Manage
Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
Manage
Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
Level up with these advanced PowerShell commands to copy files
Take a closer look at Copy-Item cmdlet coding examples to build advanced PowerShell scripts that copy files with safety measures to ensure the duplicates reach their destinations. Continue Reading
SharePoint Online PowerShell commands for admin tasks
You can avoid the admin portal when you pick up your PowerShell game and learn how to manage cloud-based resources in Office 365, including the SharePoint collaboration platform. Continue Reading
Explore multiple Office 365 PowerShell management options
Why use PowerShell for Office 365 and Azure? In some instances, it's the only way to tap into some of the hidden management settings in these Microsoft cloud products. Continue Reading
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Remote possibilities: Out-of-band management admin options
COVID-19 puts added strain on administrators who need to compensate for lack of personnel in data centers, which leads to the need for a remote access strategy. Continue Reading
Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)
Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a Windows product that enables the management, deployment and security of devices and applications across an enterprise. Continue Reading
Implement simple server monitoring with PowerShell
Administrators who build a server monitoring framework with PowerShell can develop their own customized checks for deeper insights into their environment.Continue Reading
Windows Server System Insights steers admins from trouble
The predictive analytics feature in Windows Server 2019 gives administrators a heads-up to potential problems to avoid the scrambling when help desk tickets start to pile up.Continue Reading
PowerShell 7 remoting expands management horizons
Connecting to different operating systems to manage them from PowerShell requires SSH setup, which is less onerous in the version 7 release.Continue Reading
Is SCCM in Azure right for your organization?
System Center Configuration Manager still has a long life, which was further underscored by Microsoft supporting deployments of the endpoint management tool to Azure.Continue Reading
Steer clear of trouble while following the Office 365 roadmap
There are literally hundreds of changes coming to the collaboration platform that affect email and other services. Here's what IT can do to help ease the transition for end users.Continue Reading
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Find and lock down lax Windows share permissions
With help from PowerShell, you can identify the shares that need adjustments across your infrastructure then use a script to fix them to protect sensitive data.Continue Reading
Getting a handle on certificate management in Windows shops
A certificate that isn't renewed by its expiration date will cause dire consequences for administrators who will need to find a fast remedy when systems can't communicate.Continue Reading
Learn to manage Office 365 ProPlus updates
The traditional Microsoft Office applications you get from Office 365 might appear to be the same on the surface, but how you administer them differs in several key ways.Continue Reading
Active Directory nesting groups strategy and implementation
Does your current Active Directory permissions setup spark joy? If not, then it's time to unscramble that confusing design into something that's easier to use and maintain.Continue Reading
Find and filter Windows event logs using PowerShell Get-EventLog
Use the Get-EventLog cmdlet in PowerShell to pinpoint problems among thousands of entries in Windows logs, on both local and remote systems.Continue Reading
Microsoft Windows PowerShell DSC (Desired State Configuration)
Desired State Configuration (DSC) is a feature in PowerShell 4.0 and above that helps administrators to automate the configuration of Windows and Linux operating systems.Continue Reading
5 PowerShell tools to help simplify admin tasks and support
Learn how systems admins, software developers and engineers can use tools, such as Cimitra Software, to build better PowerShell scripts to manage and automate repetitive tasks.Continue Reading
How to fortify your virtualized Active Directory design
It takes a little work to fine-tune your Active Directory deployment, but the benefits will result in little to no service interruptions to your users if an outage occurs.Continue Reading
Windows Server 2008 end of life means it's time to move
Your organization has a few options to migrate from unsupported Windows Server 2008/2008 R2 systems to avoid becoming another cyberattack statistic.Continue Reading
Using Azure AD conditional access for tighter security
The cloud-based identity and access management service does not come with certain defensive features turned on by default, which administrators should rectify.Continue Reading
Use PowerShell workflows when performance matters
When time is of the essence, add parallel processing to your PowerShell scripts to perform tasks more efficiently by using the workflows feature in the automation tool.Continue Reading
How to navigate a ransomware recovery process
If you find your systems locked up from a ransomware attack, what should you prioritize? Before you start your recovery, follow this plan to avoid additional trouble.Continue Reading
How to manage Exchange hybrid mail flow rules
Duplicating your existing transport rule collection won't work when you move to an Exchange hybrid deployment. Learn how to set up a proper mail flow with these tips.Continue Reading
How to manage Server Core with PowerShell
New PowerShell users will need to overcome a learning curve to work with Server Core, but the tool has some built-in aids to help you progress.Continue Reading
