Problem solve

Problem solve

Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.

• An Exchange Online administration primer for Office 365 newbies

  Don’t wait until it’s too late. Become familiar with the basics of Microsoft’s Exchange Online administration prior to making the move to Office 365. Continue Reading

• Why can't I compare the contents of PowerShell variables?

  Even though it's a common problem that can frustrate administrators, it's possible to compare PowerShell variables by learning some simple commands. Continue Reading

• Built-in NIC teaming in Windows Server 2012 gives IT pros a break

  In Windows Server 2012, IT pros can prepare for failover scenarios using the newly built-in NIC teaming capability. Continue Reading

• ActiveSync support in Windows 8 helps Exchange shops control BYOD

  Windows 8 and Windows RT lean on an old friend for Exchange connectivity. It improves Exchange mailbox security on tablets, making BYOD more feasible for Exchange orgs. Continue Reading

• Windows Azure and Amazon EC2: Cloud computing face-off

  Microsoft's cloud computing competitor is younger than Amazon's EC2. Azure's made strides, but is it enough to be crowned cloud computing king? Continue Reading

• Converting VMware virtual machines to Hyper-V with VMC

  If you need to consolidate into a Windows-based shop, Microsoft provides a free tool to convert VMware virtual machines to Hyper-V machines.Continue Reading

• How to write reusable PowerShell scripts for Exchange Server

  We’ve all heard about the virtues of PowerShell. Reusable scripts may not change your life, but they'll certainly change your job and save you lots of time.Continue Reading

• How to rebuild an Exchange edge transport server

  Since the edge transport server’s configuration info isn’t stored in Active Directory, you can’t rebuild it as you would other server roles. We’ve got the instructions you’ll need.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Manager 2012 enhancements

  Virtual Machine Manager 2012 promises improvements for Hyper-V shops. Find out why this single-pane-of-glass manager improves on VMM 2008.Continue Reading

• How Exchange Online retention policies aid records management

  A move to the cloud eliminates certain administrative chores. One task you must still handle is records management. Read about Exchange Online retention policies and the PowerShell you’ll need here.Continue Reading

• SMB 3.0 brings fault tolerant features, more speed

  SMB 3.0 ushers in the next generation of server messaging features and brings in speed improvements and tricks.Continue Reading

• How to repair a corrupt Outlook 2010 deployment

  When Outlook goes down, don’t automatically download a third-party tool. Instead, try one of these approaches suggested by our expert.Continue Reading

• How Windows Server 2012 enables Active Directory cloud deployments

  Learning from past mistakes, Microsoft has added features that improve domain controller deployment, whether on-premises or not.Continue Reading

• Examining AD RMS and Exchange 2010 IRM's cryptographic modes

  Does IRM and AD RMS’s relationship confuse you? What about their different cryptographic modes? It’s definitely a perplexing topic; our expert aims to demystify it.Continue Reading

• Managing Hyper-V 3.0 extensible switch, Replica with PowerShell

  Are PowerShell 3 and Hyper-V 3.0 a perfect match? With some basic PowerShell scripts, learn how to complete management functions on two top features.Continue Reading

• Eight steps to better securing Exchange Server 2010

  Properly protecting Exchange Server 2010 means maintaining top-notch security. Perform the tasks on this checklist regularly to keep your deployment safe and sound.Continue Reading

• Don't dismiss the power of PowerShell

  This essential e-zine reviews key BYOD concerns and considerations for Exchange admins, and offers tips for addressing the technical logistics of delivering secure email access to mobile devices. Learn how to leverage PowerShell scripts, ActiveSync ...Continue Reading

• How to send Outlook 2010 items via SMS text message

  No smart phone, no problem! You can still configure Outlook 2010 to send mail, calendar items and more to users who have cell phones that aren’t ActiveSync-enabled. Here’s how.Continue Reading

• Five Group Policy Preferences that replace Windows logon scripts

  You don't need to deal with logon scripts any longer; these GPPs can solve the same problems without all the syntax hassle.Continue Reading

