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Problem solve

Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.

• VMware View components: What you need and how they work

  To use VMware View for VDI, you need a few different View components, including the View Agent, vCenter Server and View Connection Server. Continue Reading

• Zero client vs. thin client computing: Why zero clients are better

  Zero clients and thin clients both offer virtual desktop access, but they aren't the same when it comes to performance and scalability. Continue Reading

• Breaking down five desktop delivery methods

  There are a lot of ways to accomplish desktop delivery these days, and they all come in shorthand: VDI, SBC, DaaS and more. Continue Reading

• Four desktop virtualization use cases

  Knowing why you're deploying virtual desktops is the first step to success -- whether it's for better security, simplified management or BYOD support. Continue Reading

• How mobile device encryption works to protect sensitive data

  Mobile device encryption -- of both the hardware and software varieties -- is one of the best ways to secure data on smartphones and tablets. Continue Reading

• What are the different types of private branch exchange systems?

  The types of PBX systems available shifted after the advent of Internet Protocol, according to IP telephony expert Jon Arnold.Continue Reading

• Creating a golden image for VDI: 13 things to consider

  When you build a golden image for virtual desktops, make sure that virtual disk image has the proper security settings and pre-installed apps.Continue Reading

• Are there advantages to using the public switched telephone network?

  You may have to sacrifice some advantages of the public switched telephone network if you switch to VoIP, says telephony expert Jon Arnold.Continue Reading

• How can I easily switch between an external webcam and a built-in one?

  Video expert Steve Campbell answers a question about built-in and external webcams. Certain factors affect the quality of your experience, he says.Continue Reading

• Ways to detect and delete duplicate files in Windows systems

  Our enterprise desktop expert answers a question about some third-party tools for eliminating duplicate files in Windows desktops.Continue Reading

• User profile backup methods for virtual desktops

  First you need to decide whether it's worth backing up user data. If you decide yes, check out these user profile backup techniques.Continue Reading

• Choosing thin client devices: What to look for

  On the lookout for thin client devices? Don't forget to consider application compatibility, protocol support, features and cost.Continue Reading

• How iPhone encryption and data protection work

  With Apple's iPhone encryption and data protection, you can take advantage of strong security. But make sure users enable the right iOS data encryption settings.Continue Reading

• Four virtual disk formats every VDI admin needs to know

  VDI admins need to understand the underlying disk image files that store data in their environments. Learn about the four most common formats.Continue Reading

• Surface RT review: The good, the bad and the ugly

  The Surface RT tablet comes with Office and has good battery life, but it has some drawbacks, too. This Surface RT review explains the pros and cons.Continue Reading

• When does it make sense to employ an external webcam?

  The decision of whether to use an external webcam depends on what you intend to use video conferencing for, says video expert Steve Campbell.Continue Reading

• User profile management tools: 16 options to consider

  There are tons of user profile management tools out there. Check out these options to learn what they offer -- and which ones are free.Continue Reading

• How to install Microsoft RDS in Windows Server 2012

  When you're ready to install Microsoft RDS, keep an eye on each component. Some are mandatory in Windows Server 2012 and others aren't.Continue Reading

• How to ensure VDI network connectivity, security

  A virtual desktop isn't worth a nickel if a user can't connect to it. Keep your VDI network strong with traffic prioritization and security policies.Continue Reading

• Comparing mobile operating systems and application environments

  Each mobile operating system has a different application environment, but that could be more of an advantage for businesses than a detriment.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office 2013 crackable, so look to Office password recovery

  Microsoft Office 2013 may have improved protection, but third-party tools have already cracked passwords. See how to use Office password recovery.Continue Reading

• GPS technology steers towards the manufacturing supply chain

  Rather than replacing other AIDC technologies, GPS complements bar code and RFID technology and is typically deployed for logistics tracking.Continue Reading

• GPU vs. CPU: Three ways to run graphics-heavy apps on virtual desktops

  It's a pain trying to accommodate graphics-intensive applications on a virtual desktop, but don't despair. There are ways to deliver these apps fast.Continue Reading

• Eliminating VDI network bottlenecks and latency issues

  On a VDI network, you want lots of bandwidth and low latency levels. To hit that target, learn what policies you need to put in place.Continue Reading

• Install VMware Workstation 9 without price or performance pain points

  VMware Workstation 9 came out right on the heels of Workstation 8. Here's how to install Workstation 9 so VMs move seamlessly over from Workstation 8.Continue Reading

• Top five mobile application vulnerabilities

  Devices are often blamed for insecurities, but mobile app vulnerabilities are insidious. Make sure employees use common sense when they download apps.Continue Reading

• Know the SCOR model to build strong supply chain metrics

  By following the SCOR model, manufacturers can put supply chain metrics in place to ensure enterprise-wide success.Continue Reading

• How does VoIP performance differ over LAN, WAN and other networks?

