Windows systems and network management

Gain valuable techniques and information on the latest PowerShell commands and Microsoft tools, such as System Center, in this Windows systems and network management topic center. Admins will also learn new ways to respond quickly to changing business needs.

January 13, 2021 13 Jan'21
Microsoft Defender zero-day fixed for January Patch Tuesday

In addition to the fix for its antivirus software, Microsoft also corrected a publicly disclosed printer driver flaw that affected Windows client and server systems.
December 09, 2020 09 Dec'20
Microsoft closes out year with light December Patch Tuesday

In addition to the monthly security updates, Microsoft shares a fix to address a DNS cache poisoning vulnerability that affects Windows Server systems.
November 11, 2020 11 Nov'20
Windows zero-day shut down on November Patch Tuesday

In addition to fixing the exploited Windows flaw, Microsoft rolls out a new look to the Security Update Guide that draws some criticism.
October 14, 2020 14 Oct'20
Critical TCP/IP bug gets fixed for October Patch Tuesday

The number of security updates from Microsoft dips below the average of the previous several months, but a TCP/IP bug looms large for administrators.

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content

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
Microsoft Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

Microsoft Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a series of Microsoft components that allow native Linux 64-bit Executable and Linkable Format (ELF64) binaries to run on the Windows kernel in the Windows 10 operating system (OS). Continue Reading
Build a Power Automate flow using the Graph API

Administrators of Office 365 or Azure platforms can benefit from using newer Microsoft software technologies to handle many jobs, such as automating tasks and generating reports. Continue Reading

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

WUfB vs. WSUS: Which handles Windows updates better?

Trying to get a handle on Windows updates can frustrate even the most seasoned administrators. Which of these two patch management tools fit best in your environment? Continue Reading
Azure AD Premium P1 vs. P2: Which is right for you?

Azure Active Directory is more than just Active Directory in the cloud. See how the premium editions of the directory service stack up to find the best fit for your organization. Continue Reading
Explore the benefits of Azure AD vs. on-prem AD

A move to Office 365 doesn't require cutting the cord from on-premises Active Directory, but it is an option. Here's what you need to know when comparing Azure AD vs. on-prem AD. Continue Reading

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

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
Remote possibilities: Out-of-band management admin options

COVID-19 puts added strain on administrators who need to compensate for lack of personnel in data centers, which leads to the need for a remote access strategy. Continue Reading
Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)

Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) is a Windows product that enables the management, deployment and security of devices and applications across an enterprise. Continue Reading

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

How to identify bloatware, then uninstall it

Unwanted pre-installed software -- also known as bloatware -- has long posed security threats for computers and other devices. Here are strategies for how to detect bloatware and uninstall the potential threat. Continue Reading
How to work with Azure DNS zones

Microsoft's hosting service for DNS domains is an option for organizations with a heavy Azure investment that want the benefits associated with a cloud service. Continue Reading
Securing Active Directory also involves good backup practices

The 'Active Directory Administration Cookbook' covers what admins can do in advance to bring the identity and access management platform back online after an attack. Continue Reading