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
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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
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Tip
14 Feb 2013
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
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Tip
11 Feb 2013
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
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Tip
11 Feb 2013
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
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Tip
07 Feb 2013
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
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Feature
04 Feb 2013
User environment virtualization leaves roaming profiles in the dust
As users connect to more devices than ever, user environment virtualization is a blossoming trend in the desktop virtualization market. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2013
Comparing mobile operating systems' manageability and security
Each of the popular mobile operating systems has different security and management features. Compare them to see which ones might fit in your company. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2013
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
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Tip
24 Jan 2013
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
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Tip
22 Jan 2013
Windows Server Update Services weaknesses you may not know about
Built-in tools such as WSUS can help with Windows patching, but you may still need other tools to verify that enterprise systems are safe. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jan 2013
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
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Feature
16 Jan 2013
Application virtualization comparison: XenApp vs. ThinApp vs. App-V
App streaming and virtualization tools differ when it comes to portability, offline capabilities and more. Get to know application presentation tools from Citrix, VMware and Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2013
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
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Tip
07 Jan 2013
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
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Tip
13 Dec 2012
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
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Tip
13 Dec 2012
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
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Tip
28 Nov 2012
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
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Tip
20 Nov 2012
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
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Tip
15 Nov 2012
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
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Survey
02 Nov 2012
Windows 8 migration survey
IT shops are in the midst of evaluating Microsoft Windows 8. Let us know where you are in the migration process and qualify for a Starbucks gift card! Continue Reading
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News
23 Oct 2012
Citrix Synergy Barcelona recap: Combining XenApp and XenDesktop
At Citrix Synergy Barcelona, the vendor announced phase one of Project Avalon, which will provide unified management for XenApp and XenDesktop. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Oct 2012
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
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Tip
02 Oct 2012
Best practices for developing mobile cloud apps revealed
Expert Bill Claybrook explains the right way to go about creating mobile cloud applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Sep 2012
Demystifying Microsoft virtual desktop licensing: SA vs. VDA vs. CDL
Virtual desktops are so dynamic that licensing them isn't easy. Microsoft's complex VDI licensing rules certainly don't help. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2012
Cloud file sharing: Secure enough for the CIA, secure enough for you?
Two U.S. government agencies will adopt cloud file sharing and collaboration services. Security concerns? What security concerns? Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Sep 2012
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
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Feature
28 Aug 2012
VMware announces AppShift, Wanova integration in end-user computing keynote
At VMworld 2012 this week, the end-user computing keynote had IT pros talking. Hear about Project AppShift, Wanova's integration with VMware View and more in this video recap. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Aug 2012
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
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Tip
14 Aug 2012
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
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Tip
09 Aug 2012
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
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Tip
03 Aug 2012
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
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Feature
26 Jul 2012
Quick recap: BriForum 2012 taps into mobile topics
Gabe Knuth has the juicy details from BriForum 2012 Chicago, including desktop virtualization and the new kid on the block, the consumerization of IT. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jul 2012
Active Directory deficient for consumerization-era identity management
As cloud and mobile take root in enterprises, identity management takes center stage and some say Active Directory isn’t enough. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jul 2012
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
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Tip
06 Jul 2012
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
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Photo Story
10 May 2012
Top 10 disruptive technology vendors in the enterprise
Technology evolves so quickly that it’s getting harder and harder for IT to keep up. These disruptive technology vendors lead the charge. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2012
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
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Tip
24 Apr 2012
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
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Tip
18 Apr 2012
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
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Tip
13 Apr 2012
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
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News
04 Apr 2012
Microsoft updates roaming profiles for the desktop virtualization age
Microsoft has finally delivered a new version of its roaming user profiles tool called UE-V, providing profile management for virtual desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2012
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
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Tip
28 Mar 2012
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
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Opinion
28 Mar 2012
Why VDI? (5 Reasons people really use VDI)
I've recently posted a few negative articles about VDI. (Well, I don't think they're negative, but I've definitely been accused of being a VDI hater.) Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2012
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
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08 Mar 2012
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
29 Feb 2012
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
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Tip
27 Feb 2012
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
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Tip
24 Jan 2012
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
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News
16 Dec 2011
VMware adds Kindle Fire to short View client list
VMware increases its View client support list to gain new VDI customers, particularly those with BYOD policies. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2011
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
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Tip
08 Nov 2011
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
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Tip
21 Oct 2011
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
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Tip
20 Oct 2011
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
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Tip
11 Oct 2011
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
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Tip
21 Sep 2011
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
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Tip
15 Sep 2011
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
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Tip
17 Aug 2011
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
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Tip
09 Aug 2011
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
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Blog Post
27 Jul 2011
Auto-Update for KB2310138 Spreads Consternation for MSE Users
OK, so if you're running Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) installed then you must figure out what to do with an update that Microsoft pushed yesterday in its increasingly typical "2nd Patch ... Continue Reading
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Tutorial
07 Jul 2011
Microsoft virtual desktop licensing guide
Microsoft licensing is convoluted, particularly for VDI. This guide navigates Windows virtual desktop licensing, how to reduce licensing costs, and what’s legal and what’s not. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2011
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
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Tip
12 May 2011
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
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Opinion
13 Apr 2011
Do SIDs matter anymore? Do we really need Sysprep for VDI?
