Tips

Tips

• Understanding what Azure AD federation really means

  A company that adopts SaaS apps to get work done can ease the transition by implementing a single sign-on method. Learn how to set up this arrangement in a secure manner.  Continue Reading

• Hunt down zombie VMs to trim Windows Server licensing costs

  Temporary workloads can cause organizations to buy more Windows Server licenses than they need, but admins can track down zombie servers to consolidate workloads and keep costs down.  Continue Reading

• Use this Microsoft deployment tool for easier setups

  It's not new, but the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit tends to be overlooked when administrators need a way to set up Windows in an automated fashion. See why MDT is worth using.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell Core 6.1 offers many small improvements

  New PowerShell Core functionality includes the addition of Windows PowerShell 5.1 modules, making this version worth a closer look for administrators.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Exchange Unified Messaging change presents dilemma

  The arrival of Exchange 2019 also means the end of unified messaging in the on-premises offering. Admins who use voicemail in Outlook should explore their options.  Continue Reading

• Make IT infrastructure documentation a regular task

  Even though documenting IT processes might not be at the top of an admin's to-do list, they should not let it fall by the wayside. Learn documentation best practices here.  Continue Reading

• Mulling a public folders migration? Weigh your options

  Should you stay or should you migrate? Microsoft offers a bevy of alternatives to public folders. This tip breaks down each option to help you make a decision.  Continue Reading

• Explore the Cubic congestion control provider for Windows

  Microsoft made Cubic the default congestion control provider for Windows 10 and plans to do the same for Windows Server 2019. Learn what this means for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Windows troubleshooting tools to improve VM performance

  Fine-tune virtualized workloads and diagnose performance issues with help from these Windows troubleshooting tools every server administrator should know.  Continue Reading

• Learn the tricks for using Microsoft Teams with Exchange

  As Microsoft Teams gains prominence for business collaboration, administrators should investigate the integration options with their Exchange Online or on-premises Exchange setup.  Continue Reading

• Set up Office 365 alerts to keep threats at bay

  Office 365 offers administrators integrated tools to warn the IT staff about potential attacks or breaches of conduct. Find out what the options are and how to configure them.  Continue Reading

• Exchange 2013 hybrid to Exchange 2016 hybrid considerations

  Part of the work required for a successful shift from one hybrid Exchange environment to another is to have a full understanding of all the areas that will be affected by the move.  Continue Reading

• How a bastion forest limits exposure of admin privileges

  A Windows Server 2016 feature called a bastion forest is the centerpiece of Microsoft's privileged access management model that limits the exposure of admin rights.  Continue Reading

• Authenticating email in Exchange for brand protection

  With help from the combined use of the SPF, DKIM and DMARC technologies, Exchange administrators can curb email spoofing to protect users and the company brand.  Continue Reading

• How to tackle an email archive migration for Exchange Online

  A move from on-premises Exchange to Office 365 also entails determining the best way to transfer legacy archives. This tutorial can help ease migration complications.  Continue Reading

• How to build a Packer image for Azure

  Packer is an open source tool that automates the Windows Server image building process to give administrators a consistent approach to create new VMs.  Continue Reading

• Thorough Exchange Server testing regimen eliminates doubt

  Don't assume your Exchange 2016 implementation will work because you bought the right gear. Follow these pointers to execute a successful Exchange 2016 migration project.  Continue Reading

• Organize Active Directory with these strategies

  Administrators tasked with cleaning up the Active Directory user group structure need not search any further. Use these tips to avoid Active Directory maintenance headaches.  Continue Reading

• What is the future for Microsoft Exchange Unified Messaging?

  As its cloud services have matured, Microsoft has adjusted the unified messaging features in Exchange Server. What will unified messaging look like on Exchange Server 2019?  Continue Reading

• Kubernetes in Azure eases container deployment duties

  Using containers in the cloud will require an orchestration tool. Azure Kubernetes Service helps create and manage the clusters when running containers on the Azure platform.  Continue Reading

• 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

• The top 5 unheralded Windows Server 2016 features

  Windows Server 2016 is still a novel operating system for many administrators. Check out some of its new and enhanced features that might have slipped under the radar.  Continue Reading

• How to protect PowerShell credentials in task automation

  When administrators use unencrypted credentials in PowerShell scripts, they expose sensitive information. Find out the ways to secure credential use with automated tasks.  Continue Reading

• Azure IaaS vs. PaaS: Find the right service to reduce costs

  Ready to migrate on-premises workloads to the cloud? Administrators should question their assumptions before diving in with Azure IaaS and consider the benefits of PaaS.  Continue Reading

• Exchange Online security setup requires joint effort

  A company that moves to Exchange Online must coordinate the efforts of its email administrators and its security team to maximize protections and meet compliance requirements.  Continue Reading

