Evaluate

Evaluate

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

• 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

• Deciphering Office 365 licensing for businesses

  A subscription-based model allows an organization to choose an Office 365 license that fits its size and more importantly its needs. Continue Reading

• What tools can manage Active Directory in Azure?

  There are several Azure Active Directory management tools to help administrators create or modify services, and manage and organize users. Continue Reading

• New technology competes to become email replacement

  Many email alternatives have emerged over the years, yet it continues to reign supreme despite musings to the contrary. Will email hold its crown or be toppled by new technology? Continue Reading

• Eight influential Microsoft experts to follow on Twitter

  Stay up to date with all things Microsoft by following some of the most knowledgeable experts on Twitter, including CEOs, CTOs and MVPs.Continue Reading

• Let's get IMAP vs. POP email protocols straight

  IT pros must make a protocol choice -- POP vs. IMAP -- when they don't want outside applications interfering with email message downloading.Continue Reading

• What methods should I use to prepare for MCSE certification?

  MCSE preparation can include a few methods, such as practice exams or study guides, but administrators should be prepared to demonstrate their technical expertise.Continue Reading

• Six alternative Hyper-V management tools

  There are a number of third-party Hyper-V management tools available for organizations that need to handle a few dozen nodes.Continue Reading

• Administrators' choices for Exchange 2016 public folders

  Administrators who want to migrate public folders to Exchange 2016 should weigh the benefits over Exchange 2013 public folders and any migration risks before deciding.Continue Reading

• Windows containers a reality through Hyper-V nested virtualization

  Microsoft ushers in the use of containers by developing nested virtualization on the Windows Server 2016 platform.Continue Reading

• What third-party tools can I use for Office 365 monitoring?

  Our business is migrating from an on-premises server to Office 365. What third-party monitoring tools can we use to make sure it is running at optimal performance?Continue Reading

• What Microsoft professional certifications are available?

  Microsoft offers a bevy of certifications that can help a Windows Server admin demonstrate expertise in technical areas such as desktop administrationContinue Reading

• What file types are blocked in a SharePoint Online migration?

  SharePoint Online handles blocked file types differently than file types for on-premises SharePoint deployments, which may confuse users migrating to the cloud.Continue Reading

• Microsoft EMS features to know in Office 365, Exchange

  The Microsoft EMS adds capabilities such as document encryption and threat detection to Office 365, but a subscription may not be necessary for every organization.Continue Reading

• Test your knowledge of the SharePoint 2016 Beta 2

  Released in November 2015, the SharePoint 2016 Beta 2 introduced new compliance and site creation features. Find out what may be included in the RTM version.Continue Reading

• Microsoft E5 plan supports new ATP, Skype functionality

  Microsoft's new Office 365 E5 plan offers features applicable across the organization. But some of the new functionality isn't useful to all, and some features bring controversy.Continue Reading

• What happened to my SharePoint Online templates?

  An unprepared organization may find some SharePoint Online features are not the same as the on-premises version.Continue Reading

• Must-know Exchange Server info from 2015

  We've rounded up the top Exchange Server info of the past year, including a look at deploying Exchange 2016, and troubleshooting common Outlook error messages.Continue Reading

• Exchange email security best practices establish safe environment

  To keep an Exchange environment secure, determine what risks exist and implement policies and technologies that will protect against attacks.Continue Reading

• What SharePoint Online limits exist across different Office 365 plans?

  Depending on the Office 365 plan your business uses, there are several SharePoint Online limits to keep in mind when planning a SharePoint migration.Continue Reading

• Will Groups replace Yammer for Office 365 collaboration?

  Microsoft is pushing Office 365 Groups instead of Yammer. What does this mean for the enterprise? It means choosing between the two collaboration platforms.Continue Reading

• How well do you know these System Center 2016 features?

  Microsoft is updating, adding and removing functions in System Center 2016. Take our quiz to find out what you know about this upcoming release.Continue Reading

• How Azure pricing for ExpressRoute breaks down

  Azure ExpressRoute pricing varies depending on a number of factors, including whether the business needs the standard or premium version.Continue Reading

• Microsoft sends Exchange Online plans to the cloud

  Exchange Online and compatible third-party options for Office 365 brought Exchange in the cloud closer to the forefront, especially with hybrid workloads.Continue Reading

• Why Microsoft continues to buoy the Windows Server GUI

  The graphical user interface delivers a familiar environment for many administrators, but it may not have much of a future.Continue Reading

• Should admins consider an Exchange 2016 upgrade?

