Windows 10 security and management
Windows 10 introduces new security tools, including Device Guard, Windows Hello and Isolated User Mode. There are also a lot of key strategies IT should consider for protecting Windows 10 such as maintaining regular updates and encrypting where possible. It's also important to know the third-party security tool market so IT can fortify its defenses even more.
Top Stories
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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
12 Jan 2022
Exchange Server woes continue on January Patch Tuesday
Exchange Server admins who had to cope with a Y2K22 error to start the new year have three more vulnerabilities of varying levels of severity to resolve for Patch Tuesday. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2021
Exchange zero-day corrected on November Patch Tuesday
Microsoft released a security update to shut down a publicly exploited vulnerability in the beleaguered on-premises messaging platform. Continue Reading
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News
13 Oct 2021
Microsoft squashes Windows zero-day on October Patch Tuesday
In addition to the publicly exploited bug, Microsoft corrected 76 flaws, including four that had been publicly disclosed, in this month's batch of security updates. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2021
6 reasons unpatched software persists in the enterprise
Patching is like flossing -- everyone knows they should do it, yet too few do it often and well. Explore why unpatched software is still ubiquitous, despite the risks. 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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News
15 Sep 2021
September Patch Tuesday fixes zero-day, print spooler flaw
The two notable vulnerabilities, disclosed prior to this month's security update releases, receive permanent fixes to supersede earlier mitigation instructions. 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
11 Aug 2021
More printer spooler bugs resolved on August Patch Tuesday
Microsoft corrects a Windows zero-day and two publicly disclosed vulnerabilities in this month's batch of security updates. 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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News
09 Jun 2021
Microsoft resolves 6 zero-days for June Patch Tuesday
The tech company confirmed there were signs of exploitation in the wild for the vulnerabilities that affect Windows desktop and server operating systems. 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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News
13 May 2021
May Patch Tuesday brings more bad news for Exchange admins
Microsoft releases four fixes for the email server product, which remains firmly in the sights of threat actors seeking new ways to exploit the system. Continue Reading
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News
14 Apr 2021
Exchange Server bugs continue to bite on April Patch Tuesday
Microsoft resolves 110 vulnerabilities, including a zero-day and four public disclosures, but the company says admins should prioritize four critical bugs on Exchange Server. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
6 components to look for in an endpoint security platform
When it comes to selecting an endpoint security product, customers should look for essential features, such as application protection, that are crucial for enterprise security. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2021
Exchange Server issues loom over March Patch Tuesday
For many organizations that rely on Exchange for reasons in addition to email, a move to a more secure messaging platform is not an option. Continue Reading
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News
02 Mar 2021
Microsoft bolsters data security in 365
Microsoft said the latest 365 security features provide better protection for corporate data. The improvements guard sensitive information against attacks and leaks. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2021
Microsoft plugs Windows zero-day for February Patch Tuesday
Microsoft addresses 56 total unique vulnerabilities, including six that were publicly disclosed, and gives administrators their second dose for August's Zerologon issue. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2021
Microsoft launches Application Guard for Office
Microsoft's new Application Guard for Office opens untrusted Word, PowerPoint and Excel documents in a container to protect a user's computer from threats. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2021
Why endpoint security is important and how it works
Organizations and IT admins must understand the fundamental approaches that endpoint security platforms take to secure endpoints and defend against common threats. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2021
Microsoft Defender zero-day fixed for January Patch Tuesday
In addition to the fix for its antivirus software, Microsoft also corrected a publicly disclosed printer driver flaw that affected Windows client and server systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2020
Evaluate if Windows 10 needs third-party antivirus
While Windows Defender, Microsoft's native antivirus for Windows 10 systems, is suitable for personal use, enterprise users may require a more comprehensive antivirus offering. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2020
How to configure proxy settings using Group Policy
IT pros can use this labor-saving tip to manage proxy settings calls for properly configured Group Policy settings. Here are the steps to take. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2020
Microsoft closes out year with light December Patch Tuesday
