Tips

Tips

• Explore print server alternatives to avoid IT headaches

  Increased difficulties related to printing have many organizations exploring their options. See what these third-party print management alternatives have to offer.  Continue Reading

• These Azure Logic Apps examples assist with your admin needs

  Admins can get some automated assistance with provisioning and monitoring by learning how to work with triggers in Microsoft's integration platform as a service.  Continue Reading

• Do you meet all the modern authentication requirements?

  Microsoft's push to a more secure method for user authentication and authorization could catch some enterprises flat-footed if IT hasn't done its homework.  Continue Reading

• Send automated messages with this Azure Logic Apps tutorial

  Learn to use the Microsoft cloud-based product to automatically send an email or a message from Microsoft Teams when you need to know if a task completed properly.  Continue Reading

• How to set up automated log collection with PowerShell

  Gathering logs from on-premises Windows Server systems or Office 365 cloud services is a necessary but tedious job. Try a PowerShell script to ease the pain.  Continue Reading

• Learn to work with the Office 365 unified audit log

  Administrators who need to check on suspicious activities in the Office 365 platform can perform a unified audit log search to help with their investigation.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft modern authentication deadline looms over Exchange

  Support for basic authentication will end this year, giving administrators who haven't switched to a newer authentication method little time to prepare for a smooth transition.  Continue Reading

• Why admins should learn how to use Azure Logic Apps

  In an increasingly cloudy IT world, the iPaaS offering from Microsoft can bridge management gaps with automated workflows that require little technical expertise.  Continue Reading

• Guide to Windows Server Hybrid Administrator certification

  The new accreditation takes a more focused approach with exams that require knowledge of deploying traditional infrastructure components and their Microsoft Azure equivalent.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2022 security hardening guide for admins

  Emerging threats continue to target the Windows ecosystem, but there are multiple methods to make it tougher to be the victim of a malicious hack attempt.  Continue Reading

• Use these PowerShell add-ons to supercharge your experience

  These PowerShell new features and modules introduce several customization and functionality features to the popular automation tool to ease coding tasks for administrators.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft cloud certifications Windows admins should pursue

  The surge in remote work means admins with skills with Microsoft's cloud technologies are in demand. You can prove your proficiency by acquiring these Microsoft certifications.  Continue Reading

• Deploy an information barrier policy for Microsoft Teams

  Mistakes happen, but can be costly when they involve compliance. Office 365 information barriers can prevent inadvertent sharing to protect the organization's sensitive data.  Continue Reading

• How to work with an SCCM technical preview lab

  System Center Configuration Manager technical previews give Microsoft customers a way to test and provide feedback to the company for its device management product.  Continue Reading

• Paid and free Office 365 administration tools to consider

  Newcomers to Microsoft's cloud services can use the admin portal for most tasks, but you should investigate these options to reduce the work involved with tenant management.  Continue Reading

• Network security gets a boost in Windows Server 2022

  Secured-core server is a major new security feature in Windows Server 2022, but Microsoft also introduced multiple ways to keep network connections protected in its new server OS.  Continue Reading

• Compare the features in the Windows Server 2022 editions

  Microsoft unveiled a Datacenter Azure edition to go with the traditional Standard and Datacenter editions. See what else is new with this server OS release in this breakdown.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2022 storage features address security, speed

  Microsoft's release of Windows Server 2022 brings several notable updates to its storage and file services functionality to give new life to on-premises server systems.  Continue Reading

• How to use Windows Server 2022 secured-core server features

  Microsoft's latest server operating system attempts to prevent attacks in the data center by locking down access to traditionally vulnerable areas, such as the system firmware.  Continue Reading

• Why you should plan to upgrade to Azure AD Connect v2 soon

  Administrators who rely on an Azure AD Connect v1 version for hybrid identity with Office 365 should prepare for the impending retirement of several technologies in the utility.  Continue Reading

• Start managing with these Microsoft Graph API features

  Microsoft Graph offers several administrative advantages when handling jobs on Microsoft 365 and Azure AD, but be aware of some potential trouble spots when employing this technology.  Continue Reading

• Why you should consider an upgrade from PowerShell 5.1 to 7

  A switch to PowerShell 7 will bring performance benefits along with expanded functionality to help administrators keep pace with changing needs in the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• These Posh-SSH examples pave the way to Linux management

  Need to work with remote Linux systems? A PowerShell module with file-handling functionality can help Windows shops looking for a reliable management platform.  Continue Reading

• Control restricted content with Office 365 sensitivity labels

  Learn to work within the compliance portal or use PowerShell to create and publish the labels your organization needs to maintain control over restricted content.  Continue Reading

• These Office 365 migration tools cover more than just email

  Vendors have adapted their migration products to handle more than just email as an increasing number of enterprises see the value in shifting more data away from the data center.  Continue Reading