  Microsoft released Exchange 2016, but older versions may win out. No matter the version, admins should prioritize Exchange security in 2016.Continue Reading

• Surprise changes in the Exchange 2016 release

  Exchange 2016 brought mixed feelings for admins who felt like the release was more of an Exchange 2013 Service Pack than a new version. See which changes made it to the final release.Continue Reading

• Third-party tools support an Exchange to Office 365 migration

  Third-party tools are available to help migrate Exchange and non-Exchange platforms to Office 365. To choose the right option, consider data protection, control and speed.Continue Reading

• How to sync AAD Connect with on-premises deployments

  Upgrading to AD Connect comes with the decision to deploy an Express or Custom installation. Before planning the sync, consider what you need from your new deployment.Continue Reading

• Is the Microsoft cloud first policy floating or failing?

  Microsoft intends to implement a cloud first strategy in which new features debut in the cloud yet on-premises deployments remain important. Has it succeeded?Continue Reading

• How to approach a disk fault under Windows Server 2012 R2

  Windows administrators have several options to identify a faulty disk in the array, but should heed best practices when replacing the drive.Continue Reading

• Exchange Server migration tips to plan the transition

  Migrating to Exchange 2013 or 2016 is best for some organizations, but others can't do without a legacy version. Consider these factors when planning a migration of Exchange Server.Continue Reading

• How Windows Server containers differ from Hyper-V containers

  Windows administrators will need to learn how Windows Server containers differ from Hyper-V containers, and why one might be preferred over the other.Continue Reading

• Azure AD PowerShell supports MFA to protect authentication

  The preview of the Azure AD PowerShell module flexes its muscles by supporting MFA and device management.Continue Reading

• How do I avoid a hard-disk failure?

  When you're depending on a JBOD array to keep the business running, there are several ways to further the longevity of its drives.Continue Reading

• Google Apps vs. Office 365 for business email systems

  With comparable cloud-based productivity suites, Google and Microsoft compete for enterprise users. In the Google Apps vs. Office 365 for business debate, which side are you on?Continue Reading

• Dell acquisition of EMC could jostle Microsoft's plans

  Microsoft's alliance with Dell may begin to crumble now that the two will be circling the same customers in multiple areas.Continue Reading

• Should email platforms be hosted, or should they stay home?

  Messaging and web collaboration tools and other email alternatives can go to the cloud or stay on-premises. Where are you sending your email platforms?Continue Reading

• Do Active Directory functional levels still matter?

  Will there be enough improvements in the next version of Active Directory for administrators to consider raising functional levels?Continue Reading

• Reading XML files with PowerShell

  As the tech world evolves, Windows administrators need to get familiar with creating and handling XML files.Continue Reading

• Write-back to on-premises with Azure AD Connect

  Exchange 2016 promises some improvements to write-back functionality, especially for administrators managing a hybrid deployment.Continue Reading

• Can I use third-party tools to back up Active Directory?

  Although Windows Server has a built-in backup tool, third-party tools offer useful capabilities, such as reporting and alerting features, to help admins back up Active Directory.Continue Reading

• Migrating to the future: Moving to Exchange 2016

  Migrating to Exchange 2013, or even preparing for a 2016 migration, may be the best choice for some organizations, but others could be fine with a legacy version. In this three-part guide, we will cover the key factors in making a decision regarding...Continue Reading

• What admins should know about Microsoft Azure security and vulnerabilities

  Although Microsoft performs its own Azure testing, end users bear the responsibility of making sure their systems meet company security requirements.Continue Reading

• How to calculate Exchange 2013 resource requirements

  Inadequate server resources can impair performance and growth. Here's how to calculate megacycles of work and memory requirements for Exchange 2013.Continue Reading

• Conditions, constraints for building Exchange in Azure

  Running Exchange in Azure doesn't compare favorably to Office 365, but it has valid instances where it might be useful. Consider costs and competitors first.Continue Reading

• Availability requires monitoring mailboxes in Exchange 2013

  For a better understanding of Exchange Managed Availability, learn how to create and manage monitoring mailboxes, and how to fix a corrupted mailbox.Continue Reading

• What third-party Azure management tools should I use?

  SCOM 2012 is Azure's native monitoring platform, but these third-party cloud management tools give IT shops more control over their Azure environments.Continue Reading

• Do I need to migrate public folders to Exchange 2010?

