mitigation of known vulnerabilities.
• Provides integrated vulnerability scanning capabilities, allowing IT teams to identify and prioritize critical security risks across the organization's IT infrastructure.

Pricing: Please contact NinjaOne to learn more about their plans and subscriptions.

Disadvantages:

• SecOps Solution excels NinjaOne by providing additional features and integrations, enhancing the overall functionality of patch management processes.
• SecOps Solution offers personalized support and guidance to help organizations maximize the value of their patch management investments, something which we can't find in NinjaOne.

7. Atera

Atera's Patch Management tool is designed to streamline IT operations by offering comprehensive solutions for managing and maintaining system patches across Windows, Mac, and Linux devices. With Atera, users can effortlessly review, update, and maintain installed packages, ensuring optimal system performance and security. The platform provides a user-friendly interface and detailed guidance for patch installation procedures, making it an ideal choice for IT professionals seeking efficient patch management solutions. 

Features:

• Atera offers robust support for Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, providing a unified solution for heterogeneous IT environments.
• Atera seamlessly integrates with native software update tools for each operating system, ensuring compatibility and reliability in patch deployment.
• The platform provides detailed reporting and feedback on patch installation status, giving IT professionals valuable insights into their patch management activities.
• Atera offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the patch management process, making it accessible to IT professionals of all skill levels.

Pricing: Atera offers flexible pricing plans tailored to the needs of businesses of all sizes, with transparent pricing structures and scalable options based on the number of endpoints managed.

Disadvantages:

• Despite its robust features, Atera may lack the depth of enterprise-level functionalities offered by SCCM.
• The platform's pricing structure may not be suitable for organizations with complex IT environments or specific compliance requirements.
• SecOps' robust reporting and compliance features address the limitations of Atera's reporting capabilities, providing organizations with the visibility and control they need to maintain a secure IT environment.

8. JumpCloud 

JumpCloud’s automated patch management offers a streamlined solution for keeping macOS, Windows, and Linux devices secure and up-to-date with automated OS and browser patching. Let's compare JumpCloud's patch management with Microsoft's System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) to understand their key features and differences.

Features:

• JumpCloud's patch management automates OS and Chrome browser patching across macOS, Windows, and Linux devices, ensuring timely updates without manual intervention.
• IT admins with Manager role permissions or higher can manage major OS upgrades and minor updates, setting required installation windows for user convenience.
• Policies allow delaying updates for thorough testing before deployment. Deployment rings enable controlled OS version installations and timing.
• A universal browser patch policy keeps Google Chrome updated across all OS types, remotely scheduling and enforcing updates for compliance and security.

Pricing: Jumpcloud offers flexible pricing plans tailored to the needs of businesses of all sizes, with transparent pricing structures and scalable options based on the number of endpoints managed.

Disadvantages:

• JumpCloud's patch management relies on the installation and proper functioning of its agent on each managed device. Any issues with agent installation or operation could affect the effectiveness of patch management.
• While JumpCloud's patch management policies are available as part of their premium features, organizations may find the additional cost prohibitive, especially for smaller budgets or organizations with limited resources.
• JumpCloud lacks built-in vulnerability scanning capabilities as part of its patch management solution. While it integrates with third-party solutions like Rapid7 for vulnerability management, this may require additional setup and investment.

9. Heimdal 

Heimdal’s patch management offers a streamlined solution for keeping macOS, Windows, and Linux devices secure and up-to-date with automated OS and browser patching. Let's compare Heimdal’s patch management with Microsoft's System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) to understand their key features and differences.

Features:

• Heimdal's patch management automates patching for major operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring devices are kept secure and up-to-date without manual intervention. 
• IT administrators can manage major OS upgrades and minor updates, configuring required installation windows for user convenience. 
• Policies enable organizations to delay updates for testing before deployment, while deployment rings facilitate controlled OS version installations and scheduling. 
• A comprehensive browser patch policy ensures that popular browsers like Google Chrome are updated across all supported OS types, with remote scheduling and enforcement for compliance and security.