• Failover cluster quorum considerations for Windows admins

  Microsoft introduced Cloud Witness in Windows Server 2016, which adds a new wrinkle to its quorum model for failover clusters, but it might not be a good fit for some enterprises.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server pricing muddies purchasing decision process

  As the cost of Windows Server continues to rise with each new version, enterprises must evaluate whether the price of admission for the latest enhancements is too much to bear.  Continue Reading

• Azure PowerShell cmdlets monitor, manage VMs

  PowerShell gives administrators a way to customize reports that hone in on the details that matter to the business, such as the configuration of production VMs.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Project Honolulu shows promise but needs work

  Microsoft Project Honolulu is still in the technical preview stage, but it needs to resolve a number of issues before it's a viable alternative to manage production machines.  Continue Reading

• Cloud-based email security tools barricade entry to Exchange

  The pressure is on Exchange administrators to avoid a ransomware outbreak that cripples the on-premises email system. Cloud-based security tools can help blunt trending attacks.  Continue Reading

• Migrating public folders requires extensive planning

  Do your homework to find the right option for public folders when making a move to Exchange Online. Here are guidelines to help you navigate the requirements and limitations.  Continue Reading

• Azure AD B2B offers a secure way to grant external access

  Organizations that open up their resources to external users can restrict access using the Azure AD B2B service with minimal effort on the part of the administrators.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Using Microsoft Exchange certificates requires planning

  Exchange certificates typically require minimal management effort after they have been set up, and they offer a secure means of communication between different organizations.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Windows Defender Credential Guard secures login data

  Windows Defender Credential Guard uses virtualization to isolate access to domain credentials and diminish the threat of attacks based inside the data center.  Continue Reading

• CLI vs. GUI: Find the right admin tool for various scenarios

  Standard Windows and Linux command-line utilities oftentimes have niche, yet important functionality not available in GUI tools that require IT workers to make custom workflows.  Continue Reading

• These PowerShell script examples help tidy up code

  Even the most grizzled scripting veterans might learn some new PowerShell tips and tricks to tighten their automation code or produce clearer error messages.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 email encryption options grow for enterprise needs

  Each enterprise has different needs when it comes to preventing data leakage. Admins should be aware of the Office 365 mailbox and encryption features that help the organization meet its requirements.  Continue Reading

• Five system administrator skills Windows admins should hone

  IT workers need to learn how to ride the wave of innovation and master these five technologies related to Windows Server that can ease their workload and help the business.  Continue Reading

• Be ready if Microsoft Exchange updates go wrong

  Everyone wants a smooth patching process, but things can fall apart despite everyone's best efforts. Develop a solid recovery plan and test it before trouble strikes.  Continue Reading

• Options for server management tools expand to meet IT needs

  Not only do admins have to contend with a mix of server OSes, there are diverse scenarios to complicate their management. Learn about the tools worth exploring for administration.  Continue Reading

• New Office 365 administrators grapple with challenges

  More enterprises mulling the move to Office 365 should factor in the adjustments necessary to get the IT department up to speed to manage the platform properly.  Continue Reading

• Curb stress from Exchange Server updates with these pointers

  Some administrators let the memories of a bad patch linger and put off Exchange updates. Here are some tips to make this necessary chore less of a traumatic experience.  Continue Reading

• Roll your own Windows patching tool with PowerShell

  This tutorial based on PowerShell helps administrators build an automated routine that audits Windows machines, then applies missing patches to lighten this management task.  Continue Reading

• Server Core management remains a challenge for some

  Server Core, the minimal Windows Server deployment, removes some admins from their GUI comfort zone, but its benefits reduce some chores associated with the full server OS.  Continue Reading

• Compliance Manager tool aims to ease security audit process

  Administrators who wrestle with compliance tasks in Office 365 and Azure workloads might find some relief with Microsoft's dashboard platform, which automates part of the process.  Continue Reading

• Set Office 365 group limits to avoid administrative hassles

  With help from PowerShell, administrators can tailor Office 365 Groups to develop common-sense restrictions on the tools and other components in the collaboration service.  Continue Reading

• Prevent Exchange Server virtualization deployment woes

  Exchange Server virtualization is a common practice for many enterprises, but deployment slip-ups can cripple the messaging platform. Follow these tips to avert a service disruption.  Continue Reading

• Azure Backup service adds layer of data protection

  For enterprise data protection needs, Microsoft's Azure Backup offering might suit organizations that need a unified approach to protect assets both on premises and in the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Monitor Active Directory replication via PowerShell

  Most enterprises rely on Active Directory to control access to resources on the network. Here's how admins can use PowerShell to check the health of the replication process.  Continue Reading

• Prepare for an upgrade to Exchange 2016 with these pointers

  Businesses migrate to Exchange 2016 to take advantage of its new features, but it's up to the administrator get the right tools in place to ensure the upgrade performs as expected.  Continue Reading

