Tips

Tips

• Attach documents to an SAP object without having to use SAP DMS

  With SAP Services for Object, users can attach information to an SAP object without using the SAP Document Management System, writes Jawad Akhtar.  Continue Reading

• How to manage and modify SE Android

  SE Android protects against malware, but it can also block regular functions. You can modify SE Android settings to re-enable those apps and features.  Continue Reading

• Preparing for an IT audit in your VDI environment

  When preparing for an audit in your VDI environment, the best defense is a strong offense. Find out what you need to archive and who's auditing.  Continue Reading

• More remote Group Policy Object settings and checking refresh status

  Admins can refresh Group Policy Object settings across multiple computers, but they must verify that Group Policy settings have successfully changed.  Continue Reading

• From VDI pilot to production: Four tips for the move

  Don't leave users out of the equation when you move from your VDI pilot project to the production environment.  Continue Reading

• Making thin client performance priority No. 1

  Thin client performance is the key to a successful endpoint because it's the issue that most affects your end users.  Continue Reading

• How to use smartphone security settings

  Smartphone security settings such as passcodes, encryption and network controls can help users secure their mobile phones and protect corporate data.  Continue Reading

• Updates of cloud-based applications not as automatic as they may seem

  According to experts, some of the onus still falls on users to update cloud-based applications, despite vendor promises of automatic upgrades.  Continue Reading

• Three important VDI application deployment considerations

  Consider app compatibility and the frequency of updates when you choose VDI application deployment methods. Oh, and don't forget cost.  Continue Reading

• Locking down Internet Explorer settings with Group Policy in IE 11

  New Internet Explorer settings can tighten enterprise security, but only if Group Policy is properly enabled in IE 11 and you have Windows 8.  Continue Reading

• Budgeting process case studies demonstrate how to keep it simple

  Barry Wilderman analyzes two budgeting case studies and breaks down their differences and similarities.  Continue Reading

• Use SAP Backflush functionality to automate production processes

  Companies save themselves headaches by automating production processes using SAP Backflush and Automatic Goods Receipt functions, writes Jawad Akhtar.  Continue Reading

• How to load balance a Citrix or VMware VDI implementation

  Whether your VDI implementation is based on Citrix or VMware, certain load-balancing techniques will keep performance on target.  Continue Reading

• Budgeting software vs. Excel: Which one meets your organization's needs?

  To make your decision easier, read expert Barry Wilderman's explanation of the pros and cons of each, plus cloud considerations.  Continue Reading

• How to handle peripherals support on virtual desktops

  Peripherals support can be especially tricky on virtual desktops because you often need redirection technology to make the devices work.  Continue Reading

• A sampler of VDI-friendly Windows PowerShell scripts

  You can automate desktop provisioning, monitoring and more in a VDI environment, so check out these handy Windows PowerShell scripts for VDI admins.  Continue Reading

• How to configure SharePoint for mobile devices

  As more organizations support bring-your-own-device initiatives, end users increasingly expect access to SharePoint resources from mobile devices.  Continue Reading

• Where virtual desktops need certificate management

  Virtual desktops don't always trust certain security certificates, especially when applications are accessed through the Web.  Continue Reading

• Learn how to install Office 2013 with Group Policies or SCCM

  To successfully deploy Office 2013 across a network, you'll need Group Policies or tools such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager.  Continue Reading

• Limiting mobile bandwidth consumption to improve network performance

  When a lot of devices access your network, the network slows down. Adding WAPs and upgrading the LAN can help you limit bandwidth consumption.  Continue Reading

• Which budget technique is right for your organization?

  Budgeting is not one size fits all. The size of your organization may determine which technique fit bests. Try these techniques on for size.  Continue Reading

• The vdmadmin utility puts the VMware View administrator in command

  Using the vdmadmin tool, a VMware View administrator can make virtual desktops dance through command-line wizardry.  Continue Reading

• How business process redesign is affecting ERP

  In this expert tip, learn how business process redesign fits into the ERP implementation process and the role that business process management plays.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for ERP and WMS integration

  In this expert tip, learn how to successfully integrate a warehouse management system with an ERP system.  Continue Reading

• Click-to-Run and MSI provide Office 2013 installation options

  The Microsoft Installer has competition for Office 2013 installation. See how Office Click-to-Run allows Office 2013 to run without a full download.  Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of using VDI for BYOD management

  Virtual desktop infrastructure eases the stress of managing employee-owned devices in the enterprise, but beware connectivity and compatibility snags.  Continue Reading

• Cut inspection costs with the SAP QM module's DMR functionality

  Save time and money inspecting the quality of procured or produced materials with the SAP Dynamic Modification Rule (DMR), writes expert Jawad Akhtar.  Continue Reading

• How cloud storage and collaboration are changing email communications

  Email communications aren't dead, but social networking, cloud storage and collaboration tools have made it easier for employees to work together.  Continue Reading

• Taking advantage of VM snapshots in a virtual desktop environment

  With VM snapshots, you can make one desktop VM into many. Just watch out for performance when snapshotting in a virtual desktop environment.  Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of mobile device management software

  There are some security gaps that MDM can't fill, but mobile device management software is still a must for many companies.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft's revised Resource Kit can ease Office 2013 deployment

  Microsoft's free Office 2013 Resource Kit provides documentation for Office 2013 deployment, as well as for management after an Office deployment.  Continue Reading

• Using Active Directory activation and other new Office 2013 tools

  Among the new Office 2013 tools for IT admins are a method for volume activation, administrative template files and files for custom installations.  Continue Reading

• Making Citrix XenDesktop play nice with a VMware hypervisor

  You can run XenDesktop on a VMware hypervisor, but what does that entail? Learn how clustering and vCenter Server work in a mixed VDI environment.  Continue Reading

• Ways to investigate and fix VMware View Connection Server issues

  VDI admins can troubleshoot and fix problems in a VMware View Connection Server and its LDAP directory using just a few commands.  Continue Reading

• Using passthrough disks for desktop VM storage? Keep 5 tips in mind

  Connecting desktop VMs to passthrough disks can enhance performance, but it does add complexity. Watch out for these five hang-ups.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for allocating resources to virtual desktops

  It's important to do a good job allocating resources to virtual desktops. Make sure you understand your VM system and allocate based on your users.  Continue Reading

• Stripping a Microsoft Office password from a document with DocRecrypt

  DocRecrypt, an Office 2013 tool, allows an admins to get into an otherwise inaccessible file by stripping it of its Microsoft Office password.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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