In addition to the monthly security updates, Microsoft shares a fix to address a DNS cache poisoning vulnerability that affects Windows Server systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2020
How to enable and disable Tamper Protection in Windows 10
Tamper Protection in Windows 10 can protect against malware and third-party applications from changing Windows security settings. Learn how to use the new security feature. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Nov 2020
11 tips to improve Windows 10 performance
With a few minor tweaks, such as maximizing RAM, disabling visual effects and getting rid of unnecessary services, you can increase Windows 10 performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2020
7 essential remote worker security policies for IT departments
With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing so many to work remotely, IT admins need to update the security aspect of their organization's work-from-home policies to keep pace with this trend. Continue Reading
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News
09 Sep 2020
SharePoint gets multiple fixes for September Patch Tuesday
There were no zero-days or public disclosures from Microsoft this month, but patches for SharePoint and Exchange should get prompt attention. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Aug 2020
10 RDP security best practices to prevent cyberattacks
Securing remote connections is critical, especially in a pandemic. Enact these RDP security best practices at your organization to prevent ransomware, brute-force attacks and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2020
6 Group Policy best practices for Windows 10 admins
Group policies are a central component of Windows 10 configuration. Here are six best practices that can simplify Group Policy management for Windows 10. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jul 2020
DNS Server vulnerability tops July Patch Tuesday concerns
Microsoft warns administrators not to delay the deployment of a patch to shut down a critical bug in Windows DNS servers due to its potential to cause widespread damage. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2020
Microsoft Defender ATP taps into cloud for added protection
Enterprises that want to wrap up their systems in an extra layer of security have the option for more enhanced protection that integrates with other Microsoft products. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jun 2020
Passwordless authentication options and best practices
Organizations that want to move away from passwords for authentication should learn the best practices for implementing passwordless authentication and which factors fit them best. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2020
Microsoft issues 129 fixes for June Patch Tuesday
SharePoint continues to attract attention this month, with 12 unique vulnerabilities corrected in the document sharing and storage product. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2020
May Patch Tuesday brings a bevy of SharePoint fixes
Microsoft delivers corrections for 111 unique vulnerabilities with a significant number aimed at SharePoint, which may signal growing interest from attackers. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2020
How to safely stop unnecessary Windows 10 services
Windows 10 comes with a lot of services, but not all of them are necessary. Consider stopping unnecessary Windows 10 services to boost performance and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2020
Understand and manage Windows 10 virtual memory
It can be difficult for IT pros to understand the intricacies of Windows 10 virtual memory, but they should develop a basic knowledge of virtual memory to effectively manage desktops. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2020
3 zero-day fixes in heavy April Patch Tuesday release
Complications arising from the coronavirus pandemic could slow the rollout of this month's Microsoft security updates as IT teams deal with an influx of remote workers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 Mar 2020
How zero-trust authentication and architecture have evolved
Zero-trust architecture has spread across the enterprise security software market, so IT pros should understand the latest advancements in zero-trust authentication. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Mar 2020
Endpoint management in a COVID-19 world
While the focus during the pandemic has been on getting employees connected so that they can work from home, proper endpoint management is key to enterprise data security. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2020
Mammoth March Patch Tuesday lands on Windows admins
Microsoft delivers corrections for 115 unique vulnerabilities, including 26 bugs rated critical in one of its largest Patch Tuesday releases in recent memory. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Mar 2020
A closer look at new and updated Microsoft security features
Microsoft augments the native protection features in its newer Windows Server releases with cloud-based security products to reduce the likelihood of a successful breach attempt. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2020
Windows 10X OS may be a preview of features to come
Microsoft is aiming its new Windows 10X OS at dual-screen devices such as the Surface Neo, but it could have a big impact on the enterprise if its features migrate to mainline Windows. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Feb 2020
What are Windows virtualization-based security features?
Microsoft Hyper-V on Windows comes with advanced protection schemes, including several virtualization-based security features the company introduced in Windows Server 2019. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Feb 2020
How does Microsoft BitLocker secure local, cloud resources?
