Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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