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Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• Migrate Office 365 tenants with a hybrid Exchange Server

  Once organizations have three important factors in place, admins have the power to complete Office 365 migrations with hybrid Exchange. Continue Reading

• Take a proactive approach to mobile messaging security

  To guarantee your mobile messaging environment is protected, be sure to meet these three areas. Continue Reading

• Prerequisites for an Office 365 tenant migration

  To better understand tenant-to-tenant migrations after a company merger or acquisition, dig deeper into prerequisites and native tools. Continue Reading

• Essentials of Exchange access control with RBAC

  Get to know Exchange's Role Based Access Control feature by learning how it came to be and how it works. Continue Reading

• Tackle email content filtering security lapses

  It doesn't matter if you use in-house or cloud-based filtering systems -- you still have to address common security oversights. Continue Reading

• Microsoft Learning certification needs a revamp

  One year after Microsoft Learning canceled two top-tier certification programs, Exchange MVPs discuss what it means for IT pros and how industry certs compare.Continue Reading

• The latest updates in Exchange 2013 CU6

  The latest Cumulative Update for Exchange 2013 includes fixes for a popular wizard and addresses public folder issues.Continue Reading

• How USNs and Invocation IDs ensure the latest Active Directory state

  Active Directory sync is a delicate game -- any change could throw things off. USNs and Invocation IDs can help keep track of Active Directory state.Continue Reading

• Build your knowledge of PowerShell scripting basics

  If you don't know the basics of PowerShell yet, it's time to buckle down and learn how this language can ease Exchange management tasks.Continue Reading

• Track deleted email items after a central mailbox move

  When you're stumped on how to track email items following a central mailbox move, fix the dilemma by knowing what happens to items in mailboxes when they move to a PST file.Continue Reading

• Enforce acceptable use guidelines with policy tips

  Policy tips in Exchange 2013 remind end users of acceptable use policies and prevent accidental violations before they ever occur.Continue Reading

• Use document fingerprinting to protect Exchange 2013 content

  With document fingerprints, enterprises have a way to protect important content in confidential and completed forms.Continue Reading

• Why SUSE VMs have UEFI and secure boot issues

  You won't be able to secure boot or use UEFI with SUSE VMs under Hyper-V because of certain support issues, so it's important to learn if your enterprise will be affected.Continue Reading

• Planning the live backup of an Oracle Linux VM in Hyper-V

  Learn what can go wrong with a live virtual machine backup if you're running Oracle Linux VMs under Hyper-V, and how to keep the process as smooth as possible.Continue Reading

• Problems to prep for when running Linux VMs in Hyper-V

  Learn how to prepare for some of the problems you may have to work around if you run dynamic memory in a Red Hat Linux VM under Hyper-V.Continue Reading

• Harness the power of Microsoft Azure's PowerShell cmdlets

  PowerShell isn't just for Windows Server anymore. Get the basics on PowerShell with Azure and learn some Azure-specific cmdlets.Continue Reading

• Choose the best way to include signatures in Office 365

  When you move to Office 365, you lose some of the signature management capabilities you've become accustomed to with on-premises Exchange Server. Here are two options for getting signatures back.Continue Reading

• Using Windows Server 2012 R2 disk optimization

  When it comes to the vital task of disk optimization, proper use of RAID and awareness of workloads can make the difference.Continue Reading

• The best way to configure Alternate Login ID

  Learn the prerequisites and general configuration steps before using Alternate Login ID to speed up an Office 365 install.Continue Reading

• Look for these security flaws in your messaging environment

  The latest Verizon Data Breach Investigation Reports can give you some insight into areas of improvement for your Exchange setup.Continue Reading

• Support Exchange 2013 DLP policies with transport rules

  Transport rules can help organizations spot and prevent violations, but testing the rules is a crucial part of the setup process.Continue Reading

• The essential Office 365 migration guide

  Use this migration guide to learn everything your enterprise needs for migrating to Office 365, including research, decisions and management.Continue Reading

• How can Azure VMs help with hybrid Exchange?

