Windows OS and management
For decades, Windows desktops have had a massive share of the overall desktop OS market. Therefore, enterprise desktop administrators must focus their energy on building a strong management plan for the latest versions of Windows. This process includes testing and applying updates and patches, upgrading to new versions and much more.
Top Stories
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Tip
16 May 2025
How to create a custom Windows 11 image with Hyper-V
When administrators can deploy Windows systems in many ways, creating a custom VM with Hyper-V enables them to efficiently deploy a copy of one desktop to a whole user base. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2025
Microsoft tackles 5 Windows zero-days on May Patch Tuesday
The company addresses 72 unique CVEs this month, but several AI features bundled in a larger-than-usual update could bog down some networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2022
built-in administrator account
In the Windows operating system, the built-in administrator account -- the first account created when the OS was installed -- has the highest permissions of any profile on the computer system. 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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Definition
14 Apr 2022
Network File System (NFS)
Network File System (NFS) is a networking protocol for distributed file sharing. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Apr 2022
IO.SYS
IO.SYS is a hidden executable binary file that processes instructions that tell the operating system (OS) how the computer is set up when it is booted or started. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2022
Microsoft brings Windows 365 Cloud PC closer to Windows 11
Microsoft will make Windows 365 more like a local install of Windows by letting employees work offline and switch between their local desktops and Cloud PC. 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
24 Mar 2022
How to work with an SCCM technical preview lab
System Center Configuration Manager technical previews give Microsoft customers a way to test and provide feedback to the company for its device management product. 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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Definition
14 Mar 2022
Windows
Windows is Microsoft's flagship operating system (OS), the de facto standard for home and business computers. 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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News
09 Mar 2022
Critical Exchange Server bug fixed for March Patch Tuesday
The vulnerability on the on-premises mail server system is one of just three critical flaws from a total of 71 bugs corrected in Microsoft products this month. 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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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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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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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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Definition
15 Nov 2021
MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System)
MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System) was the Microsoft-marketed version of the first widely-installed operating system in personal computers. 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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Definition
25 Oct 2021
client
A client is a hardware or software device that requests access to a service that is typically made available by a server. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Oct 2021
Microsoft Windows Hello
Microsoft Windows Hello is a biometric identity and access control feature that supports fingerprint scanners, iris scanners and facial recognition technology on compatible devices running Windows. 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
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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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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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
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
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 Feb 2021
Microsoft to drop Edge Legacy from upcoming Windows update
Microsoft is doing some spring cleaning with its Edge browser. The April Windows update will uninstall Edge Legacy and replace it with the new, Chromium-based Edge. 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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Opinion
15 Jan 2021
Will Windows 10 be the last Windows OS?
It's difficult to say whether Windows 10 will be the final version of the Windows OS, but a look at Microsoft's history and approach to OSes may shed some light on the situation. 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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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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Tip
12 Nov 2020
Windows 10 updates to avoid and how to address them
While Windows administrators can never ignore Microsoft's updates, it may make sense to delay or even avoid Windows updates until they are stable for enterprise users. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2020
How and when to perform a Windows Registry cleanup
Desktop administrators should learn the best methods to edit the Windows registry, and how to avoid manual registry edits due to the damage that registry issues can cause. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Oct 2020