• Choosing iSCSI as a low-cost alternative to Hyper-V High Availability

  You don't have to break the bank for highly available virtualization. iSCSI storage offers plenty of benefits with the right implementation.Continue Reading

• How to troubleshoot Exchange Autodiscover service issues

  The Exchange Autodiscover service doesn’t typically need a lot of maintenance. But when issues crop up, make sure you’re ready.Continue Reading

• Microsoft certifications: How MCSE and MCSA have changed

  Microsoft's revamped certification program brings back familiar acronyms like MCSE and MCSA, but other important changes have occurred as well.Continue Reading

• The top five Group Policy PowerShell commands

  The GUI is great for some things, but these scripts will help make your Group Policy administration much more efficient.Continue Reading

• Smart sizing for Exchange Server 2010 mailbox databases

  There is no single size that fits the needs of all Exchange Server 2010 mailbox databases. But there are several aspects to consider when determining what’s best for your company.Continue Reading

• FAQ: Preparing for the upgrade to Windows Server 2012

  Mulling over an upgrade to Windows Server 2012? You're bound to have some questions. Our expert answers the most common ones.Continue Reading

• Assessing Office 365's Lync Online for Exchange admins

  Lync Online gets less fanfare than Exchange and SharePoint online, but that doesn't mean you should disregard it. Know what to expect if and when your company jumps on the Office 365 bandwagon.Continue Reading

• Credibility is the cornerstone of your IT career

  Credibility at work doesn’t come about just from waving around your degrees and certifications. It goes beyond technical skills. So how can you build up your credibility?Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Exchange 2010 public folder replication issues

  Public folders are here to stay. Therefore, you need to know how to fix them if anything -- like replication -- goes wrong.Continue Reading

• FAQ: Hardening Windows servers

  Here's why you should treat your server like a workstation -- and not a server -- when it comes to security.Continue Reading

• How to change Office 365 user passwords via PowerShell

  Sorry if you’re a bit weary of hearing reasons why PowerShell is so important. Here’s one more: you’ll need it for password management in Office 365.Continue Reading

• What to know before repairing Exchange Server 2010 databases

  Repairing an Exchange 2010 database is a potentially destructive operation. Following these carefully laid out instructions can help you avoid disaster.Continue Reading

• Install WSUS updates immediately with Windows PowerShell

  One little script can change your life. Use Greg Shields' 'Big Red Button' to automate patching and reclaim some hours in your day.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2010 SP2 rollup 3 includes long-awaited fix

  Exchange 2010 SP2 RU 3 contains 42 helpful fixes, including one that some Exchange Server administrators might deem a feature enhancement.Continue Reading

• Revamped Windows Performance Toolkit improves performance monitoring

  Performance monitoring gets a graphical boost with the release of several new event tracing tools.Continue Reading

• How to track Microsoft Exchange Server licenses for free

  No one wants to break Microsoft’s licensing laws, so keeping track of your Exchange licenses is critical. It may not be obvious due to its name, but this free Microsoft tool can help.Continue Reading

• FAQ: System Center Configuration Manager 2012

  Microsoft's new configuration management product offers some important new features. But only you know if it's the right fit for your organization.Continue Reading

• Exchange Mailbag: Examining Outlook connectivity issues

  Outlook connectivity can prove troublesome, but don’t worry, help is on the way. This mailbag touches on common problems, as well as the tools you’ll need to get them fixed.Continue Reading

• Protecting SharePoint 2010 document libraries with IRM

  Normally a Windows feature, Information Rights Management also lets admins limit access to SharePoint 2010 documents. Here’s how to set up IRM and handle its limitations.Continue Reading

• How to prepare Exchange Server 2010 for reusable PowerShell scripts

  Creating reusable PowerShell scripts can save admins valuable time. But before you begin writing them, you’ve got to get your Exchange Server 2010 environment in order.Continue Reading