• Updates to Sysinternals tools benefit server admins

  Microsoft updated several of its freeware Sysinternals utilities to assist administrators with tracking down malware and rooting out needless system processes in Windows.  Continue Reading

• Determine if an Exchange Online migration makes sense

  Admins must understand the technical and personnel hurdles an organization can face when it ponders a move to Exchange Online. Here's how to get a better grasp on what's involved.  Continue Reading

• Snag a better software service contract with these tactics

  Negotiating a cheaper service and support agreement for software requires some ingenuity, but there are typically savings to be had if you follow these strategies.  Continue Reading

• Will PowerShell Core 6 fill in missing features?

  Windows administrators will be in for some adjustments as Microsoft de-emphasizes Windows PowerShell and moves towards PowerShell Core, which currently lacks some key features.  Continue Reading

• GDPR requirements loom for Windows Server admins

  The upcoming General Data Protection Regulation will force many companies to re-examine how they store and process personal data. Here's how admins can ready their business.  Continue Reading

• Set up remote domains to control Exchange messaging

  Administrators can configure a remote domain to perform particular tasks, such as converting certain email formats and stopping users from forwarding messages to another domain.  Continue Reading

• Multi-geo service tackles Office 365 data residency issues

  Admins often deal with data residency requirements with separate tenants in geographic regions. A multi-geo feature looks to remove this complex setup for some Office 365 services.  Continue Reading

• How to build a bulletproof Hyper-V failover cluster

  Before deploying a Hyper-V failover cluster, heed these design instructions to keep VM performance from lagging due to a faulty configuration.  Continue Reading

• Use eseutil for Exchange database repair with care

  If Exchange crashes and you lack valid backups, just stay cool. The eseutil tool can be powerful, but if used improperly, it can do more harm than good.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server version 1709 hits turbulence upon release

  Microsoft designed Windows Server version 1709 for cloud-focused businesses that need up-to-date technologies. So what makes it different from Windows Server 2016?  Continue Reading

• Office 365 compliance features keep data locked down

  Microsoft offers tools in Office 365 to help administrators manage complicated data compliance regulations. These features can protect the business.  Continue Reading

• Who needs to take the Exchange 2016 exam?

  The 70-345 exam for Exchange Server 2016 requires a significant investment of time and energy. Before you step onto the certification path, make sure there is a payoff down the road.  Continue Reading

• Determine the right Windows BranchCache for the company

  Don't let network traffic bottlenecks slow data transfer to branch office employees. There are two ways to use Windows BranchCache to speed up file transfers from your main office.  Continue Reading

• Don't get hung up on Office 365 Cloud PBX pitfalls

  Office 365 support for full PBX features is a game-changer, but it can be a risk if not planned correctly. See if Microsoft's cloud phone system works for your enterprise.  Continue Reading

• Tools for system administrators that don't cost a dime

  If you use the default Windows tools for everyday administrative duties, such as taking screenshots or editing text, there are better options that come without charge.  Continue Reading

• Disable SMB1 before the next WannaCry strikes

  As long as SMB1 lingers in your systems, they are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Use these tools and techniques to find and remove all signs of this unsafe network protocol.  Continue Reading

• Cloud App Discovery spotlights shadow IT users

  Employees that use unsanctioned apps can jeopardize the business. Cloud App Discovery generates detailed reports on unapproved services to help IT mitigate risk.  Continue Reading

• System Center Configuration Manager tool regulates server updates to stop attacks

  Early security updates diminish online threats. See how IT admins use System Center Configuration Manager to roll out patches promptly while minimizing downtime for users.  Continue Reading

• How to bring Azure costs down to earth

  Don't let Azure VMs rack up a huge monthly bill from Microsoft. Figure out your business needs, then adjust the options in Azure to minimize charges.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 admin portal updates offer new insights

  The updated service health dashboard in the admin portal enables the IT staff to uncover more specifics when trouble hits the Office 365 platform.  Continue Reading

• Control Office 365 costs -- or pay the price

  Not every user needs every service in the Office 365 suite. Tailor subscriptions to different groups so the company only pays for what it requires.  Continue Reading

• Windows file server migration tool eases data transfer dread

  For a seemingly simple process, Windows file server migrations instill a lot of apprehension in IT admins. Next time, go into the fight with a free tool to manage the process.  Continue Reading

• Migrate to Exchange 2016 and beat the rush

  The path to Office 365 is easier if you're on Exchange 2016, which brings cloud integration features that benefit users and administrators alike.  Continue Reading

• Create an Office 365 backup policy before it's too late

  Don't get stumped by a request to recover deleted email messages in Office 365. Know what Microsoft offers, and plan ahead to stop mailbox content from performing a disappearing act.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell repository supplies a quick route to scripts

