Enterprise Desktop Resources
Top Stories
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Feature
11 Feb 2010
What USMT will and won't do
Microsoft's User State Migration Tool does have limitations. See what it can and can't do. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Nov 2013
Can I plug a USB drive into a phone with a micro-USB connector?
This week, our expert answers a question on how to connect a phone or tablet to a USB drive with a micro-USB connector. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Oct 2013
Learn how to install Office 2013 with Group Policies or SCCM
To successfully deploy Office 2013 across a network, you'll need Group Policies or tools such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Sep 2013
Click-to-Run and MSI provide Office 2013 installation options
The Microsoft Installer has competition for Office 2013 installation. See how Office Click-to-Run allows Office 2013 to run without a full download. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Aug 2013
"Run as Administrator" Adds to WinDirStat File Visibility
I've written repeatedly about a great, free SourceForge utility called WinDirStat for this blog over the years. But just this morning, I learned something about the program I didn't know -- namely ... Continue Reading
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News
27 Jun 2013
Tips on desktop management virtualization and security RSS feed is moving!
As of July 1, the Tips on desktop management virtualization and security RSS feed will be moving off of the Pheedo platform. Instead, please bookmark the following URL to make sure you continue to receive our content: http://searchenterprisedesktop.techtarget.com/rss/Tips-on-Desktop-Management-Virtualization-and-Security.xml Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2013
Microsoft's revised Resource Kit can ease Office 2013 deployment
Microsoft's free Office 2013 Resource Kit provides documentation for Office 2013 deployment, as well as for management after an Office deployment. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jun 2013
Windows tools and terminology for desktop admins
There are a number of Windows tools that desktop admins can use, but before you can use them you have to know what the terms actually mean. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2013
Using Active Directory activation and other new Office 2013 tools
Among the new Office 2013 tools for IT admins are a method for volume activation, administrative template files and files for custom installations. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2013
Stripping a Microsoft Office password from a document with DocRecrypt
DocRecrypt, an Office 2013 tool, allows an admins to get into an otherwise inaccessible file by stripping it of its Microsoft Office password. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Feb 2013
Ways to detect and delete duplicate files in Windows systems
Our enterprise desktop expert answers a question about some third-party tools for eliminating duplicate files in Windows desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2013
Windows Server Update Services weaknesses you may not know about
Built-in tools such as WSUS can help with Windows patching, but you may still need other tools to verify that enterprise systems are safe. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2013
Microsoft Office 2013 crackable, so look to Office password recovery
Microsoft Office 2013 may have improved protection, but third-party tools have already cracked passwords. See how to use Office password recovery. Continue Reading
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Survey
02 Nov 2012
Windows 8 migration survey
IT shops are in the midst of evaluating Microsoft Windows 8. Let us know where you are in the migration process and qualify for a Starbucks gift card! Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2012
Desktop audit checklist: Five steps to a successful desktop audit
Now that 2012 has begun, consider doing a desktop audit to get your IT house in order. A strong desktop audit checklist can help you manage hardware, software and applications better. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2011
Tablet licensing rules with Microsoft Office
As tablets make their way into the enterprise, it might be time to brush up on licensing rules for mobilizing Microsoft Office. We also provide some solutions for reducing costs. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Sep 2011
Microsoft Windows 7 Task Manager troubleshooting tips
Here are some troubleshooting tips for Microsoft Windows 7's improved Task Manager -- from identifying processes and services to using the Resource Monitor. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Jul 2011
Auto-Update for KB2310138 Spreads Consternation for MSE Users
OK, so if you're running Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) installed then you must figure out what to do with an update that Microsoft pushed yesterday in its increasingly typical "2nd Patch ... Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2011
Turn a Windows 7 desktop into a wireless hotspot
Faulty Internet connections are a nightmare for on-the-go admins, but wireless hotspot software can eliminate network headaches. Continue Reading
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Opinion
13 Apr 2011
Do SIDs matter anymore? Do we really need Sysprep for VDI?