  Azure virtual machines can't host Exchange servers, but there are a few ways you can use them to extend and improve a hybrid Exchange setup.Continue Reading

• Configure Office 365 authentication with PowerShell

  Admins can use this step-by-step process to configure MFA with Azure Active Directory Module for Windows PowerShell.Continue Reading

• Ten things to know before you migrate to Exchange 2013

  An upgrade to Exchange 2013 involves more work if you're on Exchange 2003, but if it includes the features and capabilities your organization needs, the extra effort could be worth it.Continue Reading

• Two new SCCM add-ons for advanced IT management

  Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager tools fit the bill for small shops, but enterprises may have to spring for third-party SCCM add-ons.Continue Reading

• Who, what, where? How the cloud complicates identity management

  IT security and regulatory compliance require identity and access management. However, the move to the cloud and the spread of mobile devices has added complexity. This handbook looks at tools and best practices for managing authentication, working ...Continue Reading

• Send an Exchange NDR report to a postmaster mailbox

  There isn't an option in Exchange to send non-delivery reports to intended recipients, but you can send copies to a postmaster mailbox. Here's how.Continue Reading

• Install security updates and protect Exchange 2013

  It seems like an obvious step, but one missed security update, patch or hot fix could spell disaster for Exchange.Continue Reading

• SMB protocol prerequisites in Windows Server 2012 R2

  Basic SMB doesn't require much more than a compatible OS. Advanced features in SMB 3.0 like Multichannel or Direct have a few more requirements.Continue Reading

• Why breaking up with Windows Server 2003 is hard to do

  With end of life looming for Windows Server 2003, more users are migrating to Windows Server 2012. But for some it is taking longer than expected.Continue Reading

• Do you actually need to virtualize Exchange Server 2013?

  As your organization weighs the pros and cons of virtualizing Exchange Server 2013, think about these important factors before you decide.Continue Reading

• Learn about Exchange 2013 enterprise rights management

  Security breaches and data leaks are ever-present in the enterprise. This option can help prevent major damage.Continue Reading

• Secure Office 365 with the Client Access Policy Builder

  Are you worried that giving users access to email outside the office is a security issue? Then it's time to implement Client Access policies.Continue Reading

• How to configure Office 365 MFA

  Using MFA is a must for cloud-based accounts. Help your end users set up Office 365 MFA.Continue Reading

• The best spam protection for an Exchange 2013 deployment

  As attackers find newer and faster ways to exploit vulnerabilities, know your antispam and antimalware options to protect Exchange 2013.Continue Reading

• Does Exchange 2013 virtualization make sense?

  Include storage and resource allocations in your discussions about whether or not to virtualize Exchange 2013.Continue Reading

• Create secure Exchange 2013 deployments with DLP policies

  Major security breaches pose a threat to enterprise email, but implementing data loss prevention techniques can help you fight back.Continue Reading

• How to create the best Exchange monitoring option

  The key to successful monitoring protocols for Exchange deployments isn't about the components themselves -- it's about end users.Continue Reading

• One thing you must do to protect Exchange 2013 security

  Admins must take some specific steps to protect Exchange 2013 and the sensitive information it contains.Continue Reading

• Changes in Exchange 2013 CU5 target OAB, hybrid Exchange

  Microsoft's update for Exchange 2013 includes changes to OAB generation and its popular configuration wizard.Continue Reading

• Learn your options for monitoring Exchange deployments

  Monitoring an Exchange deployment isn't new, but plenty has changed when it comes to what admins should do.Continue Reading

• It's time to reevaluate your email data retention policies

  Email is critical to most businesses, so Exchange should be front and center in an organization's data retention program.Continue Reading

• How admins can simplify learning PowerShell scripting

  Starting from scratch is a good approach when learning to script, but using or tailoring pre-written scripts can also help.Continue Reading

• Set high expectations for secure Exchange Server and compliance

  Security and compliance don't mean the same thing in Exchange deployments, but there are ways to make sure you have both.Continue Reading

• Four new WSUS features and capabilities all admins should know

  These four new features and capabilities in WSUS can simplify how admins roll out OS updates in their enterprises.Continue Reading

• The best ways to use a WSUS server in Windows Server 2012 R2

  Admins can use Microsoft's native tool to manage OS updates across an enterprise network with the help of PowerShell.Continue Reading

• Learn PowerShell scripting to harness the full power of Exchange

  If you haven't done so yet, you should master PowerShell scripting -- it's an essential skill Exchange admins of every level need to have.Continue Reading

• Important considerations for setting up Work Folders

  This tip could be the answer your enterprise is looking for to bridge the gap between personal and corporate devices.Continue Reading

