Desktop operating systems
Windows may be the most common desktop operating system in the enterprise, but it's not alone. Linux and macOS are two other OSes IT pros could run into. As a result it's important to understand the inner workings of each OS to ensure that whatever a user is working with functions at its peak and keeps corporate data secure.
Top Stories
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Tip
17 Jun 2022
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
13 May 2022
How to support Mac computers in Windows environments
Organizations that support both Windows and Mac desktops must approach them differently, but there is plenty of overlap with the tools and practices they can use. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Slowing PC sales spark lower prices
PC prices are dropping as manufacturers lower prices to move inventory. Market saturation following the pandemic is a significant factor in the drop in sales. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2023
Thousands of Citrix, Tibco employees laid off following merger
Cloud Software Group lays off 2,250 workers following major changes to sales and product development after merging Citrix Systems with Tibco Software. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Jan 2023
Exploring Edge Chromium requirements for system admins
Edge Chromium adapts many of Chrome's greatest strengths to create a compelling browser alternative for system admins. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jan 2023
Intel releases Raptor Lake chips for laptops, mobile devices
Hoping to gain back market share from AMD, Intel debuted what it believes is the fastest processor for mobile devices. The new processor contains a record 24 cores. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Dec 2022
12 best patch management software and tools for 2023
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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Opinion
08 Dec 2022
The enterprise endpoint device market heading into 2023
Modern enterprise organizations have numerous options to choose from on the endpoint market. Learn about some of the main offerings that business leaders should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
How to monitor Windows files and which tools to use
Monitoring files on Windows systems is critical to detect suspicious activities, but there are so many files and folders to keep track of. This is where automation tools come in. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Oct 2022
How will Microsoft Loop affect the Microsoft 365 service
While Microsoft Loop is not yet generally available, Microsoft has released details about how Loop can connect users and projects across the Microsoft 365 service. Continue Reading
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News
21 Oct 2022
Latest Windows 11 update adds tabbed File Explorer
The latest Windows 11 update offers a tabbed File Explorer for rearranging files and switching between folders. The OS also includes collaboration features through OneDrive. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2022
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
14 Oct 2022
How Jamf zero trust can improve Apple device security
Jamf is supporting zero trust with new features across its suite of Mac management software. The proliferation of remote work has made this security model more important. Continue Reading
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News
12 Oct 2022
Google opens Workspace apps to developers
Google has introduced APIs and an SDK for third-party software integrations with Workspace apps. The company also unveiled enhancements to the productivity suite. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2022
How Windows 11 Safe Mode works and when to use it
Windows 11 desktops can run into problems that don't have a clear cause. Safe Mode runs a pared-down version of the OS, making it easier to identify and solve system issues. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2022
Microsoft focuses on remote security with Windows 11 update
Microsoft's Windows 11 2022 Update includes features for protecting sensitive corporate data and helping remote workers avoid malware and phishing attacks. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2022
How to fix Windows 11 when it keeps restarting
When a Windows 11 desktop keeps restarting, there are a few factors that may be behind the issue. IT administrators should understand all the possible causes and how to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2022
Top 5 Windows 10 monitoring tools for business
Users need unfettered access to all their apps and services to maintain productivity. Windows monitoring tools can verify the status of these components for IT teams. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2022
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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News
01 Sep 2022
HP, Dell report cooling PC sales as business demand wavers
Businesses have delayed and reduced their desktop and laptop orders from HP and Dell, executives reported. The PC market has weakened after a two-year winning streak. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2022
An introduction to Edge Chromium vs. Edge
The shift to Chromium has improved several aspects of Microsoft's Edge browser -- from privacy settings to reliability. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2022
The role of Windows log monitoring in the enterprise
Whether organizations automate their log monitoring within Windows desktops or inspect them manually, logs can offer IT administrators valuable insight. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
Comparing web browser privacy and security features
While the four most common browsers -- Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari -- have largely the same feature sets, there are subtle differences when it comes to privacy and security. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jul 2022
Web browser comparison of Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Edge
Many user tasks rely on the browser used, but not all browsers are well suited to these tasks. Learn the strengths and weaknesses of each major browser. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2022
Comparing RAM usage across common web browsers
While there are plenty of similarities across web browsers, the processes that they consume RAM with can greatly differ. This may be critical information for some IT teams. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2022
7 benefits of PCaaS that businesses should know
