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
25 Feb 2026
How Windows 11 Safe Mode works and when to use it
Windows 11 Safe Mode gives IT leaders a reliable way to diagnose failures, restore access to broken systems and strengthen enterprise resilience against disruptions. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2026
How to migrate applications to Windows 11
As Windows 10 support ends, organizations must plan Windows 11 migrations carefully. Assess apps, data and device configurations to avoid disruptions during the upgrade. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2026
How to plan a Windows 11 upgrade project
Planning a Windows 11 upgrade requires hardware assessment, compatibility testing, phased rollout and change management to reduce disruption and compliance risk. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Feb 2026
How to build a plan for PC and desktop lifecycle management
Organizations can choose in-house, device-as-a-service or hybrid models for desktop lifecycle management, balancing cost, security, Windows 11 readiness and sustainability goals. Continue Reading
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Opinion
20 Feb 2026
Will 2026 be the year deepfakes go mainstream?
Deepfakes are now so easy to create that anyone with a browser can make one. With cheap tools and abundant data, 2026 could be the year they go from novelty to mainstream threat. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Feb 2026
The illusion of choice in enterprise desktop strategy
Explore how Windows 10 end of support, SaaS delivery and cost pressure are forcing enterprise desktop decisions earlier than expected -- and making them harder to unwind. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Feb 2026
Should enterprises upgrade to Windows 11 now?
With Windows 10 end of support now past, enterprises must evaluate whether to upgrade to Windows 11 based on hardware readiness, application compatibility and lifecycle planning. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Feb 2026
The new geography of enterprise risk
Risk is no longer centered only in core systems. Identity, hiring, endpoints and partner platforms are where exposure increasingly begins. Learn why. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Feb 2026
Enterprise IT decisions no longer wait on decision-makers
Learn why cost structures, vendor timelines and pricing models are forcing enterprise IT decisions earlier -- often before strategies feel fully formed. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2026
How to repair Windows 11 with an ISO file
Wiping and reinstalling with a clean install is the simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 desktop, but an ISO file repair can help save some of the desktop's settings and files. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Feb 2026
Forces influencing enterprise software control and oversight
Controls are becoming more centralized, but visibility into their downstream effects across integrated systems, automation and AI is not keeping pace. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2026
Patterns forming in enterprise software ownership
As enterprise systems become more integrated, ownership shifts downstream, exposing gaps among accountability, coordination and operational outcomes. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2026
What are the best file managers for Mac devices?
If the native macOS file manager is lacking, IT can look to third-party options for advanced features. These alternatives can help simplify file browsing and improve productivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Feb 2026
Pressure points affecting enterprise software decisions
As systems interconnect, decision order and timing increasingly shape outcomes, narrowing options and increasing adjustment pressure. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Feb 2026
Enterprise IT's shrinking margin for error on major decisions
As dependencies pile up, enterprise software decisions lock in earlier than leaders expect -- reducing flexibility across platforms, systems and architectures. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2026
How to enable and manage Windows 11 Hyper-V
Hyper-V virtual machines have many use cases in enterprise IT. Windows administrators should follow these steps to create new VMs no matter what their intended use is. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2026
How to perform a factory reset on a Windows 11 desktop
A factory reset may be needed for Windows 11 devices with ongoing performance issues or when reassigned, helping IT reduce data loss and recovery risks. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Feb 2026
Constraints influencing enterprise software choices
Decisions on enterprise software are being made earlier in the lifecycle, limiting reversibility and compressing timelines before ownership and governance are established. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Feb 2026
When SaaS softens the OS -- but doesn't erase it
As Windows 10 retires and SaaS reduces OS dependence, Linux desktops are re-emerging as a viable enterprise option driven by cost, control, privacy and hardware flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2026
How to fix Windows 11 when it keeps restarting
When a Windows 11 desktop keeps restarting, there are a few factors that might be behind the issue. IT administrators should understand all the possible causes and how to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2026
12 best patch management software and tools for 2026
These 12 tools approach patching from different perspectives. Understanding their various approaches can help you find the right product for your needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2026
Desktop decisions harden earlier than CIOs expect
Desktop modernization looks flexible at the outset, but Macs introduce constraints that lock organizations into parallel desktop models far earlier than CIOs typically anticipate. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2026
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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Feature
22 Jan 2026
4 end-user computing trends to watch in 2026
AI, identity-first security, Windows 10 end of support and VMware's rebranding as Omnissa are reshaping EUC as CIOs make critical decisions for 2026 and beyond. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2026
Understanding the DaaS options for Macs
When people discuss desktop as a service, it is usually in the context of Windows desktops. For macOS, however, implementing DaaS can be more complicated. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2026
What are the key differences between DaaS and VPN?