  Environment affects VoIP performance, so it's important to consider how VoIP best fits in your environment is important, our UC strategies expert explains.Continue Reading

• Configuring Remote Desktop Services roles for high availability

  Although Windows Server 2012 RDS comes with new high availability capabilities, configuring Remote Desktop Services HA is no simple task.Continue Reading

• What is the SVC Codec and how is it used?

  The SVC codec is an extension to the H.264 standard for video encoding used by many equipment manufacturers, explains our video conferencing expert.Continue Reading

• Application virtualization Q&A: Streaming and remote app delivery

  Application virtualization can simplify upgrading and management. Just remember, streaming and remote apps are two different things.Continue Reading

• Best practices for developing mobile cloud apps revealed

  Expert Bill Claybrook explains the right way to go about creating mobile cloud applications.Continue Reading

• Using Portable-VirtualBox to run any OS from a USB device

  Portable-VirtualBox allows you to run OSes from a USB drive, which helps you test them for use in server and desktop virtualization environments.Continue Reading

• Turn to Microsoft RemoteApp Programs when VDI and RDS just won't do

  VDI and RDS aren't always the best fit for remote app delivery. For a lightweight approach, try Microsoft RemoteApp Programs in Windows Server 2012.Continue Reading

• FAQ: Using Windows PowerShell commands to manage virtual desktops

  Windows PowerShell commands aren't just for traditional desktops. Learn how to use PowerCLI, XenApp cmdlets and more to make VDI management a snap.Continue Reading

• VDI backup strategies: Copying, storing and securing virtual desktops

  If you’re not backing up your virtual desktops, here are a few VDI backup strategies that might make you re-think that decision.Continue Reading

• VirtualBox VM recovery: Two ways to salvage your data

  If you have to recover a VirtualBox VM, you're in for a grand old time. Keep these tricks in mind to help get your data back.Continue Reading

• Microsoft RemoteFX requirements in Windows Server 2012

  There are new hardware requirements for using RemoteFX in Windows Server 2012, but it's hard to find where to configure certain settings.Continue Reading

• Desktop virtualization comparison: VDI vs. Remote Desktop Services

  For desktop virtualization, you have a choice between the paths of VDI and Remote Desktop Services. Robert Frost took the road less travelled, but you don't have to choose just one.Continue Reading

• How to stagger your VDI project rollout: Start with a VDI POC

  Slow and steady wins the race. After analyzing a VDI POC, stagger your VDI project rollout so resources aren't overwhelmed and users can get used to the new technology.Continue Reading

• Five reasons a VDI project stalls: What's the holdup?

  Here's one way to send a VDI project down the tubes: Ignore the end user experience. See four more factors that can hit the brakes on your implementation.Continue Reading

• Manufacturing PLM tools beginner’s tutorial

  In this guide, learn the basics of PLM tools, including software selection, implementation, and cloud computing options.Continue Reading

• Reverse seamless windows: The secret to local apps on remote desktops

  Some apps just run better as local applications. Reverse seamless windows technology allows you to run apps locally while presenting them on remote desktops.Continue Reading

• How an acceptable use policy and app control can improve BYOD success

  Organizations that adopt BYOD should have an acceptable use policy to help with security and app control. When users know expectations and consequences, BYOD gets easier for IT.Continue Reading

• How a virtualization stack provides simplicity, scalability for VDI

  VDI products can run on integrated virtualization platforms, bringing simplicity and deliverability to VDI deployments. But converged infrastructure may not be suitable for all.Continue Reading

• Using the iPad as a VDI client: Does it work and who needs it?

  If your users are always on the go and sick of lugging their laptops around, they may want to use the iPad as a VDI client instead. But they shouldn't expect a full PC experience.Continue Reading

• Business email security and the risks of personal Gmail forwarding

  Business email security might not be on employees’ minds when they forward corporate mail to more user-friendly Gmail accounts, so IT should take steps to protect corporate data.Continue Reading

• Preparing your network for VDI: What affects VDI network performance

  Implementing VDI can throw your network into a state of shock. By monitoring traffic peaks and understanding the performance impact, you can make sure the network is prepared.Continue Reading

• Microsoft RemoteFX USB redirection: Four key considerations

  With Microsoft RemoteFX USB redirection, you can have full native USB support for virtual desktops, despite some device limitations.Continue Reading

• Desktop audit checklist: Five steps to a successful desktop audit

  Now that 2012 has begun, consider doing a desktop audit to get your IT house in order. A strong desktop audit checklist can help you manage hardware, software and applications better.Continue Reading

• Tips for running PowerShell against remote Windows 7 desktops

  Setting up PowerShell to manage remote Windows 7 desktops can be tricky. These tips help you properly configure PowerShell and use it for remote desktop troubleshooting.Continue Reading