• Critical namespace configurations in Exchange Server 2013

  It's important to get namespace planning right the first time. Otherwise, it's difficult -- or even impossible -- to change later.Continue Reading

• Have a simple Work Folders setup in Windows Server 2012 R2

  Follow these steps to have the easiest Work Folders setup possible and to make the feature an essential part of your enterprise.Continue Reading

• A more secure Exchange Server is within reach

  Securing Exchange Server is crucial for maintaining the end-user experience and protecting the enterprise.Continue Reading

• Three essential steps for preparing to migrate to Exchange 2013

  We break down the Exchange 2013 migration process into three easy steps to help your enterprise be as prepared as possible.Continue Reading

• Foundations of an Office 365 deployment

  There are several steps involved in a successful Office 365 migration, but building a solid foundation with these essentials is the most important.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2012 R2 updates come alongside light Patch Tuesday

  An RTF exploit gets patched for Microsoft Office in this month's Patch Tuesday update. Plus, Microsoft updates server and client OSes.Continue Reading

• Complete these critical steps to migrate to Windows Server 2012

  Make sure your enterprise follows these tips and tricks to make your Windows Server 2012 migration easier.Continue Reading

• managed print services (MPS)

  Managed print services (MPS) is the provision and oversight of business document output needs by an external service provider. Rather than dedicating internal resources to business activities related to printing, a company outsources them, freeing ...Continue Reading

• Quick tricks for migrating Exchange UM to Office 365

  If you plan to move UM-enabled mailboxes to Office 365 as part of a hybrid implementation, keep it simple to avoid complications.Continue Reading

• Patching and monitoring in a hybrid Exchange deployment

  Every task that admins handle in hybrid deployments can be split into three categories, but two deserve most of your attention.Continue Reading

• The many paths to Exchange 2013

  Exchange 2013 offers features that could benefit administrators and make the idea of hosted Exchange more appealing. We look at how to install and deploy Exchange 2013 and how to address problems that will likely arise in the upgrade process.Continue Reading

• Five quick pointers for easing Office 365 migrations

  If your enterprise is looking at an email migration, Office 365 can be the best option -- if you know the right questions to ask.Continue Reading

• File Server Resource Manager (FSRM)

  File Server Resource Manager is a features set in the File and Storage Services server role that helps admins classify and manage stored data in file servers for data management.Continue Reading

• The evolution of Microsoft System Center

  System Center, Microsoft's systems management suite, has been through many changes over the years to accommodate new software, the cloud and more.Continue Reading

• Is a single Office 365 tenant better than using multiple tenants?

  Companies looking to use more than one Office 365 tenant should be aware of the limitations and technical requirements.Continue Reading

• Don't go into battle without these Exchange Server tools

  Whether you're new to Exchange or a seasoned Exchange MVP, these tools are non-negotiables for maintaining control.Continue Reading

• Four essential tasks to complete before migrating to Exchange 2013

  Before you begin an Exchange 2013 migration, you'll have some prep work with reviewing prerequisites and learning migration best practices.Continue Reading

• System Center helps IT manage all that managing

  Microsoft's System Center 2012 R2 continues the tradition of managing multiple platforms from a suite of products. This handbook looks at the issues surrounding its use.Continue Reading

• Five tips to master Exchange 2013 OWA's new features

  Learn how to get the most out of OWA 2013 and its features with the help of these five tips.Continue Reading

• What do I need to know before having an offloaded data transfer?

  When you enable ODX file transfers, consider the necessary support to make them happen as well as taking baselines.Continue Reading

• How VDI deduplication works in Windows Server 2012 R2

  Windows Server 2012 R2 included changes that specifically addressed problems traditional dedupe had with virtual desktop infrastructure.Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting common Windows Server deduplication problems

  Learn how to fix an application having problems with deduplicated data, as well as when you should turn off dedupe.Continue Reading

• How has deduplicated data changed backups and restorations?

