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Four factors to consider when you migrate to Windows 10

When making the move to Windows 10, there are some important factors for IT to keep in mind, including whether to perform an in-place upgrade or a clean installation. Continue Reading

Reducing Win10 Upgrade Offline Time

MS says a key goal in improving feature upgrades is reducing Win10 upgrade offline time. Personally, I find their current list of upgrade/install steps more informative. Continue Reading

VMware Workspace One gets intelligent

Several VMware Workspace One features announced at VMworld 2017, including Workspace One Intelligence and Mobile Flows, are now generally available. Continue Reading

How to transition to Windows 10 without the headaches

IT pros should take a step back and decide if an upgrade to Windows 10 is right for their organizations, or they may encounter problems during the process. Continue Reading

Logon times play key role in virtual desktop UX monitoring

Overly long logon times for virtual desktops and applications can lead to major losses in user productivity that costs organizations real money. Learn how IT can improve VDI performance using ... Continue Reading

Understanding NTUser.dat in Windows 10

Understanding NTUser.dat in Windows 10 means knowing that those files capture user profile settings and preferences, and are best left alone and untouched for proper OS operation. Continue Reading

How does Microsoft Near Share for browser file sharing work?

Microsoft Edge, Windows 10's default browser, includes a file-sharing tool called Near Share, which is helpful, if not truly groundbreaking. Continue Reading

Check Current Win10 for In-place Upgrade Repair

If you carefully check current Win10 for in-place upgrade repair, you'll be able to choose and download the proper ISO to attempt such repairs every time, without fail. Continue Reading

MS Offers New Spectre Updates

As MS offers new Spectre updates through the Microsoft Update Catalog, I realize that it's going to be a long slog to get those vulnerabilities patches on all my PCs. Continue Reading

Support for Macs in the enterprise: Three factors to consider

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AI tools fall into the hands of end users

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It's time to relinquish control over operating system updates

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How AI and machine learning affect end-user computing

End-user computing administrators need to start paying attention to AI and machine learning, not because these technologies will take over their jobs, but because they can bring productivity benefits to both business software and IT management tools. As AI and machine learning capabilities grow in employees' applications, IT must know how to handle them, what data they can help glean, and how to get users involved in the customization process. This month's cover story explores how AI affects end-user computing and why users themselves are at the forefront of this issue.

In addition, this month's Deep Dive article looks at chatbots and how they can benefit the enterprise. Our columnists explain more about how AI can transform workflow processes and why IT should consider Macs for business use. Plus, the Device Spotlight shines on Samsung's latest Android flagship, the Galaxy S9, which brings a few fun new features for consumer and business users.

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Post Build 17115 Driver Fix Routine Still Works

Even post Build 17115 Driver Fix routine still works to fix most common driver issues and difficulties. Try this 3-step sequence and see! Continue Reading

MS Foils Coin Mining Compelling Telemetry Case

Through clever and effective use of telemetry data, AI and machine learning, MS foils coin mining in a big way in Russia, Turkey and Ukraine. Continue Reading

How to take advantage of SCCM and Intune co-management

IT can combine Microsoft Intune and System Center Configuration Manager to manage users' mobile devices, as well as any legacy systems in its network. Continue Reading

Day 1: Global Microsoft MVP Summit

During Day 1: Global Microsoft MVP Summit I learn that proper feedback is the real reason why Microsoft operates the Insider program, and provide tips on how to provide quality feedback on Windows. Continue Reading

MS Offers Spectre Meltdown Updates Via Catalog

Is is because OEM are taking too long to pony up that MS offers Spectre Meltdown updates via catalog downloads? I don't know, but I'm glad somebody's doing something! Continue Reading

Firmware Update Proceeds at Glacial Pace

Given that the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities created such a furor, one can only observe that the attendant firmware update Proceeds at glacial pace. Continue Reading

Get to know your Windows 10 update options

Windows as a service changes the way updates work in Windows 10 from past versions of the OS. Each of the three servicing channels handles updates in its own way. Continue Reading

