Windows administration tools
Microsoft administrators will learn to use native management tools, including System Center and its associated components, as well as the cloud-based Operations Management Suite, in this topic center. Other topics covered are automation through PowerShell scripts and uses for open-source and third-party administration tools.
New & Notable
Windows administration tools News
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September 26, 2018
26
Sep'18
Windows Admin Center unlocks Server 2019 features
Not just for troubleshooting, Windows Admin Center helps admins unlock the full potential of the latest Windows Server offering.
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September 12, 2017
12
Sep'17
DHCP server exploit highlights September Patch Tuesday
Microsoft patched 76 vulnerabilities on September Patch Tuesday, but Windows Server administrators only have a few critical updates that require immediate attention.
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August 31, 2017
31
Aug'17
PowerShell Core's march ahead gives pause for IT admins
As Microsoft's PowerShell Core open source project progresses, some question the future of Windows PowerShell in the company's cloud-focused strategy.
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June 13, 2017
13
Jun'17
Microsoft stitches up Windows Server 2003 on busy June Patch Tuesday
A month after Microsoft issued updates to protect unsupported Windows systems from the WannaCry ransomware, the company repeats the act to protect these systems from a new threat.
Windows administration tools Get Started
Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content
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Cut coding corners with return values in PowerShell functions
In certain instances, a return keyword is a good option to exit the current scope of a function and to reduce the bloat from a PowerShell script. Continue Reading
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Learn to use a PowerShell call function from another script
Don't use the same lines of code in several places in your scripts. Learn how to use functions and reap the benefits of a more streamlined approach. Continue Reading
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Level up with these advanced PowerShell commands to copy files
Take a closer look at Copy-Item cmdlet coding examples to build advanced PowerShell scripts that copy files with safety measures to ensure the duplicates reach their destinations. Continue Reading
Evaluate Windows administration tools Vendors & Products
Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.
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5 WSUS alternatives for patch management
Compare the features and functionality of five prominent patch management tools for Microsoft and third-party applications to find the right option for your organization. Continue Reading
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What admins should know about Microsoft Windows Terminal
There's a new terminal that puts a different spin on the traditional command-line tools used by Windows administrators with extensive functionality and customization options. Continue Reading
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Is SCCM in Azure right for your organization?
System Center Configuration Manager still has a long life, which was further underscored by Microsoft supporting deployments of the endpoint management tool to Azure. Continue Reading
Manage Windows administration tools
Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
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Try default values in PowerShell parameters for flexibility
When you lock down your code to work in specific conditions, your automation efforts can fall flat. Try these techniques to add more versatility to your PowerShell scripts. Continue Reading
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SharePoint Online PowerShell commands for admin tasks
You can avoid the admin portal when you pick up your PowerShell game and learn how to manage cloud-based resources in Office 365, including the SharePoint collaboration platform. Continue Reading
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Explore multiple Office 365 PowerShell management options
Why use PowerShell for Office 365 and Azure? In some instances, it's the only way to tap into some of the hidden management settings in these Microsoft cloud products. Continue Reading
Problem Solve Windows administration tools Issues
We’ve gathered up expert advice and tips from professionals like you so that the answers you need are always available.
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Increase PowerShell security with help from AppLocker
Learn how to curb the native abilities of the expansive scripting tool in the Windows OS to prevent your users from being unwitting participants in a cyberattack. Continue Reading
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Build a PowerShell logging function for troubleshooting
A basic administrative skill is checking over logs to find out why something broke. Learn how to build a proper logging mechanism to catch errors for diagnostic purposes. Continue Reading
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How to locate privileged accounts in Active Directory
IT administrators must be able to identify privileged accounts in Active Directory for a more secure enterprise; two methods can make the task easier. Continue Reading