Desktop management
Desktop management includes various services and utilities that IT needs to account for. This includes OS updates and upgrades, patch management, device provisioning and more. IT needs to find desktop management software or unified endpoint management (UEM) platforms to handle these tasks.
Top Stories
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Tip
26 Jun 2025
How to perform an in-place upgrade to Windows 11
While they have some disadvantages, in-place Windows upgrades can deliver a smooth transition between the OSes with minimal IT oversight. There are two main methods IT can use. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jun 2025
How to set up Windows Hello for Business, step by step
Licensing for Windows Hello for Business is a simple process, but the setup involves making several decisions, including how to host the service, authentication types and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jun 2025
How to deploy Windows LAPS for tighter security
Microsoft improved the feature that automates local administrator password management in Windows Server and the client OS. This tutorial explains the updates and how to set it up. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jun 2025
What is PC as a service (PCaaS)?
PC as a service (PCaaS) is a device lifecycle management model in which an organization pays a monthly subscription fee to lease endpoint hardware (PCs) and management services from a vendor instead of purchasing them outright. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2025
How to calculate Windows Hello for Business cost
Just how much does Windows Hello for Business cost? It's not exactly a simple answer, but the good news is that there are lots of ways to attain a license. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2025
How to navigate the Windows Hello for Business requirements
While Windows Hello is easy to set up on the user level, Windows Hello for Business needs a bit more back-end legwork to meet the infrastructure and licensing requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2025
What is Desktop Management Interface (DMI)?
The Desktop Management Interface (DMI) is a standard industry framework for managing and tracking components on one or more personal computers, laptops or servers, usually from a centralized console. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jun 2025
Evaluating tablets as thin clients in the enterprise
There are numerous options for thin client hardware including dedicated thin clients and retired PCs, but the evolution of tablets makes them viable as virtual desktop endpoints. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2025
Comparing Windows Hello vs. Windows Hello for Business
Windows Hello allows desktop admins to manage local Windows authentication with new tools, but the difference between the free and business versions is critical for IT to know. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2025
How to create a custom Windows 11 image with Hyper-V
When administrators can deploy Windows systems in many ways, creating a custom VM with Hyper-V enables them to efficiently deploy a copy of one desktop to a whole user base. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2025
What is Hyper-V on Windows 11, and what can it do?
Hyper-V is an incredibly flexible tool that can fill many roles for IT administrators, so it is a good idea to learn how this technology works and what exactly it can do. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is Google Drive?
Google Drive is a cloud-based storage service that allows users to store and share files online. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2025
10 troubleshooting steps for when Windows Update is frozen
When a Windows desktop is frozen and can't update, there could be many causes. The troubleshooting process can be complicated, but there are some universal steps for IT to follow. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2025
Troubleshooting the most common issues with Windows 11
When Windows 11 administrators encounter an issue with a desktop without a clear fix, they should perform general troubleshooting steps in a specific order to minimize risk. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Apr 2025
3 EUC security topics I'll be looking for at RSAC 2025
There will be a ton of security topics that RSA Conference-goers can check out, but IT admins should be aware of three common themes surrounding email and endpoints. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2025
What is Microsoft Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (Windows ADK)?
The Microsoft Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (Windows ADK) is a set of tools that IT professionals can combine to prepare, assess and launch image-based Windows deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Apr 2025
How to enable and use Windows Update for Business reports
Organizations that use Windows Update for Business to manage Windows OS updates and patches should learn how to make the most of the reporting features it offers. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2025
How to use Windows Update for Business with Intune
When organizations deploy Windows OS updates, they can use Windows Update for Business alongside Intune to closely manage all aspects of those updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is troubleshooting and why is it important?
Troubleshooting is a systematic approach to problem-solving often used to find and correct issues with complex machines, electronics, computers and software systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2025
What is a remote desktop and how does it work?
