Tips

Tips

• Five reasons to run Hyper-V in Windows Server 2012 R2

  There's plenty to like about Hyper-V in Microsoft's latest OS. Here are the five top features.  Continue Reading

• Don't go into battle without these Exchange Server tools

  Whether you're new to Exchange or a seasoned Exchange MVP, these tools are non-negotiables for maintaining control.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for managing Office 365 from Active Directory

  After moving to the cloud, you'll need to manage the parts of Exchange that don't show up in Active Directory.  Continue Reading

• Proper care of your new ADFS server

  Once implemented, ADFS becomes a vital part of your enterprise. Managing it and keeping it highly available is essential.  Continue Reading

• Why the Windows Server Essentials role could benefit larger organizations

  Organizations may look to use an Essentials server, which makes Windows Server 2012 R2 function like Microsoft's small business offerings.  Continue Reading

• Does your enterprise need Office Web Apps Server 2013?

  Office Web Apps can help with several Office 2013 products, but you have other options if you install Exchange 2013 in small organizations.  Continue Reading

• New Microsoft certs changes that IT pros need to know

  The Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 8.1 and System Center 2012 R2 releases are responsible for the updated MCSA and MCSE cert exams.  Continue Reading

• Set up an ADFS server to manage Office 365 identities

  As long as you know how to set it up and install it, ADFS can be a good identity management option for Office 365.  Continue Reading

• Customize Exchange ActiveSync settings for virtual directories

  Knowing the settings for the mailbox server and the Client Access server role is the key to customizing ActiveSync virtual directories.  Continue Reading

• How to share calendars in Exchange 2013

  The easiest way to share calendars in Exchange 2013 is to enable its built-in, standards-compliant features.  Continue Reading

• Is Password Sync better than AD FS for Office 365 identity management?

  Can DirSync's Password Synchronization feature compete with AD FS for Office 365 identity management?  Continue Reading

• Simple ways to troubleshoot slow mailbox moves to Office 365

  Slow mailbox migrations are frustrating, but are they a sign of a larger problem? Here are some simple ways to check.  Continue Reading

• What to do when you can't delete an Exchange mailbox database

  There's a simple reason why Exchange won't let you delete unwanted databases. There's also a simple fix.  Continue Reading

• Set up reliable Exchange 2013 load balancing with open source tools

  You can now use free third-party load-balancing options, including Linux offerings, thanks to improvements in Exchange.  Continue Reading

• Eight Exchange skills and topics every admin should know

  If you want to take your Exchange knowledge to the next level, tackle the tough topics and find ways to validate what you know.  Continue Reading

• Keep calm and message on: Prepping for an Exchange Online migration

  Learn how a smooth migration to Exchange Online not only keeps end users happy, but also minimizes IT help desk calls.  Continue Reading

• Five ways to troubleshoot Outlook Group Policy setting problems

  When Group Policy configurations aren't working like they should in Outlook, these five steps can help you figure out what's wrong.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server PKI improvements admins should know

  As security changes with each Windows Server release, admins should keep up with the PKI improvements.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for using Exchange Online Archiving

  Once you know the best uses of Exchange Online Archives, you can make sure your end users have the best possible experience.  Continue Reading

• How to troubleshoot Outlook 2013 auto-complete problems

  Microsoft made changes in Outlook 2013 that can be helpful for troubleshooting problems with its auto-complete feature.  Continue Reading

• Three reasons why you should upgrade to Exchange 2013

  If you're hesitating to upgrade from on-premises Exchange 2010 to Exchange 2013, consider these arguments for making the move.  Continue Reading

• Information security project considerations for IT managers

  Being an IT project manager isn't easy, but you can improve your information security skills and knowledge to make your job easier.  Continue Reading

• Simple ways to prevent PST file problems in Outlook 2013

  An Outlook 2013 upgrade won't solve PST file problems, but Microsoft made two changes in Outlook 2013 to help you avoid using them all together.  Continue Reading

• Three simple ways to improve SharePoint performance

  Once you know the three major causes for most SharePoint performance problems, improving SharePoint's performance becomes easy.  Continue Reading

• Using OWA offline mode for expanded Outlook access in Exchange 2013

  Exchange Server 2013 gives OWA users offline access to features and functionality that had previously only been available to Outlook users.  Continue Reading

• Running PowerShell scripts can ease Windows virtualization tasks

  Put PowerShell cmdlets to work with Windows virtualization by automating setup, maintenance and configuration tasks in your organization.  Continue Reading

• Simple fixes for Exchange Server disk space consumption issues

  Low on disk space in Exchange? Fix the problem early to avoid mail flow issues or database dismounts.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Certified Educator improves education and technology ties

  This new certification teaches educators how to effectively use the link between learning and Microsoft technology in the classroom.  Continue Reading

• How to fix repeated Outlook password prompts and make end users happy

  When Outlook keeps asking for password verification, the problem is almost always a configuration issue. However, there's an easy fix.  Continue Reading

• After an Exchange Online migration, what comes next?

