Deploying fonts across your organization using SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it becomes a manageable process. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, covering various aspects from preparation to troubleshooting. We'll also address common questions users have about this process.
Preparing for Font Deployment with SCCM
Before diving into the deployment process, careful preparation is crucial. This includes:
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Identifying Required Fonts: Make a detailed list of all fonts you need to deploy. Include the full font name and file extension (e.g.,
Arial.ttf,Times New Roman.ttf). Consider the licensing implications of each font. Ensure you have the rights to distribute these fonts within your organization. -
Gathering Font Files: Collect all the font files (.ttf, .otf) you've identified. Organize them in a logical directory structure for easy management.
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Creating a Package in SCCM: This is where you create the container for your font files within SCCM. This involves:
- Creating a Package: In the SCCM console, navigate to Software Library > Application Management > Packages. Click "Create Package."
- Adding the Font Files: Specify the source directory containing your collected fonts.
- Setting Package Properties: Provide a descriptive name and description for the package. Choose a suitable package type (usually "Standard Program"). Important: You'll need to select the "Install Program" action and specify the correct command line for font installation (more on this later).
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Determining the Installation Method: While simply copying the font files to the system's fonts directory might work, the recommended approach is using a script or command line to ensure proper registration of the fonts with the system. This guarantees the fonts are accessible to all applications.
How to Install Fonts Using the Command Line
The most reliable method for deploying fonts is using a command-line script. This ensures the fonts are properly registered and avoids potential issues. Here's how you can do it:
You can use the rundll32 command, which is a versatile Windows utility. The command to install a font is:
rundll32.exe user32.dll, UpdatePerUserSystemParameters 1, %windir%\fonts\%fontname%
Replace %fontname% with the actual font file name (including the extension). For example:
rundll32.exe user32.dll, UpdatePerUserSystemParameters 1, %windir%\fonts\Arial.ttf
Important Considerations:
- Multiple Fonts: To install multiple fonts, simply add multiple lines with the appropriate font file names to the batch script.
- Error Handling: Consider adding error handling to the script to gracefully handle situations where a font file might be missing or inaccessible.
- Administrative Privileges: The script needs to run with administrative privileges for successful font installation.
Creating a Batch Script (Example):
Create a simple batch file (e.g., install_fonts.bat) with the following content:
rundll32.exe user32.dll, UpdatePerUserSystemParameters 1, %windir%\fonts\Arial.ttf
rundll32.exe user32.dll, UpdatePerUserSystemParameters 1, %windir%\fonts\TimesNewRoman.ttf
This script installs Arial and Times New Roman. Adjust it based on the fonts you are deploying.
Deploying the Font Package via SCCM
Once the package is created and your installation script is ready, deploying it via SCCM is straightforward:
- Create an Advertisement: In the SCCM console, navigate to Software Library > Application Management > Applications. Create an advertisement, linking it to the font package you created earlier.
- Configure Deployment Settings: Specify the target devices or collections where you want the fonts deployed. Choose the deployment type (e.g., required).
- Specify the Program: In the advertisement properties, specify the "Install Program" action and point it to your batch script (
install_fonts.bat). - Deploy and Monitor: Deploy the advertisement and monitor its progress in the SCCM console. Check for any errors or issues during deployment.
Troubleshooting Font Deployment
- Font Not Appearing: Verify that the font is installed correctly in the
%windir%\fontsdirectory and that the font has been registered by the system. Check the SCCM logs for any errors. - Deployment Failures: Review the SCCM logs to identify the root cause of the failures. Common issues include insufficient permissions, network connectivity problems, or incorrect script paths.
- Application Compatibility Issues: Ensure that the fonts are compatible with the applications that will be using them.
What if I have different font versions on different machines?
Handling different font versions requires a more sophisticated approach. You might need to use PowerShell scripting to check for existing versions and only install newer ones or use conditional statements within your batch script to handle this.
How do I uninstall fonts deployed through SCCM?
Uninstalling fonts typically involves removing them from the fonts directory and then using a script or command line to properly unregister them with the system. This can be done in a similar way to the installation process using a script or an SCCM uninstall step for your application.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for deploying fonts using SCCM. Remember to always test your deployment in a pilot environment before rolling it out to your entire organization. By following these steps and addressing potential issues proactively, you can ensure a smooth and efficient font deployment process.
