The WMI database is an infrastructure management framework that enables data and computing operations management. WMI database scripts and applications are not only designed to systematize administrative tasks on remotely connected computers but also to provide data management services to other operating systems.

WMI makes system information retrieval easier by using well-documented object models, and queries that resemble those used with SQL, but with fewer and more easily readable software codes. It is regulated by the Distributed Management Task Force (DMTF), which standardizes desktop PCs and the development of management standards for distributed desktops, networks and enterprise environments. The DMTF has certain management initiatives like the desktop management interface (DMI), common information model (CIM) and directory-enabled network (DEN).