  I'm finishing up an Exchange 2007 to 2010 migration. Do I need to switch over the public folders? If so, what is the best method to do it?Continue Reading

• Extending Microsoft Azure applications with connectors

  Connectors have different uses. Certain Microsoft APIs, or connectors, can ease Azure applications development and improve Office 365 functionality.Continue Reading

• Configure disk volumes to optimize your Exchange 2013 performance

  The wrong disk volumes can foil Exchange optimization practices. Assess your configurations with support and compression in mind.Continue Reading

• How should we use SCOM 2012 for Azure management?

  Our organization uses Azure for cloud services, but we need a way to monitor health and performance. Can we use SCOM 2012 for Azure management?Continue Reading

• OPM data breach a teachable moment in security basics

  The recent OPM data breach exposed personal information for nearly 22 million people. Here's how enterprises can prevent a similar attack.Continue Reading

• Azure ExpressRoute offers new Office 365 connection

  The ExpressRoute feature can benefit organizations that want to maintain a high level of reliability and traffic management. Is it right for you?Continue Reading

• A first look into the Exchange 2016 Preview

  Microsoft rolled out the Exchange Server 2016 Preview with productivity and collaboration changes. But is it actually a new version of Exchange?Continue Reading

• A beginner's guide to Microsoft Azure Backup

  Microsoft Azure Backup, which automatically sends encrypted backups to the cloud, is easy to set up. But is it cost-effective for large enterprises?Continue Reading

• Top Windows Server admin tips of 2015 -- so far

  A lot has happened this year. Windows Server 2003 support ended and Windows Server 2016 was announced. Here are some must-read tips for 2015.Continue Reading

• Windows Update for Business: Breaking bad patch management

  Windows Update for Business gives Windows 10 users more control over OS security, with System Center integration and distribution rings.Continue Reading

• Nano Server benefits means big changes for Windows Server

  Windows Nano Server offers many benefits over traditional Windows Server deployments, including the ability to run multiple instances on a single host.Continue Reading

• Five vital Windows 2016 security updates

  Windows Server 2016 will include updates that will affect authentication options, account restrictions, Web protection and more.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Azure Stack packs a punch for server apps

  The new feature could transform workload management and blur the lines between public, private and hybrid clouds.Continue Reading

• What's new in Azure Active Directory Connect?

  Azure Active Directory Connect offers a raft of new features, including synchronization and single sign-on between an on-premises environment and Azure AD.Continue Reading

• Making a case for Microsoft Windows Server 2016

  With Windows Server 2016 in its second technical preview, organizations are digging into its features and benefits. Whether or not to upgrade can be broken into three factors.Continue Reading

• Is RAID 5 or RAID 10 a better Exchange 2013 storage choice?

  Choosing the right RAID level for your Exchange 2013 setup can prevent disk failures and improve overall storage performance.Continue Reading

• Overcome Exchange 2013 storage sizing issues

  Properly sizing an Exchange 2013 deployment protects it from future performance issues resulting from storage bottlenecks.Continue Reading

• Mapping out Exchange 2016 installation plans

  Features may change before Exchange Server 2016 hits RTM, but these six guidelines and requirements won't.Continue Reading

• Do you need third-party email security tools?

  Think you have a grip on email security? Ask these nine questions to determine if native security tools are enough or if you need a third-party tool.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2013 CU9 adds little in new functionality

  With the upcoming Exchange 2016 release, don't be surprised at the lack of new features or functionality in the recent Exchange 2013 cumulative update.Continue Reading

• Move to Azure cloud services inevitable for Windows shops

  Microsoft continues to stress its cloud message -- increasing capabilities for Office 365 and Azure cloud services. Have its cloud offerings turned into an offer IT pros can't refuse?Continue Reading

• What's the deal with Windows containers?

  Windows Server 2016 will support Docker containers native to Hyper-V. What are the benefits of using Docker containers with Windows?Continue Reading

• Your Exchange 2016 cheat sheet

  Microsoft is still refining Exchange 2016 for release later this year, but the company has already outlined key features and capabilities.Continue Reading

• Five quick tips on Microsoft Azure management

  Strapped for time? Get the lowdown on Azure Pack, Microsoft Cloud Platform System and more in this fast feature on Azure.Continue Reading

• Advanced threat protection add-on comes to Microsoft EOP

  The ATP add-on for Exchange Online Protection gives on-premises Exchange Server and Office 365 customers another layer of security.Continue Reading

• Grooming Windows images for deployment

  When it comes to getting OS images ready to deploy in a Windows infrastructure, there are tools to use to get them ready.Continue Reading

• What SCCM collections should I use for Linux?

