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.

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.
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.
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.
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.

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content

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
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
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

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

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
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
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

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

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
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
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

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

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
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
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