Tips

Tips

• Windows server patching gaps you can't afford to miss

  Even if you think you're up to date on the latest software, you might not be. There are ways to ensure your software has the latest hotfixes.  Continue Reading

• Command-line switches to troubleshoot Outlook 2010 problems

  Are your users experiencing Outlook problems? These five command-line switches will help identify and remedy the cause.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Windows Server 2008 R2 with MSinfo32

  With the ability to gather important configuration data, the MSinfo32 System Information Tool can help pinpoint potential Windows Server 2008 R2 problems.  Continue Reading

• When to use server core deployments with Windows Server 2008

  Windows Server core deployments offer advantages to administrators in certain situations, but the minimalist approach is not for everyone.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for securing Exchange ActiveSync

  Sure, ActiveSync is easy to set up and administer, but how comfortable are you with its security? These best practices will go a long way toward protecting your CAS.  Continue Reading

• Enhancing SharePoint 2010 security through permissions management

  Get a handle on broad and granular permission management techniques to keep critical SharePoint 2010 data safe.  Continue Reading

• Top five security tips for domain controllers

  Domain controllers are key to company security, so you need to keep them protected. Read on for advice on hardening virtual and physical environments.  Continue Reading

• How to make Windows Server 2008 -- and your IT budget -- last longer

  During tough economic times, IT shops are still under the gun to make Windows Server last. Here are a few tips for keeping a system among the living.  Continue Reading

• How to configure SharePoint 2010 to scan Outlook 2010 for colleagues

  Most users think social networking involves updating their Facebook status. Configure SharePoint and Outlook 2010 to help them connect with colleagues for work purposes instead.  Continue Reading

• A look at Exchange 2010’s native-archiving limitations

  Exchange Server 2010 includes new built-in archiving features, but limitations with deduplication, archive message search and retrieval can cause problems for admins and end users.  Continue Reading

• Are Exchange wildcard certificates worth the risk?

  Wildcard certificates offer Exchange shops flexibility and financial savings, but with those benefits come risks. Here are some wildcard certificate pros and cons to consider.  Continue Reading

• How to maximize Hyper-V virtualization for better cloud integration

  Deploying Microsoft’s Hyper-V virtualization is a good first step toward cloud integration, but there are other steps IT admins can take to tighten that integration.  Continue Reading

• Four ideas to better secure identity management in the cloud

  As corporations store increasingly large amounts of mission critical data in the clouds, identity management needs to be more secure. Here are four ideas that could help.  Continue Reading

• Five Exchange Control Panel feature improvements in Exchange 2010 SP1

  If you aren’t using the Exchange Control Panel in Exchange Server 2010 SP1, take a look. It’s simple to use and supports mailbox auditing, MailTips, RBAC and more.  Continue Reading

• How IT pros can boost their worth -- and their salaries

  IT pros grouse that their certifications and experience aren't earning them worthy salaries, but few realize what things they need to do to get those extra bucks.  Continue Reading

• Use the Exchange dumpster for long-term data retention at your own risk

  The Exchange dumpster has the potential to be used as a long-term retention tool, but using it that way may cause more problems than it solves. Here's why.  Continue Reading

• Server security auditing: knowledge vs. performance

  Security auditing can cause a real server performance hit, especially using Windows' native feature. Learn here how you can ease the pain.  Continue Reading

• How to create custom MailTips in Exchange Server 2010

  Built-in MailTips prevent users from making common email gaffes, but you can also create custom MailTips to provide other helpful information. Here's how.  Continue Reading

• Five layers of iSCSI storage connection security

  The iSCSI storage protocol is simple to set up, but requires work to protect. Follow these steps to ensure the security of iSCSI server connections.  Continue Reading

• Being proactive with Active Directory health

  Active Directory is vital to Windows. These best practices will help engineers prevent mistakes and ensure a stable AD environment.  Continue Reading

• Are you properly protecting your Windows servers against malware?

  Malware poses a threat to Windows servers as well as desktops. Here is a guide to help you build a malware protection plan before it's too late.  Continue Reading

• Moving from Exchange 2003 to Exchange 2010 in 12 steps

  You’ve done your homework on moving from Exchange 2003 to Exchange 2010. Now it’s time to get to work. Here are the 12 main steps you need to take to get the job done.  Continue Reading

• Hyper-V Dynamic Memory v. VMware memory overcommit: fish meets bicycle

  With dynamic memory allocation, Microsoft addresses one of virtualization's perennial problems: how to assign memory to virtual machines that may not need it all the time.  Continue Reading

• Building a strategy for a move from Exchange to cloud-based email

  Here’s how two firms weighed the pros and cons of moving their Exchange email to the cloud and built a solid strategy for the present and future.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft iSCSI Software Target for Windows Server 2008 R2

  The Software Target sets up virtual hard disks as targets for remote servers. Learn more about how to use some of its management and system-protection functions.  Continue Reading