  Don't have time to sift through thousands of PowerShell scripts to find one for a specific task? The PowerShell Gallery is one-stop shopping for your administrative needs.  Continue Reading

• Preserve your AD organizational unit with these commands

  Active Directory OUs maintain order in an IT organization. But if you're not careful, an errant keystroke can topple everything.  Continue Reading

• Configure Windows Storage Spaces to serve up hot data fast

  To avoid the high cost of a software-defined SAN, IT shops can turn on the tiered storage virtualization feature in newer versions of Windows Server.  Continue Reading

• Automate Active Directory jobs with PowerShell scripts

  Much of what admins do in Active Directory is not exactly cutting-edge, and they don't want to waste time on mundane tasks. A dash of PowerShell can speed things along.  Continue Reading

• Lost and found: Use an Exchange recovery database to restore data

  PowerShell can come to the rescue to restore messages and other items from an Exchange 2016 recovery database when trouble strikes -- or when lawyers make requests.  Continue Reading

• How to use Azure Active Directory differently than classic AD

  Windows administrators can't just whip up an Azure Active Directory deployment and expect it to mimic the classic AD, but Azure AD has several meaningful uses.  Continue Reading

• Configure Azure Active Directory SSO service and avoid delays

  ADFS won't work for single sign-on in Outlook or Skype for Business by itself. Configure Azure Active Directory SSO and save your users time and energy.  Continue Reading

• Make a Windows Server 2016 Essentials comparison to find the best fit

  Two similar-sounding versions of Windows Server 2016 Essentials have important differences, such as the number of licenses each enables a business to use.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft LAPS locks down local admin passwords

  Using the same local admin password is convenient, but risky. It gives attackers limitless access across the machines on the domain. Microsoft has a tool to boost login security.  Continue Reading

• Tricks and tools to prevent data loss in Office 365

  IT admins who skip disaster recovery or data loss prevention steps when moving to Office 365 put themselves -- and their company's data -- at risk.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft hopes an Azure Stack deployment will ease hybrid cloud angst

  It's a hybrid cloud world, and Microsoft wants to get in while the getting's good. With its Azure Stack offering, Microsoft wants to ease hybrid cloud integration frustrations.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 admin roles give users the power of permissions

  No matter your organization's size, it's helpful to have users handle some functions typically reserved for IT. But limit access to elevated access to reduce security risks.  Continue Reading

• Debug an Active Directory domain join failure on Windows Server

  The domain join process typically works without issue. But when a device can't connect to Active Directory, the administrator must seek the culprit from the usual suspects.  Continue Reading

• Reduce downtime with Azure Site Recovery service

  Any business can experience data failure. What matters most is how you prepare for a quick recovery. Azure Site Recovery uses the Microsoft cloud when your data center goes dark.  Continue Reading

• Hop on board an Express Migration for Exchange Online

  Exchange administrators dread a slow, complicated move to Office 365. The Express Migration option simplifies the shift with a single dashboard.  Continue Reading

• Educate users to avert email phishing attacks

  Attackers work day and night thinking up new ways to bypass IT security. Educate users on ways to avoid email phishing attacks so you can rest easy.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft ReFS tuned for Hyper-V, but be aware of hazards

  Microsoft positions its Resilient File System to replace the venerable NTFS, and it does increase resiliency and storage, but there are caveats that might limit its adoption.  Continue Reading

• A Pester test takes the guesswork out of PowerShell scripts

  No one wants to write a PowerShell script only to discover later that it doesn't work as anticipated. Pester provides a testing language to ensure code lives up to expectations.  Continue Reading

• Securing Privileged Access program builds wall against attacks

  Administrative privileges are perhaps the biggest target for attackers. Microsoft's Securing Privileged Access program helps admins and security teams decrease that threat level.  Continue Reading

• Use Chocolatey to automate software installations on Windows Server

  The Chocolatey package manager enables admins to automate tedious software deployments. Follow these steps to speed up your install process and regain time in your day.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft expands Office 365 MFA support, but snags remain

  Administrators can use multifactor authentication to lock down Office 365, but the newer Azure Active Directory PowerShell module that ties services together has some drawbacks.  Continue Reading

• Arm yourself for battle against an email virus outbreak

  Did malware slip through the Exchange Server perimeter? Don't panic. Use these PowerShell commands to respond quickly and minimize the damage.  Continue Reading

• Manage Linux servers with a Windows admin's toolkit

  Even Microsoft recognizes it's no longer just a Windows world. Here's what Windows administrators can do to pick up Linux management and monitoring.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 Network Controller brings enticing SDN features

  Windows Server 2016 Network Controller serves up advanced SDN features that give admins more control over virtual and physical network components. But nothing in life is free.  Continue Reading