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• 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

• Windows Sysinternals

  Windows Sysinternals is a suite of more than 70 freeware utilities that was initially developed by Mark Russinovich and Bryce Cogswell that is used to monitor, manage and troubleshoot the Windows operating system, and which Microsoft now owns and ... Continue Reading

• Windows Server administrators: Take time to hone these skills

  Longtime Windows Server administrators can turbocharge their careers by building expertise with these IT skills in demand today. Continue Reading

• Microsoft Log Parser Studio

  Microsoft Log Parser Studio is a front-end utility that features a graphical user interface, report builder and query repository for Microsoft's Log Parser application. Continue Reading

• Office 365 administrators must brush up on cloud skills

  Are you prepared to shift from on-premises Exchange Server to Office 365? It's a different skill set, and admins must rethink how to deploy apps and protect end users. Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • wbadmin
  • ISA (Industry Standard Architecture)
  • PowerShell
  • Microsoft Windows PowerShell DSC (Desired State Configuration)

  • Microsoft Windows PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE)
  • Microsoft Exchange Server
  • Microsoft SCOM (System Center Operations Manager)
  • Group Policy Object (GPO)

  View All Definitions

• How far does the Microsoft Server Management Tools suite go?

  Microsoft SMT is a free Azure-based tool that offers remote Windows Server management, but there are some limits to this cloud service.Continue Reading

• Lack of agility with Windows Server licenses hamstrings cloud hopes

  The sales pitch from public cloud providers is strong, but challenges with Windows Server licensing and other hang-ups have dulled enthusiasm for hybrid cloud deployments.Continue Reading

• PowerShell workflows can overcome limits of scripts

  PowerShell scripts have their strengths -- and a few glaring weaknesses. Use PowerShell workflows to get around a few common technical restrictions.Continue Reading

• Will Azure Stack features and functionality be the same as Azure?

  Microsoft plans to release Azure Stack by mid-2017 to bring the Azure platform down to Earth -- but don't expect all the features in Microsoft's cloud to appear right away.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 release broadens reach across IT spectrum

  Microsoft packed Windows Server 2016 with advanced networking, storage and virtualization features to tempt enterprises to lift workloads out of data centers and into the cloud.Continue Reading

• What to do when it's time to upgrade email

  Email remains a vital tool for businesses large and small. And more than ever before, there are options for how to provide it.Continue Reading

• An Office 365 pilot can make or break a rollout

  Before moving from on-premises Exchange to Office 365, admins can set up a pilot to see if bandwidth, connectivity or incompatibilities will hinder success.Continue Reading

• Microsoft

  Microsoft is a leading global vendor of computer software; hardware for computer, mobile and gaming systems; and cloud services.Continue Reading

• Office 365 administrators seek these new skills to stay relevant

  Some IT administrators are concerned they are not essential in the Office 365 era, but admins can prove valuable to their organization if they evolve with the times.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Network Device Enrollment Service (NDES)

  Microsoft Network Device Enrollment Service (NDES) is a security feature in Windows Server 2008 R2 and later Windows Server operating versions. NDES provides and manages certificates used to authenticate traffic and implement secure network ...Continue Reading

• Active Directory functional levels

  Active Directory functional levels are controls that specify which advanced Active Directory domain features can be used in an enterprise domain. The enterprise domain is usually comprised of domain controllers that run on different versions of the ...Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 release brings opportunity, challenges in a cloud world

  Microsoft wants Windows Server 2016 to serve as a gateway to get workloads in Azure, but some administrators must work harder to keep pace with the company's initiatives.Continue Reading

• Microsoft's strategy on open source is a sign of the times

  Microsoft astonished the IT world again with a series of big open source moves in 2016. Do Windows admins need to get on board or risk getting left behind?Continue Reading

• Windows Management Framework 5 update gives PowerShell users a fix

  Microsoft answered admin requests for new features and fixed several bugs with its WMF 5.1 release, giving users a slew of advanced PowerShell cmdlets.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Online Services Sign-In Assistant

  The Microsoft Online Services Sign-In Assistant is a software application that provides common sign-on capabilities for a suite of Microsoft online services, such as Office 365.Continue Reading

• SCORCH integration packs plug in more functionality

  Integration packs enhance the automation abilities of System Center Orchestrator to help administrators manage a wide array of products and systems.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Group Policy administrative template