Top six Windows 10 migration problems and how to avoid them

Users and IT professionals sometimes have issues after a Windows 10 migration. Careful planning can mitigate these issues before IT undertakes a full-scale migration. Continue Reading

Fixing Missing Mouse or Keyboard

When it comes to fixing missing mouse or keyboard in Win10 you can either try different hardware, or boot from a different Windows, to effect repairs. Continue Reading

Win7 Still Activates Win10 2/27/18

After skipping key entry on a clean Windows 10 install, I learn that Win7 Still Validates Win10 for activation. Woo hoo: my sister's HP Pavilion Dv6 is back in action. Continue Reading

Win10 Upgrade Repair Install Tips

When it comes to fixing misbehaving or flaky Windows PCs, here are some hopefully useful Win10 upgrade repair install tips. Continue Reading

A closer look at ARM and what it means for Windows 10 laptops

With new details on the limitations, as well as hardware due soon, Rachel Berry looks at the risks, benefits, and incentives of combining the two. Continue Reading

Win10 Safe Mode Breakout Technique

If you get stuck in a boot loop while in safe mode, you'll need a Win10 Safe Mode breakout technique. Here's one that works from the command line. Continue Reading

How to establish Windows 10 security baselines

IT should consider following Microsoft's Windows 10 security recommendations in the Security Compliance Toolkit to better protect the operating system. Continue Reading

Bootrec Fixes Win10 Boot Problems

When boot-up goes wonky, remember this: Bootrec fixes Win10 boot problems! Here, you'll learn how to launch and run this boot repair tool, and what it can do to help. Continue Reading

Do Try Microsoft Teams

Having now used the platform for a couple of month, I enthusiastically exhort you: Do try Microsoft Teams! You may be in for a pleasant and productivity-enhancing surprise. Continue Reading

VMware Workspace One helps Western Digital organize 3,000 apps

The application portal in VMware Workspace One allowed IT to streamline app delivery, and the product's cloud-based model proved the right fit for administration. Continue Reading

Can IT make the transition to Windows 10 smooth for users?

IT can take a few steps to make the move to Windows 10 easier on users, including considering an in-place upgrade and holding off on any other major changes. Continue Reading

Update 7-ZIP to 18.01 NOW

Because of some recently-discovered and somewhat nasty vulnerabilities, you really, really want to update 7-ZIP to 18.01 NOW!! Continue Reading

No Win10 Means No Office 2019

MS has laid down the law: no Win10 means no Office 2019. If you don't get on the Win10 bandwagon, you can't stay on the Office 365 one, either. Continue Reading

KB4058258 Install Fail Fix

Those who try, and fail, to install KB4058258 should try this simple recipe for a KB4058258 install fail fix. It takes a little while but works pretty well. Continue Reading

Three PC lifecycle management options IT should consider

IT pros can use PCs and laptops until they stop working, or they can set up a lifecycle management plan that retires them after a certain period of time. Continue Reading

Windows 10 Gets S Modes

In a surprising twist, Microsoft does away with standalone Windows 10 S. Instead, Windows 10 gets S Modes for most consumer (and Education) versions. Continue Reading

Timely Firmware Update Rescues Surface Pro 3

After my PC gets caught in an ongoing crash loop, a timely firmware update rescues Surface Pro 3, thanks in large part to the Windows Update MiniTool. Continue Reading

Windows 10 Count Finally Exceeds Windows 7

According to several sources now, the Windows 10 count finally exceeds Windows 7 from both USA and global perspectives. Continue Reading

Microsoft Office 2019 release will force IT to migrate to Windows 10

If you're not yet on Windows 10, news about the upcoming Microsoft Office 2019 release may force your hand. Plus, the company could go all in on Office 365. Continue Reading

Announcing the winners of the Access Innovation Awards

These award-winning projects demonstrate how organizations that embrace endpoint diversity, cloud computing and user experience-focused strategies can transform existing end-user processes. Continue Reading

Access Innovation Awards recognize desktop transformation

The Access Innovation Awards highlight two creative and successful end-user computing projects. One of these IT initiatives dove headfirst into cloud with a migration of physical and virtual desktops to desktop as a service, all while monitoring users and resources with a variety of tools. The other formulated a unique combination of products to deliver scalable, flexible and graphics-rich virtual desktops to diverse sites. Both of them enabled desktop transformation in their organizations to help end users do their work more efficiently and effectively.

