Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• 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

• Comprehensive PowerShell guide for new and seasoned admins

  PowerShell has emerged as an important IT automation tool for on-premises and cloud resources. This overview covers a range of topics to get you up to speed. Continue Reading

• A closer look at new and updated Microsoft security features

  Microsoft augments the native protection features in its newer Windows Server releases with cloud-based security products to reduce the likelihood of a successful breach attempt. Continue Reading

• 7 PowerShell courses to help hone skills for all levels of expertise

  Online PowerShell courses, such as the seven examined here, offer systems administrators and other users basic tutorials as well as more advanced courses. Continue Reading

• What are Windows virtualization-based security features?

  Microsoft Hyper-V on Windows comes with advanced protection schemes, including several virtualization-based security features the company introduced in Windows Server 2019. Continue Reading

• What are some Windows Server 2019 SDN security features?

  Microsoft continued to refine the software-defined networking capabilities in its latest server operating system by developing several new security features.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

• What are some features in Microsoft Defender ATP?

  The threat protection platform, which underwent a recent name change, comes with some tailored features for Windows Server 2019 to stop attacks and reduce configuration issues.Continue Reading

• On-premises server monitoring tools meet business needs, budget

  Compare these eight on-premises network, server and application monitoring tools to determine which best fits your organization's specific use cases, business needs and budget.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

• What admins need to know about Azure Stack HCI

  Microsoft put its branding on a relatively new hyper-converged infrastructure offering that capitalizes on the software-defined features in Windows Server 2019.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

• Azure Bastion brings convenience, security to VM management

  This cloud service gets around the problem associated with jump servers and cloaks the identity of your VMs to avoid potential security issues.Continue Reading

• What are the Azure Stack HCI hardware and support costs?

  Organizations can cap their hyper-converged infrastructure costs when they deploy the Azure Stack HCI platform, but once they plug into the cloud, it's a different story.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

• What are the Azure Stack HCI deployment, management options?

  While the Windows Admin Center is one way to manage the Azure Stack HCI platform, you can also use traditional, battle-tested tools.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

• Do you know the difference in the Microsoft HCI programs?

  Hyper-converged infrastructure that runs on Windows Server is not a new concept, but Microsoft's Azure Stack HCI program has one big difference from earlier HCI incarnations.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

• What are the Azure Stack HCI features?

  An Azure Stack HCI system relies on Windows Server 2019 to deliver the software-defined compute, storage and networking technologies that integrate with the OEM hardware.Continue Reading

• The future of PowerShell begins to sharpen in focus

  PowerShell's promise as a cross-platform management tool has come a long way, but much work still needs to be done for both Linux and Windows admins to pick up adoption.Continue Reading

• Lessons learned from PowerShell Summit 2019

  Want to refine your automation abilities? Learn about some of the insights gleaned from the advanced sessions held at the PowerShell Summit.Continue Reading

• Are you ready for the Exchange 2010 end of life?

  Whether you want to stay on premises with a newer version of Exchange Server or lift that workload into Microsoft's cloud version, there are pros and cons to weigh on each end.Continue Reading

• How Windows Admin Center stacks up to other management tools

  Microsoft is putting a lot of resources into this relatively new tool to manage Windows systems, but is it ready for prime time when compared with more seasoned offerings?Continue Reading

• Sizing up the Office 365 protection options

  Get serious about protecting your organization from ransomware and phishing attacks by taking a closer look at the leading Office 365 security offerings.Continue Reading

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

  Microsoft's cloud-based Active Directory has different features than the on-premises version, and you'll need to do your homework to decide which premium version is a better fit.Continue Reading

• Exchange Online vs. Office 365: Which plan is a better fit?

  A switch from Exchange Server to Exchange Online might make financial sense, but it might not fit the needs of your organization. Here are some common migration mistakes to avoid.Continue Reading

• What's new in hybrid Azure services in Windows Admin Center?

  Trying to get the most out of Azure hybrid services? Discover Microsoft's latest developments to further centralize management in Windows Admin Center.Continue Reading

• Does an Azure cloud migration make sense for your workloads?

  While you can't move all of your Windows Server workloads into the Azure cloud and turn off your local server closet, you can get much closer than ever.Continue Reading

• Linux on Windows helps systems administrators gain new skills

  The line between Windows and Linux is starting to blur in most organizations. Here's what systems administrators need to know about working with Linux and Windows.Continue Reading

• Hyper-V vs. vSphere: How do the latest versions stack up?

