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Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• Guide to Linux patch management

  While patching desktops has some universal aspects across systems, there are specific Linux best practices that Linux administrators need to know. Here are eight important ones. Continue Reading

• 12 best patch management software and tools for 2022

  These 12 tools approach patching from different perspectives. Understanding their various approaches can help you find the right product for your needs. Continue Reading

• Patch management vs. vulnerability management: Key differences

  Although both patch and vulnerability management are intertwined, they differ in critical ways, and it's important to have tools and processes for executing both. Continue Reading

• Windows 11 migration tools for desktop administrators

  While there are plenty of approaches to a Windows 11 migration, IT should plan out the process carefully and ensure they have the right tools and products to support it. Continue Reading

• The risks of failed patch management

  Some risks -- like security vulnerabilities and system downtime -- are obvious, others not so much. Good patch management also requires weighing the possible risks of patching. Continue Reading

• Use this 10-step patch management process to ensure success

  Following these steps will help keep your software updated, largely bug-free and secure from cyberthreats while making patch management more reliable and less stressful.Continue Reading

• How to support Mac computers in Windows environments

  Organizations that support both Windows and Mac desktops must approach them differently, but there is plenty of overlap with the tools and practices they can use.Continue Reading

• 3 tools to check Windows 11 update compatibility

  Updating to Windows 11 isn't recommended for every PC. Tools such as PC Health Check assess whether a device meets the specifications and requirements to upgrade.Continue Reading

• Security Accounts Manager

  The Security Accounts Manager (SAM) is a database file in the Microsoft Windows operating system that contains usernames and passwords.Continue Reading

• Use Jamf Pro's basic features for enterprise management

  While Apple devices are vital to many workplaces, they present unique management challenges. Jamf Pro is a device management platform that helps tackle Apple-specific challenges.Continue Reading

• How to scan and repair disks with Windows 10 Check Disk

  Windows 10 Disk Check is an intuitive tool that can scan and repair hard drives to reduce the risk of total disk failure and loss of critical information.Continue Reading

• How to troubleshoot when Windows 10 won't update

  Windows updates can lead to unexpected issues for IT administrators, but there are some simple steps they should always take to find the cause of the update issue.Continue Reading

• 7 Windows 10 issues and how to troubleshoot them

  Microsoft offers different troubleshooters to fix common Windows 10 problems, and once you find the right one for your issue, these troubleshooters are easy to use.Continue Reading

• How to manage Windows 10 Power Options in settings

  Any Windows 10 desktop -- especially one that users access remotely -- needs special attention for its Power Options to ensure that the connection stays live throughout the session.Continue Reading

• The options for running Microsoft 365 on a Chromebook

  Without access to the Microsoft 365 service locally, IT admins will have to consider a few workarounds to deliver Microsoft's productivity apps to Chromebook devices.Continue Reading

• Incorporating zero trust into endpoint security

  Zero trust is a complex term, but organizations that take security seriously must know what it is and how it can support existing endpoint security platforms.Continue Reading

• Why endpoint security is important and how it works

  Organizations and IT admins must understand the fundamental approaches that endpoint security platforms take to secure endpoints and defend against common threats.Continue Reading

• Will Windows 10 be the last Windows OS?

  It's difficult to say whether Windows 10 will be the final version of the Windows OS, but a look at Microsoft's history and approach to OSes may shed some light on the situation.Continue Reading

• How to enable and disable Tamper Protection in Windows 10

  Tamper Protection in Windows 10 can protect against malware and third-party applications from changing Windows security settings. Learn how to use the new security feature.Continue Reading

• 11 tips to improve Windows 10 performance

  With a few minor tweaks, such as maximizing RAM, disabling visual effects and getting rid of unnecessary services, you can increase Windows 10 performance.Continue Reading

• How does Microsoft 365 extend Windows 7 support?