Organizations that take on a PCaaS agreement will have to pay monthly costs, but the benefits they receive, including lifecycle management and support, provide plenty of value. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2022
PC shipments plummet as market boom ends
PC manufacturers shipped fewer than 80 million computers for the first time in seven quarters as low demand and supply chain issues hit the market, IDC reports. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jul 2022
How to choose a PCaaS vendor
The PC-as-a-service and device-as-a-service market is still developing and maturing, so organizations should learn who the major vendors are and how these services work. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2022
The Windows 11 system requirements and what they indicate
When organizations consider upgrading to Windows 11, they need to compare the Windows 11 system requirements to their existing hardware before making the move. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2022
Microsoft will sign idle users out of Office web apps
Hybrid work puts corporate data at risk as employees use various devices to access company resources. Microsoft has worked to address that risk in Office web apps. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jun 2022
Windows 11 upgrade issues that desktop admins should know
Windows upgrades have caused numerous issues in the past, and the move to Windows 11 is no exception. Learn what problems IT can expect during a migration to Windows 11. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jun 2022
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
14 Jun 2022
Patch management vs. vulnerability management: Key differences
Although both patch and vulnerability management are intertwined, they differ in critical ways, and it's important to have tools and processes for executing both. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jun 2022
Creating a patch management policy: Step-by-step guide
A comprehensive IT patch management policy is insurance against network hardware and software prone to bugs and vulnerabilities that can disrupt critical business processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jun 2022
Windows 11 migration tools for desktop administrators
While there are plenty of approaches to a Windows 11 migration, IT should plan out the process carefully and ensure they have the right tools and products to support it. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jun 2022
Apple Mac performance, features boost business appeal
The upcoming MacBook Air and Pro models will feature Apple's high-performing M2 chip, which will help workers in creative businesses edit videos and images faster. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2022
The risks of failed patch management
Some risks -- like security vulnerabilities and system downtime -- are obvious, others not so much. Good patch management also requires weighing the possible risks of patching. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2022
Completing a migration to Windows 11 with Microsoft Intune
When IT administrators plan the switch to Windows 11, they may notice how similar the process can be to a Windows 10 update if they use Microsoft Endpoint Manager and Intune. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2022
Use this 10-step patch management process to ensure success
Following these steps will help keep your software updated, largely bug-free and secure from cyberthreats while making patch management more reliable and less stressful. Continue Reading
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News
26 May 2022
Microsoft won't lower software costs on AWS, Google clouds
Microsoft plans to loosen restrictions to lower the cost of running Office and Windows on clouds smaller than Azure. The changes won't affect running the products on its largest rivals. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
How to support Mac computers in Windows environments
Organizations that support both Windows and Mac desktops must approach them differently, but there is plenty of overlap with the tools and practices they can use. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2022
Comparing 8 desktop management software options for business
Organizations that need desktop management software should survey a variety of platform types. UEM can often provide the most value and functionality in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 May 2022
Using Microsoft's Active Directory to manage Mac desktops
Organizations with both Mac and Windows devices can use some of their Windows-focused AD setup to address macOS management tasks. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2022
How to enroll and manage Mac devices with Intune MDM
Organizations may turn to basic MDM platforms to help manage Mac devices in a Windows-focused environment. Often, these platforms provide just enough management. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2022
5 macOS management software options for the enterprise
While Windows desktops are still the leading OS in the enterprise, organizations have adopted macOS desktops, and each OS requires a different management approach. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2022
How to create a custom ISO for Windows 10
A custom ISO for Windows 10 can make desktop deployment and installation much simpler. IT allows admins to including applications and themes pre-installed on business desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2022
Windows 365 compared to Windows 10
Organizations may look at Windows 365 as a clear improvement from an administrative perspective, but a traditional Windows physical desktop environment still has its perks. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2022
Microsoft responds to cloud antitrust complaints
Microsoft has drawn antitrust scrutiny for rules that make it more expensive to run Windows and Office on rivals' clouds. The company promised a fix but has provided no details. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2022
Microsoft: Windows 11 features ease hybrid work strain on IT
Microsoft has aimed its latest Windows 11 features at helping IT staff automate updates, secure corporate data and assist workers remotely. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2022
Understanding the features of Windows 11 Enterprise
IT admins considering a migration to Windows 11 should learn how the features of the Enterprise edition can benefit their organizations. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Mar 2022
What Microsoft Defender Antivirus features are on Windows?