  You deserve a pat on the back after moving your mailboxes to Office 365, but your work isn't done until you finalize the project's end goal.  Continue Reading

• Simple ways to troubleshoot Exchange Offline Address Book problems

  When the Offline Address Book doesn't download Outlook 2013 clients, Exchange admins have plenty of options for easy fixes.  Continue Reading

• Configuring Web Application Proxy with AD to future-proof Exchange

  To use Web Application Proxy for publishing Exchange to the Internet, admins can ease the process with simple AD and Exchange configurations.  Continue Reading

• Giving OWA themes a makeover in Exchange 2013

  When senior management asks to have the corporate colors or logo in OWA, there's an easy way to create and configure new OWA themes.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Second Shot gives IT pros free retake of certification exams

  The latest Second Shot promotion lets admins retake certain certification exams for free. But the offer only lasts until May 2014.  Continue Reading

• Publishing Exchange to the Internet via Web Application Proxy and ADFS

  When combined with ADFS, Web Application Proxy in Windows Server 2012 R2 is appealing to organizations publishing Exchange to the Internet.  Continue Reading

• How to successfully install Node.js applications on IIS

  Microsoft's support for JavaScript engine Node.js applications on Windows Azure has brought the functionality to IIS. Here's how to set it up.  Continue Reading

• ActiveSync mailbox policies vs. Windows Intune: What's better for MDM?

  At one time, ActiveSync and Intune were so similar it didn't matter which one admins chose to managing mobile devices. That's no longer the case.  Continue Reading

• Identifying and fixing disjoint namespace issues in Exchange Server

  Disjoint namespace issues are complicated, but you can still deploy Exchange servers in this type of environment, if you understand the cause.  Continue Reading

• Essential Windows Server 2012 R2 system requirements

  Before upgrading to Windows Server 2012 R2, read up on hardware requirements to ensure there are enough resources to preserve performance.  Continue Reading

• Active Directory Federation Services' new features are cloud-ready

  Active Directory Federation Services was updated in Windows Server 2012 R2 with Workplace Join and improved single sign-on features.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot Exchange Admin Center access issues in Exchange 2013

  It's common for users to have trouble accessing the Exchange Admin Center in Exchange 2013. Keep these fixes handy in case this happens to you.  Continue Reading

• Test Exchange 2013 AutoReseed setup to let automation help your organization

  After setting up AutoReseed in Exchange 2013, follow these steps to test it and make sure it works correctly.  Continue Reading

• E-discovery capabilities expand with Discovery Search mailbox, and others

  The discovery search mailbox, as well as health or monitoring and public folder mailboxes, received major improvements in Exchange 2013.  Continue Reading

• Ease task organization for admins with Arbitration mailbox updates

  Arbitration mailboxes received major changes in Exchange 2013 to help IT pros accomplish more than they could in previous Exchange versions.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft licensing model changes with Server and Cloud Enrollment

  A new Microsoft licensing model is coming later this year, forcing enterprises to rethink current models and look to more cost-effective strategies.  Continue Reading

• Five ways to fix Outlook connectivity issues

  There's no definitive way to solve Outlook connectivity issues, but these five steps have resolved problems for some Office 365 customers.  Continue Reading

• Exchange 2013 migration in 12 simple steps

  Take the sting out of an Exchange 2013 migration by following these 12 steps for training, installation, verification and more.  Continue Reading

• Configure AutoReseed automatically to reseed failed databases

  The AutoReseed feature in Exchange 2013 uses automation that enables admins to reseed failed JBOD database copies without lifting a finger.  Continue Reading

• Consider Exchange mailbox database sizes when sketching out storage

  Planning Exchange 2013 storage architecture is an art form because it impacts everything, and the Exchange mailbox database plays a huge part.  Continue Reading

• Moving Exchange instances among virtual containers

  Exchange can be virtualized in broad environments, but when moving instances between virtual containers, Microsoft tightened support requirements.  Continue Reading

• Update your Active Directory services to prepare for the cloud

  Even if you don't have a cloud service yet, you should update your Active Directory services to centralize governance and prepare for cloud.  Continue Reading

• Desired State Configuration helps admins avoid configuration drift

  The new feature Desired State Configuration feature in Windows Server 2012 R2 gives admins yet another reason to learn PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell 4.0 further facilitates task automation for Windows admins

  Has PowerShell finally grown up? A mature PowerShell 4.0 in Windows Server 2012 R2 brings with it new parameters, simpler implementation and more.  Continue Reading

• Hybrid Exchange configuration and deployment checklist

  Here's how to handle the challenges of implementing hybrid Exchange 2010 and Exchange 2013 configuration.  Continue Reading

• Does Exchange 2013 work as a mobile device management platform?