The results were two strong end-user computing implementations that together represent this year's Access Innovation Awards winners. Read the stories of each of these desktop transformation initiatives in this special issue of the e-zine.

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MS Issues Spectre Reversal Update (Catalog Only)

Because Intel is taking its sweet time fixing microcode, and reboot and stability problems continue, MS issues Spectre reversal update (Catalog Only). Continue Reading

Skip Product Key When Sysprepping Win10

To skip Product Key when Sysprepping Win10, you must supply a generic product key instead. Here's a list of same to use. Continue Reading

Can IT save user settings, files in the move to Windows 10?

IT can help users maintain their personal settings and files when moving to Windows 10 through an in-place upgrade or through manual or automated processes during a clean upgrade. Continue Reading

Intel Now Advises Against Installing Spectre Patches!

Because of widely-reported issues with reboots and system stability, Intel now advises against installing Spectre patches! Continue Reading

A Windows vulnerability scan should leave no stones unturned

When it comes to scanning for vulnerabilities in Windows, IT pros need to run both authenticated and unauthenticated scans so they can see the deployment from every angle. Continue Reading

OneDrive File Attributes Uncovered

A careful look at help information leads to new OneDrive File attributes uncovered, and a better understanding of how OnDemand files work. Continue Reading

17074.1002 Introduces Involuntary Upgrade Repair Install

The latest Win10 Insider Preview build 17074.1002 introduces involuntary upgrade repair install. What looks like an update is a major version upgrade! Continue Reading

MDT PS Wizard Covers MS Deployment Toolkit Wizards

Damien Van Robaeys excellent MDT PS Wizard covers MS Deployment Toolkit wizards within the pleasing GUI of a single, comprehensive scripted environment. Great stuff! Continue Reading

Ten Windows 10 Fall Creators Update features to know

Microsoft introduced some significant changes to Windows 10 in the Fall Creators Update. The My People app, for example, lets users pin contacts to their task bars. Continue Reading

Operator Error Explains 4TB Drive Mystery

When I compared the PSU (brick) I'd been using on my dual drive dock to the one I'd just purchased, I realized that operator error explains 4TB drive mystery. Sheesh! Continue Reading

Win10 PC Brick-Avoidance Techniques

When updating BIOSes or firmware, or upgrading Windows 10, it's wise to practice Win10 PC brick-avoidance techniques. Continue Reading

Guard the line with Windows Defender features

The Windows 10 Fall Creators Update took Windows 10 security up a notch by adding advanced features to Windows Defender, including Application Guard and Exploit Guard. Continue Reading

Ready to master virtualization-based security in Windows 10?

Put your knowledge of virtualization-based security in Windows 10 on the line with this quiz covering the ins and outs of features such as Isolated User Mode and Device Guard. Continue Reading

More Details on KB4056892 Wintel Vulnerabilities

More details on KB4056892 Wintel vulnerabilities tell us their names, and reveal that vendor hardware support is needed to fix one of this pair of critical items. Continue Reading

RegHack Fixes Unwanted Win10 Thumbnail Deletions

A simple RegHack fixes unwanted Win10 thumbnail deletions that make preview images disappear from File Explorer. Continue Reading

KB4056892 Fixes Critical Win10 Security Bugs

Because KB4056892 fixes critical Win10 security bugs, admins and deployment teams should get this one out to all Win10 PCs ASAP. Continue Reading

Can you create a dynamically expanding virtual hard disk?