• VMware MVP and the emerging mobile virtualization era

  Mobile virtualization is taking hold, and VMware MVP allows IT pros to access work and personal data on one device. But the platform still has its limitations.Continue Reading

• Configuration profiles: An iPad administrator's best friend

  The influx of iPads and other mobile devices into the enterprise may worry IT administrators, but configuration profiles allow for centralized management of iOS devices.Continue Reading

• Five helpful commands for managing Remote Desktop Services

  In Windows Server 8, server management will be command-line oriented. Prepare for the shift by learning some commands for managing Remote Desktop Services.Continue Reading

• Tablet licensing rules with Microsoft Office

  As tablets make their way into the enterprise, it might be time to brush up on licensing rules for mobilizing Microsoft Office. We also provide some solutions for reducing costs.Continue Reading

• Solutions to common remote desktop printing problems

  Microsoft Easy Print improved remote desktop printing in Windows Server 2008 R2, but network admins still struggle with printer redirection. Use these tips to fix common problems.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows 7 Task Manager troubleshooting tips

  Here are some troubleshooting tips for Microsoft Windows 7's improved Task Manager -- from identifying processes and services to using the Resource Monitor.Continue Reading

• Why using a bare metal client hypervisor on a Mac makes no sense

  Apple supports running Mac OS X 10.7 Lion in a client hypervisor VM on Mac hardware, but is there any value in virtualizing the Mac OS with Type-1 products such as XenClient?Continue Reading

• More tools for converting PCs to thin clients

  You don't need to replace all your PCs to move to virtual desktops. Here are six non-Windows tools to help you convert old hardware to thin clients for desktop virtualization.Continue Reading

• Google Chrome OS vs. Chromium OS: Understanding the difference

  Before buying Google Chromebooks, learn the difference between Chrome and Chromium -- the free HTML5 browsers and OSes you can use to check out desktop virtualization clients.Continue Reading

• Application security best practices help meet compliance objectives

  Aligning application security best practices and compliance objectives helps companies comply with industry regulations and standards -- and may help reduce costs in the process.Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of using storage virtualization for virtual desktops

  Thinking of virtualizing storage to improve virtual desktop performance? Here are the pros and cons of storage virtualization for VDI.Continue Reading

• Does a mobile VDI platform make sense for your users?

  Mobile VDI isn't always a good fit. Ask these five questions to determine whether a mobile VDI platform makes sense for your users.Continue Reading

• Licensing options for accessing Microsoft Office remotely

  There are plenty of choices for licensing virtual applications, but understanding when to use which ones can be a challenge.Continue Reading

• Using P2V Migration for Software Assurance for Windows 7 upgrades

  P2V Migration for Software Assurance automates the Windows 7 migration process and preserves XP applications and data. Yet its limitations may be a deal breaker.Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of using hosted apps in the enterprise

  Hosted applications can reduce IT management burdens, but they can leave you at the mercy of service providers. Here are the pros and cons to weigh before moving to the cloud.Continue Reading

• Resetting passwords in the enterprise without the help desk

  While there are several self-service password-reset options on the market, many organizations are hesitant to implement them -- even though the payoffs are significant.Continue Reading

• Using AppLocker to lock down Remote Desktop Services apps

  The time it takes to get AppLocker fully functional negates its benefits, but with Remote Desktop Services, the Windows 7 application security tool is a no-brainer.Continue Reading

• Can smartphones get viruses and spread them to the network?

  Today's powerful smartphones can sometimes spread viruses to the corporate network. Learn how it can happen and how to prevent it.Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting virtual desktop connectivity issues

  Users occasionally have trouble connecting to their virtual desktops. These steps in the process of elimination can help troubleshoot network problems as quickly as possible.Continue Reading

• Java administration in SAP: Three tips for Basis administrators

  Sooner or later, Basis administrators will have to get used to Java administration in SAP. Read tips for finding information on a Java instance and monitoring memory utilization.Continue Reading

• The truth about five nines availability in unified communications networks

  Five nines availability is attainable with traditional telecommunications networks, but is it attainable with a unified communications network? This tip explains how to calculate availability and how it relates to unified communications software and...Continue Reading

• Controlling desktops with AppLocker and software restriction policies

  Many IT admins rely on User Account Control, but AppLocker or software restriction policies can also prevent unauthorized installation of desktop apps.Continue Reading

• How to secure GSM phones against cell phone eavesdropping

  Every enterprise has mobile phones, and, due to a recent attack demonstrated by Chris Paget at Defcon, every enterprise is now open to the possibility of data theft or mobile DoS attacks. Learn more about the growing threats of cell network ...Continue Reading

• How to make user profiles delete themselves in any VDI environment

  Do you need to keep Windows profiles but delete virtual desktops from shared machines? Nonpersistent desktops and these Active Directory tricks can help.Continue Reading

• The first hurdle of deploying a VDI environment: The user persona

  Ensure the quality of the user experience by properly managing the user persona. These five techniques can help with virtual desktop infrastructure deployment.Continue Reading

• How do Group Policy settings differ between versions of Windows?