What to do when a Windows Insider Program build isn't working
Organizations that test Windows Insider Program builds must be prepared for bugs in the platform, and systems admins need to know what to do when they encounter them. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2020
Windows 10 system requirements for enterprise users
IT pros must understand that their desktops' upgrade method, workload and other factors affect whether the Windows 10 system requirements are sufficient. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2020
A complete guide to troubleshooting Windows Hello
Windows Hello has several common issues that administrators may need to troubleshoot. Find out what those issues are here and what to do about them. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Aug 2020
Using Task Manager to monitor memory usage in Windows 10
With the Windows 10 Task Manager, desktop admins can monitor memory usage across the desktop to identify the source of any performance issues and terminate it. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
Learn native Windows 10 virtual memory management methods
With the variety of local techniques for managing Windows 10 virtual memory, desktop administrators can address numerous performance issues on end-user machines. 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
07 Jul 2020
Microsoft launches Windows File Recovery tool
Despite the prevalence of cloud storage and data backups, important files are still lost. Microsoft's Windows File Recovery tool aims to address the problem. 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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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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Answer
24 Apr 2020
How to change UEFI and BIOS password on Windows 10
Admins may need to open the BIOS or UEFI interface to change BIOS passwords on Windows 10. This process isn't too complex, but IT pros should follow these steps to accomplish this. Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2020
For IT, Windows 10 update 2004 complicated by COVID-19
Microsoft's Windows 10 update 2004 is set to release amid the coronavirus pandemic. Experts and IT admins say the appetite for new features may be mixed. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2020
Combat Windows update issues with a consistent testing plan
When it comes to deploying Windows updates, there is one key step that IT must take to ensure users' productivity isn't hindered: a comprehensive plan for testing the updates. 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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Tip
31 Mar 2020
How to enable and troubleshoot fast startup in Windows 10
The fast startup feature on Windows desktops can add value, but IT must understand when it should and shouldn't enable this feature and how to troubleshoot common issues. 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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News
21 Feb 2020
Latest Windows 10 update issue another QA stain
Microsoft pulled a Windows 10 security fix this month, causing experts to call for more testing and oversight -- again. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 Feb 2020
MS Assistant Addresses Office Issues
A downloadable MS Assistant Addresses Office Issues of all kinds, including my weird Internet Calendar Subscriptions issue. Worth downloading for admins and power users tasked with Office upkeep. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
07 Feb 2020
Windows 10 Blank Search Bites Production PC
When Windows 10 blank search bites production PC, I recognize this as a widely-reported and common issue. Fortunately, it's also quite easy to fix. Here's how... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Feb 2020
Win10 Outlook 365 Pro Crashes Prompt Timely Update
When my rock-solid production PC Reliability Index drops dramatically, discovering a Win10 Outlook 365 Pro crashes prompt timely update. Hope it's fixed! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
31 Jan 2020
Cloud Download Reset Reappears in Build 19555.1001
When I check, I learn that Cloud Download Reset reappears in Build 19555.1001. This lets users reset Win10 PCs using direct download from MS servers. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
30 Jan 2020
Firefox Tightens Web Security Clamps
When my usual browser refuses to take me to a couple of sites I visit daily, I realize that Firefox tightens web security clamps by insisting on a valid certificate before it will connect. Interesting! 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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Blog Post
28 Jan 2020
Reboot Clears Defender Error 0x80070643
I learn that a reboot clears Defender error 0x80070643 when an antimalware engine update fails to install. I also learn about the great new Microsoft Error Lookup Tool. Good stuff! 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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News
16 Jan 2020
With support for Windows 7 ending, a look back at the OS
With support for Windows 7 ending and Microsoft ushering in the end of life for the OS, tech experts and IT pros look back at its legacy of reliability and stability. 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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Blog Post
15 Jan 2020
Odd KB4528760 Error 0X80073712 Gets Easy Fix
On Patch Tuesday, 5 of 6 machines get through without issue. On machine 6, it turns out happily that KB4528760 error 0X80073712 gets easy fix. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Jan 2020
January 15, 2020: It’s time for Windows 10 modern management!