I had another reminder today that SIDs *do* matter in a virtual Windows environment! We used to religiously change SIDs with a variety of third-party tools Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Apr 2011
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
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Tip
30 Mar 2011
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
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Tip
30 Mar 2011
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
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Tutorial
16 Mar 2011
Windows 7 Learning Guide
The recent release of Windows 7 SP1 means Microsoft's newest operating system is likely coming to a desktop near you. Prepare for the unexpected with this guide. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Mar 2011
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
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Tip
02 Mar 2011
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
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Tip
28 Feb 2011
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
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Answer
28 Feb 2011
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
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Feature
19 Jan 2011
The Layer 4 protocols behind PCoIP and HDX: Which is better for VDI?
VMware uses UDP for its remote desktop protocol, PC-over-IP, and Citrix uses TCP for HDX. Consider the pros and cons of these technologies for your VDI environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2011
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
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Feature
21 Dec 2010
Remote desktop access vs. mobile access: What's the difference?
While remote access is always remote, it's not always mobile. There's a difference between the two, each with its own use case. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2010
fixed-mobile convergence (FMC)
Fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) is the trend towards seamless connectivity between fixed and wireless telecommunications networks... (Continued) Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2010
RMON (Remote Network Monitoring)
RMON (Remote Network Monitoring) provides standard information that a network administrator can use to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot a group of distributed local area networks (LANs) and interconnecting T-1/E-1 and T-2/E-3 lines from a central site. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2010
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
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News
19 Oct 2010
Creating an IT admin's PowerShell toolbox
The PowerShell scripting tool in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 should be the staple of any IT administrator's toolbox. Learn how it can help you. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Oct 2010
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 eavesdropping and spoofing. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Sep 2010
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
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Tip
23 Sep 2010
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
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Tip
22 Sep 2010
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
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Tip
25 Aug 2010
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
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Opinion
15 Aug 2010
"Advanced Format" 4k disk drives and performance: How will this impact your virtual disks?
Oh those disk drive guys... you'd better pay attention to what they are doing! Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2010
How to crack a password
Expert Brien Posey describes some techniques used to crack Windows passwords and offers several defenses against attack. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2010
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
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Tip
14 Apr 2010
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
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Tip
24 Mar 2010
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
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Tutorial
23 Mar 2010
The basics of Remote Desktop Services: The connection broker
Part traffic cop, part telephone operator, the connection broker handles the authentication and connection between clients and virtual machine images. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
23 Mar 2010
The basics of Remote Desktop Services: The components
Several basic components are needed for Remote Desktop Services to function, including a VM host, a connection broker, a VM publishing service, a Web portal and a redirector. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Mar 2010
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
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Tip
23 Feb 2010
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
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Feature
11 Feb 2010
What USMT will and won't do
Microsoft's User State Migration Tool does have limitations. See what it can and can't do. Continue Reading
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News
02 Feb 2010
Enterprises hold onto Microsoft Office despite Google Apps option
Google Apps is making headway over Microsoft Office in startups and SMBs. But inside enterprises? Not so much. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2010
virtual machine configuration
Virtual machine configuration is the arrangement of resources assigned to a virtual machine. The resources allocated to a virtual machine (VM) typically include allocated processors, memory, disks, network adapters and the user interface. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2010
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
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Tip
18 Jan 2010
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 the customer toward the right mobile operating system. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2010
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
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Tutorial
28 Dec 2009
Back ends for desktop virtualization: A guide
This guide on desktop virtualization and back-end virtualization engines covers how hypervisors from VMware, Microsoft and Citrix Systems enable desktop virtualization. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Dec 2009
Group Policy tricks to secure network endpoints
There are thousands of Group Policy settings available -- lock down your network endpoints with these favorites. Continue Reading