Problem solve

Problem solve

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

• Active Directory replication tips, tricks and best practices

  If you have Active Directory in your shop, no matter how large or small, replication is a basic fact of IT life. Here's advice on how to get the most out of the replication process. Continue Reading

• Scoping out the subtle differences between Hyper-V and VMware

  Hyper-V and VMware both provide hypervisor virtualization. But while the two are similar, there are subtle differences. Continue Reading

• What happened to the disk cleanup utility in Windows Server 2008?

  Useful desktop applications like cleanmgr.exe are missing from the server editions of Windows. There is a way to get them back. Continue Reading

• Exchange Server 2007 SP3 rollup fixes 20 issues

  Though Exchange Server 2010 is mature, many IT shops still rely on Exchange Server 2007. If that includes you, check out the fixes in Exchange 2007 SP3 Update Rollup 4. Continue Reading

• When is a Recycle Bin Not a Recycle Bin? When it's in Active Directory

  The Active Directory Recycle Bin isn't exactly the same as the one found on desktop operating systems. That doesn't mean it isn't useful. Continue Reading

• Scripting: VMware PowerCLI vs. Microsoft PowerShell

  VMware's PowerCLI sits atop Microsoft's PowerShell, but does it make scripting on a virtualization platform better?Continue Reading

• Why the Active Directory Federation Service is becoming more important

  Version 2.0 of ADFS just may be the product that gets corporate IT shops to adopt single sign-on infrastructure.Continue Reading

• How SharePoint 2010 simplifies e-discovery

  SharePoint 2010 gives you access to far more e-discovery features than any previous release -- features that will ease compliance issues when they arise.Continue Reading

• Config iSCSI for Windows Server: Seven tips you forgot to remember

  Dealing with iSCSI remains a challenge for some IT pros. Find out tips you forgot to remember when configuring the system.Continue Reading

• Resolving three common Exchange Server 2010 issues

  Exchange 2010 is an improvement over Exchange 2007, but it isn’t perfect. Here are three common Exchange Server 2010 problems -- and their solutions.Continue Reading

• Assembling an effective Exchange data retention policy

  Companies can get in trouble for not retaining Exchange email and data, or holding onto that information for too long. Learn how to build an effective data retention policy to avoid legal issues.Continue Reading

• Validate determines root cause of server network issues

  By using the Cluster Validation Wizard on Windows Server 2008, admins can help pinpoint issues with the network in failover clusters.Continue Reading

• The benefits -- and risks -- of hosted Exchange

  The idea of moving Exchange to the cloud stirs fear in IT pros, but hosted options make sense for some firms. Here’s how to decide if it is right for your company.Continue Reading

• Hosting Exchange: Making sense of the dollars and cents

  Out expert offers up some cost analysis when moving Exchange to the cloud.Continue Reading

• Office 365: Convergence in the cloud

  Companies looking to host Exchange might want to look at Office 365, a bundle that includes Exchange, SharePoint and Lync Online.Continue Reading

• What you need to know before virtualizing Exchange 2010

  Before actually virtualizing Exchange Server 2010, there are a few things admins should know. Prepare yourself with this quick list of need-to-know info.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2010 SP1 problem? Update Rollup 4 might fix it

  If you run Exchange Server 2010 SP1 or plan to upgrade, check out some of the important fixes and feature enhancements in Update Rollup 4.Continue Reading

• Low-cost storage options for Exchange Server 2010

  Microsoft condones cheap storage to combat bloated databases in Exchange Server 2010. Find out how much you can save and how DAGs fit into the pricing model.Continue Reading

• Eight best practices for retaining IT talent

  All companies concentrate on hiring the right people for IT, but few focus on retaining them. These tips will help you engage your staff members and build loyalty within the group.Continue Reading

• Understanding Active Directory's role in the cloud

  IT managers are skeptical about using Active Directory in the cloud. Some enterprises are doing it, but how does one make the transition?Continue Reading

• Performance depleted? The File Server Capacity Tool can tell you why

  The File Server Capacity Tool can help admins determine whether or not a server can handle system loads, but another use is to determine if a build is the cause of lower performance.Continue Reading

• The benefits of Outlook Web App 2010 segmentation

  There are many new and improved features in Outlook Web App 2010, but that doesn’t mean you need them all. Here’s how they impact your environment, and how to disable them.Continue Reading

• How to add certificates to Exchange Server 2010

  Are you trying to import a new certificate into Exchange 2010? Check out these simple steps.Continue Reading

• Microsoft’s new server for tight budgets

  Microsoft’s MultiPoint Server 2011 helps IT shops with limited funds that need to connect old computers to a central machine.Continue Reading

• Advanced Format drives can impact software in Windows Server

  Advanced Format drives are making waves in the storage space. The new technology frees up space on disk, but there are roadblocks that will hamper implementation in the short term.Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot Windows boot problems with Xbootmgr

