End-User Computing
Top Stories
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Feature
28 Jul 2026
Secure Enclave vs. TPM vs. HSM: What IT should know
The Secure Enclave offers hardware-isolated security for Apple devices. Learn how it compares with TPM and HSM technologies, as well as the best uses for these three approaches. Continue Reading
By -
Opinion
23 Jul 2026
Over 600 CVEs: Mythos' effect on vulnerability and patch management
Microsoft's July Patch Tuesday broke records by addressing over 600 CVEs. What does this reveal about the effect that AI models have on vulnerability and patch management? Continue Reading
By- Gabe Knuth, Principal Analyst
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Omdia
Intelligence and advice powered by decades of global expertise and comprehensive coverage of the tech markets.
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Answer
21 Sep 2015
Can I customize the Windows 10 Start menu?
In Windows 10 there are four options you can use to turn off different features of the Start menu and customize it to your liking. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Sep 2015
What is the best way to transition from Windows XP to Windows 10?
If you're still on Windows XP, there's really only one Microsoft-supported way you can move from XP to Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2015
Three essentials for an effective mobile app strategy
With mobile apps invading the enterprise, it's time to develop a strategy using a set of universal app development tools. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Jul 2015
What is Cortana and how does it benefit my users?
Microsoft integrated Cortana in its Windows 10 operating system. It's capable of carrying out complex search requests and it can help enterprise users navigate their desktops. Continue Reading
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Guide
28 Jul 2015
Windows 10 guide for IT administrators
Windows 10 boasts of bevy of features, including Contiuum, Universal Windows apps, Cortana and improved security. Before you migrate to the latest OS, read up on what it has to offer. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Jul 2015
What is the multiple desktop feature in Windows 10?
The Windows 10 multiple desktop features gives workers the feel of using multiple monitors on the same screen, which can increase productivity for users that keep many windows open at once. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Jul 2015
Is Windows 10 really the last version of Windows?
Microsoft has said that Windows 10 is the last version of Windows, and that's sort of true. Rather than releasing Windows 11 in years to come, the company will deploy perpetual updates to Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jul 2015
Do I really need Citrix NetScaler?
NetScaler or not, you need an application delivery controller. But XenApp and XenDesktop shops that use a non-Citrix gateway run the risk of losing Citrix's support. Continue Reading
By- Margaret Jones, Former Executive Editor
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Opinion
23 Jul 2015
Why you should remove local administrator rights once and for all
Some companies shy away from removing local admin rights just to make users happy, but taking back users' admin privileges can prevent many problems and improve security. Continue Reading
By- Kevin Beaver, Principle Logic, LLC
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Blog Post
22 Jul 2015
Driver Difficulties Return in Win10 Build 20140
For the last three builds of Windows 10 (10159, 10162, and 10166) the OS was remarkably well-behaved in installing drivers for my newest PC (a less-than-one-year-old Dell Venue 11 Pro 7139 with an ... Continue Reading
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Opinion
13 Jul 2015
Running Windows desktop apps on mobile devices gets easier
Today, admins can choose from a combination of virtualization, refactoring, secure containers and GPU virtualization to deliver Windows apps on mobile devices with a decent user experience. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
08 Jul 2015
Top five VDI-related help desk questions
VDI has many benefits, but it will also open the flood gates for help desk questions from users: Why can't I login? Where am I printing? IT better have the answers. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Jun 2015
What are the best ways to use tablets for business?
As more enterprises begin to support tablets, many users find that the screen size and portability provides the right balance for common work-related tasks such as note taking. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2015
Ten most useful Windows Sysinternals utilities
Sysinternals utilities such as Autoruns and TCPView can target specific problem areas in a Microsoft Windows environment, including performance issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2015
How to virtualize apps with VMware ThinApp, step by step
It's fairly easy to virtualize apps with VMware ThinApp, you just need to know a few basic steps, including setting up a VM, taking snapshots and using the Setup Capture utility to run scans. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2015
What to expect from Macs in the enterprise
For enterprise IT, Apple's Mac OS can pose a few problems, including compatibility, applications, support, networking and other issues. But if you know what could be coming your way, you can get the training and tools to manage Macs. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jun 2015
Let their powers combine: Use Intune, RemoteApp combo for virtual app delivery
Microsoft Intune, App-V and RemoteApp all let you deliver apps to mobile devices, but no one approach is perfect. A combination of Intune and RemoteApp for virtual app delivery can work well. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jun 2015
The good, bad and ugly of Outlook apps for iOS and Android
Outlook mobile applications for iOS and Android are here, but is that a good thing? Take a look at why users will love them and why IT might hesitate to endorse them. Continue Reading
By- Eddie Lockhart, Site Editor
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Guide
29 May 2015
VDI assessment guide
Wait! Don't implement VDI technology until you know your goals and needs. A VDI assessment should consider the benefits of a VDI environment and its effects on end users. Continue Reading
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Guide
29 May 2015
Guide to calculating ROI from VDI
Calculating ROI from VDI requires a solid VDI cost analysis. Consider ROI calculation models, storage costs and more to determine how much you'll benefit from VDI -- if at all. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2015
Weighing pros and cons of mobile application management
Rather than focusing on gaining access to users' devices, MAM puts the power squarely in IT's hands to protect mobile applications on any device. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 May 2015
How do I build Apportals in Windows 8.1?