  Microsoft recently released Windows Server 2019, so how do the features in this version of Hyper-V compare to VMware's virtualization platform?Continue Reading

• Build a Hyper-V home lab in Windows Server 2019

  Production servers aren't the place to experiment with Microsoft's Hyper-V technology. This guide helps you build a lab tailored for a nested virtualization environment.Continue Reading

• Explore Office 365 phishing protection updates

  Administrators who move to Exchange Online or the entire Office 365 platform will have a veritable arsenal of antiphishing tools, but their use requires attention to detail.Continue Reading

• Potential PowerShell telemetry raises security concerns

  When admins discovered the PowerShell team proposal for additional telemetry, some bristled; however, the data collection could mean a better management language for IT pros.Continue Reading

• What service does the Microsoft WSSD program provide?

  A do-it-yourself approach with hyper-converged infrastructure can lead to trouble when software-defined features just won't work. See how the WSSD program can prevent issues.Continue Reading

• Server 2008 R2 end of life hitting home for many in IT

  As Microsoft support for Server 2008 R2 nears its sunset, a raft of complications make it difficult for many in IT to get on board with the Azure platform.Continue Reading

• How is the Microsoft SDDC concept becoming a reality?

  The promise of a software-defined infrastructure and its ability to pool resources require the right administrative tool to keep the virtualized fabric from fraying.Continue Reading

• Hone your PowerShell text manipulation skills

  Retrieving content from and modifying content in text files with PowerShell are skills many administrators need to cultivate to aid their automation efforts.Continue Reading

• Understanding what Azure AD federation really means

  A company that adopts SaaS apps to get work done can ease the transition by implementing a single sign-on method. Learn how to set up this arrangement in a secure manner.Continue Reading

• Handy PowerShell ISE add-ons for server administrators

  PowerShell ISE might be on the way out, but these extensions continue to sustain the development of management scripts for many Windows administrators.Continue Reading

• How to compare Windows and Linux for enterprise workloads

  How do Windows and Linux rank when it comes to running production workloads? Organizations should consider more than just the initial cost.Continue Reading

• Mulling a public folders migration? Weigh your options

  Should you stay or should you migrate? Microsoft offers a bevy of alternatives to public folders. This tip breaks down each option to help you make a decision.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Ignite 2018 conference coverage

  Keep up to date on the latest developments from the Microsoft Ignite 2018 conference and get a closer look at the latest software and hardware offerings from the company.Continue Reading

• Taking stock of Windows Server management tools

  Microsoft provides a mix of server management tools that administrators can choose from to control the machines that run the business. This comparison can help steer your decision.Continue Reading

• Azure IaaS vs. PaaS: Find the right service to reduce costs

  Ready to migrate on-premises workloads to the cloud? Administrators should question their assumptions before diving in with Azure IaaS and consider the benefits of PaaS.Continue Reading

• Windows Server upgrade plan can influence hardware decisions

  A move to a new Windows Server operating system includes an extensive planning process, which has gotten more complicated by the influx of software-defined features.Continue Reading

• Windows Server pricing muddies purchasing decision process

  As the cost of Windows Server continues to rise with each new version, enterprises must evaluate whether the price of admission for the latest enhancements is too much to bear.Continue Reading

• Microsoft subscriptions aren't right for everyone

  With the push to deliver Office and Windows as services, Microsoft subscriptions will be a reality in most IT departments one way or another. But not all organizations are good candidates for going ...Continue Reading

• Open source PowerShell not a straight swap for Windows PowerShell

  PowerShell Core 6.0 -- the open-source, cross-platform version of Windows PowerShell -- does not have all the features that longtime PowerShell users may be looking for. Last month's official ...Continue Reading

• Upgrade your IT admin career options with these tips

  Don't get stuck with habits from a time when Microsoft released updates every few years. Admins need to build their proficiency in PowerShell and cloud products to remain relevant.Continue Reading

• Microsoft roadmap covers practical and wishful technology

  The latest innovations on the Microsoft roadmap include familiar enterprise products, but its wager on an ambitious technology could one day alter the face of computing.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 book serves up PowerShell recipes

  This book details the evolution of the PowerShell scripting and management tool, and teaches admins how to write commands to streamline tasks on Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Windows Server version 1709 hits turbulence upon release

  Microsoft designed Windows Server version 1709 for cloud-focused businesses that need up-to-date technologies. So what makes it different from Windows Server 2016?Continue Reading