  By working with the Xperf tool, Xbootmgr helps admins pinpoint the real cause of slow boot issues in Windows Server.Continue Reading

• Exchange Management Shell hints for the reluctant admin

  Exchange Management Shell skills are more valuable now than ever before, especially with Exchange 2010. Now’s the time to become command-line savvy.Continue Reading

• Deconstructing Central Administration in SharePoint 2010

  You still can‘t manage individual sites and site collections from Central Administration in SharePoint 2010; but there are eight sections that you can manage.Continue Reading

• Why mssphtb.dll was disabled in Outlook 2010

  Exchange admins wonder why Microsoft disabled the mssphtb.dll utility in Outlook 2010. Our expert clears the air on this misunderstood search component.Continue Reading

• Repairing three problems that annoy Outlook 2010 users

  Outlook 2010 isn't perfect. These three common Outlook 2010 pains may be plaguing your users.Continue Reading

• How to size an Active Directory domain controller in Windows

  Although sizing a domain controller comes with its share of challenges, it is possible. Learn the ins and outs of the process and what to watch for.Continue Reading

• Why Hyper-V drivers should matter to Windows admins

  Hyper-V drivers are key to understanding Microsoft’s virtualization platform and can bring an array of performance gains to the table.Continue Reading

• Using PowerShell to manage Microsoft Hyper-V

  Windows admins aren't limited when it comes to managing Hyper-V from the command line. Here are two (free) options for supporting virtual machines in Windows.Continue Reading

• A look at the System Center Configuration Manager 2012 beta

  The second beta of SCCM 2012 has key features for remote application management. It also delivers applications to end users regardless of which device they are using.Continue Reading

• Exchange Server 2010 on VMware: Why daily monitoring is a must

  A virtualized Exchange 2010 installment has its benefits but needs daily attention. Check these metrics regularly.Continue Reading

• A look at affordable Microsoft certification exam prep options

  Are you interested in a Microsoft certification prep course but hesitant because of costs? Don't worry. You can get access to all the info you need without breaking the bank.Continue Reading

• Identifying Outlook Anywhere connectivity glitches

  Outlook Anywhere's initial configuration can be tricky. If you're having trouble connecting, there are a couple tests you can run.Continue Reading

• Six commonly overlooked Exchange security vulnerabilities

  Think you’re taking the steps needed to fully secure Exchange? Think again.Continue Reading

• Avoid application compatibility issues in Windows Server 2008 R2

  While new applications run smoothly in Windows Server 2008 R2, legacy apps aren't always as steadfast. Use these tips to tackle and avert compatibility problems.Continue Reading

• Microsoft System Center Advisor tracks server issues in the cloud

  Microsoft System Center Advisor can help admins keep up to date with Windows Server configuration issues and avoid problems before they occur.Continue Reading

• Should you use Exchange Server 2010 lagged database copies?

  Microsoft recommends using lagged database copies to prevent corrupt data from infecting mailbox databases. Is that really a good idea?Continue Reading

• How to remove persistent Exchange 2003 servers

  Have you upgraded from Exchange 2003 to a newer version, but can’t get rid of the server? Find out what to delete to completely uninstall Exchange 2003.Continue Reading

• Mastering workflow reports in SharePoint 2010

  Take advantage of the reporting and monitoring capabilities to keep tabs on workflow processes in SharePoint 2010.Continue Reading

• Repadmin diagnoses Active Directory replication issues in Windows

  Repadmin troubleshoots Active Directory replication issues, but it also includes some commands that Windows administrators might not recognize.Continue Reading

• BES 5.0.2 and Exchange 2010 SP1: What you should know

  Can't decide which version of BES 5.0.2 to roll out? Compare features and determine if your setup meets the prerequisites.Continue Reading

• Project Concero and its role in Microsoft's cloud strategy

  What is Microsoft's Project Concero, anyway? In short, it offers a way to control and delegate virtual machine and hypervisor resources.Continue Reading

• Curing two Exchange 2010 mailbox move headaches

  Moving Exchange 2010 mailboxes may seem like a breeze, but two common problems can stand in the way.Continue Reading

• Tweaking IIS settings eases large client uploads in Windows Server

  Making the proper metabase settings in Microsoft IIS can ease the process of large client uploads in Windows Server. Here are some changes to consider.Continue Reading

• Do this before virtualizing Exchange Server 2010

  Virtualizing Exchange 2010 servers is a smart move, and the steps involved are fairly simple. The actual virtualization process begins long before you create a VM.Continue Reading

• Always-on VPN extends remote management for IT admins

  Always-on VPN technologies like Microsoft DirectAccess are changing the way organizations communicate inside and outside the office.Continue Reading

• Deciphering the extend.dat Outlook error message

  Frustrated admins have been dealing with extend.dat error messages since Outlook 97. Our expert sheds some light on this all-too-common Outlook error.Continue Reading