Windows Apportals let you put the applications certain user groups need right in front of them, but you need some development knowledge and a Windows Developer License if you want to build them yourself. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 May 2015
How much memory do my Windows 8 desktops really need?
It can be tough to know how much memory Windows 8 and 8.1 desktops need before they're actually in use, but the Windows Task Manager can help you see memory usage. Continue Reading
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Guide
18 May 2015
Guide to choosing and managing VDI thin clients
First, decide whether thin clients are right for your environment. Then learn what to look for in VDI hardware and what kind of management capabilities you need. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2015
ShareFile steps up security with third-party DLP integration
Citrix ShareFile will allow for third-party DLP integration within its data zones, as IT shops look for a balance between ease of use and security. Continue Reading
By- Alyssa Provazza, Editorial Director
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Photo Story
14 May 2015
Best of Citrix Synergy 2015 Awards winners
The Best of Citrix Synergy 2015 Awards recognize the best products on display at Citrix's annual user conference. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2015
Why you need mobile infrastructure
IT shops need to invest in modern mobile infrastructure to meet the growing demands of mobility in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Guide
08 May 2015
Android device management: Everything you need to know in one guide
The Google Android mobile operating system runs on a wide variety of devices. Learn how IT can manage and secure such a diverse OS in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2015
Five tips for managing guest wireless network access
With the proliferation of mobile devices, guest access to enterprise networks is more common. IT can maintain security with tools such as identity management and per-session security keys. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Apr 2015
Can you provision desktop apps with Windows To Go?
It's OK to install desktops applications on a Windows To Go image, as long as they're small enough to fit on the USB drive and can run locally. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
27 Apr 2015
Five Citrix Synergy 2015 sessions to look forward to
There are lots of different session types and tracks to choose from at Citrix Synergy 2015. Before you etch your schedule in stone, make sure to consider these five sessions for desktop virtualization admins. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2015
Desktop management tools and best practices
Desktop management tools are the key to making sure things in your fleet are running smoothly. Systems such as Desktop Central and Client Management Suite cover the big five of desktop management. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2015
The importance of desktop inventory management tools
Desktop inventory management tools help keep track of how many endpoints are in use and who's using them. That basic information can help with sundry other management tasks, such as budgeting and responses to security breaches. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Apr 2015
Comparing three options for VDI endpoints
There are a few ways admins can provide users with the hardware that makes it possible to access their virtual desktops. Get to know the three major options. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Apr 2015
What are my options for configuring Windows 8 startup?
The System Configuration tool features four tabs of options you can use to configure Windows 8 startup. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Apr 2015
What are some common Office 2013 problems?
Office 2013 problems can stem from an incomplete install, or your particular version or settings. Luckily, there are simple fixes for most issues. Continue Reading
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Guide
03 Apr 2015
Complete guide to RDS management and RDSH
RDS is the backbone of Windows desktop virtualization from Microsoft. Learn about features -- such as RemoteFX -- problems and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2015
Setting standards for in-house app development and delivery
As with anything, mobile application development goes best when IT comes in with a well-thought-out plan. Learn how to optimize your app dev and delivery process. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Mar 2015
Create apps that focus on end-user needs first
Many companies approach mobile app development backward and don't even realize it. Prioritizing user needs over business needs will breed better results. Continue Reading
By -
Opinion
18 Mar 2015
Benefits and disadvantages of virtual mobile infrastructure
Virtual mobile infrastructure lets you run mobile applications in your data center and take advantage of some of the same benefits as VDI, but it also comes with similar drawbacks, such as offline access issues. Continue Reading
By- Gabe Knuth, Principal Analyst
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Tip
16 Mar 2015
What a desktop assessment can do for you
Is every physical desktop a candidate for virtualization? A desktop assessment can help make this determination before a major VDI investment is made. Continue Reading
By- Craig Kilborn, SCC
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Tip
11 Mar 2015
Get to know Android for Work profiles and productivity features
Now that Android for Work is out, we dig into the features of the program’s work profiles and productivity apps. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Mar 2015
How do I open an .xpx file in Office 2002 SP3?