  Exchange 2013 may not be exactly what you need as a mobile device management platform, but some of its features can still fit your needs.  Continue Reading

• Why admins should set up Outlook 2013 search folders

  Users who receive lots of email should consider using search folders, but admins need to understand all the pros and cons before building them.  Continue Reading

• SharePoint eDiscovery Center is a legal must for organizations

  A SharePoint eDiscovery Center can help in today's legal climate. It may seem confusing at first, but it's based on something admins already know.  Continue Reading

• How Dynamic Quorum keeps Exchange 2013 clusters running during failure

  Introduced in Windows Server 2012, Dynamic Quorum helps keep Exchange clusters up and running during a data center failure. Here's how it works.  Continue Reading

• Using the new DirSync version to sync passwords in Office 365

  The latest version of DirSync lets Exchange admins bypass AD FS to easily set up password synchronization in Office 365.  Continue Reading

• Examining Exchange 2013 load balancing options

  Effective Exchange 2013 load balancing starts with understanding your options. We outline the pros and cons of the four different choices.  Continue Reading

• Comparing Office 365 pros and cons with Exchange 2013, hybrid setups

  Before upgrading your email setup, weigh Office 365 pros and cons with those of potential Exchange 2013 or hybrid deployments.  Continue Reading

• Combining certifications and college degrees on the IT career path

  A college degree or certification -- which is better? Each has its own merits, but having both can put you on a successful IT career path.  Continue Reading

• Five Exchange 2013 migration gotchas to watch for

  An Exchange 2013 migration is no small undertaking. To ensure a successful deployment, avoid these potential mistakes.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell commands to configure single sign-on for hybrid Office 365

  The single sign-on configuration process for hybrid Office 365 requires PowerShell to federate to Exchange. Get all the necessary info here.  Continue Reading

• Simple PowerShell tips and tricks every Windows admin should know

  No GUI? No problem. Our expert shares his best PowerShell tips to help IT administrators become proficient in this powerful scripting language.  Continue Reading

• Points to consider before running Exchange on Azure

  Exchange on Azure is a deployment possibility, but there are several aspects to understand before doing so.  Continue Reading

• How to synchronize SharePoint 2013 lists with Outlook 2013

  Give users access to various SharePoint 2013 lists through Outlook 2013 with just a few simple configuration steps.  Continue Reading

• Block badly behaving Exchange ActiveSync devices in Exchange 2013

  Misbehaving Exchange ActiveSync devices can put a serious strain on your environment. Take control with new auto-block thresholds in Exchange 2013.  Continue Reading

• SharePoint 2013 features: what's new, what's changed and what's gone

  Some existing SharePoint features were replaced or dropped in SharePoint 2013. Here's how to work through the changes.  Continue Reading

• Five Exchange 2013 PowerShell techniques every admin should know

  A strong handle on PowerShell is necessary to effectively manage Exchange 2013. These five Exchange 2013 PowerShell tips will prove indispensable.  Continue Reading

• FAQ: The best ways to use Windows BitLocker in Windows Server 2012

  As organizations look to encryption to secure data, we answer the most common Windows BitLocker questions to get the most out of this encryption tool.  Continue Reading

• Replacing Forefront TMG: Alternate reverse-proxy options for Exchange

  With the discontinuation of Forefront TMG, Exchange admins are left wondering what to do moving forward. The available options may surprise you.  Continue Reading

• Comparing Exchange 2013 and Office 365 pricing and feature sets

  Exchange 2013 and Office 365 pricing and feature sets are important items to examine when weighing an email migration. Here's what to know.  Continue Reading

• Exchange 2013 anti-malware protection: Will you need anything else?