• How P2V tools can help you choose between Hyper-V and VMware

  Hyper-V or VMware? The question's not going away, but migration planning products can help you give a more informed answer.Continue Reading

• Why Workflow may be PowerShell v3's most important feature

  Your task list is about to be reborn. Our expert explains how Workflow will help you now -- and how it will help guide Microsoft in the future.Continue Reading

• How to fix Exchange 2010 virtual directory re-creation problems

  Re-creating virtual directories in Exchange 2010 is a straightforward process, but that doesn't mean problems won't occur. First, check these trouble spots.Continue Reading

• Understanding management gets your IT department what it needs

  Crafting the perfect pitch can be difficult in a budget-conscious workplace. Knowing how management will react to proposals can help.Continue Reading

• How to create custom driver databases with Windows Deployment Services

  Plug and Play isn't just for USB devices. Here's how to put it to work in your installation environment.Continue Reading

• How to run WSUS in a Hyper-V virtual machine

  What do you need to consider when virtualizing WSUS? Our expert answers some common questions.Continue Reading

• How to manually uninstall Exchange Server 2010

  Severe damage to Exchange Server 2010 may require you to uninstall the program. Follow these tips to prevent harm to Active Directory.Continue Reading

• How to fix three nagging iPhone problems in Exchange 2007

  If your iPhone users are having trouble accessing Exchange 2007 email and calendaring, you can sidestep the problems before they happen.Continue Reading

• Top five Group Policy improvements in Windows Server 2012

  What's changed with Active Directory Group Policy in Windows Server 2012? Get an idea of some of the improvements in this tip.Continue Reading

• Five habits of highly successful IT pros

  Wondering why you’re not ascending in your IT department? Start incorporating these helpful habits and watch your stock rise.Continue Reading

• How to secure Exchange Server 2010 post deployment

  So you’ve deployed Exchange 2010, but are you confident in its security? If you’re unsure, make certain you’ve checked off these seven items.Continue Reading

• Guide: Troubleshooting Microsoft Outlook

  Got a Microsoft Outlook problem? Whether you’ve run into a confusing error message, your users are experiencing password or calendar issues, or you simply can’t connect, we’ve got the answer here.Continue Reading

• New features in Microsoft IIS 8

  Admins will find plenty of new features to like in the new version of Microsoft's web server – especially if they're hosting large-scale operations.Continue Reading

• Improving Exchange 2010 uptime with virtualization and HA features

  There are numerous features you can use -- some native to Exchange 2010 and some included in virtualization platforms -- to improve uptime and optimize performance. Consider these six areas.Continue Reading

• Exchange Server 2010 SP2 RU 2 contains 43 more fixes

  Another rollup update for Exchange 2010 SP2 and once again admins get a slew of new fixes. Is this cause for concern or is the Exchange team simply exterminating a lot of little bugs?Continue Reading

• How to connect to Office 365's PowerShell in the cloud

  Admins can get more granular control of Office 365 resources after connecting to PowerShell. Unfortunately, determining how to make that initial connection isn't immediately clear.Continue Reading

• How ReFS compares to NTFS

  Microsoft's modernized file system is all about integrity. Here are the new features that set it apart from its predecessor.Continue Reading

• Assessing the value of Microsoft certifications

  Will Microsoft certifications get you a great job or make you a lot of money? Probably not, but that doesn’t mean they’re not still extremely valuable.Continue Reading

• Is NTLM a smart way to authenticate to Exchange Server 2010?

  Microsoft discontinued support for NTLM in Exchange 2010 RTM, then reinstated it in Exchange 2010 SP1. But is it a good way to authenticate to Exchange?Continue Reading

• Top five features in PowerShell v3

  PowerShell has become pretty hard to ignore. Here are the latest reasons to get up to speed with the scripting tool.Continue Reading

• Are Exchange Server 2010’s discovery capabilities enough?