  SCCM 2012 collections allow admins to organize Linux systems as well as Windows systems. How should admins approach it?Continue Reading

• Can I include Linux systems in SCCM maintenance windows?

  SCCM maintenance windows allow for patching, upgrading and reconfiguring servers. Here's how to include Linux in the mix.Continue Reading

• How do you use SCCM 2012 to see Linux systems?

  System Center Configuration manager can monitor and manage systems. Learn which Linux distros it supports.Continue Reading

• Why it will be easier to deploy Exchange Server 2016

  There are three new deployment experiences admins should prepare for in the upcoming Exchange 2016 release.Continue Reading

• Sorting out data deduplication in Windows Server 2012 R2

  Learn more about data deduplication, which cleans up repeated content, freeing up valuable storage space.Continue Reading

• Cloud grabs limelight at Microsoft Ignite conference

  Exchange Server 2016, cloud and hybrid Exchange options were highlights from Microsoft Ignite, says one MVP.Continue Reading

• How to adjust to the new Office 365 email retention policy

  With Microsoft's change to its default email retention policy, Exchange admins must collaborate with other departments to test how it will fit in their organization.Continue Reading

• Admins encouraged by Exchange 2016 features

  Admins should take note of these new and improved features and capabilities in Exchange Server 2016, experts say.Continue Reading

• Calculate Exchange Online requirements for bandwidth

  Bandwidth planning for Exchange Online migrations may seem boring, but it's essential for a successful move to Office 365.Continue Reading

• Microsoft rolls out new MDM for Office 365

  Microsoft's entry-level mobile device management option for Office 365 could kick things up a notch for BYOD shops.Continue Reading

• Admins get a glimpse of Exchange Server 2016

  Exchange 2016 will get a face lift this summer as admins familiar with Office 365 stand to benefit from the 'cloud-first, mobile-first' mantra.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 preview 2 hits without containers

  Microsoft has re-factored Windows Server around containers, but IT pros must wait a little longer before they can actually test them out.Continue Reading

• What are SR-IOV pros and cons with Hyper-V?

  SR-IOV in Windows Server 2012 R2 supports Hyper-V Live Migration, but system requirements hampered adoption for some cases. Should everyone put PCIe SR-IOV to use?Continue Reading

• How single-root I/O virtualization changes Windows Server performance

  Single root I/O virtualization is designed to improve computing efficiency by lessening the hypervisors overhead.Continue Reading

• Meet compliance needs with an inactive mailbox

  Organizations that want to preserve mailboxes in Office 365 without incurring additional costs should evaluate inactive mailboxes.Continue Reading

• What are the limitations and drawbacks of an IPAM server?

  Windows Server IPAM can only handle one Active Directory forest. Learn about other limitations.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Ignite sessions Exchange admins should attend

  Attending the upcoming Ignite conference? One MVP explains which sessions Exchange admins should go to and what takeaways to expect.Continue Reading

• Set up storage tiering in just 10 steps

  Windows Server 2012 R2 has a storage tiering feature in conjunction with Storage Spaces. Here's how to get started.Continue Reading

• An overview of NirLauncher's system monitoring capabilities

  There are a bevy of diagnostic utilities out there, and NirLauncher's 100-plus tools are a worthy addition to an admin's tool belt.Continue Reading

• Exchange experts offer predictions for Ignite conference

  Admins should plan on learning more about the newest version of Exchange, Office 365 developments and hybrid functionality at Ignite, our experts say.Continue Reading

• Addressing SSL/TLS flaws on Windows Server

  If you're running a known vulnerable version of SSL or TLS, you may be at risk for attacks. These factors will help you determine the threat level to your servers.Continue Reading

• Stop attackers from catching you in a phishing hack

  Exchange admins can use the recent State Department hack as a lesson in the importance of consistent security protocols.Continue Reading

• Shared mailboxes give productivity a lift

  With a number of possibilities for use, groups can be creative in how they choose to incorporate Office 365 shared mailboxes in their work.Continue Reading

• AD FS extranet lockout feature boosts Office 365 security

  AD FS extranet lockout can protect organizations from denial-of-service and brute-force password attacks.Continue Reading

• Following the SharePoint Online collaboration evolution

  Microsoft continues to aggressively develop SharePoint Online as it attempts to create an essential collaboration tool for the enterprise.Continue Reading