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For advanced SCCM troubleshooting, use Support Center to collect and review client diagnostics, CMTrace to follow and filter Configuration Manager logs, and CMPivot to query real-time data from managed clients. They solve different problems rather than forming a ranked list. Microsoft’s current documentation calls SCCM Configuration Manager; the tools below are documented utilities in that product’s ecosystem.
Choose the tool based on the evidence you need
| Tool | Best fit | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Support Center | Gathering evidence from a client with a difficult or recurring issue | Collects client diagnostics into a ZIP and provides views of client state and logs. Microsoft Support Center documentation |
| CMTrace | Investigating activity or errors in a known log | Displays and monitors Configuration Manager logs and supports highlighting, filtering, and error lookup. Microsoft CMTrace documentation |
| CMPivot | Checking current information across managed clients | Queries real-time client data. Microsoft Configuration Manager Tools documentation |
These are complementary workflows: collect and inspect a client’s diagnostic state, analyze a log, or ask a real-time question of clients. Microsoft presents them as support and troubleshooting tools, not as a scored or ranked “top three.”
Use Support Center to collect and review client diagnostics
When a client problem is hard to reproduce or requires a consistent handoff to another administrator, Support Center is a practical starting point. It can capture client log files and package them in a troubleshooting ZIP for later analysis. Its tools can also display logs, certificates, registry settings, debug dumps, and client policies, with views for inventory, policy, and the client cache.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThis makes Support Center useful for assembling context around one client, but collecting a bundle is not the same as identifying or fixing the cause. Review the evidence and correlate it with the symptom; Microsoft documents collection and inspection capabilities, not guaranteed diagnosis.
#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
From 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. Consult the Support Center documentation for component and version details.
Use CMTrace when the log itself is the evidence
CMTrace is a log viewer for Configuration Manager and Client Component Manager-format logs, as well as plain ASCII or Unicode text files. Its highlighting, filtering, and error lookup features help you follow activity and narrow attention to relevant entries. It is most useful when you have a likely log to inspect; it is not a general-purpose client repair tool.
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.
Microsoft documents CMTrace in the site server’s CD.LatestSMSSETUPTOOLS folder and also describes its 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. See CMTrace documentation and Configuration Manager Tools for the applicable details.
Use CMPivot to investigate current client data
When the question is about what managed devices report now—not what one historic log recorded—CMPivot provides a different troubleshooting angle. Microsoft describes it as a tool for querying real-time data from clients and lists it among the additional tools in the site server’s Configuration Manager tools folder.
Rank #3
- Cable Tester with Graphical Interface: Graphical wiremap, length, cable ID, and distance to fault displayed on one screen
The cited documentation establishes its real-time query purpose, but does not by itself provide a query-language tutorial or a complete list of supported data entities. Use the product documentation for the installed release before relying on specific query syntax or data availability.
Pick the right log viewer for the environment
CMTrace, OneTrace, and Support Center Log File Viewer all relate to log inspection, but they are not interchangeable in every deployment environment. Microsoft says OneTrace works similarly to CMTrace with improvements, and that Support Center Log File Viewer replaces CMTrace as the modern viewer. OneTrace and Support Center Log File Viewer use Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), which is unavailable in Windows PE.
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
For task-sequence deployments running in boot images, Microsoft says to continue using CMTrace. That compatibility distinction matters when troubleshooting in Windows PE, even if a newer viewer is preferred on a full Windows installation. See Microsoft’s About log files guidance for the viewer and Windows PE details.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Get tools that match the Configuration Manager site
- On the site server, locate the Configuration Manager tools under
CD.LatestSMSSETUPTOOLS; Microsoft lists the standalone CMPivot tool among the additional tools there. - Use the copies associated with the site’s supported current-branch release rather than assuming an older copy is equivalent.
- Check the relevant Microsoft tool page for version-specific installation, availability, and environment details before using a utility in a production troubleshooting workflow.
Tool contents and locations can change with releases, so treat the matching site server’s CD.Latest folder and the documentation for your release as the reference points.
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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