  Microsoft is ending its official support for Windows 7. However, Microsoft 365 customers have the option to extend support via continued Windows security updates.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 updates to avoid and how to address them

  While Windows administrators can never ignore Microsoft's updates, it may make sense to delay or even avoid Windows updates until they are stable for enterprise users.Continue Reading

• How and when to perform a Windows Registry cleanup

  Desktop administrators should learn the best methods to edit the Windows registry, and how to avoid manual registry edits due to the damage that registry issues can cause.Continue Reading

• How IT can use the Microsoft Assessment and Planning toolkit

  Organizations can use the Microsoft Assessment and Planning toolkit to assess a variety of aspects of their desktop environment, including hardware, resource use and more.Continue Reading

• What to do when a Windows Insider Program build isn't working

  Organizations that test Windows Insider Program builds must be prepared for bugs in the platform, and systems admins need to know what to do when they encounter them.Continue Reading

• A complete guide to troubleshooting Windows Hello

  Windows Hello has several common issues that administrators may need to troubleshoot. Find out what those issues are here and what to do about them.Continue Reading

• How to enable Hyper-V on Windows 10 for a lab environment

  While there are several ways to test new updates on virtual machines, Hyper-V enables desktop administrators to add multiple VMs to a single desktop and run tests.Continue Reading

• 6 Group Policy best practices for Windows 10 admins

  Group policies are a central component of Windows 10 configuration. Here are six best practices that can simplify Group Policy management for Windows 10.Continue Reading

• How IT admins can use PowerShell to monitor CPU usage

  IT administrators that are familiar with PowerShell can use certain scripts to monitor CPU performance on desktops to determine the root cause of desktop performance issues.Continue Reading

• Top 5 enterprise Linux distributions to consider adopting

  While Linux distributions all serve a similar purpose in the enterprise, organizations should still familiarize themselves with the different distributions to find the best fit.Continue Reading

• What IT can do when Microsoft 365 is not working

  IT professionals who manage Microsoft 365 should be aware of common issues that administrators face. They can solve many of these problems with the right policy or PowerShell scripts.Continue Reading

• Ensure remote users meet data protection standards

  During the pandemic, users may have adopted insecure applications as part of their workflows. IT pros must ensure remote data protection by securing or removing these apps.Continue Reading

• How to deploy Office 365 Applications with Microsoft Intune

  Organizations that deploy Office 365 applications with Intune can set various configurations, such as what versions of the deployed apps and how the apps receive updates.Continue Reading

• End-user productivity becomes a priority for remote work

  The initial response to COVID-19 focused on purchasing new technologies and retooling systems to support work from home, but organizations must help maintain end-user productivity.Continue Reading

• How to optimize the digital workspace experience

  Digital workspaces aim to converge users' resources and IT's management into a single technology, but this massive undertaking can present some administration and UX challenges.Continue Reading

• Understand and manage Windows 10 virtual memory

  It can be difficult for IT pros to understand the intricacies of Windows 10 virtual memory, but they should develop a basic knowledge of virtual memory to effectively manage desktops.Continue Reading

• Discover how Catchpoint helps end-user experience monitoring

  The Catchpoint end-user experience monitoring tool supports several notable integrations with enterprise software and monitoring capabilities such as real user monitoring.Continue Reading

• How to evaluate on-premises vs. cloud-based MDM, UEM

  Organizations should consider whether an on-premises or cloud MDM or UEM platform is best. Determine how to make the decision and, if that decision is cloud, migrate without issues.Continue Reading

• How to enable and troubleshoot fast startup in Windows 10

  The fast startup feature on Windows desktops can add value, but IT must understand when it should and shouldn't enable this feature and how to troubleshoot common issues.Continue Reading

• 4 negotiation tactics for success in a Microsoft software agreement

  A Microsoft software agreement requires skill and knowledge. Use these four Microsoft negotiation tactics to get the best discounts for a productivity suite.Continue Reading

• COVID-19 sparks software licensing issues with remote users

  Organizations face a range of issues with the spread of COVID-19, including how to support a newly remote workforce. Learn how to address these enterprise licensing concerns.Continue Reading

• How to ensure that UEM supports rugged device management

  Rugged devices have different needs and requirements than the average device. Organizations should ensure that their UEM platforms support their rugged device management needs.Continue Reading