DaaS and VPN both provide remote access to corporate resources, but they differ in important ways that IT leaders should evaluate when choosing between them. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2026
How enterprise access decisions are starting to show up earlier
As work consolidates in browsers and quick-entry paths, access decisions are shifting to the front door of enterprise systems, often without clear ownership or centralized control. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jan 2026
Why 2026 might bring more Linux desktops to the enterprise
Linux desktops are increasingly viable for enterprise use cases in 2026, offering privacy, sustainability and SaaS-ready workflows amid Windows 10's retirement. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jan 2026
How enterprise software planning is taking shape for 2026
See what's influencing enterprise software decisions, from governance and cost pressure to AI adoption and operating model constraints, as organizations plan for the year ahead. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jan 2026
New PCs, laptops and unique form factors at CES 2026
At CES 2026, the annual consumer electronics show, Dell, HP and Lenovo unveiled announcements in enterprise PCs, creative monitors and new device form factors. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2026
Predictability emerging as enterprise IT's new north star
Across ERP cloud migration, desktop and compliance decision-making, enterprise IT teams are prioritizing predictability, locking in cost, control and accountability before go-live. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Jan 2026
How AI and the browser will change end-user IT in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, the end-user IT landscape will shift in subtle but critical ways. Here's what to expect, from prompt security to browsers, productivity and autonomous IT. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2025
How to use Windows Check Disk to maintain disk health
Using built-in Windows tools such as Check Disk and SMART helps organizations reduce risks associated with disk errors, extend hardware life and maintain operational continuity. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2025
How IT admins can check BIOS or UEFI versions in Windows 11
Firmware, such as BIOS or UEFI, plays a crucial role in how securely a Windows device starts and operates. Organizations need to know what versions are running on their endpoints. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2025
How to access Windows 11 BIOS configuration with hotkeys
Configuring Windows 11 firmware settings requires that admins access the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface. Using so-called 'BIOS keys' makes this process quick and easy. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Oct 2025
Your browser is an AI-enabled OS, so secure it like one
With AI capabilities and 87+ browser-based apps per organization, browsers have evolved into OSes that demand enterprise-grade security and management strategies. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Sep 2025
Nvidia's $5 billion investment gives Intel a shot in the arm
Nvidia's strategic $5 billion investment gives the GPU giant access to Intel's customer base while providing Intel with much-needed support in the competitive AI market. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Aug 2025
3 eye-catching vendor announcements from Black Hat
At Black Hat 2025, some vendors had intriguing acquisitions and announcements in the realms of shadow AI, unmanaged devices and browser security. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jul 2025
How to use Windows Update for Business with Group Policy
When organizations need to manage Windows updates, Windows Update for Business can provide all the control they need. And IT should consider Group Policy to manage it. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2025
What is end-user experience monitoring (EUEM)?
End-user experience monitoring (EUEM) is the process of monitoring the performance of IT resources from an end user's perspective. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2025
How to reset Windows 11 PC from BIOS
There are many ways to reset a desktop, and resetting from BIOS is perhaps the most drastic of these options. Learn how this reset differs, how to perform it and when to use it. Continue Reading
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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
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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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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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
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
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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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