A remote desktop is a program or an operating system feature that allows a user to connect to a computer in another location, see that computer's desktop and interact with it as if it were local. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Apr 2025
Comparing virtual desktops vs. remote desktops
Virtual desktops and remote desktops do some of the same things, but they are quite different when it comes to hosting and management. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Apr 2025
What is Microsoft Windows System Image Manager (SIM)?
Microsoft Windows System Image Manager (SIM) is a tool in the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit that IT professionals can use to create and manage unattended setup answer files for Windows before installing the operating system. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Apr 2025
How ESET is using AI PCs to boost endpoint security
While AI PCs show legitimate promise, the rock-solid use cases haven't been as prominent. However, security vendor ESET is showing more concrete applications of this technology. Continue Reading
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Opinion
31 Mar 2025
Security could be the use case AI PCs need
AI PCs have struggled to find a perfect use case, but the need for stronger security systems on local desktops, along with agentic AI might end that struggle. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2025
How to optimize Windows Update for Business policies
Not all Windows updates are the same, so IT needs to make the most of Windows Update for Business to deliver the ideal updates to the desired endpoints on time. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2025
How to disable the Windows Hello feature with Intune
While Windows Hello for Business can be a helpful feature, sometimes IT will need to disable it. Learn two approaches to disabling this authentication service and when to do each. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2025
How to deal with unmanaged devices in the enterprise
Unmanaged devices present numerous risks, but how did they gain access to the network without any management in place? IT should learn how this happens and what to do when it does. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2025
Does Windows kernel use Rust and what does it mean for IT?
Desktop administrators need to learn how Windows OSes function to work most effectively, and the kernel at the center of the OS is a great place to start. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2025
How to perform a factory reset on a Windows 11 desktop
A factory reset may be necessary when a device has performance issues or is set to go to a new user. IT can execute this process in Windows 11 while avoiding unwanted data loss. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2025
Comparing the Linux kernel vs. the Windows kernel
There are many factors that will help desktop administrators select the right OS for a given situation, and one of them is the underlying architecture and kernel of each OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2025
Understanding Windows kernel structure and why it matters
The kernel is key to Windows desktops, and when something goes wrong with it, the whole OS can break. Learn how the kernel functions to inform the ways to fix any issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2025
How to troubleshoot Intune enrollment with Autopilot
Most devices go through Intune Autopilot enrollment without any issues, but when problems arise, IT needs to be ready to act. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Dec 2024
What it's like to use a Dell Qualcomm AI PC for 2 months
As a longtime Mac user, the transition to any sort of Windows device would present a challenge. But the move to an AI PC presents even more growing pains and opportunities. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Dec 2024
What to do when Windows 10 Print Management is missing
IT administrators might need to find the Print Management Console for a variety of reasons, but sometimes it is nowhere to be found. Learn the steps to take in a situation like this. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Dec 2024
What IT needs to know about Windows 10 Print Management
With the Windows 10 Print Management utility, Windows administrators can make the most of printing settings and avoid errors leading to lost productivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2024
See what's new in Desired State Configuration v3
Avoid unexpected surprises, and learn how to bring consistency to your on-premises infrastructure and cloud resources with the overhauled configuration management tool. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2024
7 steps to fix a black screen in Windows 11
A black screen can be a symptom of several issues with a Windows 11 desktop. Knowing where to look for the source of the problem can simplify the troubleshooting process. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Nov 2024
What is a configuration file?