• How to use the Best Practices Analyzer to test server roles

  The Best Practices Analyzer integrated into Windows Server 2008 R2 can be instrumental in exposing potential trouble spots in your server deployment.  Continue Reading

• Upgrading Server 2008 R2 Active Directory forest functional levels

  Some Active Directory deployments have been around for over a decade, so it's time for some streamlining. Find out how to best upgrade functional levels in Windows Server R2.  Continue Reading

• An overview of Forefront Protection 2010 for Exchange Server

  Take a deep dive into Forefront Protection 2010 for Exchange Server and see how it helps defend Exchange 2010 from spam and malware attacks in multiple types of environments.  Continue Reading

• Seven free tools Windows managers shouldn’t be without

  Everyone can use a little help from time to time, especially IT and Windows managers. Stock up on these free tools and receive assistance without spending a dime.  Continue Reading

• Preventing fragmentation issues on virtualized Exchange 2010 mail servers

  Keeping your virtualized Exchange 2010 mailbox server defragmented is easy, if you know where to look. Here’s where fragmentation occurs, and how to keep it from impacting I/O.  Continue Reading

• Remotely connecting to Exchange 2010 with PowerShell, WinRM

  Learn how to establish a remote Exchange Management Shell connection with PowerShell 2.0 and WinRM to manage multiple Exchange 2010 servers and more.  Continue Reading

• Active Directory replication tips, tricks and best practices

  If you have Active Directory in your shop, no matter how large or small, replication is a basic fact of IT life. Here's advice on how to get the most out of the replication process.  Continue Reading

• Scoping out the subtle differences between Hyper-V and VMware

  Hyper-V and VMware both provide hypervisor virtualization. But while the two are similar, there are subtle differences.  Continue Reading

• What happened to the disk cleanup utility in Windows Server 2008?

  Useful desktop applications like cleanmgr.exe are missing from the server editions of Windows. There is a way to get them back.  Continue Reading

• When is a Recycle Bin Not a Recycle Bin? When it's in Active Directory

  The Active Directory Recycle Bin isn't exactly the same as the one found on desktop operating systems. That doesn't mean it isn't useful.  Continue Reading

• Scripting: VMware PowerCLI vs. Microsoft PowerShell

  VMware's PowerCLI sits atop Microsoft's PowerShell, but does it make scripting on a virtualization platform better?  Continue Reading

• Why the Active Directory Federation Service is becoming more important

  Version 2.0 of ADFS just may be the product that gets corporate IT shops to adopt single sign-on infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• How SharePoint 2010 simplifies e-discovery

  SharePoint 2010 gives you access to far more e-discovery features than any previous release -- features that will ease compliance issues when they arise.  Continue Reading

• Config iSCSI for Windows Server: Seven tips you forgot to remember

  Dealing with iSCSI remains a challenge for some IT pros. Find out tips you forgot to remember when configuring the system.  Continue Reading

• Resolving three common Exchange Server 2010 issues

  Exchange 2010 is an improvement over Exchange 2007, but it isn’t perfect. Here are three common Exchange Server 2010 problems -- and their solutions.  Continue Reading

• Assembling an effective Exchange data retention policy

  Companies can get in trouble for not retaining Exchange email and data, or holding onto that information for too long. Learn how to build an effective data retention policy to avoid legal issues.  Continue Reading

• Validate determines root cause of server network issues

  By using the Cluster Validation Wizard on Windows Server 2008, admins can help pinpoint issues with the network in failover clusters.  Continue Reading

• The benefits -- and risks -- of hosted Exchange

  The idea of moving Exchange to the cloud stirs fear in IT pros, but hosted options make sense for some firms. Here’s how to decide if it is right for your company.  Continue Reading

• Office 365: Convergence in the cloud

  Companies looking to host Exchange might want to look at Office 365, a bundle that includes Exchange, SharePoint and Lync Online.  Continue Reading

• Hosting Exchange: Making sense of the dollars and cents

  Out expert offers up some cost analysis when moving Exchange to the cloud.  Continue Reading

• What you need to know before virtualizing Exchange 2010

  Before actually virtualizing Exchange Server 2010, there are a few things admins should know. Prepare yourself with this quick list of need-to-know info.  Continue Reading

• Eight best practices for retaining IT talent

  All companies concentrate on hiring the right people for IT, but few focus on retaining them. These tips will help you engage your staff members and build loyalty within the group.  Continue Reading

• Understanding Active Directory's role in the cloud

  IT managers are skeptical about using Active Directory in the cloud. Some enterprises are doing it, but how does one make the transition?  Continue Reading

• Low-cost storage options for Exchange Server 2010

  Microsoft condones cheap storage to combat bloated databases in Exchange Server 2010. Find out how much you can save and how DAGs fit into the pricing model.  Continue Reading