If you build a dynamically expanding VHD it is important to remember to set the size to match the maximum possible storage space it will use. Continue Reading

How to create a snapshot of your custom Windows 10 image

Once you finish creating your custom Windows 10 image, the time is right to take a snapshot of it so you can deliver it to your users. Continue Reading

Undoing 7Zip ISO Association

Undoing 7Zip ISO association means right-clicking, choosing "Open with", selecting File Explorer, and checking the "Always use" box. Continue Reading

Top Windows 10 backup and restore utilities

The key to a good backup and restore tool is reliability. Look into third-party utilities such as Reflect or OneKey for Windows 10 restore and backup. Continue Reading

How to use Sysprep to install a custom Windows 10 image

Walk through the process of adding custom software, apps and assets to your Windows 10 image in audit mode. Continue Reading

Pros and cons of a Windows 10 clean install vs. upgrade

When migrating to Windows 10, IT must decide whether to perform an upgrade install or clean install. The benefits of one are the weaknesses of the other. Continue Reading

Win10 Full Flash Update

Full Flash Update's FFUTOOL.exe works with DISM to apply Windows images to target drives (and PCs) faster and more reliably than either WIM or VHD. Continue Reading

Top five Windows 10 migration fears

A Windows 10 migration can set IT pros shaking in their boots, especially because the transition often comes with hang-ups around compatibility, hardware updates and more. Continue Reading

Can you use Sysprep to install a custom Windows 10 image?

With the right know-how, IT can create and install a custom Windows 10 image using Microsoft's System Preparation tool. Continue Reading

Five Windows 10 security tips to know

It is vital that IT understand the top Windows 10 security tips to protect corporate data and users from lurking cyber threats. Continue Reading

Apple DEP faces new device provisioning competition

The Apple Device Enrollment Program is well-established, and now, Microsoft and Google have their own zero-touch device provisioning services for Android and Windows. Continue Reading

Six Windows 10 Fall Creators Update features to know

The Fall Creators Update is the latest major update to Windows 10. Two of the biggest changes are security enhancements and better Windows Update control. Continue Reading

Does Windows 10 virtualization-based security defend the OS?

With Windows 10, Microsoft emphasized virtualization-based security, such as Device Guard and Credential Guard, to keep corporate information off users' devices. Continue Reading

Add Precision Touchpad Drivers Anywhere

With the right technique, you can add Precision Touchpad drivers anywhere on any device with a Synaptics or Elan touchpad. Continue Reading

Put your Windows 10 deployments on AutoPilot

Aaron Parker talks cloud management, MDM, and provisioning for Windows 10. Continue Reading

How to check Windows 10 compatibility for legacy apps

Testing apps is just one way to ensure that legacy apps have Windows 10 compatibility. Find out how to confirm the compatibility of legacy apps with the OS. Continue Reading

Win10 PowerShell Chkdsk Alternative

For most command-line program's there's a PowerShell alternative. The Win10 PowerShell Chkdsk alternative is named Repair-Volume. Continue Reading

MS Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset (DaRT) 10

The Microsoft Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset, aka DaRT, is an invaluable toolset for admins seeking remedies for Windows 10 boot or startup issues. Continue Reading

Set up a virtual hard disk and perform a Windows 10 dual boot

Dual booting Windows 10 can come in handy in a variety of ways. The process requires that IT knows how to build a virtual hard disk and install Windows 10 on it. Continue Reading

How to use a technician machine to create a custom Windows 10 image

IT pros must be able to mold Windows 10 into the OS their organization needs. To do so, they need to first learn to install Windows 10 on a technician machine. Continue Reading

Clear cached credentials with the cmdkey and PowerShell

Cached credentials make users' lives easier, but they can be a security issue in Windows if a device falls into the wrong hands. IT can manage them on a large scale with PowerShell. Continue Reading

Add Custom Drivers to WinRE

If your Windows runtime needs drivers added, you'll also want to add Custom Drivers to WinRE so your recovery environment works, too. Continue Reading

