Get started

Get started

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content.

• 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

• What do I need to know about the MCSE certification exams?

  The server infrastructure MCSE certification tests an IT pro's expertise in storage, networking and other key areas. Continue Reading

• Keep email safe with Exchange TLS and cloud-based ATP

  There are a bevy of native tools from Microsoft that can aid Exchange administrators in securing email messages and protecting against malicious links and attachments. 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

• Definitions to Get Started

  • 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)
  • Internet Information Services (IIS)

  View All Definitions

• 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 is the state of my Windows Server certification?

  An administrator with an MCSA Windows Server 2008 certification can upgrade to the Windows Server 2012 equivalent by taking an exam.Continue Reading

• Microsoft goes cloud-heavy with Windows Server 2016 features

  Microsoft wants sysadmins to get their heads in the clouds by packing support for containers and Azure services into Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• What you need to know about Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute

  Azure ExpressRoute provides a private cloud connection that is secure and predictable. Read our Azure ExpressRoute FAQ to find out more about this Microsoft cloud feature.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

• Keep 16-bit applications running as Windows Server 2008 support ends

  As Windows Server 2008 end of life draws near, companies still using 16-bit applications need to be resourceful to keep them running.Continue Reading

• Painlessly parse a string with PowerShell 5

  For an administrator who works with unruly output from a legacy application, PowerShell 5 can help bring clarity to the situation.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

• Free Exchange admin tools to monitor, manage deployments

  These free Microsoft tools will help you monitor, manage and calculate server requirements in your on-premises or hybrid Exchange deployment.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows PowerShell Direct

  Microsoft Windows PowerShell Direct is a feature of Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10 that allows a user to manage a VM without requiring changes in the network connection or remote management settings.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Cloud Witness

  Microsoft Cloud Witness is a high availability feature for failover clusters that uses storage in the Microsoft Azure cloud platform to ensure clusters continue to function if there is a site outage.Continue Reading

• Anticipation builds for key Windows Server 2016 features

  Microsoft's push to develop its container technology and its other advancements in Windows Server caught the attention of our experts.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

• What are my options for Azure ExpressRoute connections?

  For companies that need a private connection and full access to different Azure regions, Microsoft offers a premium version of Azure ExpressRoute.Continue Reading

• Guide to secure better Exchange admin jobs

  It's time to look for a new Exchange job. Where should you start? The best way to land an Exchange admin position is to brush up on your skills and review all resources.Continue Reading

• The 10 most popular Windows Server admin tips of 2015

  Microsoft released three Windows Server 2016 technical previews in 2015, and our readers couldn't wait to learn what to expect from the upcoming version of the OS.Continue Reading

• Will less be more with Microsoft Nano Server?

  The initial roles touted by Microsoft are narrow and can be performed on a VM, so why should a business care about Nano Server?Continue Reading

• Admins can plug into network switches with new PowerShell module

  Administrators looking for added flexibility in their environment can tap the NetworkSwitchManager module to work with network switches.Continue Reading

• Azure AD Connect Health performs infrastructure checkups

  Administrators use Azure AD Connect Health to keep tabs on ADFS infrastructure performance in various levels of detail.Continue Reading

• The new rules for becoming a Microsoft MVP

  The MVP program highlights technical concentration in 10 broad Microsoft categories, changing some MVP statuses and eliciting concern over expertise.Continue Reading

• How does Azure ExpressRoute make a direct connection to the cloud?

  Microsoft offers a way for organizations to connect directly to Azure data centers through one of three connection methods.Continue Reading

• What are the connectivity benefits with Azure ExpressRoute?

  By using Azure ExpressRoute, a business can avoid some of the slowdowns and vulnerabilities that come with using a public Internet connection.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

• Exchange staged migration

  The staged Exchange migration process transfers data and mailboxes from one Exchange server to another, either on-premises or in the cloud.Continue Reading

• A first look at Storage Spaces Direct

  Storage Spaces Direct pools server storage to build failover clusters without using cluster shared volumes, making it an inexpensive storage option.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Cluster Operating System (OS) Rolling Upgrade

  Microsoft Cluster Operating System (OS) Rolling Upgrade is a feature that keeps Hyper-V virtual machines (VMs) or Scale-Out File Server workloads running during an upgrade from a Windows Server 2012 R2 cluster to a Windows Server 2016 cluster.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Scale-Out File Server

  Microsoft Scale-Out File Server is an active-active clustered file server feature based on Server Message Block (SMB) 3.0 to provide continuous availability of file shares in Windows Server.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Server Antimalware

  Microsoft Windows Server Antimalware is a tool in the Windows Server 2016 Technical Preview that protects against malware.Continue Reading

• Making the most of Hyper-V live migration

  Hyper-V live migration delivers flexibility in a demanding environment, but administrators should be aware of ways to optimize the process.Continue Reading

• Microsoft eases Windows failover cluster upgrade process

  Microsoft has tried to quell concerns administrators may have when upgrading failover clusters to Windows Server 2016 by smoothing out difficulties in the process.Continue Reading

• What are key features in Storage Spaces Direct?

