MSP business strategy
News and features on all aspects of running a service provider business, from executing an MSP business model to automating operations.
Top Stories
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Tip
27 Feb 2026
12 top business process management tools for 2026
BPM platforms are becoming a business transformation engine as vendors infuse their tools with powerful AI and automation capabilities. Read our review of top BPM products. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2025
10 trends shaping the future of BPM in 2025
Business process management is evolving rapidly as advanced automation, software integration, process simulation and generative AI redefine the way business processes are managed. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2022
Gartner: Global IT services market to grow 7.9%
Market research firm suggests MSPs and consultants will find the fastest-growing opportunities at the low and high ends of the $1.3 trillion market; other IT channel news. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2022
Partners launch managed cloud services to spark uptake
Ensono, SADA and NWN Carousel target mainframe modernization, Google Cloud adoption and cloud-based unified communications, respectively; other IT channel news. Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2021
Co-innovation shakes up partner-client relationships
The emerging partnering approach creates closer ties between clients and service providers, but also has implications for risks and rewards; other IT channel news. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2021
monthly recurring revenue (MRR)
Monthly recurring revenue (MRR) is income a company can reliably anticipate every 30 days and one of the key metrics for channel partner companies. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Sep 2021
Cisco routes to market expand amid cloud marketplace growth
Cisco cited a significant shift toward the cloud and a decline in reselling. However, the company said resellers will remain important to its sales approach. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Aug 2021
vCIO (virtual CIO)
A vCIO, or virtual CIO, is a contractor or company that serves as an organization's chief information officer. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2021
How cloud consultants execute a product development strategy
Creating intellectual property can help partners meet soaring demand for cloud services, differentiate their offerings and boost their appeal to investors. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2021
Cloud, IT security continue to reshape MSP business model
Recent channel research suggests MSPs increasingly prioritize cloud computing and IT security as part of their core business models; other IT channel news. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2021
Tips for MSPs to bridge the cybersecurity talent gap
Hiring and retaining cybersecurity professionals represent uphill battles. Some MSPs have adopted a combination of internal training and AI tools to offset the dearth in talent. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2021
4 tips for managing client relationships in a virtual world
With many businesses opting to rely on remote work technologies, channel partners need new strategies for managing client relationships. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jun 2021
Accenture: Channel partner ecosystem taps cloud, innovation
Times have changed for channel partners. Companies today drive most business through cloud providers and seek to co-innovate industry-specific offerings with technology partners. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jun 2021
Deloitte backs Teradata Vantage as integrator
Under the expanded partnership, Deloitte will integrate Teradata Vantage as-a-service platform deployments with cloud-native services; other IT channel news. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2021
Outcome-based contracting sees uptick during pandemic
Contracts that tie service provider payments to results has gained momentum as customers pursue digital transformation projects. Learn about the implications for service providers. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Apr 2021
Co-managed IT support sees demand in the remote work era
As businesses weather the pandemic, many organizations' IT departments find themselves pushed to the limits and in need of outside help. Enter co-managed IT support services. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Apr 2021
Unified communications managed services evolve amid pandemic
Service-level agreements, management layers, incident tracking and governance are all part of the evolving cloud communications service provider business model. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Apr 2021
managed security service provider (MSSP)
A managed security service provider (MSSP) is an IT service provider that sells security services to businesses. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2021
Tech Data-Synnex merger poses IT distribution questions
The merger of IT distributors Tech Data and Synnex presents synergies -- as well as some areas of overlap -- between their respective business models. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Feb 2021
Healthcare security services firms tackle ransomware spike
As healthcare organizations face an onslaught of ransomware attacks, channel partners can assist with security initiatives such as zero-trust architectures to prevent breaches. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
AI in managed service software to boost automation
From security to streamlined help desk systems, AI could have profound benefits for MSPs in the future. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Feb 2021
MSPs tap Red Hat Ansible for managed services automation
IT services providers have deployed the Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform to minimize repetitive work and boost productivity -- even in uncertain times. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jan 2021
Tercera looks to invest in cloud professional services firms
The newly launched firm, led by Appirio co-founder Chris Barbin, will take minority stakes in cloud consultancies and offer advice on growing a services business. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Nov 2020
Security awareness training best practices for MSPs
Human error is the root of many IT security catastrophes. Use these security awareness best practices to craft programs that users will actually learn from. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2020
