Ask the Experts

Windows systems and network management

What key SDN features are in Windows Server 2019?

Microsoft SDN capabilities got a boost in Windows Server 2019 to wrap more security around VMs and make networking tasks less painful to execute. Continue Reading
How much does Azure Update Management cost?

The Azure Update Management cost is free, but organizations that require the tool's advanced features might have to contend with additional fees. Continue Reading
What are some Microsoft SDN features in Windows Server?

SDN functionality helps administrators shape network traffic to reduce congestion and boost security. Discover what other SDN features Microsoft added to its Windows Server offerings. Continue Reading
How does Azure Update Management handle integration?

Azure Update Management works with other Microsoft administrative tools to give IT pros a more complete offering to patch operating systems. Continue Reading
What OSes does Azure Update Management handle?

Azure Update Management supports a large number of Windows and Linux systems on premises and in the cloud, but there are certain requirements to meet to utilize the service. Continue Reading

How does Azure Update Management handle patching?

Microsoft built Azure Update Management for administrators who require a centralized tool to automate patches for systems both on premises and in the cloud. Continue Reading
Why do admins need both powershell.exe and pwsh.exe?

While the PowerShell development team wants IT to move on to the newer PowerShell version, the powershell.exe executable will remain to avoid breaking changes. Continue Reading
How to deploy a Windows Server 2016 domain controller

Follow these tips to create a domain controller in Windows Server 2016 with these instructions, from server setup to adding users. Continue Reading
How does AD DS differ from Microsoft Azure Active Directory?

On-premises Active Directory or Azure AD? It doesn't have to be an either/or situation, as more cloud services are making their way into traditional data center environments. Continue Reading
Understand Active Directory basics for enterprise success

You can't get the most out of a tool unless you understand its features. This tip explains the basics of Active Directory and how it controls access and maintains order. Continue Reading
Use the Group Policy settings reference guide to avoid disruptions

With Windows Server's updates to Group Policy settings and templates comes a danger for administrators: users flooding the help desk with tickets. Continue Reading

What improved in Service Management Automation, Orchestrator 2016?

Migrating to Service Center 2016 requires a good deal of preparation and work. Are the features in Orchestration and Service Management Automation better in Service Center 2016? Continue Reading
What's new with Group Policy administration in Windows Server 2016?

Windows Server 2016 includes a suite of new Group Policy settings. These settings allow admins to manage mobile app access and set numerous security policies. Continue Reading
How can administrators improve WSUS performance?

The Windows Server Update Services utility helps to update numerous systems, but it can require significant bandwidth. What are good ways to reduce the demands? Continue Reading
Which Microsoft OMS license is best for my IT deployment?

What do you get for your money -- and for free -- when using the Microsoft Operations Management Suite to handle workloads running in different environments? Continue Reading