• Migrate to Exchange 2016 and beat the rush

  The path to Office 365 is easier if you're on Exchange 2016, which brings cloud integration features that benefit users and administrators alike.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Ignite 2017 conference coverage

  Check all the developments from the Microsoft Ignite 2017 conference in Orlando and track the company's strategic moves in its hardware, software and services businesses.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 changes prompt a new look at management

  Microsoft caters to both traditional server admins and automation experts in Windows Server 2016, but there will come a time when IT won't have a management choice.Continue Reading

• Expect service providers to ease Azure Stack deployment

  Azure Stack will be ready in September. But given the product's complexity, early customers might think about working with a service provider.Continue Reading

• Office 365 admins can evolve as platform expands

  A move to Office 365 lets IT concentrate less on technology idiosyncrasies and more on business needs. Here are some new tasks to take on, but watch out for a few challenges, too.Continue Reading

• Configure Windows Storage Spaces to serve up hot data fast

  To avoid the high cost of a software-defined SAN, IT shops can turn on the tiered storage virtualization feature in newer versions of Windows Server.Continue Reading

• How to use Azure Active Directory differently than classic AD

  Windows administrators can't just whip up an Azure Active Directory deployment and expect it to mimic the classic AD, but Azure AD has several meaningful uses.Continue Reading

• Microsoft ReFS tuned for Hyper-V, but be aware of hazards

  Microsoft positions its Resilient File System to replace the venerable NTFS, and it does increase resiliency and storage, but there are caveats that might limit its adoption.Continue Reading

• Test your knowledge of Office 365 ATP

  Email attacks are getting more intricate, forcing Microsoft to reinforce its security services to protect end users. How well do you know the Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection features?Continue Reading

• Azure Resource Manager templates ease private cloud struggles

  Azure Resource Manager aims to streamline cloud application deployment and management. But do admins have to jump through hoops to use this feature?Continue Reading

• Weigh Windows Server 2016 new features before committing

  As older versions of Windows Server age, businesses will consider a Windows Server 2016 upgrade. Containers and application compatibility are two areas to be aware of.Continue Reading

• Know what Windows Server 2016 benefits can do for your business

  Windows Server 2016 has some features -- including software-defined storage capabilities and Nano Server -- that are worth learning, even if your business isn't interested.Continue Reading

• Why Microsoft Azure Stack is destined to fail

  Microsoft touts Azure Stack as a way to bring public cloud benefits to on-premises environments. But, for many businesses, the sales pitch doesn't match their needs.Continue Reading

• More Exchange backup options cover various deployment types

  Exchange administrators can choose from numerous backup offerings from Microsoft and third parties to restore individual emails or entire servers.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

• How do Hyper-V and Windows Server 2016 containers differ?

  Containers are revolutionizing the design of cloud and mobile apps. Tech expert Michael Otey explains the crucial differences between Hyper-V and Windows Server 2016 containers.Continue Reading

• Email options: Upgrade Exchange or go another way?

  Staying with Exchange Server is a valid choice. But there are other email options that deserve consideration.Continue Reading

• Dig into the Exchange 2016 hardware requirements

  A move to Exchange 2016 may mean increased costs to hardware that can support the latest Microsoft messaging platform.Continue Reading

• Beware of these six Office 365 cons for IT shops accustomed to on premises

  Office 365 offers many benefits, but there are plenty of cons to consider before leaping to this cloud-based productivity suite that includes Exchange Online.Continue Reading

• Pester PowerShell unit testing ensures quality code

  PowerShell jockeys can turn to the Pester unit testing framework to ensure the code they write is up to snuff.Continue Reading

• Five reasons for an Office 365 hybrid deployment

  Not all organizations can go all-in on cloud. There are five reasons why a hybrid Office 365 arrangement makes sense for those companies.Continue Reading

• Microsoft software-defined networking gets baked into Windows Server

  The Microsoft SDN technology that comes in the Windows Server 2016's Datacenter edition features a range of basic to nuanced virtual control options.Continue Reading

• How does System Center Orchestrator stack up against similar tools?