Pricing: Heimdal offers flexible pricing plans tailored to businesses of all sizes, with transparent pricing structures and scalable options based on the number of endpoints managed.

Disadvantages:

• Heimdal's patch management relies on the proper installation and functioning of its agent on each managed device. Any issues with agent installation or operation could impact the effectiveness of patch management. 
• While patch management policies are included in Heimdal's premium features, some organizations may find the additional cost prohibitive, especially those with smaller budgets or limited resources. 
• Heimdal does not include built-in vulnerability scanning capabilities as part of its patch management solution. While it integrates with third-party solutions for vulnerability management, this may require additional setup and investment.

10. Kaseya VSA 

Kaseya VSA offers a comprehensive patch management solution designed to streamline the process of keeping your IT infrastructure secure and up-to-date. Let's explore the key features and advantages of Kaseya VSA's patch management compared to other solutions.

Features:

• Kaseya VSA automates the deployment and installation of security updates for various third-party applications, ensuring that your systems are protected from known vulnerabilities.
• With support for over 100 out-of-the-box third-party applications, including popular ones like Google Chrome, Adobe Acrobat, WinZip, and more, Kaseya VSA ensures that all your software remains patched and secure.
• Enjoy centralized control over patching operations, allowing you to manage patches across all your endpoints from a single console. This streamlines the patch management process and enhances efficiency.
• Kaseya VSA offers flexible deployment options, allowing you to schedule patch deployments based on your organization's needs. Whether you prefer automated scheduling or manual intervention, Kaseya VSA has you covered.
• Gain insights into your patch management activities with detailed reporting capabilities. Track patch compliance across your entire environment and identify endpoints that require attention.

Pricing: Kaseya VSA offers flexible pricing plans tailored to businesses of all sizes. With transparent pricing structures and scalable options based on the number of endpoints managed, Kaseya VSA ensures that you get the right solution for your needs without breaking the bank.

Disadvantages:

• Like many patch management solutions, Kaseya VSA's effectiveness relies on the proper installation and functioning of its agent on each managed device. Any issues with agent installation or operation could potentially affect the efficiency of patch management.
• While Kaseya VSA offers comprehensive patch management capabilities, some advanced features may be part of premium packages, which could be cost-prohibitive for organizations with limited budgets or resources.
• Integrating Kaseya VSA with existing IT infrastructure and workflows may require additional setup and investment in terms of time and resources. Organizations need to consider the complexity of integration and potential disruptions to ongoing operations.
• Kaseya VSA lacks built-in vulnerability scanning capabilities as part of its patch management solution. While it integrates with third-party solutions for vulnerability management, this may involve additional setup and investment, adding complexity to the overall patch management process.

How to Choose the Best Alternative?

When considering the best alternative for patch management tools among SecOps, Atera, Automox, SysAid, SolarWinds, and NinjaOne etc, several factors come into play. Among these solutions is the ability to use many features and perform different types of tasks adapted to different organizational needs.

However, SecOps stands out as a top choice for its comprehensive and accurate vulnerability scanning, seamless integration with various architectures, and user-friendly interface. Its ability to provide detailed insights into patch status and inventory, coupled with customizable policies and robust reporting capabilities, makes it a preferred option for organizations seeking efficient and reliable patch management solutions.

Conclusion

 In making the decision, it's crucial to evaluate your specific requirements, including the size of your infrastructure, budget constraints, and desired level of automation and scalability. Although every tool has been developed with its set of strengths, the combination that makes SecOps attractive is the features, usability, and pricing that differentiates it from the rest of the tools in the patch management universe. By choosing SecOps, organizations can ensure proactive security measures, streamlined operations, and enhanced overall patch management.

SecOps Solution is an award-winning agent-less Full-stack Vulnerability and Patch Management Platform that helps organizations identify, prioritize, and remediate security vulnerabilities and misconfigurations in seconds.

To schedule a demo, just pick a slot that is most convenient for you.