I had another reminder today that SIDs *do* matter in a virtual Windows environment! We used to religiously change SIDs with a variety of third-party tools Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2011
Using P2V Migration for Software Assurance for Windows 7 upgrades
P2V Migration for Software Assurance automates the Windows 7 migration process and preserves XP applications and data. Yet its limitations may be a deal breaker. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2011
Licensing options for accessing Microsoft Office remotely
There are plenty of choices for licensing virtual applications, but understanding when to use which ones can be a challenge. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2011
Microsoft sweetens MDOP deal and releases Intune
Windows Intune, Microsoft's cloud-based desktop management console is ready, and an MDOP 2011 update is due this year which will be offered to a wider customer base. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
16 Mar 2011
Windows 7 Learning Guide
The recent release of Windows 7 SP1 means Microsoft's newest operating system is likely coming to a desktop near you. Prepare for the unexpected with this guide. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
09 Mar 2011
Patch management guide for Windows desktops
Routinely patching your Windows desktops is a necessary evil -- but patch management can be overwhelming. Get a grasp on the process with this learning guide. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Mar 2011
Resetting passwords in the enterprise without the help desk
While there are several self-service password-reset options on the market, many organizations are hesitant to implement them -- even though the payoffs are significant. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2010
Controlling desktops with AppLocker and software restriction policies
Many IT admins rely on User Account Control, but AppLocker or software restriction policies can also prevent unauthorized installation of desktop apps. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2010
Creating an IT admin's PowerShell toolbox
The PowerShell scripting tool in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 should be the staple of any IT administrator's toolbox. Learn how it can help you. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2010
How do Group Policy settings differ between versions of Windows?
Group Policy Objects vary from one version of Windows to another. Determine which ones to apply in your environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2010
Where does Windows store its temporary files?
The temporary files generated by Windows can pile up and become a security hazard. Learn how to track them down and tidy up your systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2010
How to crack a password
Expert Brien Posey describes some techniques used to crack Windows passwords and offers several defenses against attack. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 Jun 2010
"Please Wait" Can Mean "Wait Forever..."
According to MS KB Article 983551 (6/10/2010; Rev: 2.0) some computers running Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2 can freeze at the "Please wait" display that precedes appearance of the desktop on ... Continue Reading
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Tutorial
12 May 2010
Weighing Microsoft Office 2010
Microsoft Office 2010 offers a slew of new features for both end users and IT pros. Check out the pros and cons of the newest suite in this guide for enterprises and consumers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
04 May 2010
A guide to Windows 7 migration tools
Upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows XP is no easy task, but several tools from Microsoft and third-party vendors can simplify the process. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2010
What is a Microsoft hotfix?
Hotfixes can solve an array of problems in your enterprise, but they have certain limitations and need to be managed properly. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
29 Mar 2010
Netbook guide
Netbooks are becoming increasingly popular with corporate workers and in the enterprise. Check out this guide for netbook trends, news and reviews. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Feb 2010
What USMT will and won't do
Microsoft's User State Migration Tool does have limitations. See what it can and can't do. Continue Reading
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News
02 Feb 2010
Enterprises hold onto Microsoft Office despite Google Apps option
Google Apps is making headway over Microsoft Office in startups and SMBs. But inside enterprises? Not so much. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2010
How to install a clean version of Windows 7
Installing a clean version of Windows 7 on your desktops may be easier than upgrading from Windows XP or Vista. Migrate to Microsoft's newest OS with these steps. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2010
Securing removable drives with BitLocker To Go
BitLocker To Go, which ships with Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise Editions, can help secure FireWire and USB drives — but is it right for your business? Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2010
Five network security resolutions for 2010
Tighten your enterprise's network security this year with these simple steps, which include regularly changing passwords, keeping patches up to date and talking to end users. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2010
Checklist for upgrading from Windows XP or Vista to Windows 7
While there's no single method for all enterprises to upgrade machines to Windows 7, these steps can help if you choose to migrate from Windows XP to Vista and then to Windows 7. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jan 2010
What can Windows 7's AppLocker do for you?