  A Microsoft Group Policy administrative template is a file that supports the implementation of Microsoft Windows Group Policy and centralized user and machine management in Active Directory environments.Continue Reading

• The top Windows Server tutorials and tips of 2016

  A new operating system sparked Windows administrator's interest in 2016, as did information about using PowerShell to manage Windows Server and ways to deflect ransomware attacks.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

• Microsoft Windows Features on Demand

  Microsoft Windows Features on Demand is a feature that allows system administrators to add or remove roles and features in Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012, and later versions of the client and server operating system to alter the file size of ...Continue Reading

• Microsoft Active Directory Migration Tool (ADMT)

  The Microsoft Active Directory Migration Tool (ADMT) is a tool used to move Active Directory objects from one Windows Server Active Directory domain or forest to another.Continue Reading

• Microsoft SCORCH lights an automated path to more efficiency

  System Center Orchestrator tackles tedious tasks and can even make autonomous decisions based on conditions set by the Windows administrator.Continue Reading

• Why Windows admins must prep for Docker Datacenter

  Microsoft continues to forge ahead in the open source world, forcing admins in traditional Windows shops to get a feel for managing containers with Docker Datacenter.Continue Reading

• Best practices for Exchange 2016 virtualization

  Virtualizing Exchange Server is often a controversial topic. While some say it's expensive and difficult, proponents find value in it -- if done properly.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Server Datacenter Abstraction Layer (DAL)

  The Microsoft Windows Server Datacenter Abstraction Layer (DAL) is a software framework intended to enable consistent monitoring and management of hardware found in the typical data center environment.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Monitoring Agent

  The Microsoft Monitoring Agent is a service used to watch and report on application and system health on a Windows computer.Continue Reading

• Microsoft shakes up MCSD, MCSE certifications

  Changes to Microsoft's MCSD and MCSE certifications will push IT pros to take elective exams annually -- instead of recertifying every few years.Continue Reading

• Microsoft tweaks Windows PowerShell DSC in Windows Server 2016

  Microsoft refined PowerShell Desired State Configuration in Windows Server 2016 to make server configurations less of a chore for administrators and developers.Continue Reading

• These Windows configuration management tools can prevent mishaps

  It's a challenge to limit downtime and speed up deployments in the data center. Configuration management tools can help IT maintain control.Continue Reading

• Key retention tools for the Office 365 administrator

  Microsoft provides powerful management tools to assist companies that require a robust Office 365 retention policy.Continue Reading

• Will Microsoft Ignite 2016 catch fire with IT?

  Microsoft Ignite 2016 will set the course for the company's agenda in the coming year, but is IT on board with its push to the cloud?Continue Reading

• Office 365 eDiscovery bolsters an admin's compliance arsenal

  Microsoft's enhanced Office 365 eDiscovery features will look familiar to administrators who have used case management features in on-premises Exchange Server.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

• AutoRun

  AutoRun is a feature of the Windows operating system that causes predetermined actions when certain media is inserted. Common media types that trigger AutoRun actions include CDs, DVDs and USB storage devices.Continue Reading

• What is the easiest way to bring Microsoft OMS into my organization?

  My organization wants to use Microsoft Operations Management Suite. What's the best way to establish a connection to our existing environment?Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Subsystem for Linux

  Microsoft Windows Subsystem for Linux is a series of Microsoft components that allow native Linux 64-bit Executable and Linkable Format (ELF64) binaries to run on the Windows kernel in the Windows 10 operating system.Continue Reading

• Configuring a VyOS router for home lab use

  Administrators can install an open source virtual software router to practice networking skills, such as IP routing and subnetting.Continue Reading

• How Microsoft Advanced Threat Analytics helps secure Exchange

  Advanced Threat Analytics uses self-learning algorithms to compare normal user behavior to what is currently happening in an Exchange environment.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Failover Cluster Manager (MSFCM)

  Microsoft Failover Cluster Manager (MSFCM) is a specific management function within the Windows Server operating system which is used to create, validate, and manage failover server clusters running Windows Server.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Identity Manager 2016

  Microsoft Identity Manager 2016 is a tool that allows organizations to manage access, users, policies and credentials. MIM 2016 is the successor to Microsoft's Forefront Identity Manager 2010 R2.Continue Reading

• How does Microsoft OMS affect IT management?