Cloud adoption a catalyst for IT modernization in many orgs
Sloppy and insecure IT procedures that had been overlooked before the cloud arrived must evolve with the times to prevent data exposure and system breaches.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 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
How to plan for an Azure cloud migration
A Windows Server migration into the Microsoft cloud comes with several administrative benefits, but it also means there are new management aspects to worry about.Continue Reading
How to rebuild the SYSVOL tree using DFSR
Active Directory is the key component in many organizations to keep tabs on access and identity. If the SYSVOL directory disappears, these steps can get the system fixed.Continue Reading
Know your Office 365 backup options -- just in case
A move to Exchange Online in the Office 365 platform removes some administrative obligations but does require more work to set up proper email protections.Continue Reading
How to handle service downtime in the cloud age
You know what happens when you assume. Don't set and forget those critical IT infrastructure services in the cloud without putting together a contingency plan.Continue Reading
How to transfer FSMO roles with PowerShell
You might need to shift Active Directory FSMO roles for a few reasons. If you need to do it more than once, there's a way to automate the procedure with PowerShell.Continue Reading
Check Office 365 usage reports for user adoption insights
Microsoft gives administrators access to many Office 365 reports to pinpoint ways to improve user adoption rates and tighten up potential security leaks.Continue Reading
How to plot out an Office 365 tenant-to-tenant migration
IT pros in organizations on Office 365 that undergo a merger or acquisition will have their work cut out for them to successfully execute a data migration plan between tenants.Continue Reading
Construct a solid Active Directory password policy
Most user authentication still relies on a strong password to keep attackers at bay. Here's how to keep your guard up without adding to your administrative workload.Continue Reading
How to deal with the on-premises vs. cloud challenge
Some tools and applications aren't a good fit outside of the data center. Try these tactics to cope as more tools and application vendors start to migrate to the cloud.Continue Reading
How to manage Windows with Puppet
Administrators can modernize their organization's management model for both Linux and Windows operating systems with Puppet, a code-based tool, and available community support.Continue Reading
Try these PowerShell networking commands to stay connected
Ping has its place, but PowerShell gives you a way to dive deeper into a networking issue when a server drops its connection or starts to drop packets.Continue Reading
Office 365 multiple tenants vs. single tenant considerations
A migration to Office 365 will require the IT staff to adjust how it manages the collaboration platform, which can get complicated if more than one tenant is involved.Continue Reading
How to locate privileged accounts in Active Directory
IT administrators must be able to identify privileged accounts in Active Directory for a more secure enterprise; two methods can make the task easier.Continue Reading
3 steps to prepare for Exchange updates
If you dread the process of updating Exchange and the possibility that patches will break the servers, you can take control by putting best practices in place with three steps.Continue Reading
How to keep an Office 365 outage from ruining your day
Stay on top of any potential problems with your Office 365 deployment through the monitoring dashboard and a break glass account to avoid Azure authentication outages.Continue Reading
Install Exchange Server 2019 on Server Core 2019 to boost security
If you don't know how to manage servers without GUI, there may be a bit of a learning curve to get the benefits of running Exchange on Server Core.Continue Reading
Windows and Linux: What systems administrators need to know
The lines between Windows Server and Linux continue to blur. Discover what Windows administrators need to know to get up to speed with these new Linux features.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
Stay informed about Microsoft security patches in 2019
Administrators can get up-to-date information about Microsoft security updates and expert advice on patch prioritization to ensure a smooth Patch Tuesday process all year long in this guide.Continue Reading
How to export an Outlook calendar and contacts
Transferring Outlook data such as calendar items to an Excel compatible file only takes a few clicks, but there are subtle differences between Windows and macOS platforms.Continue Reading
7 Windows Server 2019 features to know
If administrators want to get the most from Windows Server 2019 features, they should familiarize themselves with this cheat sheet of the improvements Microsoft has made.Continue Reading
Windows Admin Center brings server management under one roof
Microsoft built Windows Admin Center to make administrators' jobs easier, but the tool has many facets to learn to expertly manage Windows servers.Continue Reading
Why should I use Exchange Server maintenance mode?
When applying security updates or cumulative updates to Exchange Server, it's important to take your time and use maintenance mode to avoid disruption and data corruption.Continue Reading
Windows Compatibility module expands PowerShell Core reach
The PowerShell team closed the cmdlet coverage gap with a compatibility module release for PowerShell Core, but its use requires some caution.Continue Reading
How will Microsoft role-based certifications affect admins?