• Get to know the new Exchange admin center features

  After a lengthy development process, Microsoft unveiled its new admin portal for Exchange Online for a more consistent look with other management areas in Office 365.  Continue Reading

• Fine-tune Exchange Online security for your organization

  After a move to Microsoft's hosted email service, Exchange admins must learn how to tailor the integrated and supplemental security features to cover several threat scenarios.  Continue Reading

• Boost security with Office 365 privileged access management

  Understand how to thwart cyber attacks on privileged user accounts on Microsoft's collaboration platform to avoid becoming that next security breach statistic.  Continue Reading

• Reduce your risk with Exchange Server security best practices

  The unique nature of your on-premises Exchange Server makes it an attractive target for threat actors. Take these recommended steps to avoid being the next breach victim.  Continue Reading

• What admins need to know about CMG client authentication

  A System Center cloud management gateway keeps your organization's devices in compliance and running as they should, but which authentication option would work best for you?  Continue Reading

• Use command-line options to edit registries with regedit.exe

  Did you know this venerable Windows GUI tool has several switches for basic registry editing tasks? See what tweaks Microsoft inserted in regedit for administrative use.  Continue Reading

• Using Diskpart to create, delete, clean or extend disk partitions

  The diskpart is one of the oldest tools in the Windows operating system that handles a wide range of disk management jobs, such as assigning drive letters and deleting partitions.  Continue Reading

• Get a grasp on using group managed service accounts

  When you create a group managed service account, it relieves some administrative duties and bolsters the security related to passwords for services in a Windows environment.  Continue Reading

• Explore the benefits behind SCCM tenant attach

  When you plug your System Center Configuration Manager into the Microsoft cloud with this feature, you add more flexibility to your device management capabilities.  Continue Reading

• SCCM driver management strategies for the modern world

  Now that more users work remotely, administrators should evolve with the times and understand the range of options to deploy device drivers more efficiently.  Continue Reading

• SCCM peer caching matters more now than ever

  The three peer-to-peer technologies in System Center Configuration Manager smooth out traffic over the network, but one might be a better fit for your organization than the others.  Continue Reading

• SCCM vs. Intune: A closer look at the capabilities of each

  Microsoft Endpoint Manager packages the two well-known administration tools, which have grown closer in functionality but still have some unique capabilities.  Continue Reading

• How to choose between Azure Files vs. an on-prem file server

  Many organizations still need a file server, but some of the advantages of Microsoft's cloud storage option might persuade companies to make the switch.  Continue Reading

• Azure MFA NPS extension boosts authentication capabilities

  With help from the Network Policy Server extension, organizations can expand their on-premises authentication features by tapping into Microsoft's cloud.  Continue Reading

• Azure File Sync service puts pep in hybrid storage setups

  Microsoft's Azure Files offering alleviates traditional support efforts and hardware costs. Using this additional service can improve performance and keep end users happy.  Continue Reading

• Stay in control with Azure AD Privileged Identity Management

  Rampant use of elevated privileges can prove hazardous to enterprises. Rein in access and manage resource access with help from this Azure Active Directory feature.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Cloud App Security aims to expand your defenses

  Data center security tools have little control over the plethora of SaaS apps used in the enterprise. A Microsoft offering attempts to bridge that gap to ward off threats.  Continue Reading

• Optimize Windows Server 2019 with file server best practices

  A file server deployment must satisfy the needs of both the end user and the IT staff. Tune up Windows Server for a secure and performant repository for your critical data.  Continue Reading

• Level up with these advanced PowerShell commands to copy files

  Take a closer look at Copy-Item cmdlet coding examples to build advanced PowerShell scripts that copy files with safety measures to ensure the duplicates reach their destinations.  Continue Reading

• Azure Information Protection P1 vs. P2: What's the difference?

  Azure Information Protection adds security to files such as sensitive emails and files copied to flash drives. See which features Microsoft offers in its two licensing levels.  Continue Reading

• WUfB vs. WSUS: Which handles Windows updates better?

  Trying to get a handle on Windows updates can frustrate even the most seasoned administrators. Which of these two patch management tools fit best in your environment?  Continue Reading

• Azure AD Premium P1 vs. P2: Which is right for you?