The BitLocker encryption technology continues to evolve from its roots as a Windows Vista feature to protect resources both in the local data center and in the Azure cloud platform. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2020
February Patch Tuesday resolves IE zero-day
Microsoft released security updates for 99 unique vulnerabilities, including an Internet Explorer flaw the company had notified customers about last month. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Feb 2020
What are some Windows Server 2019 SDN security features?
Microsoft continued to refine the software-defined networking capabilities in its latest server operating system by developing several new security features. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2020
Navigating the Registry Editor for Windows 10 desktop admins
The Windows 10 registry stores some critical desktop settings that IT pros should know how to edit, alter or even delete to provide end users the optimal desktop experience. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Jan 2020
What are some features in Microsoft Defender ATP?
The threat protection platform, which underwent a recent name change, comes with some tailored features for Windows Server 2019 to stop attacks and reduce configuration issues. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Jan 2020
Windows 10 1909 Works Well
When I say Windows 10 1909 2orks well, I mean that from a Reliability Monitor standpoint 1909 shows little or nothing to complain/worry about. Good! Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2020
Managing Windows Defender Device Guard in Windows desktops
IT pros must understand how Windows Defender Device Guard uses a locked-down approach to desktop security and how this method could cause compatibility issues and headaches for IT. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 Jan 2020
Browser Updates Require Human Intervention
Right after I learn a new Edge version is out, I realize that browser updates require human intervention. Only users (or admins) can shoulder the awesome responsibility of restarting a browser. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 Jan 2020
Getting MS Mouse&Keyboard Center Version Info
Getting MS Mouse&Keyboard Center version info proves a bit more challenging and tricksy than I'd wish. Norton File Insight to the rescue. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 Jan 2020
Self-Inflicted Spurious $SysReset Folder
I call it a self-Inflicted spurious $SysReset folder because if you start and cancel the Windows Reset operation in Windows 10, you'll find that folder on your system drive. It's safe to delete, so ... Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jan 2020
How can IT enable Windows Defender Device Guard?
IT professionals should learn how they can enable Windows Defender Device Guard to take advantage of the numerous security features it offers for Windows 10 desktops. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jan 2020
January Patch Tuesday fixes cryptography bug found by NSA
The U.S. National Security Agency shared information with Microsoft about a significant spoofing vulnerability in Windows that enterprises should make a patching priority. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
08 Jan 2020
NirSoft DriveLetterView Shows Assigned Win10 Drive Letters
NirSoft DriveLetterView shows assigned Win10 drive letters, both for active, mounted drives and removable drives previously installed but not currently present. Very handy! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
26 Dec 2019
2004 Gets New Network Status
Windows 10 2004 gets new Network Status look and info, and shows how Settings continues to supplant the Control Panel widgets. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
24 Dec 2019
Missing Secunia PSI
As I try one more time to find a reasonable replacement, once again I find myself missing Secunia PSI, the capable and comprehensive PC software scan-and-update utility that's been defunct since 2016. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
16 Dec 2019
Is WU Slowing Down?
When I realize how slowly Windows Update responds on some older PCs, I ask: Is WU slowing down? Subsequent research shows the answer is "no." I'm glad! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
12 Dec 2019
MFA Offers Real Security Protection: Use It!
A recent study for 2019 (Jan-Mar) finds 44 M re-used credential sets among Microsoft and Azure AD account holders. Because MFA offers real security protection, MS recommends its use whenever ... Continue Reading
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News
11 Dec 2019
December Patch Tuesday resolves Windows zero-day
Microsoft delivers the final batch of security fixes for the year with a Windows zero-day vulnerability getting top billing for administrators. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
11 Nov 2019
Nirsoft Releases Windows Update History Viewer
Given that Nirsoft releases Windows Update History Viewer (free software), Windows 10 power users and admins alike will want to take this informative tool for a spin. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Oct 2019
How should IT select antivirus software for Windows 10?