An .xpx file can cause problems for Office 2002 SP3 users, but Microsoft does provide help in Windows 7 and with a free XPS viewer. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Mar 2015
MDM, MIM and MAM products help in securing data
Mobile device management, mobile application management and mobile information management form a security trio that protect data in the age of BYOD. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Feb 2015
What are some alternatives to Windows Defender?
Windows Defender is useful for Windows 8 security, but it can't keep up with malicious software alone. Several third-party products can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Feb 2015
VDI hardware evaluation checklist
Picking the right hardware for your VDI deployment is critical, but it doesn't have to be difficult. To start, check to see if your VDI software vendor has a list of compatible components. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Feb 2015
How does Windows 8.1 support affect Active Directory?
Windows 8.1 support for endpoint security includes Open MDM and biometrics, but removing Remote Server Administration Tools can affect Active Directory. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 Feb 2015
Win10 Gets Smart About Paging Files
In working on a Windows 10 story for SearchEnterpriseDesktop this week, I came to an interesting realization. In Windows 10, MS has finally broken with tradition when it comes to sizing the paging ... Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Feb 2015
What Web application monitoring tools exist for desktops?
Microsoft Intune and other mobile device management tools are also useful for desktop management from the cloud and Web application monitoring. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Feb 2015
Untangling the Gordian knot of the Windows boot process
An infinite reboot loop is a common issue with the Windows boot process. Start up in Windows Safe Mode to diagnose device driver or hardware problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2015
Tighten Windows 8.1 security in five simple steps
Microsoft has improved Windows 8.1 security, but no OS is free of vulnerabilities. Some basic settings can further protect Windows 8.x systems. Continue Reading
By- Kevin Beaver, Principle Logic, LLC
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Answer
26 Jan 2015
How does VMware App Volumes differ from ThinApp?
VMware App Volumes, formerly CloudVolumes, is the virtualization company's attempt to speed application deployments and reduce IT headaches. Continue Reading
By- Tom Walat, Editor
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News
23 Jan 2015
CloudOn app to shut down after Dropbox acquisition
Following a partnership with Microsoft, Dropbox acquired CloudOn and will pull the plug on the collaboration tool, removing an Office alternative. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jan 2015
What's the best way to reformat a hard drive remotely?
Whether you need to remotely reformat a hard drive for security or prepare new network-attached machines, a few utilities can make the job easier. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jan 2015
Microsoft Windows history: A 30-year timeline
Microsoft celebrates 30 years of the Windows operating system when it ships Windows 10 this fall. Here's a look at Windows history -- bumps and all. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2015
Affordable Apple MDM option emerges for IT on a budget
One real estate services company needed device management and found JAMF's Bushel to be a cost-effective MDM for its Apple devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jan 2015
Apple Device Enrollment Program streamlines deployment, MDM
The Apple Device Enrollment Program allows IT pros to automate deployment, and they can also preset mandatory MDM configurations out of the box. Continue Reading
By- Lisa Phifer, Core Competence
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Answer
09 Jan 2015
What are the concerns around the Windows 7 end of life?
As the Windows 7 end of life arrives, IT admins must find extended support for the OS. Microsoft provides some help, but it won't always be free. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jan 2015
Tablets and smartphones can be thin clients, too
The experience of using a mobile device as a thin client has improved and it's no longer out of the question, but some pain points remain, such as connectivity and text entry. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Jan 2015
How do I remove admin restrictions from Windows 7 laptops?
To relax the usual restrictions on Windows 7 laptops, use the Windows administrator account, but remember to record your password. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2014
Registry tweaks can speed up Windows 8 performance
Our latest article on using the Windows registry to improve Windows 8 performance looks at disk access and shutting down Windows Store apps Continue Reading
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News
18 Dec 2014
New per-user Windows license pricing cuts VDI costs
Early quotes for Windows' new per-user Software Assurance licensing could save significant money for IT shops doing VDI. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Dec 2014
What is Docker and what does it mean for virtualization?