A configuration file, often shortened to config file, defines the parameters, options, settings and preferences applied to operating systems (OSes), infrastructure devices and applications in an IT context. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2024
How to enable and manage Windows 11 Hyper-V
Administrators can use Hyper-V virtual machines for numerous reasons. Windows administrators should follow these steps to create new VMs no matter what their intended use is. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
15 Nov 2024
How to create a custom Windows 11 ISO file
With a custom Windows 11 ISO file, IT departments can streamline deployment and apply new version of Windows to repair OS instances. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2024
How to make the most of Windows Autopatch with Intune
IT administrators can use Intune to manage numerous settings related to Windows OSes and business apps. The Windows Autopatch feature can automate and improve those processes. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 Nov 2024
How to perform a Windows 11 ISO file install
The days of IT departments manually provisioning Windows OSes and company settings onto each PC are long gone, but IT staff still should know how to deploy OSes via ISO file. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Oct 2024
Omnissa-CrowdStrike union reunites management and security
Organizations have growing security and management needs, so partnerships between vendors such as the Omnissa-CrowdStrike partnership provide necessary synergy for IT staff. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is remote desktop protocol (RDP)?
Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a secure network communications protocol developed by Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2024
What's new in System Center 2025?
The key management tool for enterprises with a heavy investment in on-premises infrastructure is set for its next major release to coincide with the arrival of Windows Server 2025. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2024
How to repair Windows 11 with an ISO file
While wiping and reinstalling via a clean install is the simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 desktop, an ISO file repair can help save some of the desktop's settings and files. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2024
Understanding how the Copilot+ PC program uses AI
Organizations looking to boost productivity for key Windows users should learn what Copilot+ PCs can offer and what workflows the features can help with. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2024
What is AMD Ryzen?
AMD Ryzen is the brand name for Advanced Micro Devices' line of desktop and mobile processors. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Aug 2024
User mode vs. kernel mode: OSes explained
Kernel mode exists to keep user applications from disrupting critical system functions. Learn how each state works and what can happen when an error occurs in kernel mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2024
Use diskpart to create, delete and modify disk partitions
Diskpart is one of the oldest disk management tools in Windows, but it remains useful for its advanced capabilities in automation and granular control compared to other utilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Aug 2024
How to fix Windows 11 desktops after CrowdStrike outage
IT administrators had to jump into action after the CrowdStrike outage to recover faulty desktops. Learn how to use the Microsoft Recovery Tool to fix Windows 11 issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Aug 2024
What is a device driver?
A device driver, or driver, is a special kind of software program that controls a specific hardware device attached to a computer. Continue Reading
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News
02 Aug 2024
Intel's weak position in AI chip market leads to mass layoff
Intel's failure to profit from the red-hot AI market is behind plans to cut 15,000 jobs. The workforce reduction is part of a $10 billion cut in capital expenses in 2025. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jul 2024
Researcher: CrowdStrike blunder could benefit open source
Enterprises with the IT talent might turn to open-source software as a backup for commercial products to mitigate damage from a CrowdStrike-like IT outage, researcher said. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
25 Jul 2024
Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line
Running the Software License Manager from the command line or using Key Management Services for automatic activation can sidestep one hurdle to get going with Windows Server 2019. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2024
How to plan a Windows 11 upgrade project
The process of an upgrade to Windows 11 -- or any new desktop OS -- is a massive undertaking. IT professionals must plan out each phase carefully and test the system thoroughly. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2024
Understanding how GPOs and Intune interact
Group Policy and Microsoft Intune are both mature device management technologies with enterprise use cases. IT should know how to pick between these tools or when to use both. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Jun 2024
Is it worthwhile to upgrade to Windows 11 right now?
As Microsoft prods its customers toward Windows 11, organizations should be asking what their approach to the new OS will be and when is best for them to migrate. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
How to edit a Domain Group Policy for a Windows desktop
When IT administrators need to edit a Group Policy at the domain level, they can download the RSAT management tool and change policies from the local Windows desktop. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2024
When does AD domain-joined Group Policy override local?