  Azure Active Directory is more than just Active Directory in the cloud. See how the premium editions of the directory service stack up to find the best fit for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Explore multiple Office 365 PowerShell management options

  Why use PowerShell for Office 365 and Azure? In some instances, it's the only way to tap into some of the hidden management settings in these Microsoft cloud products.  Continue Reading

• Boost Windows Server performance with these 10 tips

  A small investment in time to execute these Windows Server performance tuning tips and techniques can optimize server workloads for more satisfactory results.  Continue Reading

• Explore the benefits of Azure AD vs. on-prem AD

  A move to Office 365 doesn't require cutting the cord from on-premises Active Directory, but it is an option. Here's what you need to know when comparing Azure AD vs. on-prem AD.  Continue Reading

• Remote possibilities: Out-of-band management admin options

  COVID-19 puts added strain on administrators who need to compensate for lack of personnel in data centers, which leads to the need for a remote access strategy.  Continue Reading

• Using the Office 365 Recommended Configuration Analyzer

  Learn how this free PowerShell-based utility digs into your Office 365 security setup and offers guidance for administrators looking to stop the latest online threats.  Continue Reading

• How to work with Azure DNS zones

  Microsoft's hosting service for DNS domains is an option for organizations with a heavy Azure investment that want the benefits associated with a cloud service.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft 365 E3 vs. Office 365 E3: What admins need to know

  The rumors of Office 365's death have been greatly exaggerated. Microsoft still offers an Office 365 E3 plan, but how does it stack up to the Microsoft 365 E3 plan?  Continue Reading

• Clearing up the Nano Server vs. Server Core confusion

  The debut of Windows Server 2016 contained a lighter server OS deployment to replace Server Core, but then Microsoft made a drastic change that still has some admins puzzled.  Continue Reading

• What admins should know about Microsoft Windows Terminal

  There's a new terminal that puts a different spin on the traditional command-line tools used by Windows administrators with extensive functionality and customization options.  Continue Reading

• WVD vs. RDS vs. VDI: Which should you choose?

  Application and desktop virtualization delivered by Windows Server continues to do the job, but is it time to give Microsoft's new cloud-based desktop service a look?  Continue Reading

• Shore up defenses with help from Office 365 logs

  Logging on Microsoft's productivity platform used in conjunction with other tools can form an effective shield from malicious actors looking to find a way into your organization.  Continue Reading

• Techniques to troubleshoot Active Directory issues

  Active Directory runs several key operational duties, such as validating access to resources. Keep the system from breaking down with help from these diagnostic methods.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 Advanced eDiscovery goes beyond search basics

  Microsoft streamlines the efforts to find pertinent documents and other data with help from the artificial intelligence embedded in the platform's analytics technology.  Continue Reading

• Active Directory replication troubleshooting tips and tools

  When replication between domain controllers breaks down, just about everything else will grind to a halt. These utilities can help pinpoint the Active Directory issues.  Continue Reading

• Learn to configure Office 365 alerts and other security features

  More users are working from home, which makes them tempting targets for malicious actors. Take the time to fortify your environment by deploying Office 365 protections.  Continue Reading

• Why Linux containers on Windows is a big deal

  Microsoft introduced support for Docker Linux containers in its latest versions of the Windows client and server operating systems, so why should it matter to you?  Continue Reading

• Is SCCM in Azure right for your organization?

  System Center Configuration Manager still has a long life, which was further underscored by Microsoft supporting deployments of the endpoint management tool to Azure.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Defender ATP taps into cloud for added protection

  Enterprises that want to wrap up their systems in an extra layer of security have the option for more enhanced protection that integrates with other Microsoft products.  Continue Reading

• How to take advantage of Teams-Exchange integration

  The apps in Office 365 sometimes need a few tweaks to interact in a more seamless fashion. Learn how to combine the functionality of Exchange and Microsoft Teams.  Continue Reading

• VMs vs. containers: What Windows admins need to know

  VMs have high resource overhead, but they're dependable. Containers can scale dramatically, but they require a different mode of management. Which is right for your workloads?  Continue Reading

• Steer clear of trouble while following the Office 365 roadmap

  There are literally hundreds of changes coming to the collaboration platform that affect email and other services. Here's what IT can do to help ease the transition for end users.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2019 RDS updates a boon for remote work needs

  Enhanced security, improved end-user experience and cloud integration are just a few of the perks for organizations that move to Windows Server 2019 RDS.  Continue Reading

• Consider Office 365 MFA to thwart attacks

  More remote users are working on their own equipment, which opens an organization to a hack attempt. Office 365 customers can use multifactor authentication to lower this risk.  Continue Reading

• Getting a handle on certificate management in Windows shops

  A certificate that isn't renewed by its expiration date will cause dire consequences for administrators who will need to find a fast remedy when systems can't communicate.  Continue Reading

• Avoid common pain points when migrating to Exchange Online

  Every Exchange Server configuration is unique, which makes a move to hosted email in Office 365 a complex undertaking, but some stumbling blocks are more frequent than others.  Continue Reading

• Learn to manage Office 365 ProPlus updates

  The traditional Microsoft Office applications you get from Office 365 might appear to be the same on the surface, but how you administer them differs in several key ways.  Continue Reading

• Active Directory nesting groups strategy and implementation

  Does your current Active Directory permissions setup spark joy? If not, then it's time to unscramble that confusing design into something that's easier to use and maintain.  Continue Reading

• Do you need to make Exchange Online backups?