• 5 up-and-coming Mac management software vendors to know

  Vendors that are dedicated to Mac management software tout their specialization as an advantage over unified endpoint management vendors and other desktop management tools.Continue Reading

• Navigate the micro app builder for Citrix Workspace

  With the Citrix micro app builder, IT can create a connection between business apps as well as custom and legacy systems and the Citrix Workspace to provide consistent UI.Continue Reading

• How to perform a Windows Subsystem for Linux install

  Want to run Linux on a Windows desktop? Take these steps to perform a Windows Subsystem for Linux install, which includes downloading a distribution and providing authentication.Continue Reading

• What IT needs to know about Chrome extension security issues

  Google Chrome extensions can improve user experience, but they could access a lot of user data. Admins should take control over users' extensions for security and privacy reasons.Continue Reading

• Task Manager Startup Tab Shows BIOS Time

  A single line of test in Task Manager Startup Tab shows BIOS Time, which is how long it takes your motherboard to initialize its hardware and firmware, before Windows starts booting.Continue Reading

• Navigating the Registry Editor for Windows 10 desktop admins

  The Windows 10 registry stores some critical desktop settings that IT pros should know how to edit, alter or even delete to provide end users the optimal desktop experience.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 1909 Works Well

  When I say Windows 10 1909 2orks well, I mean that from a Reliability Monitor standpoint 1909 shows little or nothing to complain/worry about. Good!Continue Reading

• Managing Windows Defender Device Guard in Windows desktops

  IT pros must understand how Windows Defender Device Guard uses a locked-down approach to desktop security and how this method could cause compatibility issues and headaches for IT.Continue Reading

• Browser Updates Require Human Intervention

  Right after I learn a new Edge version is out, I realize that browser updates require human intervention. Only users (or admins) can shoulder the awesome responsibility of restarting a browser.Continue Reading

• Getting MS Mouse&Keyboard Center Version Info

  Getting MS Mouse&Keyboard Center version info proves a bit more challenging and tricksy than I'd wish. Norton File Insight to the rescue.Continue Reading

• Self-Inflicted Spurious $SysReset Folder

  I call it a self-Inflicted spurious $SysReset folder because if you start and cancel the Windows Reset operation in Windows 10, you'll find that folder on your system drive. It's safe to delete, so ...Continue Reading

• 3 Windows migration questions IT must answer

  Microsoft has stopped mainstream support for Windows 7, so organizations must have a plan to migrate to Windows 10 or extend Windows 7 support. Find out how to shape a Windows migration plan here.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Changes WU Driver Inclusion Rules

  In the way of well-reported issues with updated device drivers for Intel graphics and networking, Realtek audio and Bluetooth, and more in 2019, MS changes its rule for bundling unapproved drivers ...Continue Reading

• Notepad RTL Reading Order Gotcha Has Easy Fix

  When text entry starts running in the opposite direction from usual, I learn that Notepad RTL reading order gotcha has easy fix. A simple right-click menu option inside the application does the trick!Continue Reading

• NirSoft DriveLetterView Shows Assigned Win10 Drive Letters

  NirSoft DriveLetterView shows assigned Win10 drive letters, both for active, mounted drives and removable drives previously installed but not currently present. Very handy!Continue Reading

• 2004 Gets New Network Status

  Windows 10 2004 gets new Network Status look and info, and shows how Settings continues to supplant the Control Panel widgets.Continue Reading

• Missing Secunia PSI

  As I try one more time to find a reasonable replacement, once again I find myself missing Secunia PSI, the capable and comprehensive PC software scan-and-update utility that's been defunct since 2016.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates

  With the latest 20H1/2004 release (Build 15636), Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates. Now users can see, select, and manage pending optional updates explicitly and directly.Continue Reading

• Manage Windows 10 default file type associations with SetUserFTA

  Windows 10 default file type associations dictate which applications open for different file types. Find out how IT can manage these associations with the SetUserFTA tool.Continue Reading

• UUPDump.ml Invaluable Resource

  I call UUPdump.ml invaluable resource because it grabs MS internal download components and uses them to create ISOs for most (if not all) known versions of Windows 10.Continue Reading

• 3 ways to prepare for the Windows 7 deadline

  Organizations holding onto Windows 7 for dear life should reconsider because Microsoft stops supporting the OS in January. Here's how to make the transition to Windows 10 smoother.Continue Reading

• Is WU Slowing Down?