There are several types of Group Policies that could exist for a particular desktop, so IT must carefully manage these different GPOs to ensure the correct policies are in place. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 May 2024
AI PCs need apps with broad use cases to gain traction
There are many ways local AI on PC hardware can help users, but the broader use cases aren't there yet. Learn about the emerging AI PC market and where it still needs to grow. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2024
How to deploy macOS compliance controls via Intune
Intune administrators can use many of the same mechanisms to manage compliance policies for Windows and macOS desktops alike. Learn how to create those policies for Macs. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2024
Creating a patch management policy: Step-by-step guide
A comprehensive patch management policy is insurance against security vulnerabilities and bugs in networked hardware and software that can disrupt your critical business processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2024
How to remove a device from Intune enrollment
When a device reaches its end of life, IT needs to remove that device from any management software, such as Microsoft Intune. But there are several removal options to learn. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2024
Google releases GenAI Creative Agent for designers, marketers
Google plants its stake in the marketing and advertising vertical with a bot tuned to help creatives craft campaigns, storyboards, images and text with generative AI. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2024
Windows XP EOL anniversary: 10 years of endpoint evolution
Windows XP EOL meant upgrading to Windows 7, but times have changed. IT pros can use the next upgrade cycle as an opportunity to reevaluate endpoints and consider DaaS or AI PCs. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2024
Guide to Linux patch management
While patching desktops has some universal aspects across systems, there are specific Linux best practices that Linux administrators need to know. Here are eight important ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Apr 2024
10 enterprise patch management best practices
It might not be the most exciting responsibility, but the value of a well-executed patch management strategy can't be denied. Use these best practices to build a smooth process. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2024
How to change a Windows device name with Intune
There are several ways that IT administrators and users can change the name of Intune-managed Windows devices, but first they must understand the different types of device names. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2024
How to create a local admin account with Microsoft Intune
Local admin accounts can cause problems for Windows administrators due to their lack of oversight and privileged account status. Learn how IT can manage these accounts with Intune. Continue Reading
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News
06 Mar 2024
Salesforce users empowered to build no-code Einstein Copilots
Salesforce admins and developers can build custom generative AI assistants for workflows across the platform for sales, service, marketing and e-commerce. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2024
How to add and enroll devices to Microsoft Intune
The Intune enrollment process can follow several paths, but one of the most common and efficient approaches involves Windows Autopilot. IT can set this up within Intune. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2024
Intel, Nvidia aim latest systems-on-a-chip at AI workstations
Nvidia's RTX 500 and RTX 1000 GPUs are for the lightest mobile workstations. Intel's Core Ultra with a built-in GPU can handle many AI-powered tasks on the workhorse computers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Feb 2024
First thoughts on VMware EUC sale to private equity firm KKR
Broadcom's sale of VMware EUC to private equity firm KKR will likely mean big changes, but the deal shouldn't be compared to Citrix's sale to Vista. Here's why. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2024
Broadcom to sell VMware EUC division to KKR for $3.8B
Customers that pair VMware's hypervisor with Horizon and Workspace One desktops might feel licensing jitters, but the deal could lead to more flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
How IT can use the gpresult command to check GPOs
When Windows issues arise, desktop administrators can use the gpresult utility to see what Group Policy settings are in place and which ones should be applied. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2024
How to deploy and force updates with gpupdate
Group Policy can be a helpful tool during the troubleshooting process. Further, refreshing a system's Group Policy settings with gpupdate can solve plenty of issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2024
What to do when Group Policy shows an access denied message
IT administrators might encounter an error message that states 'access denied' when working with Group Policy. There are a few different steps to fix a problem like this. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jan 2024
Microsoft delivers Copilot Pro, eliminates 300 seat minimum
Copilot Pro, a faster version of Microsoft's AI tool, debuts with features such as 'roll your own GPT,' where users can build custom LLMs, along with looser license requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2024
Find the best Windows 11 registry cleaner
Making changes to the Windows registry presents numerous risks for desktop administrators. Find out when to tweak the registry and what tools can help with that task. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2024
How to securely recycle enterprise computers