How to navigate the Windows ADK download process

The Windows ADK can help ensure Windows 10 compatibility for apps, software and hardware. There are six key steps to the installation process. Continue Reading

Fsutil Cleans Up Excess Old Transactions

NTFS Fsutil cleans up excess old transactions. You can also use it to show you how much disk space transaction info and logs consume. Continue Reading

12 Windows 10 GPO settings IT must know

Group Policy Objects in Windows 10 are powerful. IT can use them to turn off the Windows Store app, reshape the Start menu, change how users log in and more. Continue Reading

Microsoft *FINALLY* creates a cloud service provider virtualization license for Windows 10

For many years, we've wanted service provider licensing for Windows desktop OSes. On Monday, Microsoft announced just that. Here's what we know. Continue Reading

Top five Windows 10 problems and how to solve them

Windows 10 problems persist, despite all the updates Microsoft sends out. Make sure you know the common issues for IT and end users, as well as how to solve them. Continue Reading

How to use the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit for Windows 10

It's important for IT admins to know everything is going to work before they deploy Windows 10 desktops. They can use the tools in the Windows ADK to do just that and more. Continue Reading

Are third-party firewalls worth the investment?

It might be effective, but Windows Firewall is not the be-all and end-all of security. In some cases, third-party firewalls add the extra layer of protection IT needs. Continue Reading

DISKPART Script Fixes Default Win10 Disk Layout

In the third and final element of this 3-part series, we show how a DISKPART script fixes default Win10 disk layout issues. Continue Reading

Exploring Win10 Clean Install Default Disk Layout

Let's go Exploring Win10 clean install default disk layout to understand why it poses upgrade issues, and how to do it right the first time. Continue Reading

Partition UEFI/GPT HDD Using Diskpart

For some reason Windows Installer puts the WinRE partition at the head of its disk layout. We partition UEFI/GPT HDD using diskpart to put it at the end, where it belongs. Continue Reading

How can you access Windows 10 advanced repair options?

To resolve Windows 10 boot problems you can access a few repair options by entering the OS through the back door. Here's how to do it. Continue Reading

Windows 10 security tools to have handy

Cyberthreats lurk around every corner, so it's always a good time to fortify Windows 10 defenses. These top security tools can help make that happen. Continue Reading

Nine end-user experience monitoring tools to know

The user experience monitoring market is chock-full of options that can be confusing to keep track of. Take a look at nine tools every IT pro should know about. Continue Reading

Tip: Access HTML Files Using Edge

Even though the File - Open menu entry is MIA, turns out there are plenty of ways to access HTML files using Edge in Windows 10. Continue Reading

Manage Win10 Drivers Using DISM

When I confirm that an upgrade indeed installs a whole new slate of device drivers, I decide to manage Win10 Drivers using DISM at the command line. Continue Reading

How to build and use a bootable recovery partition in Windows 10

Understanding how to set up a bootable recovery partition in Windows 10 allows you to restore a damaged OS or troubleshoot a litany of problems. Continue Reading

Handy Win10 Boot Controls

Rebooting Windows 10 to access UEFI/BIOS or boot media can be tricky, and make handy Win10 Boot controls vital. Continue Reading

Microsoft, Google vie to be masters of the universal OS

Developers and IT admins have to manage and build apps for a multitude of different operating systems and device types. Windows 10 and Google's universal OS could change that. Continue Reading

How can you whitelist apps and fight ransomware with Windows 10 AppLocker?

With application whitelisting, admins can create a list of approved apps users can work with. This way, users cannot accidentally open an app containing ransomware. Continue Reading

Taskkill Terminates Hung Processes

When Windows processes go south, remember that Taskkill terminates hung processes at the command line. Very handy! Continue Reading

How to fix Windows 10 update problems with the DISM command tool

With a few tricks in the Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management command utility, admins can solve some of the most common Windows 10 update problems plaguing their users. Continue Reading