5 steps to build partnerships with IT distribution companies
Channel partners' relationships with IT distribution companies should be about more than ordering tech parts. Find out how to get the most value out of distributor relationships. Continue Reading
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News
06 Nov 2020
MSP acquisitions rise with platforms in demand
Recent merger and acquisition activity highlights a trend of private equity firms increasingly targeting MSP platform companies; more IT channel news. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2020
Implementing SAP S/4HANA during a pandemic
Dickinson + Associates' Brad Hiquet recounts a remote SAP S/4HANA implementation the company did on behalf of American Industrial Transport amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue Reading
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News
23 Oct 2020
Accenture, ServiceNow launch business group
The new Accenture ServiceNow Business Group aims to initially deliver industry offerings in financial services, government citizen services and telecommunications; other news. Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2020
Gartner IT services forecast pegs 2021 growth at 4.1%
Gartner predicts a 4.1% uptick in IT services spending in 2021. The market research firm pointed to digital business projects as a driver behind the spending. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2020
Tips for executing an SAP S/4HANA brownfield implementation
Executing an ECC-to-S/4HANA brownfield migration involves tools such as SAP's Maintenance Planner and Software Update Manager. Read on for insight into brownfield conversions. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2020
How to plan an SAP S/4HANA brownfield migration
SAP S/4HANA brownfield migrations aim to convert existing SAP environments without reimplementation. Find out how to prepare for this type of conversion. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Oct 2020
3 strategies for SAP ECC to S/4HANA conversion projects
In part one of this five-part series on SAP ECC to S/4HANA conversions, learn about the history of transformation at SAP and three approaches to migrations. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2020
Managed services model enters 'new era'
The MSPWorld 2020 event points to an industry that's finding itself in the spotlight as MSPs see greater attention from customers, investors and government regulators. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Sep 2020
Oracle E-Business Suite support deadline sparks upgrades
MSPs help customers transition from Oracle E-Business Suite R12.1, providing upgrade assistance, cloud migration advice and specialized service offerings. Continue Reading
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News
03 Sep 2020
Demand for Azure consulting helps fuel M&A surge
Companies that specialize in the Microsoft cloud ecosystem are very much in demand as the IT services merger and acquisition market kicks into higher gear. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
28 Aug 2020
Kaseya offers price break on MSP peer group membership
Service providers new to MSP peer groups are getting a price cut from Kaseya, an IT business management platform provider. Kaseya is partnering with TruMethods, an MSP training and software ... Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Aug 2020
5 PSA software tools to help MSPs streamline business processes
Professional services automation tools offer MSPs and IT consulting firms with a variety of integrated applications they can use to manage projects, billing, assets and inventory. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2020
How to transform your existing MSP and be more competitive
We know what a brand-new MSP needs to get off the ground today, but Dave looks at what an existing managed service provider needs to adapt and succeed. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jul 2020
NTT Ltd. exec talks hybrid cloud, remote tech
NTT Ltd.'s recently appointed Americas CEO talks about the $3 billion-plus business's opportunities one year after parent NTT Corp. created the operation in a sweeping merger. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jul 2020
MSPs expand into managed physical security services
Companies such as Deep Sentinel and Viakoo are tapping partners to deliver physical security services. Learn how MSPs are incorporating physical security into their offerings. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jun 2020
Partners bank on MSP cloud services
Datto's newest managed services market study highlighted cloud computing as an essential component of MSP portfolios; other channel news from the week. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2020
Remote workforce management strategies for MSPs
Channel partners have been rethinking employee productivity, collaboration and skills development. Learn how Ensono, SADA Systems and AllCloud have adjusted their approaches. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2020
Booz Allen, Securonix partner to provide SIEM as a service
The expanded partnership offers 24/7 managed service aimed at reducing the complexity and cost of security information and event management infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Opinion
23 Apr 2020
Prioritize personality in your IT recruitment strategy
An effective IT recruitment strategy weighs a candidate's qualifications -- and personality. Cheaper Than A Geek's chief nerd explains his approach to hiring and retention. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2020
TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number)
A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), in the United States, is a unique nine-digit number for identifying an individual, business or other entity in tax returns and additional documents filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2020
Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA)
The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) is a component of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) that works with defense contractors to ensure government services and supplies are delivered on time, come at the expected cost and satisfy all performance requirements. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Mar 2020
MSPAlliance on a quest to change the managed services industry
