Quick Answer
Software Center is located in the Start menu on SCCM-managed computers. Search for 'Software Center' using Windows Search. The program file is at C:\\Windows\\CCM\\SCClient.exe. Use the Run command (Windows + R) and type 'softwarecenter:' for the fastest way to open it. If it does not appear, your computer may not be enrolled in SCCM — contact your IT helpdesk.
- 1Press Windows key and type "Software Center"
- 2Click the Software Center app in search results
- 3OR press Windows + R, type "softwarecenter:" and press Enter
- 4OR navigate to C:\Windows\CCM\SCClient.exe in File Explorer
Where Software Center Is Located
Software Center is not a visible icon on the desktop by default — it is accessed through the Start menu search. On managed corporate computers, it appears as a regular application when you search for it. Here is exactly where to look and what to expect:
| Location | Path or Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Start Menu Search | Windows key + type "Software Center" | Fastest method — works on Windows 10 and 11 |
| Run Command | Windows + R → type "softwarecenter:" | Direct launch — works even without Start menu visibility |
| File Explorer | C:\Windows\CCM\SCClient.exe | Direct executable — create a shortcut from here |
| System Tray | Bottom-right taskbar area | Icon appears when Software Center is running or available |
4 Ways to Find and Open Software Center
Method 1 — Windows Start Menu Search
Open the Start Menu
Click the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen (Windows 10) or the center of the taskbar (Windows 11). You can also press the Windows key on your keyboard.
Type "Software Center"
Start typing "Software Center" — you do not need to click in a search box first. Windows will immediately begin searching as you type.
Click the Result
Software Center will appear in the search results under Apps. Click it to open the application.
Method 2 — Run Command (Fastest Method)
Open the Run Dialog
Press Windows key + R simultaneously. The Run dialog box appears.
Type the Software Center Command
Type "softwarecenter:" (without quotes, include the colon at the end) in the Open field.
Press Enter
Press Enter or click OK. Software Center opens immediately.
Method 3 — Using File Explorer Direct Path
Open File Explorer
Press Windows + E or click the File Explorer icon in the taskbar.
Navigate to the CCM Folder
Click in the address bar at the top, type C:\Windows\CCM and press Enter.
Find and Launch SCClient.exe
Scroll through the files and double-click SCClient.exe to launch Software Center. You can also right-click SCClient.exe and select Create shortcut to place a shortcut on your desktop.
Method 4 — Check the System Tray
On some SCCM configurations, Software Center displays a small icon in the Windows system tray (notification area) in the bottom-right corner of the taskbar. Click the expand arrow to see all tray icons, then look for the Software Center icon — it looks like a small computer screen. Double-clicking it opens Software Center.
What If Software Center Is Not on My Computer
If none of the above methods finds Software Center, it means one of these situations:
- Your computer is not managed by SCCM: Software Center is only available on computers enrolled in your organization's SCCM infrastructure. Home computers and personal devices do not have it.
- SCCM client is not installed: Even managed computers may be missing the Configuration Manager client if it was never deployed or was uninstalled. Contact your IT helpdesk to deploy the client.
- You are using a personal computer at work: BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) computers are typically not SCCM-managed. Ask your IT department about your device enrollment status.
- The SCCM client needs repair: The client may be installed but damaged. IT helpdesk can run a client repair from the SCCM admin console.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Software Center is typically found in the Start menu on SCCM-managed computers. Search for "Software Center" using Windows Search (Windows key + S). The executable file itself is located at C:\Windows\CCM\SCClient.exe on the system drive. You can also use the Run command (Windows + R) and type "softwarecenter:" to launch it directly.