IT administrators should already know that the only constant for Microsoft products is change. Certifications are the next thing to get an overhaul.Continue Reading
Latest Microsoft SDDC updates improve security, performance
Microsoft enhanced Windows Server 2019 software-defined networking and other virtualization facets of its latest server OS to improve security and increase workload performance.Continue Reading
4 Windows Server 2019 storage features to ease management
Microsoft includes storage features in Windows Server 2019 to ease migration and create highly available and scalable software-defined storage in data centers.Continue Reading
How do I avoid Exchange security certificate issues?
Exchange SSL certificates keep communications secure, so it's important avoid the bargain bin when shopping for them.Continue Reading
How to upgrade Windows Server 2008 before support ends
With the end of Windows Server 2008 support drawing closer, administrators must navigate multiple obstacles, from locating old software to ensuring hardware compatibility.Continue Reading
How to automate with PowerShell in Windows Server 2019
Microsoft developed many tools to simplify tasks in Windows Server 2019, but PowerShell skills still remain a staple of an administrator's tool set.Continue Reading
Understanding the three main goals of PowerShell Core 6
The book 'Learn PowerShell Core 6.0' offers a closer look into the history of PowerShell and its evolution into the PowerShell Core open source project.Continue Reading
Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)
Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) is a set of specifications from Microsoft for consolidating the management of devices and applications in a network from Windows computing systems.Continue Reading
Set up users with key PowerShell Active Directory commands
User management in Active Directory doesn't have to fill you with click-induced anxiety. Try these PowerShell tips for a more efficient way to get this work done.Continue Reading
The clock is ticking on the Exchange Web Services change
Another change that might affect your Exchange environment is coming in 2020. Here's what you need to know to prepare.Continue Reading
Discover the top Windows Server and PowerShell tutorials of 2018
Administrators can level up their management game with these Windows Server tips and PowerShell tutorials that got the most attention on the SearchWindowsServer site in 2018.Continue Reading
How PowerShell Direct helps polish off those VMs
PowerShell Direct offers administrators a remoting option that does not rely on a network connection to manage Hyper-V VMs, but be sure you meet the requirements for its use.Continue Reading
How to manage Active Directory groups with 7 PowerShell commands
Managing users, devices and other resources with Active Directory doesn't always require a GUI tool. Try PowerShell to streamline some of your administrative workload.Continue Reading
How to track Office 365 guest users
Administrators should get familiar with the platform tools at their disposal to check Office 365 Groups access and ensure tenant security.Continue Reading
PowerShell logging boosts security in the enterprise
Want to track any suspicious PowerShell activity across your network? Use these PowerShell logging techniques to curb potential threats that originate from scripts.Continue Reading
Exchange 2013 hybrid to Exchange 2016 hybrid considerations
Part of the work required for a successful shift from one hybrid Exchange environment to another is to have a full understanding of all the areas that will be affected by the move.Continue Reading
Thorough Exchange Server testing regimen eliminates doubt
Don't assume your Exchange 2016 implementation will work because you bought the right gear. Follow these pointers to execute a successful Exchange 2016 migration project.Continue Reading
Organize Active Directory with these strategies
Administrators tasked with cleaning up the Active Directory user group structure need not search any further. Use these tips to avoid Active Directory maintenance headaches.Continue Reading
Mind the feature gaps in the PowerShell open source project
Administrators who switch to the cross-platform version of PowerShell might find it challenging to use, but there are several ways to cope with a transition from Windows PowerShell.Continue Reading
Mastering PowerShell commands for Exchange by the book
This book works through common scenarios administrators face when managing Exchange Server 2016 and explains how to tackle them with PowerShell scripts.Continue Reading
Failover cluster quorum considerations for Windows admins
Microsoft introduced Cloud Witness in Windows Server 2016, which adds a new wrinkle to its quorum model for failover clusters, but it might not be a good fit for some enterprises.Continue Reading
Azure PowerShell cmdlets monitor, manage VMs
PowerShell gives administrators a way to customize reports that hone in on the details that matter to the business, such as the configuration of production VMs.Continue Reading
Migrating public folders requires extensive planning
Do your homework to find the right option for public folders when making a move to Exchange Online. Here are guidelines to help you navigate the requirements and limitations.Continue Reading
Office 365 email encryption options grow for enterprise needs
Each enterprise has different needs when it comes to preventing data leakage. Admins should be aware of the Office 365 mailbox and encryption features that help the organization meet its requirements.Continue Reading
Be ready if Microsoft Exchange updates go wrong
Everyone wants a smooth patching process, but things can fall apart despite everyone's best efforts. Develop a solid recovery plan and test it before trouble strikes.Continue Reading
What are some considerations for a public folders migration?