There are a lot of options for antivirus software for Windows 10, so it's important to know what to look for. Here are some top considerations to think about before deciding. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Oct 2019
Compare native vs. third-party security tools for Windows 10
IT professionals should learn the fundamental differences in feature sets between third-party security tools for Windows 10 and the native options Microsoft provides. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2019
How to use and troubleshoot with Device Manager in Windows 10
Device Manager can be extremely useful if you know how to use it properly. Understand how to access and use Device Manager in Windows 10 to manage device drivers and more. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Oct 2019
Microsoft adds Tamper Protection to Microsoft Defender to protect against malware disabling it
Over the last few years, malware has really started targeting antivirus software, so Microsoft is releasing a new feature that aims to prevent that. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Oct 2019
10 Microsoft Ignite 2019 sessions for Windows admins
Windows OS admins attending Microsoft Ignite 2019 will have a variety of relevant sessions from which to choose. Consider these 10 sessions to get new management techniques and tips. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2019
5 ways to speed up Windows 10 performance
Windows 10 performance can slow down over time. Fortunately, you can do a few things to speed up performance, including freeing up storage space and removing bloatware. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
16 Oct 2019
Fixing Surface Pro 3 USB Drive Drop
Weird behavior has me fixing Surface Pro 3 USB drive drop behavior. Turns out a single registry key knocks out a bunch of common Power Options, one of which fixes my problem. Continue Reading
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News
09 Oct 2019
October Patch Tuesday resolves 59 vulnerabilities
Microsoft attempts to stamp out printing issues that originated from a faulty out-of-band patch for an Internet Explorer zero-day. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Sep 2019
Smarter Web-based Intel Driver Update Tool
The new, smarter web-based Intel Driver Update Tool (Intel Driver & Support Assistant) recognizes OEM-supplied drivers, and won't update them with newer generic versions. That's good! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Sep 2019
20H1 Gains Cloud Reset Capability
Recent Insider Previews have it, and so will the next Feature Upgrade: 20H1 gains cloud reset capability as part of Windows 10's reworked "Reset this PC" facility. Continue Reading
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News
11 Sep 2019
September Patch Tuesday addresses 2 Windows zero-days
Microsoft issues fixes for 79 unique vulnerabilities, including three public disclosures, as part of its monthly security updates. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 Sep 2019
When Disk Cleanup Fails Use Search
When Disk Cleanup fails use search online to determine which files and folders are safe to delete. Here's a list I've started compiling. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
30 Aug 2019
Wonky Wi-Fi Forces Public Network Status
When a wonky Wi-Fi forces Public network status on what had been a private 5 GHz Wi-Fi channel, I finally recognize I need a new Wi-Fi router. It's on order. Sigh. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2019
5 steps to enroll Windows 10 devices in Windows Analytics
Windows Analytics can provide some helpful information, but you must enroll your organization's devices before you can start using it. Here are five steps to get started. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Aug 2019
Defender PowerShell Hash Mismatches Fix Coming
Recently, SFC /scannow has been mis-reporting Defender PowerShell scripts as potentially corrupt. MS faults a new OOB signing mechanism, and says Defender PowerShell Hash mismatches fix coming soon. Continue Reading
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News
16 Aug 2019
New Windows vulnerabilities reveal there is no rest for weary IT
The two latest Windows security vulnerabilities reiterate the importance for IT admins to stay diligent when updating and managing an organization's operating system. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Aug 2019
Which options does IT have for Windows 10 bloatware removal?