  Microsoft has several protective measures in place to let customers restore deleted mail in Office 365, but backup vendors will say it's not enough to cover every scenario.  Continue Reading

• Updated Exchange Online PowerShell module adds reliability, speed

  Microsoft assists Exchange Online administrators who rely on PowerShell by reworking the underlying functionality of several cmdlets used to manage the hosted email platform.  Continue Reading

• Understanding Windows PowerShell function parameters

  Parameters in Windows PowerShell can help admins better customize their functions, leading to improved input testing and more extensible commands.  Continue Reading

• Find and filter Windows event logs using PowerShell Get-EventLog

  Use the Get-EventLog cmdlet in PowerShell to pinpoint problems among thousands of entries in Windows logs, on both local and remote systems.  Continue Reading

• How to upload and download files with PowerShell FTP script

  By using the .NET WebClient class and PowerShell, Windows admins can upload and download files to FTP.  Continue Reading

• 25 basic PowerShell commands for Windows administrators

  Getting started with PowerShell or just need a quick refresher? This tip lists the most common PowerShell commands, with details on when to use them.  Continue Reading

• How to fortify your virtualized Active Directory design

  It takes a little work to fine-tune your Active Directory deployment, but the benefits will result in little to no service interruptions to your users if an outage occurs.  Continue Reading

• What's new with PowerShell error handling?

  PowerShell 7 introduces a new cmdlet to assist administrators who wanted a better way to find out what broke in the scripts they wrote to manage their systems.  Continue Reading

• Why move to PowerShell 7 from Windows PowerShell?

  The next major release of this venerable automation tool features performance improvements and a bevy of new features that could sway many administrators to switch.  Continue Reading

• Using Azure AD conditional access for tighter security

  The cloud-based identity and access management service does not come with certain defensive features turned on by default, which administrators should rectify.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell 7 features admins should examine

  The next version of the administrative tool introduces several features, including a new cmdlet to assist with troubleshooting errors.  Continue Reading

• Using the Windows Admin Center Azure services feature

  Microsoft wants you to add more of its Azure cloud services to your data center by using its new administrative tool to streamline the setup process.  Continue Reading

• How to navigate a ransomware recovery process

  If you find your systems locked up from a ransomware attack, what should you prioritize? Before you start your recovery, follow this plan to avoid additional trouble.  Continue Reading

• Are containers on Windows the right choice for you?

  Containers have grown in popularity, but there are some considerations to weigh before you decide to migrate Server 2008 workloads to this technology.  Continue Reading

• How to manage Exchange hybrid mail flow rules

  Duplicating your existing transport rule collection won't work when you move to an Exchange hybrid deployment. Learn how to set up a proper mail flow with these tips.  Continue Reading

• How to repair Windows Server using Windows SFC and DISM

  Administrators can diagnose and treat a buggy server operating system by using the Windows SFC and DISM utilities for image analysis and repairs.  Continue Reading

• URL filtering brings additional Office 365 protection

  Ransomware attacks evolve to evade Office 365's integrated protection systems. A third-party security tool can help shore up your defenses.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2008 end of life: Is Azure the right path?

  Time is almost up for support for your Windows Server 2008/2008 R2 workloads. Microsoft would like you to migrate those VMs to Azure, but is that the best choice?  Continue Reading

• Tips for ransomware protection on Windows systems

  No one product can prevent every ransomware attack, but there are several defensive practices Windows administrators can take to stop an encryption infection from ruining their day.  Continue Reading

• How to lock down rising Office 365 costs

  Avoid springing a money leak in your Office 365 tenant by keeping closer tabs on several areas and following more frugal practices.  Continue Reading

• Consider these Office 365 alternatives to public folders

  Public folders in Exchange still exist, but they're considered legacy features that haven't kept up with the times. See what Office 365 alternatives might be a better fit.  Continue Reading

• Cloud adoption a catalyst for IT modernization in many orgs

  Sloppy and insecure IT procedures that had been overlooked before the cloud arrived must evolve with the times to prevent data exposure and system breaches.  Continue Reading

• What's new with the Exchange hybrid configuration wizard?

  The Exchange configuration wizard continues to evolve into a refined utility with enhanced capabilities that administrators should explore when considering a hybrid deployment.  Continue Reading

• Top Office 365 MFA considerations for administrators

  A complex password only goes so far to stop a breach. Implementing multifactor authorization can help, but make sure the product you select fits your current and future needs.  Continue Reading

• How to rebuild the SYSVOL tree using DFSR

  Active Directory is the key component in many organizations to keep tabs on access and identity. If the SYSVOL directory disappears, these steps can get the system fixed.  Continue Reading

• Know your Office 365 backup options -- just in case

  A move to Exchange Online in the Office 365 platform removes some administrative obligations but does require more work to set up proper email protections.  Continue Reading