In part one of this two-part interview, MSPAlliance CEO Charles Weaver discusses his organization's evolution and its ongoing efforts to professionalize managed services. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Nov 2019
MBX Systems reinvents itself in computer hardware manufacturing
Twenty-five-year-old MBX Systems, a computer hardware manufacturer, is an example of how technology companies can continually adapt to the ever-changing marketplace. In 1995, the organization ... Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Oct 2019
Media and entertainment cloud use poised to shake up industry
The media and entertainment industry is moving workflows to the cloud in a dramatic cultural shift. InterVision's Ray Panahon sheds light on this development. Continue Reading
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News
27 Sep 2019
NWN debuts solution-as-a-service line to capture top trends
Managed service provider NWN is honing in on five fast-growing markets with the launch of a solutions-as-a-service portfolio, and other channel news from the week. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2019
Managed IT services glossary: Terms of the trade
Managed service providers represent an important subset of the channel partner ecosystem. Browse the terms below to sharpen your understanding of MSPs and their service offerings. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Aug 2019
Prisma
Prisma is a cloud security suite that provides four different services that use rule-based security policies and machine learning to protect cloud services. This suite can be used on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Azure, and Google Cloud Platforms. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jul 2019
Accenture Labs explores quantum computing applications
Accenture Labs has patented a method for identifying workloads suitable for quantum computing applications, which the company believes will span scientific and business use cases. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 Jul 2019
Ross Perot helped create the IT services industry
Ross Perot may be known to many people as a former presidential candidate, but he also played a central role in launching the IT services industry. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2019
statement of work (SOW)
A statement of work (SOW), in project management, is a document in which a contracting officer or chief procurement officer (CPO) specifies the objectives and deliverables for a particular project or service contract. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2019
Managed services companies upbeat despite economic signals
At MSPWorld, managed services executives expressed guarded optimism regarding MSP market prospects and growth potential, despite some economic concerns. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2019
professional services
A professional service is an intangible product that a contractor or product vendor sells to help a customer manage a specific part of their business. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jan 2019
service-level objective
A service-level objective (SLO) is the part of a service-level agreement (SLA) that documents the key performance indicators (KPIs) the customer should expect from a provider. In addition to specifying details about the service being purchased, an SLO also documents what the consequences will be if SLOs are not achieved. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2019
How to revamp your managed services pricing for predictable revenue
Many MSPs still rely heavily on an hourly billing rate and cost-plus pricing. Michael Backers, an MSPAlliance board member, offers advice on moving to managed services pricing. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Dec 2018
IT consultant
A consultant is an experienced individual in a given field who provides expert advice for a fee. Consultants typically work as independent contractors and are hired on a short-term basis. A consultant may also be an employee at a consulting firm. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2018
sales lead
A sales lead is a potential sales contact, individual or organization that expresses an interest in your goods or services. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Nov 2018
systems integrator
A systems integrator is an individual or business that builds computing systems for clients by combining hardware, software, networking and storage products from multiple vendors. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Oct 2018
Remote monitoring and management software: Vendors expand, integrate
RMM vendors are extending their product lines into areas ranging from documentation to backup, but face an integration challenge when it comes to providing a unified interface. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Sep 2018
VMware Partner Network
The VMware Partner Network is a global channel partner program with benefits and support to provide VMware's virtualization and cloud technology. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Aug 2018
Digital marketing partnerships key to vendors' channel strategies
Rackspace, Salesforce and Progress Software explain how digital marketing agencies factor into their overall channel partner ecosystems and strategies. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jul 2018
partner account manager (PAM)
A partner account manager is a job title within a vendor organization that uses channel partners to sell its products or services. Continue Reading
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News
25 May 2018
Appirio signs FinancialForce PSA software pact
Under a new agreement, cloud consultancy Appirio revealed it plans to build a FinancialForce PSA sales and implementation practice; other IT channel news from the week. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 May 2018
Apple Authorized Service Provider program: ComputerCare's story
ComputerCare, a member of the Apple Authorized Service Provider program, has found a role in servicing iOS devices and meeting the repair needs of mid-size businesses. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Mar 2018
MSP business model transformation: Five tips for navigating change
MSP business model transformation: Channel partners face challenges as they cultivate as-a-service offerings, seek dollars for investment and promote their new offerings. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Sep 2016
Business influencers: What guides your IT channel decisions?