  Group Policy Objects vary from one version of Windows to another. Determine which ones to apply in your environment.Continue Reading

• Where does Windows store its temporary files?

  The temporary files generated by Windows can pile up and become a security hazard. Learn how to track them down and tidy up your systems.Continue Reading

• The value of toll bypass in the enterprise

  IP telephony expert Jon Arnold explains the value of toll bypass in an IP telephony setup, detailing why enterprises should consider it as an option while tempering cost-savings expectations.Continue Reading

• How to crack a password

  Expert Brien Posey describes some techniques used to crack Windows passwords and offers several defenses against attack.Continue Reading

• Solving SAP print problems

  Many of you have written to say that printing from SAP is a lot like root canal. The process is slow and painful, but necessary. Our experts drill down to solve print issues here.Continue Reading

• Identifying and developing an ERP interface

  When working with ERP and other manufacturing software systems, it's important to understand the difference between an ERP interface and ERP integration. In this expert response, learn about developing ERP interfaces.Continue Reading

• How to fix a slip print-out error in an SAP Smart Form

  An SAP user is looking to fix an error with a packing slip print-out in an SAP Smart Form.Continue Reading

• Performing RFC connection checks in NetWeaver BW with SAP TREX

  SAP administrators can use SAP TREX to diagnose and repair broken RFC connections between SAP NetWeaver BW and the blades of the BW Accelerator.Continue Reading

• What is a Microsoft hotfix?

  Hotfixes can solve an array of problems in your enterprise, but they have certain limitations and need to be managed properly.Continue Reading

• Deploying Remote Desktop Web Access

  With Remote Desktop Web Access, users can connect to a remote desktop or an application through a Web browser. Follow these steps to start using the feature.Continue Reading

• Assigning personnel numbers in SAP HR

  An SAP HR users wants to know how to assign a person to two different personnel numbers in SAP HR while generating a single invoice.Continue Reading

• How to troubleshoot a Windows system that won't shut down

  Tracking down what's keeping a Windows desktop from sleeping requires looking at power management. Our expert helps you tackle the problem.Continue Reading

• Deploying a Remote Desktop Session Host

  The Remote Desktop Session Host in Windows Vista and Windows 7 performs the role of a terminal server. Deploying a session host isn't difficult -- if you plan ahead.Continue Reading

• Using separate trading partner fields in SAP function FB01

  An SAP R/3 4.7 user wants looking to post a document entry using different trading partner fields for credit and debit for function FB01.Continue Reading

• Creating an SAP IDoc for sales orders

  A SearchSAP.com reader wants to know how to create an SAP IDoc along with sales order details when sales orders are created, changed or cancelled.Continue Reading

• Setting up virtual hard disk storage

  VMware and Hyper-V can easily connect virtual machines to storage, but it crucial to pick the right method for your enterprise.Continue Reading

• Using SAP standard reports to track changes in SAP HR

  A SearchSAP.com reader is looking for a standard report that can track changes made to the hierarchy of SAP HR with SAP transaction code PPOME.Continue Reading

• Assessing your IT infrastructure for desktop virtualization

  Enterprises are increasingly using desktop virtualization for centralized application management. Make sure to remember performance and storage requirements when making VDI plans.Continue Reading

• Supply chain management (SCM) and business intelligence (BI): Questions about integration

  Integrating SCM and BI can boost the effectiveness supply chain analytics. SCM BI integration can be tricky, so before you get started, find answers to some common SCM and BI questions.Continue Reading

• Supply chain management (SCM) modules guide

  Supply chain management (SCM) software, which is made up of a variety of modules, is essential to running a smooth supply chain. In this guide, you'll find introductions to SCM system modules, including supply chain planning and execution, supply ...Continue Reading

• How to build a native-boot VHD for Windows 7 in a few simple steps

  Booting natively to a VHD in Windows 7 can be a complicated. This step-by-step guide breaks down and simplifies the process.Continue Reading

• Mobile device integration services: Choosing a mobile operating system

  To offer mobile device integration services, a solution provider must be able to recommend the right operating system for mobile devices. Depending on a customer's needs, a solution provider should be able to provide a mobile OS comparison and guide...Continue Reading

• Top 5 registry keys for Windows 7

  Use these helpful Windows 7 registry keys to manage user account control, prevent the computer from rebooting after installing patches and more.Continue Reading

• Introduction to supply chain management (SCM) EDI

  Manufacturers can use supply chain electronic data interchange (EDI) to control processes such as purchase orders, shipment notices and invoices. SCM EDI speeds the transfer of electronic business processes.Continue Reading