Using subcollections within Configuration Manager 2007 can be an effective way of associating one collection with another within a site. When creating a subcollection, either by creating a new collection within another collection, or by linking two collections together, a subcollection is functionally still a collection, and so all rules applying to collections also apply to subcollections. Because of this, subcollection names must be unique among both collections and subcollections, as multiple collections and subcollections with the same name are not allowed.

Subcollections can be created for existing subcollections to almost any depth. However, because each layer added contributes to the complexity of the collection, it is recommended that you do not create subcollections with more than 10 tiers in depth.

Note
You must have Create permissions for the Collection security object type and Modify permission to the instance to create subcollections for a collection. For more information about security permissions, see Classes and Instances for Object Security in Configuration Manager.

To create a new subcollection within an existing collection

  1. In the Configuration Manager console, navigate to System Center Configuration Manager / Site Database / Computer Management / Collections.

  2. Right-click the collection (or subcollection) to which you want to add a subcollection, point to New, and then click Collection.

  3. Use the New Collection Wizard to create a new subcollection, specifying the general information, membership rules, update schedule, and other information for the new subcollection.

    For additional information about this wizard, see New Collection Wizard.

To create a subcollection by linking to an another existing collection

  1. In the Configuration Manager console, navigate to System Center Configuration Manager / Site Database / Computer Management / Collections.

  2. Right-click the collection (or subcollection) to which you want to add a subcollection, point to New, and then click Link to Collection.

  3. In the Browse Collection dialog box, select the existing collection that you want to add as a subcollection.

    Note
    Any changes made to a linked subcollection will be reflected in all instances of that collection throughout the enterprise.

  4. Click OK.

See Also