  Our organization uses System Center and its components for management, but we want to reduce the number of tools we use. Can Microsoft Operations Management Suite help us?Continue Reading

• New Active Directory features coming in Windows Server 2016

  Lost in the containers buzz are several key improvements to Active Directory to make identity and access administration easier.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

• Microsoft announces Windows Server 2016 will launch at Ignite conference

  All the prognostication about when Windows Server 2016 will be available was laid to rest in multiple blogs from Microsoft today when the company announced the next version of the server operating ...Continue Reading

• How managing Docker containers is shaping up for administrators

  While container management software remains in flux as this version of virtualization matures, administrators should build their familiarity with the technology.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 features focus on evolving IT landscape

  With numerous updates and innovations to storage, security and virtualization, Microsoft attempts to lock in its place in today's developer-friendly world.Continue Reading

• Windows Server Client Access License (CAL)

  A Windows Server Client Access License (CAL) is a license that gives a user or device the right to access services from a server running the Windows Server operating system.Continue Reading

• Test and confirm functions with PowerShell parameters

  Windows PowerShell functions support parameters that can prevent scripts from being run accidentally and simulate the outcome of the function.Continue Reading

• How to step up your Microsoft Exchange security game

  Your Exchange environment is a key component in your organization's communication platform, so shouldn't protecting it get the highest priority?Continue Reading

• Customize security settings with the Security Configuration Wizard

  The Security Configuration Wizard can help organizations secure servers, but admins should be cautious when converting security policies into group policy objects.Continue Reading

• How does Windows Nano Server differ from Windows Server Core?

  After Windows Server Core failed to catch on, Microsoft may convince administrators with its next attempt for a more VM- and cloud-friendly Windows Server deployment.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Storage QoS (Storage Quality of Service)

  Microsoft Storage QoS (Storage Quality of Service) is a feature for monitoring and managing the performance of storage resources allocated to individual virtual machines (VMs) running on Hyper-V and scale-out file servers or cluster shared volumes.Continue Reading

• SharePoint Online management through PowerShell

  Admins will need to complete a few prerequisites to manage SharePoint Online with PowerShell, such as downloading the SharePoint Online Management Shell.Continue Reading

• Office 365 management tips for Exchange administrators

  Going to the cloud can alleviate a lot of mundane duties, but there are still common tasks required for managing Office 365.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

• How can I quickly configure multiple Exchange mailbox properties?

  Configuring the properties for multiple Exchange mailboxes can be tedious, but the Exchange Administration Center makes this exercise relatively painless.Continue Reading

• How do you work with Microsoft's new headless server?

  Without the traditional Windows Server GUI, what are the steps involved with a Nano Server installation?Continue Reading

• Microsoft Security Configuration Wizard (SCW)

  Microsoft Security Configuration Wizard (SCW) is an administrative tool used to change the default security settings on a server and to apply a security policy on multiple servers.Continue Reading

• Which Exchange mailbox properties can an administrator edit?

  There are nine Exchange 2016 mailbox properties that administrators can configure, such as a user's email address. Admins can also specify custom attributes as needed.Continue Reading

• What to configure in Windows Server local security policy

  Organizations should configure the local security policy for new servers to handle patch management and for protection against unauthorized access.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2016 upgrade considerations

  Organizations planning an upgrade to Exchange 2013 or Exchange 2016 should focus on five areas to avoid trouble.Continue Reading

• Microsoft seeks bounty hunters to secure Nano Server

  With the release of Windows Server 2016 due sometime in the third quarter, Microsoft is crowdsourcing its efforts to smooth out any vulnerabilities with a key feature in its next major server ...Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Server Event Viewer

  Microsoft Windows Server Event Viewer is a monitoring tool that shows a log of events that can be used to troubleshoot issues on a Windows-based system.Continue Reading

• Learn the basics of PowerShell Desired State Configuration

  PowerShell DSC allows administrators to define and manage the configurations of operating systems and applications. Here's how it works and how to use it.Continue Reading

• What are the most common Exchange recipient types?