No matter how an organization wants to retire a device when it reaches its end of life, IT must first ensure that any sensitive data on it has been properly destroyed. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2023
How to install and set up Copilot for Microsoft 365
Copilot for Microsoft 365 offers AI-powered functionality to users, but there's more to consider before installing it. Data governance and licensing determine the setup process. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2023
How to back up, repair and restore the Windows 11 Registry
The simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 registry is to restore a backup, but that isn't always possible. Find out different methods to fix a broken registry. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Intel Core Ultra CPUs with neural processing runs AI on PCs
Intel's Core Ultra CPUs now contain embedded AI neural processing, which adds options for device manufacturers to divide demand for AI processes among different hardware resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Why businesses should recycle enterprise devices
Sustainability should be a consideration at every stage of the device lifecycle, and this doesn't stop at device retirement. Recycling enterprise devices offers several benefits. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2023
Tanium aims to be first with autonomous endpoint management
The new term 'autonomous endpoint management' aims to offer IT teams AI-driven automation that can improve employee experience and simplify device administration. Continue Reading
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Opinion
30 Nov 2023
Amazon thin client spurs conversation about replacing laptops
AWS bowed a new entry into the thin client space, which appeals to a limited audience of Amazon WorkSpaces-based orgs. What we really want is to ditch the work laptop for good. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2023
The 6 best rugged computers for business use cases
Finding the right device for a business scenario can be challenging, and adding rugged conditions to the mix can complicate things further. Learn about that endpoint market. Continue Reading
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News
27 Nov 2023
AWS' remote work gambit: Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client
AWS rolls out a computer in a Fire TV Cube box. The $195 device gives enterprises an inexpensive end-user hardware option for remote workers and promises tighter data security. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2023
What IT admins and office workers get in MS 365 Copilot
Microsoft 365's Copilot assistive AI features come with a big price tag, but experts are bullish that they could return the investment to users -- and more. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Oct 2023
Microsoft Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)
Microsoft Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is a command-line tool that allows IT administrators to service Windows desktop images and virtual hard disks prior to deployment to users. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
DisplayPort
DisplayPort is an interface for digital displays, particularly computer monitors. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Sep 2023
Redefining DEX: Is user sentiment a requirement?
DEX technologies focus on ensuring users have the tools and high-performing technology they need. But is it a good idea to rely on user sentiment as a universal metric? Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
Using the Intune management extension for PowerShell scripts
Intune and PowerShell have a lot of unique management actions they can take, but with the help of the Intune management extension, they can communicate and manage more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Aug 2023
How to set up PowerShell remoting over SSH
Microsoft recommends using WinRM to manage Windows machines remotely, but OpenSSH offers other advantages, particularly in organizations that also use Linux systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2023
How to restart the Intune Management Extension agent service
When IT has issues with Intune deploying commands to endpoints, IT teams should consider restarting the Intune Management Extension to address lingering issues. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Aug 2023
Amazon WorkSpaces finally supports Office 365, but why now?
Microsoft has finally walked back one very specific angle of its Office 365 licensing policy, allowing enterprises to run it on Amazon WorkSpaces. Will others follow? Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2023
BIOS password
A BIOS password is authentication information that's sometimes required to log into a computer's basic input/output system (BIOS) settings before a computer boots up. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2023
Deciding which AppleCare plan is best for the enterprise
Apple provides multiple coverage and support options to supplement basic AppleCare, and it can be difficult to determine whether one will be best suited to an organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2023
A guide to Intune Suite licensing for endpoint management
With the changes to the structure of Intune and the end of Microsoft Endpoint Manager, organizations will need to reevaluate their endpoint management licensing options. Continue Reading
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Opinion
21 Jul 2023
PC as a service is an alternative and a complement to DaaS
When IT teams consider the best way to deploy and manage desktops and endpoints, PCaaS should be a strong consideration to replace or work with desktop virtualization. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2023
Maximize PC lifespans with effective PC lifecycle management
When IT departments set lifecycle policy for PCs and desktops, they will need to set the length of a PC's life for user groups. Learn how to calculate the ideal lifecycle length. Continue Reading