  While Exchange 2010 contains helpful discovery features, they may not be sufficient for every company’s legal needs. See why you may need to supplement them with a third-party product.Continue Reading

• How Moore's Law is clearing the way for Hyper-V 3.0

  Like everything else, the limits of virtualization are expanding again. Are you prepared to take advantage?Continue Reading

• PowerShell essentials for Exchange 2010 administrators

  Microsoft has made it clear PowerShell is going to be the administrative tool of choice moving forward. Familiarize yourself with basic syntax or get left behind.Continue Reading

• Exchange Mailbag: Addressing Exchange 2010 Global Address List issues

  The Global Address List is one of the most integral parts of Exchange 2010, but also one of the most misunderstood. Get answers to common GAL problems in the latest edition of our expert mailbag.Continue Reading

• Five ways to advance your Windows career

  IT is a competitive industry and you might feel stuck in one position. Find out how goal setting -- and knowledge -- can improve your prospects.Continue Reading

• How can I monitor Hyper-V virtual machine traffic?

  The more information you want about Hyper-V traffic, the harder it will be to get. Our expert explains why things will get better in Windows Server 8.Continue Reading

• Social networking strategies to further your IT career

  Twitter and LinkedIn are phenomenal resources when it comes to advancing your IT career. But are you using them effectively?Continue Reading

• Step-by-step guide: Remote Desktop Gateway configuration

  The Remote Desktop Gateway role service extends the reach of Remote Desktop Services. Here's how to set it up, step by step.Continue Reading

• Three reasons behind Exchange 2010 Management Console failures

  It’s not uncommon for the Exchange 2010 management console to break down. Some failures may be attributed to changes made since Exchange 2007, but there are other causes as well.Continue Reading

• Getting around SharePoint 2010 SP1 database upgrade hiccups

  When you apply SharePoint 2010 Service Pack 1, SharePoint databases are supposed to be upgraded. Unfortunately, the process isn’t without its frustrations.Continue Reading

• Exchange ActiveSync tweaks that will lower your company’s phone bills

  These days, everyone’s looking to save a few bucks wherever they can. Find out how a few minor ActiveSync modifications can go a long way toward lowering your company’s phone bills.Continue Reading

• Centrally managing out-of-office messages in Exchange Server 2010

  Is out-of-office message management possible in Exchange 2010? Microsoft doesn’t officially support it, but our expert attempted a couple methods to find out.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 8 data deduplication delivers efficient storage

  Thought single-instance storage was as good as it gets? Server 8's native deduplication will increase efficiency, especially for virtual servers.Continue Reading

• Complete your Exchange 2010 migration: Move data using PowerShell

  You’ve taken the necessary precautions and followed all the right steps. Complete your Exchange 2010 migration by moving public folders, PST files and mailboxes with PowerShell.Continue Reading

• How Office 365 eases storage woes while keeping admins busy

  Not only does a move to Office 365 lessen storage annoyances; it also gives admins more time to focus on more pressing business issues.Continue Reading

• Cost considerations: When blade servers meet virtualization

  When it comes to cost-effectiveness, do blade servers and virtualization combine to make CFOs happy?Continue Reading

• Examining blade server options for Windows Server 2008 R2

  It's a question asked with relative frequency: should I implement blade or rackmount hardware for Windows Server 2008 R2? The truth is there's no simple answer.Continue Reading

• Determining what hardware is needed to support virtualization

  Short- and long-term virtualization strategies are important to consider when choosing hardware for Windows Server 2008 R2.Continue Reading

• Rightsizing hardware for Windows Server 2008 R2 editions

  What's your hardware blueprint? Executing a good Microsoft Windows Serer 2008 R2 hardware plan can actually save money in the long run.Continue Reading

• Secure Windows Server in the cloud via Active Directory Group Policy

  When cloud technology invades, Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 admins must ensure their environments remain secure. Group Policy to the rescue?Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Outlook Anywhere: Where to start

  Several factors can stop Outlook Anywhere from working correctly. Familiarize yourself with the most common pain points and learn their fixes here.Continue Reading

• What's the best way to set Exchange mailbox size limits?