Contemplating a move to Exchange Online? Be sure you know what you're in for when shifting on-premises features, such as public folders, into Microsoft's cloud.Continue Reading
Curb stress from Exchange Server updates with these pointers
Some administrators let the memories of a bad patch linger and put off Exchange updates. Here are some tips to make this necessary chore less of a traumatic experience.Continue Reading
Roll your own Windows patching tool with PowerShell
This tutorial based on PowerShell helps administrators build an automated routine that audits Windows machines, then applies missing patches to lighten this management task.Continue Reading
Windows Server hardening still weighs heavily on admins
Windows Server hardening procedures drew renewed interest following the rash of ransomware outbreaks this year. See what tips on server safeguards got the most views in 2017.Continue Reading
Set Office 365 group limits to avoid administrative hassles
With help from PowerShell, administrators can tailor Office 365 Groups to develop common-sense restrictions on the tools and other components in the collaboration service.Continue Reading
The top Exchange and Office 365 tutorials of 2017
Exchange Server remains a solid messaging choice, but interest in Microsoft's cloud platform shows no sign of abating. These Office 365 tutorials got the most attention in 2017.Continue Reading
Prevent Exchange Server virtualization deployment woes
Exchange Server virtualization is a common practice for many enterprises, but deployment slip-ups can cripple the messaging platform. Follow these tips to avert a service disruption.Continue Reading
Monitor Active Directory replication via PowerShell
Most enterprises rely on Active Directory to control access to resources on the network. Here's how admins can use PowerShell to check the health of the replication process.Continue Reading
Prepare for an upgrade to Exchange 2016 with these pointers
Businesses migrate to Exchange 2016 to take advantage of its new features, but it's up to the administrator get the right tools in place to ensure the upgrade performs as expected.Continue Reading
Updates to Sysinternals tools benefit server admins
Microsoft updated several of its freeware Sysinternals utilities to assist administrators with tracking down malware and rooting out needless system processes in Windows.Continue Reading
Will PowerShell Core 6 fill in missing features?
Windows administrators will be in for some adjustments as Microsoft de-emphasizes Windows PowerShell and moves towards PowerShell Core, which currently lacks some key features.Continue Reading
Set up remote domains to control Exchange messaging
Administrators can configure a remote domain to perform particular tasks, such as converting certain email formats and stopping users from forwarding messages to another domain.Continue Reading
Multi-geo service tackles Office 365 data residency issues
Admins often deal with data residency requirements with separate tenants in geographic regions. A multi-geo feature looks to remove this complex setup for some Office 365 services.Continue Reading
How to build a bulletproof Hyper-V failover cluster
Before deploying a Hyper-V failover cluster, heed these design instructions to keep VM performance from lagging due to a faulty configuration.Continue Reading
Use eseutil for Exchange database repair with care
If Exchange crashes and you lack valid backups, just stay cool. The eseutil tool can be powerful, but if used improperly, it can do more harm than good.Continue Reading
Office 365 compliance features keep data locked down
Microsoft offers tools in Office 365 to help administrators manage complicated data compliance regulations. These features can protect the business.Continue Reading
Determine the right Windows BranchCache for the company
Don't let network traffic bottlenecks slow data transfer to branch office employees. There are two ways to use Windows BranchCache to speed up file transfers from your main office.Continue Reading
Tools for system administrators that don't cost a dime
If you use the default Windows tools for everyday administrative duties, such as taking screenshots or editing text, there are better options that come without charge.Continue Reading
Disable SMB1 before the next WannaCry strikes
As long as SMB1 lingers in your systems, they are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Use these tools and techniques to find and remove all signs of this unsafe network protocol.Continue Reading
Cloud App Discovery spotlights shadow IT users
Employees that use unsanctioned apps can jeopardize the business. Cloud App Discovery generates detailed reports on unapproved services to help IT mitigate risk.Continue Reading
System Center Configuration Manager tool regulates server updates to stop attacks
Early security updates diminish online threats. See how IT admins use System Center Configuration Manager to roll out patches promptly while minimizing downtime for users.Continue Reading
How to bring Azure costs down to earth
Don't let Azure VMs rack up a huge monthly bill from Microsoft. Figure out your business needs, then adjust the options in Azure to minimize charges.Continue Reading
Control Office 365 costs -- or pay the price
Not every user needs every service in the Office 365 suite. Tailor subscriptions to different groups so the company only pays for what it requires.Continue Reading
Windows file server migration tool eases data transfer dread
For a seemingly simple process, Windows file server migrations instill a lot of apprehension in IT admins. Next time, go into the fight with a free tool to manage the process.Continue Reading