• Making the most of Exchange 2010 database availability groups

  Don't let the complexity of database availability groups intimidate you. These three features are worth learning.Continue Reading

• Career networking dos and don'ts for the IT pro

  Networking among your peers goes a long way toward building valuable business relationships. Be the first person people think of when desirable positions become available.Continue Reading

• Adopt the right Hyper-V tools for your Windows environment

  As more IT shops virtualize their Windows servers, the variety of Hyper-V management tools for all enterprises also continues to grow.Continue Reading

• Learning the value of designing PowerShell functions for reuse

  PowerShell is a highly extensible scripting language, and its many functions make it a tool that is far more versatile than you may think.Continue Reading

• EMS commands to modify ActiveSync throttling policies

  Throttling Exchange ActiveSync policies takes a certain amount of command-line savvy. Get the command-specific info you need.Continue Reading

• Configuring Outlook 2010 send/receive groups

  Outlook tasks can overwhelm mailbox servers. Send/receive groups can remove some of that strain if you set them up correctly.Continue Reading

• You've got a SharePoint governance plan -- now what?

  Learn how to sell management on the benefits of your SharePoint governance plan so you can put it into action.Continue Reading

• Sidestepping server time sync issues in Windows Server

  Faulty server clocks can put your Windows server on the fritz without the proper configurations to prevent serious time sync issues.Continue Reading

• Accepting Exchange 2010 storage redesigns

  The push to cheaper storage, the removal of SIS and larger mailboxes are just a few Exchange 2010 storage changes that make some admins uneasy.Continue Reading

• Configuring dynamic compression in Internet Information Services 7.0

  Admins can improve the way dynamically-generated content is cached and compressed with an updated property in IIS 7.0, though a few drawbacks can still hinder performance.Continue Reading

• Studs and duds in the Windows Server 2008 R2 feature set

  R2 made a feature-savvy entrance when it was released almost two years ago, but not every enhancement has lived up to the hype.Continue Reading

• Exchange 2010 SP1 gets retention policy management overhaul

  Message retention is essential, but setting policies via the command line in Exchange 2010 RTM is a nuisance. Microsoft removed those irritations in SP1.Continue Reading

• Testing top Microsoft support tools for Windows 2008 compatibility

  For years Microsoft has worked to expand its slate of troubleshooting tools for admins. But with no Support Tools to download for the latest OS, do the same utilities still apply?Continue Reading

• Fighting off Microsoft Hyper-V security hacks

  Although hypervisors are built with security in mind, a sloppy Hyper-V host configuration can still open up your servers to a wide range of exploits.Continue Reading

• Script automates Exchange 2010 SP1 discovery

  Harness the power of this PowerShell script to automate weekly Exchange 2010 SP1 multi-mailbox discovery.Continue Reading

• Study Guide: Exchange 2010 MCTS certification exam

  Microsoft states that the Exchange 2010 70-662 certification exam is equally weighted, but our expert suggests you concentrate on a few particular areas.Continue Reading

• Free app brings IIS administration to smartphones

  The new IIS7 Mobile Admin utility literally puts management of Internet Information Services in the palm of your hand, but the tool is not without its limitations.Continue Reading

• Three scripts automate Exchange Server 2010 SP1 troubleshooting

  If you’re looking for a way to monitor an Exchange 2010 install without a lot of work, these three troubleshooter scripts are powerful, flexible and automatic.Continue Reading

• What does ASLR really mean for Windows security?

  While address space layout randomization may be a mouthful, the added protection could be critical to Windows security. But will ASLR really stop malware in its tracks?Continue Reading

• Are Exchange 2010 archive databases more trouble than they're worth?

  Moving archive mailboxes to a dedicated database on inexpensive hardware can alleviate storage concerns, but will it create another problem?Continue Reading

• Become a more valuable IT professional: Go beyond your title

  Too many IT pros forget that their titles are just labels and that their real worth lies in their work. Follow these 12 tips to further improve your value within your organization.Continue Reading

• An introduction to Exchange 2010 ActiveSync throttling

  ActiveSync throttling policies are beneficial to Exchange 2010. They can protect a client access server from overload and can keep mobile device users from meddling with settings.Continue Reading

• Making the most of InfoPath 2010 forms

  Follow these 5 best practices and see how often-underused InfoPath forms transform into valuable business tools.Continue Reading

• What Server App-V means for applications in the cloud

  Microsoft is close to extending its application virtualization technology to the server. The question is, will it encourage more companies to invest in Azure?Continue Reading

• Addressing Outlook Web App 2010 security concerns

  New, user-friendly features may make OWA 2010 more appealing, but with increased use comes increased security threats. Use these tactics to protect your network.Continue Reading

• Applying regular expressions (regex) to Windows PowerShell

  It may seem daunting at first, but the combination of regular expressions (regex) with PowerShell can be an admin’s best friend when it comes to certain complex tasks.Continue Reading

• Which server virtualization features matter most?