While there are plenty of viable enterprise-grade third-party desktop security platforms, Microsoft has built out a strong array of native features that IT admins can utilize. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2022
File Explorer tabs reappear in new Windows 11 preview build
The latest Windows 11 developer build lets people open multiple folders in the file management app. The feature is supposed to cut down on time switching between folders. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2022
Key native features for Windows 10 security and maintenance
Desktop administrators should look for Windows 10's native security features and architecture to establish a baseline of desktop security before turning to alternative tools. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2022
Lenovo unveils an Arm laptop with Microsoft Pluton security
The advanced security in Lenovo's ThinkPad X13s is through Qualcomm's Arm-based Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 chipset. Lenovo plans to ship the laptop this year. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2022
3 tools to check Windows 11 update compatibility
Updating to Windows 11 isn't recommended for every PC. Tools such as PC Health Check assess whether a device meets the specifications and requirements to upgrade. Continue Reading
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News
17 Feb 2022
Microsoft boosts productivity in Windows 11 through taskbar
The latest Windows 11 update lets video conference participants use the taskbar to mute and unmute audio and share content without opening the Teams app. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2022
Microsoft brings parity to OneNote web, desktop apps
OneNote web app users will be able to set a view-only mode, copy and paste objects without changing their format, and perform other functions found in the desktop version. Continue Reading
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News
03 Feb 2022
Apple working with Dropbox, Microsoft to fix macOS 12.3
Apple said it will work with Dropbox and Microsoft on the macOS 12.3 problem that prevented their file storage software from running correctly on the upcoming version of the OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2022
Use Jamf Pro's basic features for enterprise management
While Apple devices are vital to many workplaces, they present unique management challenges. Jamf Pro is a device management platform that helps tackle Apple-specific challenges. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jan 2022
Microsoft adds voice typing commands, revamps Task Manager
The latest Windows 11 developer build lets people use Voice Access to type characters, add emojis and select text without touching a keyboard or mouse. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
Dell, Lenovo, HP pitch sustainable laptops
Dell, Lenovo and HP have introduced laptops to help customers meet environmental, social and governance policies, which have become critical factors in buying decisions. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2021
Explore Jamf's products and features for Apple management
Apple macOS devices make up a significant portion of enterprise endpoints, and vendors such as Jamf offer tools to help organizations manage Apple endpoints securely and easily. Continue Reading
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News
17 Dec 2021
LastPass goes solo, plans to focus on mobile features
After spinning off from LogMeIn, password management firm LastPass plans to grow its business by providing faster feature updates, more mobile options and better customer service. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2021
How to scan and repair disks with Windows 10 Check Disk
Windows 10 Disk Check is an intuitive tool that can scan and repair hard drives to reduce the risk of total disk failure and loss of critical information. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2021
Microsoft gets kudos for bringing OneDrive to Apple M1 Macs
OneDrive will soon run on ARM-based laptops, joining Box, Dropbox and Google storage services. Analysts said the ARM-based laptop market will grow in the coming years. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
How to troubleshoot when Windows 10 won't update
Windows updates can lead to unexpected issues for IT administrators, but there are some simple steps they should always take to find the cause of the update issue. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
7 Windows 10 issues and how to troubleshoot them
Microsoft offers different troubleshooters to fix common Windows 10 problems, and once you find the right one for your issue, these troubleshooters are easy to use. Continue Reading
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News
08 Dec 2021
Microsoft to increase monthly subscription costs by 20%
Monthly subscribers to Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365 and Windows 365 will have to pay a premium or switch to an annual pricing model starting July 2022. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2021
Microsoft Loop adds project management to 365
Loop lets teams track project status while editing documents in a single app. The Microsoft 365 software works with Word, PowerPoint and Excel document snippets. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2021
Microsoft could make Edge default browser for opening links
People might no longer be able to use workarounds like EdgeDeflector to set another browser, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, as their default for opening links. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2021
How to build a virtual lab with Hyper-V
While there are lots of uses for Hyper-V, Windows 10 administrators can take advantage of its isolated VMs for lab testing of patches, updates and more. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2021
Microsoft Loop bolsters collaboration in 365
Loop lets people collaborate on Word and Excel content through Teams, Outlook and OneNote. The new software is based on the Fluid open source framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2021
Top 5 methods to address Windows 10 performance issues
Strong desktop performance is a difficult balance to maintain, but with these 5 methods and a careful approach, IT admins can address any Windows 10 performance issues. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2021
Apple ditches hated MacBook Pro features, adds M1 chips
The new MacBook Pro laptops come in 14-and 16-inch models, return ports that were missing in the past few iterations, and add faster, more energy-efficient processors. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2021
Windows 11 bugs cause app slowdown on AMD chips
The flaws can slow application performance by as much as 15% on high-performance PCs for gaming and other demanding software. AMD said a fix will come this month. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2021
Top 7 Chromebooks for business use cases
Chromebooks are high-performing thin clients with great ease-of-management features, but the market has so many options that it's hard to distinguish between them. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2021