• Performance depleted? The File Server Capacity Tool can tell you why

  The File Server Capacity Tool can help admins determine whether or not a server can handle system loads, but another use is to determine if a build is the cause of lower performance.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of Outlook Web App 2010 segmentation

  There are many new and improved features in Outlook Web App 2010, but that doesn’t mean you need them all. Here’s how they impact your environment, and how to disable them.  Continue Reading

• How to add certificates to Exchange Server 2010

  Are you trying to import a new certificate into Exchange 2010? Check out these simple steps.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft’s new server for tight budgets

  Microsoft’s MultiPoint Server 2011 helps IT shops with limited funds that need to connect old computers to a central machine.  Continue Reading

• Advanced Format drives can impact software in Windows Server

  Advanced Format drives are making waves in the storage space. The new technology frees up space on disk, but there are roadblocks that will hamper implementation in the short term.  Continue Reading

• Exchange Management Shell hints for the reluctant admin

  Exchange Management Shell skills are more valuable now than ever before, especially with Exchange 2010. Now’s the time to become command-line savvy.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot Windows boot problems with Xbootmgr

  By working with the Xperf tool, Xbootmgr helps admins pinpoint the real cause of slow boot issues in Windows Server.  Continue Reading

• Deconstructing Central Administration in SharePoint 2010

  You still can‘t manage individual sites and site collections from Central Administration in SharePoint 2010; but there are eight sections that you can manage.  Continue Reading

• How to size an Active Directory domain controller in Windows

  Although sizing a domain controller comes with its share of challenges, it is possible. Learn the ins and outs of the process and what to watch for.  Continue Reading

• Repairing three problems that annoy Outlook 2010 users

  Outlook 2010 isn't perfect. These three common Outlook 2010 pains may be plaguing your users.  Continue Reading

• Why Hyper-V drivers should matter to Windows admins

  Hyper-V drivers are key to understanding Microsoft’s virtualization platform and can bring an array of performance gains to the table.  Continue Reading

• Using PowerShell to manage Microsoft Hyper-V

  Windows admins aren't limited when it comes to managing Hyper-V from the command line. Here are two (free) options for supporting virtual machines in Windows.  Continue Reading

• A look at the System Center Configuration Manager 2012 beta

  The second beta of SCCM 2012 has key features for remote application management. It also delivers applications to end users regardless of which device they are using.  Continue Reading

• Exchange Server 2010 on VMware: Why daily monitoring is a must

  A virtualized Exchange 2010 installment has its benefits but needs daily attention. Check these metrics regularly.  Continue Reading

• A look at affordable Microsoft certification exam prep options

  Are you interested in a Microsoft certification prep course but hesitant because of costs? Don't worry. You can get access to all the info you need without breaking the bank.  Continue Reading

• Identifying Outlook Anywhere connectivity glitches

  Outlook Anywhere's initial configuration can be tricky. If you're having trouble connecting, there are a couple tests you can run.  Continue Reading

• Six commonly overlooked Exchange security vulnerabilities

  Think you’re taking the steps needed to fully secure Exchange? Think again.  Continue Reading

• Avoid application compatibility issues in Windows Server 2008 R2

  While new applications run smoothly in Windows Server 2008 R2, legacy apps aren't always as steadfast. Use these tips to tackle and avert compatibility problems.  Continue Reading

• How to remove persistent Exchange 2003 servers

  Have you upgraded from Exchange 2003 to a newer version, but can’t get rid of the server? Find out what to delete to completely uninstall Exchange 2003.  Continue Reading

• Should you use Exchange Server 2010 lagged database copies?

  Microsoft recommends using lagged database copies to prevent corrupt data from infecting mailbox databases. Is that really a good idea?  Continue Reading

• Microsoft System Center Advisor tracks server issues in the cloud

  Microsoft System Center Advisor can help admins keep up to date with Windows Server configuration issues and avoid problems before they occur.  Continue Reading

• Mastering workflow reports in SharePoint 2010

  Take advantage of the reporting and monitoring capabilities to keep tabs on workflow processes in SharePoint 2010.  Continue Reading

• Repadmin diagnoses Active Directory replication issues in Windows

  Repadmin troubleshoots Active Directory replication issues, but it also includes some commands that Windows administrators might not recognize.  Continue Reading

• BES 5.0.2 and Exchange 2010 SP1: What you should know

  Can't decide which version of BES 5.0.2 to roll out? Compare features and determine if your setup meets the prerequisites.  Continue Reading

• Project Concero and its role in Microsoft's cloud strategy

  What is Microsoft's Project Concero, anyway? In short, it offers a way to control and delegate virtual machine and hypervisor resources.  Continue Reading

• Curing two Exchange 2010 mailbox move headaches

  Moving Exchange 2010 mailboxes may seem like a breeze, but two common problems can stand in the way.  Continue Reading