Control applications on individual workstations more efficiently with AppLocker, an improved application management feature in Windows 7. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2010
Top 5 registry keys for Windows 7
Use these helpful Windows 7 registry keys to manage user account control, prevent the computer from rebooting after installing patches and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2009
Desktop security predictions for 2010
Smarter hackers, more malicious malware and the rise of social engineering may make 2010 a dangerous year in terms of security. See what to look out for to keep your desktops safe. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Dec 2009
Group Policy tricks to secure network endpoints
There are thousands of Group Policy settings available -- lock down your network endpoints with these favorites. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2009
Using BitLocker in Windows 7
BitLocker allows users to lock down workstations and mobile devices. But the drive-encryption technology isn't for all enterprises. Find out if it's right security control for you. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2009
Remote troubleshooting made easier with Windows 7's Problem Step Recorder
Remote technical support is easier to administer with Windows 7's Problem Step Recorder -- a new tool that allows users to show you exactly what their problems are. Continue Reading
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News
29 Oct 2009
Can open source OSes ever compete against Windows desktops?
Though Linux desktops get better and better, convincing a Windows shop to switch remains wishful thinking. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Sep 2009
Top 5 registry keys for Windows XP
Systems administrators may not know about useful registry keys for Windows XP. Learn how they can help you secure your network, create drive shares, manage passwords and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2009
Should you switch to the Office 2007 file format?
Are the benefits of the Open XML file format in Microsoft Office 2007 significant enough to make switching a high priority? Consider your businesses' needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Aug 2009
Microsoft Office 2010: At a glance
With Microsoft Office 2010 on the horizon, but no public betas as of yet, information on the new release is scattered across the Internet. Get everything you need to know here. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2009
Four Internet Explorer 8 Group Policy security settings
Internet Explorer 8 doesn't have nearly as many new security mechanisms as its predecessor; however, there are four Group Policy security settings for IE8 worth mentioning. Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2009
Microsoft wraps Office SP2 with better doc support
Microsoft Office 2007 service pack 2, which is ready for download, supports an expansive list of document formats. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Feb 2009
Using Sysinternals tools in security management scenarios
Discover three valuable Sysinternals tools and common Windows security management scenarios in which these tools would be used. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2009
Sysinternals tools: A must-have for every Windows security toolbox
Learn about the free Sysinternals tools that make managing and troubleshooting Windows-based PCs almost effortless for administrators. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Nov 2008
Windows 7 news and features
Learn about Windows 7 features now so your organization will be prepared when it drops. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2008
The 10 most common Windows security vulnerabilities
Most Windows networks, including yours, have a number of security holes. Fortunately, though, many of these holes can be filled quickly and easily before they pose a major threat to your business-critical data. In this tip, learn what security expert Kevin Beaver feels are the 10 most common and correctable Windows security vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Sep 2008
Step 4: Start the BitLocker encryption process
In Vista, the BitLocker function allows you to encrypt your hard drive, but a computer with Trusted Platform Module is preferred. Not to worry … learn how to use BitLocker on a computer without TPM and encrypt your hard drive with this step-by-step guide. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Sep 2008
Hacking Exposed Windows: Windows security features and tools
In Hacking Exposed Windows, by Joel Scambray, you can learn how to prevent malicious attackers from hacking into your network and damaging or stealing the business critical data you have stored in your Windows machines. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Sep 2008
Step-by-step guide: Laptop hacking
Laptops with sensitive data are getting stolen every day. Contributor Kevin Beaver says the best way to secure your laptops is to understand how they will be attacked. He provides the basic attack methods and a set of contingencies in this step-by-step guide. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2008
Troubleshooting IEEE 1394 bus devices for Windows machines
FireWire (or 1394) devices work well most of the time, but when things go wrong, troubleshooting techniques can vary depending on what's causing the problem. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2008
How to recover from lost BitLocker PINs and startup keys
Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption makes it possible to encrypt your system drive, but permanent data loss can occur if you forget the PIN or lose the startup key. This article explains some steps that you can take to regain your lost data. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2008
Metasploit 3.1 updates improve Windows penetration testing
Metasploit has long been a popular tool to use to conduct Windows penetration testing. Well, just this January, the latest version, Metasploit 3.1, was released. Learn about the new features and updates of this cool tool, which include a true GUI interface and an increased number of exploits and payloads. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
04 Mar 2008
Windows XP Troubleshooting Tutorial
Need help troubleshooting Windows XP? This tutorial features tons of tips and tricks that admins can use to solve a variety of system and network problems, with advice on troubleshooting Windows XP system startup issues, printer problems and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2008
How to create a Windows Vista boot CD with WinPE
Using WinPE, admins can launch Vista from a disk and use the deployment to create and restore images. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2008
Windows 2000 batch file command reference
Check out this reference guide to batch file commands for Windows 2000, based on Microsoft documentation, but rewritten to increase usefulness and readability. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Nov 2007
The last resort for troubleshooting hardware resource conflicts
Brien Posey explains how to use the Windows Device Manager to manually reallocate system resources. Be careful, though, or you may be forced to reinstall Windows from scratch. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Oct 2007
Troubleshooting Windows XP Device Manager error codes
Windows XP Device Manager alerts you if a system's hardware malfunctions, but often you need an advanced degree in unraveling cryptic code in order to understand the problem. Device Manager's error codes may be puzzling, but once you crack them, you'll be well on your way to fixing whatever hardware issues you're up against. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2007
Use Driver Query to resolve device driver problems
The Driver Query utility may not be perfect, but it can help to compile a device driver usage history. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Sep 2007
Can I delete certificates from the CA?