Channel executives are responsible for making tough decisions that impact the fates of their companies. We asked a few company chiefs to name the top influencers that shape their leadership. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jun 2014
White labeling cloud services pros and cons
The decision to white label a vendor's cloud services requires careful consideration. Weigh the pros and cons to decide if it's right for your firm. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2014
Managed services pricing models: Per-device vs. SLA-based approach
A per-device and per-user pricing model is easy for MSPs, but experts caution it carries business risk and leads managed services to commoditization. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jan 2014
Microsoft managed partner designation: What it takes, what it's worth
A Microsoft managed partner designation can get you a warm body within Microsoft whose job it is to help you. Get info on how partners are selected. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2013
How to become a Microsoft partner, and Microsoft Partner Network details
Find out how to become a Microsoft partner in this description of the MPN, which includes changes to the program effective in January 2014. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jan 2011
Linux/UNIX directories and shell commands for VARs
The Linux/UNIX directories and shell commands listed in this chapter excerpt will be valuable to solution providers trying to customize their customers' Linux environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Nov 2010
Using parallel SQL with Oracle parallel hint to improve database performance
Enhance customers' Oracle database performance by using parallel SQL with an Oracle parallel hint, enabling a SQL statement to be simultaneously processed by multiple threads or processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jun 2010
How to restore system state backup in Windows Server 2008 R2
Use this chapter excerpt to find out how to perform a bare-metal recovery and system state recovery in Windows Server 2008 R2, including how to use Windows system recovery tools. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jun 2010
Windows server backup in Windows Server 2008 R2
Take a look at the best practices for Windows server backup in Windows Server 2008 R2, including configuring backup settings and performing system state and bare-metal backups. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Apr 2010
PowerShell commands in Windows Server 2008 R2
Use this chapter excerpt to learn about PowerShell commands for Windows Server 2008 R2, as well as other PowerShell uses, features, enhancements and command types. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Apr 2010
PowerShell remoting in Windows Server 2008 R2
Learn the best methods to enabling PowerShell remoting in Windows Server 2008 R2, including using cmdlets or the Server Manager to configure PowerShell remoting. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Apr 2010
Using Remote Desktop Services Manager, RDS CAL
Solutions providers can use the Remote Desktop Services Manager and its tab options to view user information and get expert advice on identifying and adding a RDS CAL. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Apr 2010
Adding Remote Desktop Services and RemoteApp programs
There are factors that solutions providers need to consider when adding Remote Desktop Services, such as which role services to use, and steps to follow to add RemoteApp programs. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2010
Windows 7 system monitoring: Resource Monitor, Performance Monitor
Help your customers get a handle on PC resource usage and bottlenecks with two built-in Windows 7 system monitoring tools: Resource Monitor and Performance Monitor. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2010
IT systems management: The production acceptance process
This chapter excerpt on IT systems management explains how solutions providers can benefit from production acceptance and details the steps to effective implementation. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2010
Windows 7 system diagnostic reports: Using Performance Monitor
Using the Performance Monitor, solutions providers can view Windows 7 system diagnostic reports to resolve performance issues and prevent problems before they occur. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Mar 2010
Troubleshooting Windows 7 hardware and performance issues
Solutions providers need to be aware of the top methods for troubleshooting Windows 7 hardware and performance issues, including how to properly deal with error messages. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2010
Performing an automated Ubuntu install using preseeding
When performing an automated Ubuntu install, preseeding is an integral part of the process. Learn the different variables and settings necessary for a basic preseed configuration. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Nov 2009
SQL Server 2008 hardware and software requirements
Solutions providers can use this chapter excerpt to learn about the various hardware and software requirements for SQL Server 2008 in 32-bit and 64-bit environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2009
Ubuntu Linux installation and hard drive setup guide
Learn how to set up a client's hard drive for proper Ubuntu Linux installation with this chapter excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Sep 2008
What are the 3 core deliverables of basic MSP offerings?