  Trusting native Exchange 2013 anti-malware protection to protect your environment is an option, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's the best one.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Exchange calendar reminder issues

  Problems with Exchange calendar reminders often stem from users simply connecting to too many calendars. Here's how to clean up the clutter.  Continue Reading

• How to configure Office Web Apps Server for use with Exchange 2013

  Get the steps necessary to build an Office Web Apps Server farm and integrate it with Exchange 2013. It's essential if you add other Wave 15 products.  Continue Reading

• Windows Azure Active Directory steps out of the shadows

  As Windows Azure Active Directory moves into general availability, we look at how it can help admins manage user authentication in the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Prioritize your IT tasks and finally conquer your to-do list

  It's easy to feel overwhelmed by a growing to-do list of IT tasks, but there are easy ways you can decide what to tackle first and what can wait.  Continue Reading

• Five ways admins can embrace Windows Server 2012 Remote Management

  As Microsoft encourages Windows admins to deal with servers offsite, here are some easy steps they can use for Windows Server 2012 Remote Management.  Continue Reading

• Where did the hub transport server role go in Exchange 2013?

  Although the hub transport server is no longer a separate role in Exchange 2013, the transport architecture and services still live on.  Continue Reading

• How to configure Exchange 2013 site mailboxes

  Exchange 2013 site mailboxes are a great new feature, but several configuration steps are necessary before rolling them out to users.  Continue Reading

• Implementing Exchange ActiveSync mailbox policy best practices

  Exchange ActiveSync mailbox policy implementation is different for every organization, but that doesn't mean there are no best practices to follow.  Continue Reading

• Five things you might not know about the Hyper-V virtual switch

  One of the most significant improvements in Windows Server 2012 might be the Hyper-V virtual switch. What makes this low-cost option such a big deal?  Continue Reading

• Fine-tuning your Exchange Server network configuration

  With a few simple guidelines and tweaks, you can optimize your Exchange Server network configuration and keep servers humming.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for virtualizing Exchange 2010 on vSphere

  Observing best practices and watching for common oversights will go a long way when virtualizing Exchange 2010 on VMware vSphere.  Continue Reading

• How database availability groups have improved in Exchange 2013

  Exchange 2013 database availability groups have improved significantly since Exchange 2010. These four updates are worth investigating.  Continue Reading

• How to create Exchange 2013 data loss prevention policies

  While data loss prevention policies are a cool new feature in Exchange 2013, you must understand how to build them before you can use them.  Continue Reading

• How Windows Server 2012 can solve Windows failover cluster headaches

  In Windows Server 2012, Microsoft tried to smooth out some major Active Directory bumps in failover clusters. Did it fix what's bothering you?  Continue Reading

• How to implement Exchange address book policies

  Exchange address book policies have replaced clunky global address list segmentation. Discover where they make sense and how to implement them.  Continue Reading

• In IT planning, try zero-based thinking

  Zero-based thinking is a concept that's used extensively in the business world to turn around failing companies. It can work wonders in IT planning.  Continue Reading

• Seven things to know about Windows Server 2012 deduplication

  It's no magic bullet, but Windows Server 2012 deduplication can help alleviate rising data storage demands.  Continue Reading

• Finding Microsoft certification training -- for free

  There's new Microsoft certification training material available to help developers earn the MCSD Windows Store Apps credential.  Continue Reading

• A crash course on Exchange ActiveSync policies for iOS devices

  As iOS devices invade organizations, it's crucial to understand Exchange ActiveSync policies. Password options and other restrictions are available.  Continue Reading

• Workaround tricks for avoiding the Windows Server 2012 GUI

  There are reasons to keep the Windows Server 2012 GUI, but many admins want a workaround. With a little know-how, you can skip the Modern UI.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft makes improvements to SharePoint workflows

  The first thing to know about SharePoint workflows is that SharePoint 2013 actually contains two separate workflow platforms.  Continue Reading

• Dynamic Quorum gives failover clusters a boost in Windows Server 2012

  The Dynamic Quorum Management option in Windows Server 2012 can make failover clusters more resilient. Here's how it works.  Continue Reading

• Hybrid Office 365 setup: Configuring your federation farm

  Configuring single sign-on for a hybrid Office 365 deployment takes several steps. Here's how to set up your Active Directory federation farm.  Continue Reading

• SharePoint licensing is becoming simpler -- and cheaper

  Microsoft has made some changes to its SharePoint licensing requirements, potentially saving customers a lot of money.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft certification path takes another turn

  It's a good move to reinvent and reinvigorate the most important lower and mid-tier credentials on the Microsoft certification path.  Continue Reading

• Examining multisite database availability groups in Exchange 2010

  Multisite database availability groups are a solid high availability choice, but can pose problems. Fortunately, options are available.  Continue Reading