Now that Windows 7 is (mostly out of the way), this is the next big Windows project. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2020
3 Windows migration questions IT must answer
Microsoft has stopped mainstream support for Windows 7, so organizations must have a plan to migrate to Windows 10 or extend Windows 7 support. Find out how to shape a Windows migration plan here. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Jan 2020
Microsoft Changes WU Driver Inclusion Rules
In the way of well-reported issues with updated device drivers for Intel graphics and networking, Realtek audio and Bluetooth, and more in 2019, MS changes its rule for bundling unapproved drivers ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 Jan 2020
Notepad RTL Reading Order Gotcha Has Easy Fix
When text entry starts running in the opposite direction from usual, I learn that Notepad RTL reading order gotcha has easy fix. A simple right-click menu option inside the application does the trick! 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
06 Jan 2020
NirSoft ShellExView Pinpoints Explorer Context Menu Problems
After 8 days away, I find my production PC beset with 17 BEX64 faulting application events. I recall that NirSoft ShellExView pinpoints Explorer Context Menu problems. A quick fix ensues. 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
23 Dec 2019
Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates
With the latest 20H1/2004 release (Build 15636), Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates. Now users can see, select, and manage pending optional updates explicitly and directly. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 Dec 2019
Nirsoft USBLogView Monitors USB Events
In trying to track down a mysterious USB plug/unplug problem, I learn that Nirsoft USBLogView Monitors USB Events. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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News
20 Dec 2019
Windows 10 issues continue with Autopilot update
Microsoft recently rolled out a Windows 10 update to general users that was intended only for Autopilot-configured machines. After past issues, are users comfortable with Windows OS updates? Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Dec 2019
UUPDump.ml Invaluable Resource
I call UUPdump.ml invaluable resource because it grabs MS internal download components and uses them to create ISOs for most (if not all) known versions of Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Dec 2019
3 ways to prepare for the Windows 7 deadline
Organizations holding onto Windows 7 for dear life should reconsider because Microsoft stops supporting the OS in January. Here's how to make the transition to Windows 10 smoother. 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
13 Dec 2019
MS Unveils New Win10 Icon and More
In a blog post to medium.com, CVP Jon Friedman talks about MS unveils new Win10 icon and the general icon redesign effort behind it all. Great stuff! 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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Tip
11 Dec 2019
How to shut down and restart a remote computer
Shutting down or restarting a computer remotely is often a necessary process. Explore the multiple ways to do so, using methods such as GUI and CLI commands. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
09 Dec 2019
China Says No Mo Windows or PCs Starting 2022
China Says No Mo Windows or PCs Starting 2022, meaning that it won't use non-Chinese software or OSes after that date. Can the Communist Party order up a new OS that fast? We'll see. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 Dec 2019
Customizing New Win10 Laptop
After plunking down some hard-earned cash on Black Friday, I find myself customizing new Win10 laptop -- a Lenovo X390 Yoga -- for "the Boss" to replace her 2011/2012 mini-ITX desktop. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Dec 2019
Windows Graphics Card Reset Key Sequence
If all you see on your Windows PC is a black screen, possibly with a white cursor, it's always a good idea to try the Windows graphics card reset key sequence Ctrl+Shift+Win+B. Continue Reading
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News
04 Dec 2019
Windows 10 issues top list of most read stories for IT pros
IT pros seemed focused on the latest Microsoft OS, based on our most read stories for 2019. That may not come as a surprise, given next month's end-of-life deadline for Windows 7. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
02 Dec 2019
Transferrus Interruptus Resumes in Win10
When I accidentally trip over (and disconnect) a USB drive during a ginormous file copy session, I learn that Transferrus Interruptus Resumes in Win10 (things picked up where they were interrupted, ... Continue Reading
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Tutorial
02 Dec 2019
How to fix printer problems after a Windows 10 update
Windows 10 updates, especially an update to Windows 10 version 1809, can sometimes cause printer issues. You can fix these problems with these tips. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Nov 2019
Thanksgiving Break 2019
I'll be taking this week off from blogging, so I'll wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous long holiday weekend instead. Cheers! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 Nov 2019
1909 Gets Generic Keys
1909 gets generic keys for all versions: these are helpful during installation because they allow it to proceed to completion without requiring activation (or a valid Windows 10 key). Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2019
4 ways to fix Windows 10 boot problems
If users are experiencing Windows 10 boot problems, IT can turn to the Master Boot Record or Startup Repair to diagnose and resolve the issues. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 Nov 2019
Microsoft Teams Jumps to 20M Active Users
When MS Teams jumps to 20M active users monthly, that confirms my own personal experience: Teams is easy to learn, fun to use, and truly boosts productivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2019
When not to convert basic disks to dynamic disks
Converting basic disks to dynamic disks can help achieve improved performance in your Windows OS. However, there are compatibility restrictions you should be aware of before diving into this conversion process. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Nov 2019
Post Upgrade Windows 10 Update Assistant Cleanup
For those who use this tool, a post upgrade Windows 10 Update Assistant cleanup is a good idea. You'll free up 20+ MB of disk space, lose an unneeded root level folder, and be ready for next time. Continue Reading