Developing an efficient managed services offering is essential to building loyal clientele. Learn about the three core deliverables that comprise a managed services offering. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Sep 2008
What should be included in a managed services agreement?
A well-written managed services agreement should provide a common understanding of the services to be performed by the managed services provider for the client. Learn why the managed services agreement is often the first step taken by MSPs, the value that an agreement should provide to your customer and how to properly prepare the agreement. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Sep 2008
How to write an IT service-level agreement
A service-level agreement (SLA) is a document that clearly lays out your responsibilities as a client's managed services provider. Learn how to write an SLA to protect your managed services business by avoiding confusion with customers that can lead to expensive lawsuits. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2008
The benefits of metadata and implementing a metadata management strategy
This section of the chapter excerpt will introduce and explore the basics of metadata. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2008
Advantages and disadvantages of Hyper-V
Microsoft's Hyper-V is at the release candidate stage, and some companies already have it in production use. Find out the advantages and disadvantages of the virtualization tool so you can help customers at a server virtualization decision point. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2008
Managed services contracts
Value-added resellers venturing into managed services need to consider the details of the managed services contract they provide to customers. Learn what goes into a managed services contract in this edition of Channel Explained. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Aug 2007
Understanding security risk management: Criticality categories
Security risk management involves a sober assessment of your client's business operations and the relative security risks of each. Once the need for security risk analysis has been recognized by your client, the next step is to establish catageories — such as mission-critical, vital, important and minor — in which to place each operational area. When this is done, it becomes easier to establish priorities for strengthening security measures where they are most needed. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2007
Oracle RAC: Debugging node eviction issues
Oracle RAC's node eviction root cause analysis (RCA) is common and complex. This excerpt from "Oracle Database 10g: Real Applications Clusters Handbook" shows you how to recover from a communication failure in Oracle 10g. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2007
Oracle RAC: Log directory structure in cluster ready services
When diagnosing Oracle 10g problems in cluster ready services do what Oracle support does -- examine installation log files and respective directories. Learn more in this book excerpt from "Oracle Database 10g: Real Application Clusters Handbook." Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2007
Oracle RAC: ON and OFF
Disabling Oracle's RAC options may be necessary when testing the Oracle Database 10g. Steps are outlined in this excerpt from "Oracle Database 10g: Real Application Clusters Handbook." Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2007
Ethical hacking tools and techniques: Information gathering
This portion of a tip on network penetration testing and ethical hacking tools and techniques discusses information gathering for security consultants and value-added resellers (VARs). Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2007
Ethical hacking tools and techniques: Password cracking
In this portion of a tip on network penetration testing and ethical hacking tools and techniques, security consultants and value-added resellers (VARs) will learn about password cracking. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Apr 2007
Partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) vendor
Managed service provider (MSP) partnerships are rarely as fruitful as both sides would like. When choosing an MSP vendor, ask these questions to determine if your partnership will be a good one. Continue Reading