To manage a computer using System Center Essentials, the computer must be a member of at least one computer group. A computer group is a collection of managed computers, typically one that reflects some common characteristic.

In Essentials 2007, computer groups are used for software deployment, update management, monitoring, and inventory.

In This Section

About Computers, Computer Groups and Discovery in System Center Essentials


Describes computer groups in System Center Essentials.
How to Discover and Prepare Objects for Management in System Center Essentials


Explains how to discover and prepare objects for management in System Center Essentials.
How to Enable, Disable, and Schedule Computer Discovery in System Center Essentials


Explains how to enable, disable and schedule subsequent computer discoveries in System Center Essentials.
How to Create a Computer Group in System Center Essentials


Explains how to create computer groups in System Center Essentials.
How to Add or Remove Computers from a Computer Group in System Center Essentials


Explains how to add or remove computers from a computer group in System Center Essentials.
How to Stop Managing a Computer with System Center Essentials


Explains how to stop managing a computer in System Center Essentials.
How to Delete a Computer Group in System Center Essentials


Explains how to delete a computer group in System Center Essentials.
How to Run a Task for a Computer in System Center Essentials


Explains how to run a task for a computer in System Center Essentials.
How to View Computers, Devices, and Computer Groups in System Center Essentials


Explains how to view computer groups and their associated managed computers in System Center Essentials.
How to View Computer and Computer Groups Reports in System Center Essentials


Explains how to view reports for computers and computer groups in System Center Essentials.
How to Search for Objects in System Center Essentials


Explains how to use the Search features of Essentials 2007 for quick searches.
How to Use Advanced Search to Find Objects in System Center Essentials


Explains how to use the Search features of Essentials 2007 for more complex searches.