How to manage Windows 10 Power Options in settings
Any Windows 10 desktop -- especially one that users access remotely -- needs special attention for its Power Options to ensure that the connection stays live throughout the session. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Sep 2021
The options for running Microsoft 365 on a Chromebook
Without access to the Microsoft 365 service locally, IT admins will have to consider a few workarounds to deliver Microsoft's productivity apps to Chromebook devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Sep 2021
Windows 10 disk management terms and tasks IT should know
Windows 10 disk management is a crucial function that system admins should perform. To manage Windows disks, IT must know the difference between volumes and partitions. Continue Reading
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News
27 Sep 2021
Microsoft designs latest Surface models for Windows 11
The Surface hardware is better suited for Teams, which will come standard on the new OS. The hardware will also make use of Windows 11's haptic feedback capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2021
How to perform Windows 10 disk optimization
Normal use of a PC causes the disk drive to fragment over time, resulting in suboptimal performance. Use Windows 10 disk optimization to defragment a drive and increase efficiency. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2021
Microsoft offers passwordless login to all customers
All Microsoft customers will be able to replace passwords with biometric identity, security keys or text confirmation to access their Microsoft accounts. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Sep 2021
Evaluate if Chromebooks are secure enough for business use
Chromebooks are cost-effective endpoints that strip away desktop features for a simple desktop experience. Admins should evaluate if these endpoints are secure enough. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2021
Microsoft announces release date for Windows 11
Windows 11 will include integration with unified communications platform Teams but won't initially include the option to download Android apps. Continue Reading
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News
30 Aug 2021
Microsoft to offer online-only Office, Outlook on Chromebooks
Starting on Sept. 18, Chromebook users will have to rely on the web-based versions of the popular Microsoft apps. Google welcomed the move as better for Chromebook users. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2021
A guide to Microsoft Endpoint Manager licensing and cost
There are many options for Microsoft Endpoint Manager licensing. Organizations should evaluate each licensing, including Intune, Microsoft 365 and Configuration Manager. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2021
How to deploy Microsoft Endpoint Manager step by step
Organizations looking to deploy Microsoft Endpoint Manager must make sure to set up this platform correctly, and they should follow these steps for setup in different scenarios. Continue Reading
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News
19 Aug 2021
Windows 10 vs. Windows 11 requirements force PC upgrades
Microsoft's new operating system will bring default security features for enterprises. Installation will be akin to a Windows 10 update for IT shops with the right hardware. Continue Reading
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News
17 Aug 2021
Monday.com brings document editing to project management
Monday.com has launched workdocs, targeting the document editing tool for brainstorming and goal setting. The tool is included in the company's project management platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right PC for business
With seemingly endless options to choose from, finding the right PC for a business can feel daunting. Explore these top seven choices below. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right Mac for business
Despite a smaller selection than Windows PCs, finding the right macOS device can still be challenging. Learn more about the available options and how they compare. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2021
Comparing macOS vs. Windows security
Windows and macOS have their pros and cons and, often, security comes down to the individual use case. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Aug 2021
How to evaluate Mac vs. PC for businesses
While PCs have long been the preferred option for businesses, Mac computers are gaining in popularity due to improved functionality. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jul 2021
Comparing offerings: Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace
Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace is a difficult choice, so organizations should evaluate each offering's features and pricing before they pick a cloud productivity service. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2021
Enterprise IT pros unclear on Microsoft Windows 11 benefits
Microsoft recently unveiled Windows 11, but its consumer-focused presentation left IT pros with questions about hardware requirements and the business benefits for the new OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2021
What's included in Microsoft 365 subscription plans
Microsoft 365 has different licensing plans for all kinds of businesses. Learn about the different subscription plans that Microsoft offers for this cloud-based platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2021
A Microsoft 365 email migration checklist
When an organization migrates its email servers and profiles to Microsoft 365, it could use several different processes. Sort through the five options listed below. Continue Reading
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News
28 May 2021
Google lowers power use in latest Chrome update
The latest Chrome update changes the way the browser handles tabs to reduce CPU and power consumption. Chrome 91 also lets people copy and paste files directly into emails. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2021
VPN and cloud-based printing options change with the times
Print workflow and IT infrastructure are key considerations when choosing between a VPN and cloud printing setup that can accommodate the needs of a hybrid workforce. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2021
How to evaluate printer management freeware for business
While freeware isn't always feature-rich enough, organizations shouldn't overlook this option to manage all types of printing jobs, such as virtual desktop and remote printing. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2021
6 steps to troubleshoot remote printing via VPN
While each organization's printing infrastructure is different, IT administrators should follow these six general steps to determine the cause of remote printing issues over a VPN. Continue Reading
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News
25 May 2021
Samsung releases two more smart TV, PC hybrids
The new 24- and 43-inch Smart Monitors will run Microsoft 365 and support Bixby, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice assistants. Pricing for Smart Monitors starts at $200. Continue Reading