Bloatware isn't just annoying -- it can negatively affect OS security, for example. Find out ways to get rid of Windows 10 bloatware once and for all with these tips. Continue Reading
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News
14 Aug 2019
August Patch Tuesday corrects new 'wormable' exploits
Administrators weighed down by news of the BlueKeep vulnerability will have to contend with a similar bug some are calling DejaBlue. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Aug 2019
How to automate Windows 10 imaging with Packer
Windows 10 imaging isn't easy, especially with Microsoft's continuous release model. Here's how IT can use Packer and MDT to reuse code for Windows images and automate the process. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
02 Aug 2019
Old Trick Still Kills Persistent Windows.old
As I poke around on my production PC, I remember that an old trick still kills persistent Windows.old at the command line. It kills other root-level folders, too. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 Jul 2019
Windows 10 security baselines finally go GA
Beleaguered Windows admins can rejoice; Microsoft released their security baseline solution to make it easier (maybe) to adopt Intune. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
26 Jul 2019
Identify Win10 Backup Version
When looking into backup files, details information from ntoskrnl.exe can identify Win10 backup version. Here's where to find that file, and what to look for. Continue Reading
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News
16 Jul 2019
Despite Windows 10 issues, customers remain confident in OS
The issues surrounding the latest Windows 10 OS update have affected some users to the point of annoyance, while others remain unaffected and unfazed by the continued issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jul 2019
5 Windows 10 shortcuts for desktop administrators
Admins who manage Windows 10 desktops are often overwhelmed with tedium. Here are five keyboard shortcuts for Windows 10 that can make a desktop admin's job easier. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jun 2019
IT's guide to Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC
The Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC release includes a number of new management capabilities. IT administrators should be aware of the new features and enhancements. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2019
Microsoft plugs 4 zero-day exploits for June Patch Tuesday
Despite multiple warnings from Microsoft, the threat of the BlueKeep RDP vulnerability to unpatched Windows systems continues to loom following its May Patch Tuesday disclosure. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jun 2019
How to use Windows Admin Center to manage Windows 10
Windows Admin Center started as a Windows Server tool, but it can manage Windows 10 desktops too. Learn which features can help with Windows 10 management. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
29 May 2019
PowerShell Clears Stale Printer Objects
Because PowerShell clears stale Printer objects quickly and easily, checks and cleanups are worth integrating into routine system maintenance activities. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 May 2019
Rescue Old Windows 10 Applications from Oblivion
For those contemplating the possible disappearance of familiar and sometimes beloved built-ins, I explain how to Rescue old Windows 10 applications from oblivion. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 May 2019
Perfect Win10 Relimon Score 10 Days Straight
Current builds for Windows 10 1809 seem uncommonly stable. In fact, I see a perfect Win10 Relimon score 10 days straight through today, and for 21 of the past 30 days. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 May 2019
PowerShell Handles Windows 10 Restore Points
As I learn that PowerShell handles Windows 10 Restore Points nicely, I also observe that related cmdlets present their data in more friendly, readable form than does the VSSADMIN command. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 May 2019
Examining Windows 10 ETL files
When examining Windows 10 ETL files, you'll see a lot of them sometimes. If they take up a lot of (or too much) disk space, it's OK to whack them. Here's how . . . Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 May 2019
PowerShell Command Line Zip Handling
Once you learn the syntax and parameters involved, PowerShell command ine Zip handling is simple and easy, both for bundling files into archives, and unpacking archives' contents. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 May 2019
How can IT use Windows Autopilot to manage Windows 10 PCs?
Deploying Windows 10 devices can be a pain, especially when pre-installed PCs don't have the right applications or policies. Learn how Windows Autopilot can solve those issues. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2019
Latest Windows 10 update issues cause more freezing problems
This news brief details the additional issues around the April 9 Windows 10 update as well as provides a look at Microsoft's Edge browser, built using Google's open sourced web browser Chromium. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Apr 2019
Comet Offers Interesting Disk Cleanup Alternative
A free, open source program named Comet offers interesting Disk Cleanup alternative for Windows 10. If MS should now decide to retire the original (which they may do), looks like we've got a usable ... Continue Reading
- Blog Post 18 Apr 2019
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Feature
08 Apr 2019
Top Windows 10 issues facing IT
Windows 10 can be a challenging OS for both end users and IT admins. Here, IT pros discuss the biggest challenges they've experienced with Windows 10 management. Continue Reading