  Storage Spaces Direct is Microsoft's enhanced software-defined storage feature in Windows Server 2016 to make highly available server storage clusters.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

• Squash large business email security challenges

  If you're a large enterprise, your security needs are unique. So don't take advice from a small organization, and learn how to accommodate the challenges specific to your size.Continue Reading

• Using XPath syntax to root through XML documents

  Using XPath syntax and the Select-XML cmdlet can help uncover the information you need in an XML document.Continue Reading

• Exchange management roles limit unsolicited admin access

  RBAC allows admins to perform certain tasks in Exchange, and the unscoped top-level management roles limit admins authorized to gain access to accounts and scripts.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

• Microsoft Storage Spaces Direct

  Microsoft Storage Spaces Direct is a feature in Windows Server 2016 that uses local server storage to build highly available and scalable software-defined storage systems for Hyper-V virtual machines.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Client Hyper-V

  Microsoft Client Hyper-V is a type-1 hypervisor for the Windows 8.x and Windows 10 operating systems (OSes).Continue Reading

• Microsoft Azure Premium Storage

  Microsoft Azure Premium Storage is solid-state drive storage for Azure virtual machines for workloads that require low latency and high throughput.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Storage Replica

  Microsoft Storage Replica is a feature in Windows Server 2016 that provides synchronous block-level, volume-based replication for high availability and disaster recovery needs.Continue Reading

• Learn Group Policy basics for Windows administrators

  Group Policy hasn't changed much since its introduction, but it can be overwhelming to beginners. Learn how to use Group Policy to manage users and computers.Continue Reading

• Office 2016 features update the mail client for more collaboration

  In addition to design changes, Office 2016 offers new applications such as Clutter and Modern Attachments to make collaborating in the Exchange mail client much easier. Should you upgrade?Continue Reading

• Poof! You're also a Linux administrator. Now what?

  Linux has crept into data centers where Windows was once the sole operating system. If you're a budding Linux admin, here's a guide to help get you started.Continue Reading

• How DLP, MFA and other features influence Office 2016 security

  Data loss prevention, multifactor authentication and document sharing all get a security boost in Office 2016, but you might want to consider holding off on upgrading.Continue Reading

• Using PowerShell DSC to construct a Hyper-V host

  Administrators versed in PowerShell can streamline the process of using a server as a Hyper-V host.Continue Reading

• Better email collaboration with Exchange 2016

  The new versions of Office and Exchange make it easier to collaborate on documents in email. Use new features in Exchange Server 2016 and Outlook 2016 to work quicker and smarter.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

• Less risk in updated Active Directory Federation Services

  Microsoft puts more granular control in the hands of administrators, with enhanced conditional access control in Windows Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Small business security needs big strategies to keep Exchange safe

  To protect your small business's messaging environment, ensure that staff is properly trained and resolve all risks associated with your network.Continue Reading

• Add mailboxes with an Office 365 connection via PowerShell

  Without a GUI, there are a lot of tasks that Office 365 admins need to use PowerShell for. Connect to Office 365 from PowerShell to save you and your organization time.Continue Reading

• Heavy workloads get a boost with Azure Premium Storage

  Microsoft says it has tailored Azure Premium Storage for organizations that need to run I/O intensive VMs in the cloud with extremely low latency.Continue Reading

• Test your knowledge of Windows security features

  How much do you know about securing Active Directory and Microsoft Azure? This quiz will test your knowledge of the best tools to protect Windows.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Azure Resource Manager

  Microsoft Azure Resource Manager (ARM) is a management framework that allows administrators to deploy, manage and monitor Azure resources.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

• Wizard controls Exchange hybrid configuration -- wand not included

  In a hybrid Exchange 2013 configuration, the magic is simple -- no manual configuration necessary. Let the wizard do the work and connect to the cloud.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2010 vs. Exchange 2013 feature faceoff exam

  How well do you know Safety Net, In-Place Hold and other Exchange features? Find out what belongs to which version with this 10-question quiz.Continue Reading

• Conversational Geeks explicate migrating to Office 365

  What's the best way to understand confusing technology concepts? Chat about it. The Conversational Geeks explain how to migrate to Office 365.Continue Reading

• Six must-read Windows security resources for admins

  Need to brush up on your Windows security skills, but don't have time to sort through the noise? Consider these six resources as required reading for admins.Continue Reading

• Manage user identity with Windows Azure Active Directory

  Azure Active Directory allows admins to manage end-user identities and comes in three versions. Which one depends on your enterprise's size and budget.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

• With Azure Key Vault, cloud security no longer up in air

  Admins with an Azure subscription can use Azure Key Vault to protect and encrypt keys and data. Here's how to set it up with PowerShell.Continue Reading

• Why is my Exchange 2013 mailbox migration moving slowly?