  Dedupe reduces the amount of storage needed for backups, but its performance and effectiveness can vary.Continue Reading

• Choosing the best email security tools for your business

  Once you've decided to look at third-party security tools, you'll have to decide between on-premises or cloud-based options.Continue Reading

• Best practices for managing Office 365 from Active Directory

  After moving to the cloud, you'll need to manage the parts of Exchange that don't show up in Active Directory.Continue Reading

• The five best ways to secure Windows Server deployments

  Security is on the minds of Windows Server admins everywhere, so we've compiled the best tips to help keep their enterprises secure.Continue Reading

• Configure essential tasks in an Exchange CAS deployment

  Before an enterprise can use Exchange 2013 Client Access Server, admins must configure these tasks.Continue Reading

• Microsoft System Center 2012 Data Protection Manager

  Microsoft System Center 2012 Data Protection Manager (DPM) is a tool in System Center 2012 that provides file servers, virtual servers, Exchange Server, SharePoint and SQL Server with disk-based, tape-based and bare metal recovery capabilities.Continue Reading

• Global Update Manager (GUM)

  Global Update Manager is a cluster component in the Windows Cluster Architecture.Continue Reading

• Why it's easier than ever to deploy hybrid Exchange Server

  Deploying a hybrid environment with Exchange 2013 is easier than it used to be, but it's still no piece of cake.Continue Reading

• Proper care of your new ADFS server

  Once implemented, ADFS becomes a vital part of your enterprise. Managing it and keeping it highly available is essential.Continue Reading

• Five tips for understanding your Exchange compliance options

  New Exchange 2013 and hosted Exchange features, as well as an overhaul of old ones, give admins more options to meet compliance requirements.Continue Reading

• Why the Windows Server Essentials role could benefit larger organizations

  Organizations may look to use an Essentials server, which makes Windows Server 2012 R2 function like Microsoft's small business offerings.Continue Reading

• Use Dynamic Quorum to change database availability group behavior

  Dynamic Quorum is technically a new Windows Server feature, but it can work well with DAGs in Exchange Server.Continue Reading

• Set up an ADFS server to manage Office 365 identities

  As long as you know how to set it up and install it, ADFS can be a good identity management option for Office 365.Continue Reading

• Customize Exchange ActiveSync settings for virtual directories

  Knowing the settings for the mailbox server and the Client Access server role is the key to customizing ActiveSync virtual directories.Continue Reading

• How to share calendars in Exchange 2013

  The easiest way to share calendars in Exchange 2013 is to enable its built-in, standards-compliant features.Continue Reading

• Keep secrets safe with an employee security awareness program

  You've mastered how to keep your enterprise up and running, but understanding your employees' mindset is essential to security.Continue Reading

• Three SharePoint and Yammer integration essentials admins should know

  Our expert answers common questions about Yammer and SharePoint integration and takes a look at what the future holds.Continue Reading

• Five tips to help Exchange admins troubleshoot Outlook problems

  These tips look at some of the most common Outlook problems and offer plenty of troubleshooting options.Continue Reading

• The Windows Azure Backup basics all Windows Server admins should know

  Azure can offer convenience and flexibility for enterprise data centers, but it's important to know the situations that may prevent its use.Continue Reading

• How to use the wbadmin tool to back up Windows Server 2008 R2

  Learn about the most important parts of creating backups, including automated and scheduled backups and the wbadmin tool.Continue Reading

• This year's five most popular tips for Windows Server admins

  Whether it was Windows Server 2012 or getting to know Windows Server 2012 R2, admins used these tips to learn about the OSes.Continue Reading

• Set up reliable Exchange 2013 load balancing with open source tools

  You can now use free third-party load-balancing options, including Linux offerings, thanks to improvements in Exchange.Continue Reading

• The top Exchange Server news stories of the year

  This end-of-the-year feature gives IT admins a recap of the most popular Exchange news stories of 2013.Continue Reading

• Keys to deploying Exchange without emptying the wallet

  The decisions you face as you plan for and design an Exchange deployment can impact your deployment options and the overall cost.Continue Reading

• The best Windows IT career skills tips of 2013

  IT pros can improve their career skills with the year's top content covering certifications, career development and systems knowledge.Continue Reading

• Eight Exchange skills and topics every admin should know

  If you want to take your Exchange knowledge to the next level, tackle the tough topics and find ways to validate what you know.Continue Reading

• Use IT staff retention strategies to maintain a successful business

  A first-class IT staff is hard to find and keep, but convincing them to stick around is a necessary investment for a successful business.Continue Reading

• Should you migrate to Windows Server 2012 R2?

  It's time to seriously consider migration plans for Windows Server 2012 R2. Learn best practices, what's new and more.Continue Reading

• Keep calm and message on: Prepping for an Exchange Online migration

  Learn how a smooth migration to Exchange Online not only keeps end users happy, but also minimizes IT help desk calls.Continue Reading