  Administrators who wrestle with deployment and optimization of IT resources can ease the workload by adopting an orchestration tool designed to ease this burden.Continue Reading

• System Center 2016 new features -- and changes -- worth noting

  Microsoft integrates key Windows Server 2016 features, such as Nano Server and data protection, with the new version of System Center.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 license shakeup affects enterprise choices

  Organizations mulling an upgrade to a Windows Server 2016 license should understand the big differences in features available between the Standard and Datacenter editions.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Nano Server: A lighter OS for heavy workloads

  Microsoft offers a refactored Windows Server 2016 option called Nano Server that fills the need for speed in today's data centers. Here's how it works.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

• Office 365 planning requires a costs and needs evaluation

  Migrating to Office 365 can lift some stress off a busy IT department, but there are fiscal and technical considerations to contemplate before moving email to the cloud.Continue Reading

• configuration drift

  Configuration drift occurs naturally in data center environments when changes to software and hardware are not recorded or tracked in a comprehensive and systematic fashion.Continue Reading

• Office 365 advantages, disadvantages and surprises

  With new features, increased stability, different pricing models and cloud capability, Microsoft Office 365 is showing itself to be a robust, evolving option for businesses. This handbook looks at the Office 365 advantages and weaknesses.

  ...Continue Reading

• Five Exchange 2016 migration best practices

  If your organization is considering an Exchange 2016 upgrade, follow these expert tips to make the transition as painless as possible.Continue Reading

• Upgrade to Windows Server 2016 or consider other options?

  As the release date for Windows Server 2016 draws near, will your organization decide to upgrade or go another route?Continue Reading

• Exchange mobile device management poses challenges to administrators

  While allowing end users to access Exchange from multiple devices usually won't affect the server, it can quickly drive up licensing costs and help desk calls.Continue Reading

• Storage Replica presents cheaper replication option

  The Storage Replica feature in Windows Server 2016 delivers a backup and recovery option for organizations that might otherwise require an offsite data center.Continue Reading

• How well do you know these Hyper-V Server 2016 security features?

  Microsoft ramped up Hyper-V security in Windows Server 2016 with new features such as shielded VMs and guarded hosts. Here's what to expect from the latest technical preview.Continue Reading

• Best practices for authenticating PowerShell script permissions

  PowerShell scripts can only run when they have the proper permissions, but an administrator may need to authenticate the script so it has the right privileges.Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of deploying Microsoft Nano Server?

  Nano Server, one of the key new Windows Server 2016 features, is a lightweight installation option designed to run in cloud instances and virtualized environments.Continue Reading

• Crunching the costs of Microsoft Exchange on-premises vs. cloud services

  Security concerns are less of an issue for most organizations, but do the costs of using Exchange on premises vs. the Office 365 mail service stack up?Continue Reading

• When to use OneDrive for Business vs. SharePoint Online

  With multiple options available from Microsoft for personal and corporate document storage and sharing, it's easy to get confused about which to use and when.Continue Reading

• Determining the right time for a Windows Server 2016 upgrade

  The release of Microsoft's latest server OS gives organizations a chance to rethink their IT infrastructure. Windows Server 2016 requirements are largely the same as those for Windows Server 2012 R2, which remains a viable option for organizations. ...Continue Reading

• Will Windows Server 2016 licensing change drive Azure adoption?

  With the looming increase to Windows Server pricing coupled with lower Azure costs, Microsoft continues to steer customers to the cloud. Here's how the costs compare.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2016 CU1 overshadowed when mailbox anchor drops

  Microsoft released updates for all supported versions of Exchange Server. The updates cover issues with mailbox anchoring in Exchange 2013 and improvements to lagged database copies.Continue Reading

• What are the most notable features in System Center 2016?

  System Center 2016 can manage a mix of environments, but administrators should evaluate new features before upgrading from an older version.Continue Reading

• Does Linux SQL Server hint at further disruption in Redmond?

  Many longtime IT professionals are wondering if Microsoft's plan to release SQL Server on Linux means other products may be ported to the open source platform.Continue Reading

• Knowing when it's time for Exchange mailbox migration

  The end-of-life moments for older versions of Exchange are coming (and have come already for some versions), coinciding with the release of Exchange Server 2016. While some organizations may make the jump to the newest release, a number of companies...Continue Reading

• Office 365 single sign-on augurs complexity, setup hitches

  Office 365 SSO allows end users to log into the enterprise network with existing credentials from any device, but admins should consider security requirements before implementing SSO.Continue Reading

• Windows Server licensing change reduces Azure VM pricing

  Microsoft's Hybrid Use Benefit could lure organizations to Azure by allowing use of existing Windows Server licenses.Continue Reading