  My mailbox migration from Exchange 2010 to Exchange 2013 is moving very slowly. What might be causing this and how can I speed up the process?Continue Reading

• Control IT access with Windows JEA PowerShell toolkit

  Just Enough Administration restricts administrative access to the bare necessities for user tasks, giving organizations more control over security.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Azure Key Vault

  Microsoft Azure Key Vault is a cloud-hosted management service that allows users to encrypt keys and small secrets like passwords or answers to security questions that are used in their cloud applications and services.Continue Reading

• Just Enough Administration (JEA)

  Just Enough Administration (JEA) is a PowerShell toolkit designed to help an organization reduce risk by restricting IT administrative rights.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Server 2016

  Microsoft Windows Server 2016, previously referred to as Windows Server vNext, is a server operating system (OS).Continue Reading

• Tips for landing the best Windows administrator jobs

  Whether you're looking for the best Windows Server job or have been in your position for years, these five tips will help you strengthen your skills.Continue Reading

• Words to go: Exchange 2013 management tools and features

  Need a quick glossary of Poison Message Queue, EAC and other administrative and management features and tools in Exchange 2013? Keep this handy list next to your desk.Continue Reading

• Avoid Exchange 2013 storage snags with the right disks

  Choosing the right disks for your Exchange 2013 setup is a battle between cost and performance. How do you decide what's more important?Continue Reading

• Use Office 365 MDM to protect your tenant

  When ActiveSync just isn't enough, learn how to enable and use Office 365 mobile device management with your devices.Continue Reading

• Eight handy Exchange 2013 PowerShell cmdlets

  There are hundreds of new cmdlets in Exchange 2013, but these eight PowerShell cmdlets will help you manage, monitor and troubleshoot the Exchange 2013 setup.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 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

• 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

• How can we make a Windows Server 2016 upgrade painless?

  Companies exploring Windows Server 2016 wonder how disruptive upgrading will be. The first step to a pain-free move is to get IT teams up to speed.Continue Reading

• Secure email servers on Exchange, Office 365 or both

  Whether you use on-premises Exchange, Office 365 or hybrid Exchange deployments, follow these tips to boost email server security.Continue Reading

• Configure a geo load balancer for Exchange 2013

  Once you've configured Exchange and installed a free load balancer, you'll need to configure the load balancer and Exchange virtual services.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2016 architecture recommendations

  All companies must include three areas in their Exchange Server 2016 design blueprint -- servers and storage, availability groups and namespaces.Continue Reading

• The must-know Exchange public folder migration feature

  If you run Exchange 2007 or 2010 and are moving to Office 365, the public folder batch migration feature will ease the process.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

• How geo load balancing makes a world of difference in Exchange 2013

  When you need your Exchange 2013 end users to connect to the closest data center, consider geo load balancing as an option.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Update for Business

  Microsoft Windows Update for Business is a service in Windows 10 that will allow administrators to control which client devices will receive updates and when by choosing a 'fast' or 'slow' distribution ring.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Azure Active Directory Connect (Microsoft Azure AD Connect)

  Microsoft Azure Active Directory Connect (Microsoft Azure AD Connect) is a tool for connecting on-premises identity infrastructure to Microsoft Azure Active Directory.Continue Reading

• A first look at Hyper-V features in Windows Server 2016

  Although there are few new Hyper-V features in Windows Server 2016, PowerShell Direct and improved storage resiliency are noteworthy.Continue Reading

• Devil's in the details for a Windows Nano Server install

  Nano Server is a lightweight installation option for Windows Server 2016, but deploying it isn't easy. Here's what you need -- and what to look out for.Continue Reading

• Prep for Office 365 services in your organization

  After your IT shop has prepped its environment for an Office 365 migration, choose a remediation plan based on your migration approach.Continue Reading

• Two ways to authenticate a Hyper-V live migration

  When performing a Hyper-V live migration, what are the options for authenticating a system sign-on before the migration begins?Continue Reading

• How can I optimize Hyper-V live migrations?

  When we perform a Hyper-V live migration, it bogs down our system. How can we reduce the size of the migration and optimize data transfer performance?Continue Reading

• Exchange updates improve ActiveSync client migrations

  Exchange 2010 and 2013 now include a feature to automate mobile device reconfiguration during an Office 365 migration.Continue Reading

• Exchange Server administrator job prep: Security and compliance

  Get that Exchange administrator job offer by standing out with security and compliance prowess in your interview.Continue Reading

• Transition to Office 365 to boost productivity

  A move to Office 365 will make your organization more productive if you include these areas in the planning stages.Continue Reading

• How secure are Hyper-V containers in Windows Server 2016?

  Container engines like Docker can compromise an entire root OS because of a lack of isolation. What steps can admins take to secure Hyper-V containers in Windows Server 2016?Continue Reading