  These days it's really not about which hypervisor you choose -- it's everything else that goes with it. So how do you decide which features are truly worth their salt?Continue Reading

• Microsoft security tool gauges attack surface for Windows Server

  The beta version of Attack Surface Analyzer is designed to help programmers and admins uncover the security ramifications of third-party apps before an attack.Continue Reading

• Free Exchange add-on picks up native spam filtering slack

  It's no secret that Exchange administrators hate spam. Protect users with a free add-on that bolsters Exchange’s native spam filtering.Continue Reading

• How a CAS array can protect Exchange Server 2010 from failure

  Exchange 2010 connects to clients via the client access server. Creating a CAS array can prevent the server from becoming a single point of failure. Here’s how to do it.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Xperf tutorial: New ways to monitor Windows performance

  Part of the Windows Performance Toolkit, Microsoft's Xperf utility easily trumps the monitoring capabilities of older admin tools like Perfmon. So how does it work?Continue Reading

• Investigating invalid security certificate name errors in Outlook

  Creating a security certificate for Exchange 2007 can be tricky. Include one incorrect piece of info, and you’ll get an error message. This tip explains common mistakes and a workaround.Continue Reading

• A closer look at the Ntdsutil command-line tools for Active Directory

  Dig into the slew of Ntdsutil commands in Windows Server 2008 and R2 that provide admins with improved Active Directory management.Continue Reading

• Living dangerously with Ntdsutil commands in Windows Server 2008

  While the Ntdsutil utility for Active Directory has been around since the days of Windows 2000, new functionality in Windows Server 2008 and R2 gives admins even more to work with.Continue Reading

• New multi-mailbox search capabilities in Exchange 2010 SP1

  Multi-mailbox search was valuable in Exchange 2010 RTM, and Microsoft has only upped the ante with SP1 improvements that can help you spot potential storage issues, among other things.Continue Reading

• Low-cost ways to get the IT skills you need

  Do you have the practical experience you need to further your career? Here are five opportunities you may not have thought about.Continue Reading

• Best practices for migrating to SharePoint 2010

  Migrating even a small implementation or file share in SharePoint is not easy. Plan your process and test your work for the best results.Continue Reading

• System Center Updates Publisher zeroes in on third-party updates

  Microsoft is close to releasing a new version of its System Center Updates Publisher, a standalone utility that can help simplify updates to third-party software and applications.Continue Reading

• Keep ActiveSync running while transitioning to Exchange 2010

  Exchange 2003 and Exchange 2010 will peacefully coexist during an upgrade, but you’ll need to make a few adjustments to prevent ActiveSync from breaking.Continue Reading

• Workarounds for OWA 2010’s Web browser limitations

  Outlook Web App works best with Internet Explorer. Here are some ways to trick OWA into thinking you’re on IE.Continue Reading

• Five Quick Links: Windows Server troubleshooting

  Check out these quick-hit links for debugging Windows Server crashes and hangs, with details on the best (free) recovery tools for administrators.Continue Reading

• Do IIS Web servers make sense for virtualization?

  Web servers like IIS can be a good fit for virtualization, so long as all the key considerations are taken into account ahead of time.Continue Reading

• Isapi Rewrite Filter: A free URL rewriting utility for IIS 7

  Though Microsoft finally offers a URL rewriting add-on for IIS, admins might look to take advantage of the Isapi Rewrite Filter’s extended functionality.Continue Reading

• Monitor SharePoint with Outlook 2010 email alerts

  If you're an Exchange admin who’s been tasked with overseeing SharePoint, you can use a familiar tool -- Outlook 2010 -- to manage alerts.Continue Reading

• Making sense of Windows Azure's VM role

  The new VM role for Windows Azure should be a boon for organizations looking to host their virtual machines in the cloud, but it’s not ideal for all situations.Continue Reading

• Taking advantage of Microsoft’s free JetStress tool

  Microsoft released its JetStress tool to the mainstream, giving Exchange admins a powerful tool to load-test servers before installing them into production.Continue Reading

• Windows PowerShell and the .NET Framework: Connecting the dots

  You don’t have to be a developer to understand how .NET integrates with Windows PowerShell. By learning just a few basic concepts, admins can help put .NET within reach.Continue Reading

• A wish list for the future of System Center Virtual Machine Manager

  With its new focus on the private cloud, Microsoft could be on the right track with SCVMM. Here are four more capabilities that will hopefully be included with future versions.Continue Reading

• How to use managed folders for Exchange 2010 message retention

  Managed folders are most often used to control message retention. Before you use them, you need to become familiar with the cmdlets and parameters to configure managed folders.Continue Reading