  When I realize how slowly Windows Update responds on some older PCs, I ask: Is WU slowing down? Subsequent research shows the answer is "no." I'm glad!Continue Reading

• MFA Offers Real Security Protection: Use It!

  A recent study for 2019 (Jan-Mar) finds 44 M re-used credential sets among Microsoft and Azure AD account holders. Because MFA offers real security protection, MS recommends its use whenever ...Continue Reading

• Customizing New Win10 Laptop

  After plunking down some hard-earned cash on Black Friday, I find myself customizing new Win10 laptop -- a Lenovo X390 Yoga -- for "the Boss" to replace her 2011/2012 mini-ITX desktop.Continue Reading

• Is macOS Catalina stable enough for enterprise use?

  Apple released macOS Catalina in October 2019, but it has some issues. Here are some factors to consider before deciding to implement the OS in an organization.Continue Reading

• Transferrus Interruptus Resumes in Win10

  When I accidentally trip over (and disconnect) a USB drive during a ginormous file copy session, I learn that Transferrus Interruptus Resumes in Win10 (things picked up where they were interrupted, ...Continue Reading

• 1909 Gets Generic Keys

  1909 gets generic keys for all versions: these are helpful during installation because they allow it to proceed to completion without requiring activation (or a valid Windows 10 key).Continue Reading

• Microsoft Teams Jumps to 20M Active Users

  When MS Teams jumps to 20M active users monthly, that confirms my own personal experience: Teams is easy to learn, fun to use, and truly boosts productivity.Continue Reading

• Post Upgrade Windows 10 Update Assistant Cleanup

  For those who use this tool, a post upgrade Windows 10 Update Assistant cleanup is a good idea. You'll free up 20+ MB of disk space, lose an unneeded root level folder, and be ready for next time.Continue Reading

• Compare Windows 10 OS editions to determine the best fit

  Organizations deploying Windows 10 must choose between multiple Windows 10 OS editions. Delve into the different features that each edition offers to find the best fit.Continue Reading

• Nirsoft Releases Windows Update History Viewer

  Given that Nirsoft releases Windows Update History Viewer (free software), Windows 10 power users and admins alike will want to take this informative tool for a spin.Continue Reading

• Debugging Win10 Explorer Crashes

  While debugging Win10 Explorer crashes on my production PC, I learn it's a mistake to double-click PowerToys. I should be right-clicking inside File Explorer instead. Sigh.Continue Reading

• Build 19018 Kills Disk Cleanup Downloads Item

  Insider Preview Build 19018 kills Disk Cleanup Downloads item, but there are still many ways to scratch that particular itch, if you want to. Me, I periodically sweep older downloads into my ...Continue Reading

• RAW Win10 Disk Report Thankfully Transitory

  When a RAW Win10 Disk reports itself in Explorer and dskchk, I immediately reboot my system. Fortunately, that cures the problem. Otherwise, more serious repairs -- discussed herein -- become ...Continue Reading

• Recycle Bin Explorer Use

  With a little bit of special knowledge and understanding, Recycle Bin Explorer use is dead simple and pretty informative. Check it out!Continue Reading

• Autopilot Gets Oct 22 False Alarm Update

  MS Autopilot gets Oct 22 false alarm Update as it shows up on some Windows 10 Home and Enterprise PCs where Autopilot is not in play. The update fails with no negative side effects, thank goodness.Continue Reading

• Weird DedicatedDumpFile Side Effect

  I discover a weird DedicatedDumpFile side effect, when I enable an alternate drive/location for a complete Windows memory dump. Happens even when I only want 256 MB mini-dumps. Weird!Continue Reading

• How to create an Windows 10 unattended installation

  A Windows 10 unattended installation can help IT immensely. One of the key steps along the way is creating an answer file, which includes understanding the Windows Setup workflow.Continue Reading

