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
Download: A first-look at Hyper-V and Group Policy in Windows Server 2016
Access this complimentary guide to learn how Group Policy and Hyper-V features and capabilities have changed in Windows Server 2016, and discover the key networking, security, and storage benefits these changes offer.
Windows administration tools News
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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.
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October 11, 2016
11
Oct'16
Views mixed on new Microsoft patch rollup model
Microsoft's plan to move its older operating systems to a cumulative update model may help make its updates more reliable, but some administrators see more headaches on the horizon.
Windows administration tools Get Started
Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content
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Windows Admin Center (formerly Project Honolulu)
Windows Admin Center, formerly Microsoft Project Honolulu, is a browser-based utility that manages Windows Server and client operating systems, hyper-converged clusters, and failover clusters. Continue Reading
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PowerShell 6 expands reach but lags behind Windows version
Cross-platform PowerShell arrived without all the functionality that's available in Windows PowerShell -- but it brings the ability to manage Linux and macOS systems. Continue Reading
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Creating PowerShell scripts for task automation
At a certain point, administrators who run PowerShell commands from the console will find it more efficient to develop a script that does not require manual intervention. 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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Open source PowerShell not a straight swap for Windows PowerShell
PowerShell Core 6.0 -- the open-source, cross-platform version of Windows PowerShell -- does not have all the features that longtime PowerShell users may be looking for. Last month's official ... Continue Reading
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Windows Server 2016 book serves up PowerShell recipes
This book details the evolution of the PowerShell scripting and management tool, and teaches admins how to write commands to streamline tasks on Windows Server 2016. Continue Reading
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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
Manage Windows administration tools
Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
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Build your PowerShell command cheat sheet with these basics
Even if you've previously used PowerShell, it's beneficial to add new commands to your reference sheet and keep your overall knowledge as current as possible. Continue Reading
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Mind the feature gaps in the PowerShell open source project
Administrators who switch to the cross-platform version of PowerShell might find it challenging to use, but there are several ways to cope with a transition from Windows PowerShell. Continue Reading
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Mastering PowerShell commands for Exchange by the book
This book works through common scenarios administrators face when managing Exchange Server 2016 and explains how to tackle them with PowerShell scripts. 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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The top Windows Server tutorials and tips of 2016
A new operating system sparked Windows administrator's interest in 2016, as did information about using PowerShell to manage Windows Server and ways to deflect ransomware attacks. Continue Reading
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What kind of log analytics does Microsoft OMS perform?
Microsoft OMS features 'solution packs' that track resource usage, which can help administrators plan for future capacity needs. Continue Reading
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PKI encryption in PowerShell coming in Windows Server 2016
Administrators can use PowerShell to perform PKI encryption to protect sensitive data, but public or private key certificates need to be created first. Continue Reading