Docker uses Linux containers to make virtualization deployments easier to manage and scale. The concept isn’t new or revolutionary, but it has implications for the future of virtualization. Continue Reading
By- Gabe Knuth, Principal Analyst
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Definition
28 Nov 2014
Microsoft Click-To-Run
Microsoft Click-to-Run is a way to quickly install Microsoft products, including versions of Office 2010 and Office 2013. Continue Reading
By- Stephen J. Bigelow, Senior Technology Editor
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News
21 Nov 2014
BlackBerry pins enterprise future on BES12, partnerships
BlackBerry's return to QWERTY keyboard devices and improvements to BES12 are steps in the right direction, but is it too little, too late for many IT shops that have already moved on? Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2014
Four utilities can verify Group Policy object settings
Client-side extensions could cause a Group Policy object to fail. Fortunately, there are a few different ways to track down Windows GPO settings. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2014
Why mobile user authentication is more important than ever
Encrypting data is a good first step, but if you don't properly authenticate users, sensitive information can still fall into the wrong hands. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Nov 2014
Can I use a tablet for VDI?
Technology-wise, it's possible to access a virtual desktop from a tablet, but the user experience may not be ideal. On the other hand, if you have a mouse and keyboard hooked up to the tablet, it can be a great way to access VDI. Continue Reading
By- Todd Knapp, Envision Technology Advisors
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Answer
24 Oct 2014
Do I need antivirus for VDI deployments?
Virtual desktop environments aren't immune to viruses and malware, so it's important to have an antivirus tool and strategy in place before your deployment gets infected. Continue Reading
By- Todd Knapp, Envision Technology Advisors
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Opinion
15 Oct 2014
VDI vs. RDSH doesn't matter if users don't need full Windows desktops
Most companies don't need to publish full Windows desktops anymore -- users mostly just need their applications. That means there's no reason to discount RDSH in favor of VDI. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Oct 2014
What is the difference between VDI vs. Terminal Services?
The VDI vs. Terminal Services (or RDS) debate is based on the differences between the two methods for delivering remote desktops. One uses sessions and the other connects users to full client OS desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2014
The difference between Citrix Workspace Suite and Workspace Services
Citrix's Workspace Services and the Workspace Suite aren't one in the same. The Suite is a bundle of products and Workspace Services is a delivery platform and control plane. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2014
How to enable Windows 8.1 kiosk mode for Modern apps
It's possible to control user application access on startup with Assigned Access, but note that Windows 8.1 kiosk mode works only for Modern apps. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Sep 2014
ThinApp vs. XenApp: What's the difference?
ThinApp and XenApp are both application virtualization tools. They do basically the same thing, they just come from different vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2014
Top tools for user profile management
You can manage profiles with Active Directory or the tools built into your VDI software, but third-party options from AppSense, RES software and Liquidware Labs offer more features and can reduce storage needs. Continue Reading
By- Kim Lindros and Ed Tittel
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Tip
25 Sep 2014
Rooted Android device risks include network access, data theft
Rooting an Android smartphone or tablet makes the device more vulnerable to malicious apps that could wreak havoc on a corporate network. MDM alone can't stop the threat. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2014
Windows kiosk mode locks down PCs, but note workarounds
Switching from the Windows Explorer shell to a particular app can be useful for single-purpose devices, but users can still foil Windows kiosk mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2014
Zero client buying guide
There are lots of client options to choose from for VDI. Get the details on four of the most popular zero clients and how they can meet your needs in this buying guide. Continue Reading
By- Kim Lindros and Ed Tittel
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Definition
15 Sep 2014
Microsoft Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE)
The Microsoft Windows Recovery Environment, or Windows RE, is a simplified, scaled-back version of the Windows operating system that is used to boot the system when Windows 8.x, Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2 can't. Continue Reading
By- Stephen J. Bigelow, Senior Technology Editor
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Opinion
03 Sep 2014
Microsoft Office on a tablet is 'just as good' as traditional desktop
Getting a good user experience from Microsoft Office on a tablet doesn't require virtual desktop or applications. One user who's gone tablet-only gets a great desktop experience on her Surface 2. Continue Reading
By- Alyssa Provazza, Editorial Director
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Opinion
31 Aug 2014
Key takeaways from VMworld 2014
The new products heralded at VMworld 2014 weren't as thrilling as those from years past, but attendees can expect the tech VMware talked about -- Project Fargo, CloudVolumes and improved graphics on Chromebooks -- by the close of the year. Continue Reading
By- Gabe Knuth, Principal Analyst
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News
29 Aug 2014
VMware aims to improve VDI graphics on Chromebooks
As VMware looks to compete with Citrix for EUC dominance, it's added a partnership with Google and Nvidia for Chromebooks graphics performance, and teamed up with Cortado for Horizon 6 printing. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Aug 2014
What does the Nvidia, VMware and Google partnership mean for VDI?