• RDP Cannot Do Everything

  While it's handy for working on remote PCs, RDP cannot do everything -- particularly where devices, drivers, peripherals and some applications are concerned.Continue Reading

• RDP Plus Sandbox Sometimes Equals Screen Confusion

  RDP plus Sandbox sometimes equals screen confusion, until I realize I can just barely access the restore control at the right of the overlaying RDP control bar. Sigh.Continue Reading

• MS Explains Machine Learning Role in Windows 10 Update Experience

  In a recent Microsoft blog post, MS explains Machine Learning role in Windows 10 Update experience, particularly how safeguards (update holds) are identified and eventually, cleared.Continue Reading

• AI sharpens unified endpoint management tools and apps

  Endpoint management is never simple, but AI can help. In this handbook, learn how AI in UEM tools can significantly improve device security and management.Continue Reading

• AI drives unified endpoint management benefits beyond limits

  With a big boost from artificial intelligence, UEM tools sharpen applications in security, identity management, app monitoring, dynamic profiles, onboarding and self-help.Continue Reading

• Smarter Web-based Intel Driver Update Tool

  The new, smarter web-based Intel Driver Update Tool (Intel Driver & Support Assistant) recognizes OEM-supplied drivers, and won't update them with newer generic versions. That's good!Continue Reading

• 20H1 Gains Cloud Reset Capability

  Recent Insider Previews have it, and so will the next Feature Upgrade: 20H1 gains cloud reset capability as part of Windows 10's reworked "Reset this PC" facility.Continue Reading

• Mystery Device Equals Moto Z Android Phone

  In figuring out that a mystery device equals Moto Z Android phone, I learn that powering the device on lets it show properly in Windows 10. Otherwise, the mystery endures.Continue Reading

• Latest Insider Preview Gets View Optional Updates Feature

  In Build 18980, Win10 Insider Preview Gets View Optional Updates Feature. So far, it presents a bunch of drivers. More capability is no doubt coming.Continue Reading

• 4 New 1903 Known Issues 9/13/2019

  With 4 New 1903 Known Issues 9/13/2019 MS continues to do a bang-up job of keeping up with reports and issues "in the wild." Thanks very much!Continue Reading

• Pondering System Refresh Planning System Retirements

  An aging (and mostly old) collection of Win10 PCs has me pondering System Refresh planning System Retirements. Now I have to figure out how to pay for all this!Continue Reading

• When Disk Cleanup Fails Use Search

  When Disk Cleanup fails use search online to determine which files and folders are safe to delete. Here's a list I've started compiling.Continue Reading

• Technology Advances Require Basic IP Address Understanding

  In replacing my old failing Wi-Fi Access Point with a new device, I'm reminded that technology advances require basic IP address understanding.Continue Reading

• 1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues

  When I say 1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues, I'm talking about three or more actual gotchas, one of which stymies successful installation. Be wary!Continue Reading

• Explore new approaches to macOS management

  The macOS management landscape is changing, due to improvements from Apple. Find out why incorporating Mac devices is becoming easier, and which management approach to take.Continue Reading

• Hello Face Yes Hello Face No

  Comparing a new Lenovo X1 Extreme to the X380 Yoga, I notice Hello Face Yes Hello Face No. The X1 has a Hello Face compatible camera, and the X380 does not.Continue Reading

• MS Store Now Includes Notepad

  The MS Store now includes Notepad in app form. The old .exe version may not be with us too much longer, so download and play with this one. It's 99.99% identical.Continue Reading

• Defender PowerShell Hash Mismatches Fix Coming

  Recently, SFC /scannow has been mis-reporting Defender PowerShell scripts as potentially corrupt. MS faults a new OOB signing mechanism, and says Defender PowerShell Hash mismatches fix coming soon.Continue Reading

• Too Many Different Win10 Temperatures

  As I start looking for the best temperature monitoring tool for Windows 10 PCs, I find myself beset with too many different Win10 temperatures. I choose HWiNFO as my touchstone.Continue Reading

• Clean-up Cools Down T520 Laptop

  When my wife observes that a PC is running hot, a good, serious clean-up cools down T520 laptop by enabling built-in ventilation to do its job.Continue Reading