• Tweaking IIS settings eases large client uploads in Windows Server

  Making the proper metabase settings in Microsoft IIS can ease the process of large client uploads in Windows Server. Here are some changes to consider.  Continue Reading

• Do this before virtualizing Exchange Server 2010

  Virtualizing Exchange 2010 servers is a smart move, and the steps involved are fairly simple. The actual virtualization process begins long before you create a VM.  Continue Reading

• Always-on VPN extends remote management for IT admins

  Always-on VPN technologies like Microsoft DirectAccess are changing the way organizations communicate inside and outside the office.  Continue Reading

• Making the most of Exchange 2010 database availability groups

  Don't let the complexity of database availability groups intimidate you. These three features are worth learning.  Continue Reading

• Career networking dos and don'ts for the IT pro

  Networking among your peers goes a long way toward building valuable business relationships. Be the first person people think of when desirable positions become available.  Continue Reading

• Adopt the right Hyper-V tools for your Windows environment

  As more IT shops virtualize their Windows servers, the variety of Hyper-V management tools for all enterprises also continues to grow.  Continue Reading

• Learning the value of designing PowerShell functions for reuse

  PowerShell is a highly extensible scripting language, and its many functions make it a tool that is far more versatile than you may think.  Continue Reading

• EMS commands to modify ActiveSync throttling policies

  Throttling Exchange ActiveSync policies takes a certain amount of command-line savvy. Get the command-specific info you need.  Continue Reading

• Sidestepping server time sync issues in Windows Server

  Faulty server clocks can put your Windows server on the fritz without the proper configurations to prevent serious time sync issues.  Continue Reading

• You've got a SharePoint governance plan -- now what?

  Learn how to sell management on the benefits of your SharePoint governance plan so you can put it into action.  Continue Reading

• Configuring Outlook 2010 send/receive groups

  Outlook tasks can overwhelm mailbox servers. Send/receive groups can remove some of that strain if you set them up correctly.  Continue Reading

• Accepting Exchange 2010 storage redesigns

  The push to cheaper storage, the removal of SIS and larger mailboxes are just a few Exchange 2010 storage changes that make some admins uneasy.  Continue Reading

• Configuring dynamic compression in Internet Information Services 7.0

  Admins can improve the way dynamically-generated content is cached and compressed with an updated property in IIS 7.0, though a few drawbacks can still hinder performance.  Continue Reading

• Studs and duds in the Windows Server 2008 R2 feature set

  R2 made a feature-savvy entrance when it was released almost two years ago, but not every enhancement has lived up to the hype.  Continue Reading

• Exchange 2010 SP1 gets retention policy management overhaul

  Message retention is essential, but setting policies via the command line in Exchange 2010 RTM is a nuisance. Microsoft removed those irritations in SP1.  Continue Reading

• Testing top Microsoft support tools for Windows 2008 compatibility

  For years Microsoft has worked to expand its slate of troubleshooting tools for admins. But with no Support Tools to download for the latest OS, do the same utilities still apply?  Continue Reading

• Fighting off Microsoft Hyper-V security hacks

  Although hypervisors are built with security in mind, a sloppy Hyper-V host configuration can still open up your servers to a wide range of exploits.  Continue Reading

• Script automates Exchange 2010 SP1 discovery

  Harness the power of this PowerShell script to automate weekly Exchange 2010 SP1 multi-mailbox discovery.  Continue Reading

• Study Guide: Exchange 2010 MCTS certification exam

  Microsoft states that the Exchange 2010 70-662 certification exam is equally weighted, but our expert suggests you concentrate on a few particular areas.  Continue Reading

• Free app brings IIS administration to smartphones

  The new IIS7 Mobile Admin utility literally puts management of Internet Information Services in the palm of your hand, but the tool is not without its limitations.  Continue Reading

• Three scripts automate Exchange Server 2010 SP1 troubleshooting

  If you’re looking for a way to monitor an Exchange 2010 install without a lot of work, these three troubleshooter scripts are powerful, flexible and automatic.  Continue Reading

• What does ASLR really mean for Windows security?

  While address space layout randomization may be a mouthful, the added protection could be critical to Windows security. But will ASLR really stop malware in its tracks?  Continue Reading

• Are Exchange 2010 archive databases more trouble than they're worth?

  Moving archive mailboxes to a dedicated database on inexpensive hardware can alleviate storage concerns, but will it create another problem?  Continue Reading

• Become a more valuable IT professional: Go beyond your title

  Too many IT pros forget that their titles are just labels and that their real worth lies in their work. Follow these 12 tips to further improve your value within your organization.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to Exchange 2010 ActiveSync throttling

  ActiveSync throttling policies are beneficial to Exchange 2010. They can protect a client access server from overload and can keep mobile device users from meddling with settings.  Continue Reading