Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• 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

• Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)

  Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a Windows product that enables administrators to manage the deployment and security of devices and applications across an enterprise.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

• PowerShell commands for Active Directory: Groups management

  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 commands to copy files: Basic to advanced methods

  Admins proficient in PowerShell can build advanced scripts that copy files for different scenarios with added measures to ensure the duplicates reach their destinations.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

• Filter and query Windows event logs with PowerShell

  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

• Create an Office 365 backup policy before it's too late

  Don't get stumped by a request to recover deleted email messages in Office 365. Know what Microsoft offers, and plan ahead to stop mailbox content from performing a disappearing act.Continue Reading

• Get answers to your Office 365 security and compliance questions

  Moving an email server to the cloud has its advantages, but there are compliance questions that admins have in Office 365. Know the answers before making the jump.Continue Reading

• Office 365 compliance issues deserve your attention

  Businesses have more data than ever before, and Office 365 stores that information in more than email messages. Make sure that data retention is in compliance with regulations.Continue Reading

• Preserve your AD organizational unit with these commands

  Active Directory OUs maintain order in an IT organization. But if you're not careful, an errant keystroke can topple everything.Continue Reading

• Windows PowerShell DSC book trains IT to lock down systems

  This DSC book familiarizes administrators with Microsoft's change management tool, giving them the skills to clamp down on system configurations.Continue Reading

• Construct a chain of commands with the PowerShell pipeline

  The pipeline in PowerShell connects multiple cmdlets to assemble complex commands to give administrators advanced management control over their systems.Continue Reading

• Configure Azure Active Directory SSO service and avoid delays

  ADFS won't work for single sign-on in Outlook or Skype for Business by itself. Configure Azure Active Directory SSO and save your users time and energy.Continue Reading

• Make a Windows Server 2016 Essentials comparison to find the best fit

  Two similar-sounding versions of Windows Server 2016 Essentials have important differences, such as the number of licenses each enables a business to use.Continue Reading

• Microsoft LAPS locks down local admin passwords

  Using the same local admin password is convenient, but risky. It gives attackers limitless access across the machines on the domain. Microsoft has a tool to boost login security.Continue Reading

• What tools troubleshoot Autodiscover in Exchange Online?

  An admin needs to ferret out an Autodiscover issue when the user's mailbox resides in the Exchange Online platform. What tools enable IT to correct the problem quickly?Continue Reading

• Scrutinize the Office 365 roadmap to steer clear of trouble

  The Office 365 roadmap informs admins when Microsoft plans to release -- or pull -- a feature. Our experts offer advice to navigate the collaboration platform's twists and turns.Continue Reading

• Debug an Active Directory domain join failure on Windows Server

  The domain join process typically works without issue. But when a device can't connect to Active Directory, the administrator must seek the culprit from the usual suspects.Continue Reading

• Reduce downtime with Azure Site Recovery service

  Any business can experience data failure. What matters most is how you prepare for a quick recovery. Azure Site Recovery uses the Microsoft cloud when your data center goes dark.Continue Reading

• Educate users to avert email phishing attacks

  Attackers work day and night thinking up new ways to bypass IT security. Educate users on ways to avoid email phishing attacks so you can rest easy.Continue Reading