  Administrators who are new to managing Exchange recipients can use various tools to organize these features.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Operations Management Suite

  The Microsoft Operations Management Suite is a software as a service offering that allows an administrator to manage on-premises and cloud assets from one console. Microsoft OMS handles log analytics, IT automation, backup and recovery, and security...Continue Reading

• Ransomware protection is futile, but all hope is not lost

  It's only a matter of time before a hacker infiltrates your system and holds your files hostage. But there are ways to blunt a Windows ransomware assault.Continue Reading

• Words to go: Exchange Server architecture

  Microsoft's Exchange team released its recommendations for the preferred architecture for Exchange 2013 and 2016. Here are some terms Exchange architects should know.Continue Reading

• A guide to Microsoft Windows Server 2016

  Windows systems administrators can check out this guide to see what enhancements are coming in Microsoft Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Is there a System Center evaluation period?

  Planning to test a System Center technical preview? Check the release notes before investing too much time.Continue Reading

• How will System Center licensing change?

  The price of your System Center license is due to change when Microsoft implements a per-core pricing model with the release of System Center 2016.Continue Reading

• What changes are coming to System Center components?

  While new features coming in Microsoft System Center 2016 may sway an organization to consider upgrading, the loss of functionality may put off some from making a switch.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

• Microsoft Hyper-V Manager

  Microsoft Hyper-V Manager is a tool that allows administrators to create, change and delete virtual machines (VMs).Continue Reading

• The essential guide to Exchange Server backup and recovery

  An Exchange Server backup requires careful planning to protect data. This guide walks admins through the steps and challenges of an Exchange backup and what to know for Office 365.Continue Reading

• How can administrators prepare for the Windows Docker invasion?

  Docker management on the Windows Server platform is just one of the many issues containers bring to the data center.Continue Reading

• How to upgrade to PowerShell 5

  PowerShell version 5 is the most recent iteration of the scripting language and offers new features from previous versions. Admins can upgrade to the new version in a few steps.Continue Reading

• How to deploy Windows containers in Microsoft Azure

  Want to build and manage your own Windows Server containers? Here's how to do it using native Docker commands and a PowerShell module.Continue Reading

• PowerShell script examples and reference guide for admins

  Microsoft unveiled PowerShell in 2006, but many Windows administrators are still unaware of the tremendous amount of resources available to help automate numerous tasks.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Nano Server: Small footprint adds savings, security

  Organizations that reduce their server footprint can reduce costs and improve performance by running only the most necessary resources.Continue Reading

• How Host Guardian secures Windows Server 2016 Hyper-V VMs

  In an effort to get more workloads into the Azure cloud, Microsoft has developed a new system to protect data in Hyper-V VMs from unauthorized users in Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Use the admin center for some Office 365 administration

  Administrators can choose the admin center or PowerShell for Office 365 management -- the best option depends on the circumstances.Continue Reading

• Microsoft certification preparation advice for Windows admins

  Windows admins who want to prepare for Microsoft certification should learn which options exist and best align with their career path in order to form an effective study strategy.Continue Reading

• How does privileged identity management work in Azure Active Directory?

  Organizations that assign privileged access to certain users can lose track of who has access to what. Privileged user monitoring ensures users comply with corporate policies.Continue Reading

• How does Azure Active Directory Connect help admins?

  The Azure AD Connect tool helps administrators with an on-premises Active Directory environment, but also helps manage resources from the Azure cloud.Continue Reading

• Avoid downtime with rolling upgrades in Windows Server 2016

  Microsoft attempts to make switching to a new operating system less painful and reduce downtime by implementing a rolling upgrade feature in Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Hyper-V Shielded VM

  A Microsoft Hyper-V Shielded VM is a security feature of Windows Server 2016 that protects a Hyper-V second-generation virtual machine (VM) from access or tampering by using a combination of Secure Boot, BitLocker encryption, virtual Trusted ...Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Server Manager

  Microsoft Windows Server Manager is a tool for managing a server's identity and the roles installed on the server.Continue Reading

• A new skill for Windows Server administrators: Building their brand

  Marketing yourself may not come naturally for Windows systems administrators but there are several ways to get noticed for promotions or a new career trajectory.Continue Reading

• Information security resources for Exchange admins

  There are a myriad of free and trial resources available that can help Exchange administrators increase their information security knowledge to better secure systems.Continue Reading

• Five points to consider before a SharePoint Online migration

  Organizations that are planning a move from on-premises SharePoint to SharePoint Online should consider which features may not survive a migration to the cloud.Continue Reading

• How does Active Directory in the cloud work?

  Administrators responsible for cloud management can use Active Directory in Azure to set limits on the amount of resources and app availability.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