Learn how you can manage Microsoft security certificates and improve Internet Information Services (IIS) security. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2007
Windows pagefile security risks and how to avoid them
Learn about the security risks involved in using Windows pagefile, and avoid putting your sensitive data in harm's way. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Jul 2007
How to use GPOs to deny folder permissions
You can use a Group Policy Object (GPO) to deny folder permissions in Windows. Find out how to manage folder permissions with GPOs with this advice from Kevin Beaver. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
17 Jul 2007
Internet Explorer security settings and controls
Managing Internet Explorer security is a complicated job. You need to be aware of all of the latest IE flaws and threats as well as how to prevent hackers from using these flaws to hack your Windows network. Read about how you can keep IE secure in this Internet Explorer learning guide. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
03 Jul 2007
Rootkit and malware detection and removal guide
This malware learning guide will provide several tips and tools on rootkit prevention, spyware and adware removal, antivirus tools, malware removal best practices and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2007
Fast Reboot: quick reboot utility for Windows
Windows' shut down/reboot process is not that snappy; it can take a couple of minutes for everything to terminate and be written to disk. You can initiate a reboot quickly with a tool like Fast Reboot, which performs the usual quick-reboot/shutdown functions from the command line. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Jun 2007
Prevent copying files from shared folders to remote computers
It's a tricky issue -- how to stop users from copying files from shared folders. Learn how to manage a user's file and folder copying rights with this advice from Windows security expert Kevin Beaver. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2007
Installing device drivers in Windows Vista
Learn how to install pre-existing and new device drivers in Windows Vista, in this excerpt from William R. Stanek's Windows Vista Administrator's Pocket Consultant. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Apr 2007
BOOT.INI is gone, BCD is here
There's a little surprise waiting for you in Windows Vista: The boot options are different from those in previous versions of Windows. Learn more about the new boot tool called BCD. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2007
Restricting user permissions in folders
If you have a question about managing the permissions of a folder in your domain, this advice from Jonathan Hassell tells you how to set those permissions and prevent users from deleting that folder. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2007
What to do if system hangs when building DMI pool
When powered on, a PC creates the DMI pool, which shows the devices available to the BIOS. If a PC hangs at this point, here are some possible culprits. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jan 2007
Making a Windows folder read-only
Windows hardening expert Jonathan Hassell explains how to make a Windows folder that multiple users share read-only. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
18 Oct 2006
Step-by-Step Guide: Finding and removing a rootkit
It's difficult -- but not impossible -- to be totally sure that your system is 100% rootkit free, says Windows security expert Kevin Beaver. In this step-by-step guide, Beaver shows you how to strengthen your Windows systems against the rootkit threat. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2006
Device drivers: Installation and configuration
To install hardware devices on Windows servers, admins must install the appropriate device drivers first. Here are some guidelines for installing, configuring and troubleshooting device drivers. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Sep 2005
How to Bypass BIOS Passwords
BIOS passwords can be a liability if a user forgets his password. Here are a few tips and tricks that can help to bypass or reset the BIOS password on most systems. Continue Reading
- Answer 10 Mar 2004