IT career development

To stay competitive in today's Windows IT job market requires a mix of data center and cloud skills, and deep understanding of Microsoft products. Whether you manage a Windows shop or have just entered the field, this collection of articles on IT career development will improve your Windows Server administrator skills and advance your career.

March 02, 2017 02 Mar'17
Microsoft open source efforts draw praise

Industry observers are buying into Microsoft's attempts to reach new users, as the company builds support for Linux and other open source technologies in its offerings.
August 25, 2016 25 Aug'16
Microsoft Ignite 2016 conference coverage

Find all the independent reporting and analysis from the Microsoft Ignite conference 2016 in one place.
April 30, 2015 30 Apr'15
Experts share predictions for Microsoft Ignite

Experts give insights on Microsoft Ignite, what Windows services they hope to hear about, and whether this show will live up to TechEd conference fame.
February 04, 2014 04 Feb'14
IT pros size up new Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella with a critical eye

Microsoft's new CEO Satya Nadella brings technical expertise to the helm, but can he provide a roadmap that offers IT pros reason for optimism rather than continued frustration?

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content

CLI vs. GUI: Find the right admin tool for various scenarios

Standard Windows and Linux command-line utilities oftentimes have niche, yet important functionality not available in GUI tools that require IT workers to make custom workflows. Continue Reading
Five system administrator skills Windows admins should hone

IT workers need to learn how to ride the wave of innovation and master these five technologies related to Windows Server that can ease their workload and help the business. Continue Reading
Options for server management tools expand to meet IT needs

Not only do admins have to contend with a mix of server OSes, there are diverse scenarios to complicate their management. Learn about the tools worth exploring for administration. Continue Reading

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

Upgrade your IT admin career options with these tips

Don't get stuck with habits from a time when Microsoft released updates every few years. Admins need to build their proficiency in PowerShell and cloud products to remain relevant. Continue Reading
Windows Server 2016 changes prompt a new look at management

Microsoft caters to both traditional server admins and automation experts in Windows Server 2016, but there will come a time when IT won't have a management choice. Continue Reading
What methods should I use to prepare for MCSE certification?

MCSE preparation can include a few methods, such as practice exams or study guides, but administrators should be prepared to demonstrate their technical expertise. Continue Reading

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

enterprise content management (ECM)

Enterprise content management (ECM) is a set of defined processes, strategies and tools that allow a business to effectively obtain, organize, store and deliver critical information to its employees, business stakeholders and customers. Continue Reading
Navigate the Microsoft roadmap and keep IT pros challenged

Microsoft wants Windows shops to get on board with all of its latest technologies. But that ideal doesn't always mesh with the realities that admins face. Continue Reading
Windows Server 2016 release brings opportunity, challenges in a cloud world

Microsoft wants Windows Server 2016 to serve as a gateway to get workloads in Azure, but some administrators must work harder to keep pace with the company's initiatives. Continue Reading

We’ve gathered up expert advice and tips from professionals like you so that the answers you need are always available.

Building a Hyper-V home lab for your certification needs

One way to build up your expertise -- and your resume -- is to put together a Microsoft certification study lab using client Hyper-V for little to no money. Continue Reading
Should in-house staff or consultants handle Windows Server 2016 upgrades?

Is it better to approach a potential Windows Server 2016 upgrade using in-house staff, or should we seek the help of consultants? Continue Reading
What the latest Microsoft Learning program changes mean for IT pros

A revamped design for the MS Learning site gives IT pros a look at some potential changes coming to certs -- new and old. Continue Reading