  Get tips and expert advice on the best way to set Exchange mailbox size limits for users.Continue Reading

• How MAP Toolkit 6.5 can put you on the right migration path

  The latest edition of the Microsoft Assessment and Planning Toolkit offers expanded features to ease local and cloud-based migrations.Continue Reading

• All Outlook 2010 Trust Center settings are not created equal

  The Outlook 2010 Trust Center offers plenty of security settings to administrators. That doesn’t mean they’re all important though.Continue Reading

• Top 10 reasons why you shouldn’t ignore mobile device security

  What’s your company’s mobile security strategy? You don’t really worry about it? These 10 reasons will make you rethink that decision.Continue Reading

• Using Microsoft PerfView to profile process performance data

  Microsoft made its internal performance monitoring tool available to the public. Here's how it offers an advanced peek at application processes.Continue Reading

• Microsoft gets busy with 58 fixes in first Exchange 2010 SP2 rollup

  It seems like just yesterday that Exchange 2010 SP2 was released. Update rollup 1 is here already, and it's unclear if that's a good or bad thing.Continue Reading

• Weighing Exchange 2010 hardware requirements vs. organizational needs

  Aligning with Microsoft’s Exchange 2010 hardware requirements is critical, but remember, you've got to balance them with your company’s own unique needs and budget.Continue Reading

• Managing access control with Windows Rights Management Services

  Active Directory's Rights Management Services is a good way of managing access to data, but there are caveats.Continue Reading

• Where Windows managers should spend their upgrade money

  Ready to invest in a system upgrade, but unsure where to start? Our expert offers ideas on where your funds will be best allocated.Continue Reading

• Bringing Windows RDS to the web: Designing the DMZ

  Remote Desktop Gateway secures Internet access for Remote Desktop Services applications – if you set it up properly.Continue Reading

• Exchange Online mobile device support: A comprehensive look

  As Exchange organizations look to Office 365, questions arise about mobile device support in the cloud. Exchange Online may have the features your enterprise wants and needs.Continue Reading

• Deciding between blade and rack-mount gear for Windows Server 2008

  Are you looking for scalability or performance? It's important to understand your needs before choosing a Windows Server hardware solution.Continue Reading

• Distinguishing between mail contacts and mail users in Exchange 2010

  It’s easy to confuse mail users with mail contacts in Exchange 2010. Our expert sorts out the differences between these seemingly interchangeable terms.Continue Reading

• Exchange Server 2007 SP3 Rollup 6 drops with 21 new fixes

  If you still rely on Exchange Server 2007, you may want to carefully consider the latest rollup. It might be the last.Continue Reading

• Kerberos platform interoperability connects Windows to the rest of the world

  The Kerberos authentication protocol ensures safe connections between multiple platforms. Find out just how it creates secure connections in this overview.Continue Reading

• Hyper-V management tool 5nine revives the GUI on Windows Server

  The role of the command line is growing, but GUI-loving admins have options. We look at a Hyper-V tool that may appease the button-clickers.Continue Reading

• Building a self-assessment plan for IT pros

  Take a step back to reflect on where you’ve been and where your career is going. Annual self-assessment can boost your professional profile and help prepare you for an uncertain future.Continue Reading

• Custom email filtering with Forefront Protection 2010 for Exchange

  ForeFront Protection 2010 for Exchange helps keep spam and viruses at bay. But did you know you can also use its custom email filters to enforce corporate email policies?Continue Reading

• Don’t overlook security add-ons when troubleshooting Outlook issues

  Third-party add-ons are supposed to aid and protect Outlook, right? They may be hurting more than they’re helping if not properly configured.Continue Reading

• Why you should consider SCOM for Exchange Server monitoring

  Are you relying on complicated performance monitor counters to track your Exchange servers’ health? If so, you may want to give SCOM a try.Continue Reading