Nvidia, VMware and Google have teamed up to deliver quality graphics on low-cost Chromebooks. Though the devices' enterprise readiness has been questioned in the past, this collaboration could garner a double take. Continue Reading
By- Margaret Jones, Former Executive Editor
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News
29 Aug 2014
VMware Project Meteor could corral skyrocketing VDI needs
VMware is looking to change the VDI equation by combining its CloudVolumes buy and new VM cloning technology into Project Meteor, plus other additions to compete with Citrix in the EUC market. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Aug 2014
How can I implement cloud desktops?
There are four different ways to do desktop as a service in your organization. Each option, however, has its pros and cons. Continue Reading
By- Margaret Jones, Former Executive Editor
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News
27 Aug 2014
VMware marries AirWatch, Horizon 6 in new Workspace Suite
After months of speculation, VMware Workspace Suite brings together VMware's EUC pieces in one place, not long after rival Citrix launched a similar platform. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2014
VMware buys CloudVolumes, application layers on the horizon
With VMware's CloudVolumes acquisition, admins can provide personalized virtual desktops without managing separate images for each user. Applications will work more like they do on mobile devices, too. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2014
client-side extension (CSE)
A client-side extension (CSE) is an integral component of enterprise group policy administration that applies Group Policy to users or endpoint systems. Continue Reading
By- Stephen J. Bigelow, Senior Technology Editor
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Tip
12 Aug 2014
Google Glass at Work could make some jobs easier
With Glass for Work, Google aims to overcome the challenges the "smart glasses" have faced in the consumer marketplace. The new focus on enterprise could help field workers, manufacturers and engineers get more done hands-free. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Aug 2014
Using tools to back up and restore bootable USB device images
Do you have more install or diagnostic environment images to manage than physical UFDs? Learn how to back up and restore bootable USB device images. Continue Reading
By- Kim Lindros and Ed Tittel
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Photo Story
04 Aug 2014
Three visual disk analyzer utilities to help you optimize disk space
Learn about visual exploration tools for Windows drives of all sizes. These disk analyzers can help identify big unnecessary items for space savings. Continue Reading
By- Kim Lindros and Ed Tittel
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News
22 Jul 2014
Microsoft talks up services, mum on Windows strategy
Microsoft has acknowledged that users aren't just tied to desktop OSes, shifting its focus to Office 365 and DaaS rather than its Windows strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jul 2014
Office Telemetry reports on Office 2013 docs and apps
If IT administrators need information on document and application usage, they can use Office Telemetry, an Office 2013 feature that gathers such data. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2014
Differences between desktop and server virtualization
Desktop and server virtualization are different beasts, and not knowing the difference can put your VDI deployment in hot water. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jul 2014
Windows 9 features may address unified apps and the cloud
Based on the Windows 8.1 update, it's reasonable to expect Windows 9 features for universal apps and cloud integration. Will they entice enterprises? Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jul 2014
RDSH vs. VDI comparison proves use case is everything
In a RDSH vs. VDI comparison, it's not a matter of which is better. The most important thing is which one best fits your use case. VDI is good if users need multiple applications, but RDSH is a more lightweight model. Continue Reading
By- Brad Maltz, Lumenate
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Feature
15 Jul 2014
New Microsoft Office 2013 features you need to know about
Although some people may consider Office 2013 to be a relatively minor release, the 2013 version is jam-packed with new features. Here are some of the most significant new Microsoft Office 2013 features that both end users and IT administrators can find useful. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Jul 2014
How does Box security help with auditing and compliance?
Box's security features help IT admins audit data access and limit the sharing of sensitive information stored in the cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jul 2014
How Box integration works with other enterprise apps
To get the most out of Box, use its APIs to integrate your enterprise applications with its cloud storage platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2014
Save WIM file space with WIMBoot in Windows 8.1 update
With Windows 8.1 Update 1, it's possible to boot desktops directly from a WIM file. Follow these steps to create WIMBoot images and save disk space. Continue Reading