Operating Systems and Software Services
News and features to help MSPs address Windows, Linux and Unix server operating systems concerns. Learn more about operating systems and software services such as server migrations and upgrades.
Top Stories
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Tip
21 Feb 2023
25 basic PowerShell commands for Windows administrators
Getting started with PowerShell or just need a quick refresher? This tip lists the most common PowerShell commands, with details on when to use them. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
23 Nov 2021
MSP resistance to Windows 11 exposes business problem
Microsoft's Windows 11 release received relatively little fanfare in the MSP industry. The lack of enthusiasm points to a problem among IT services firms. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
24 Aug 2021
Why Microsoft 365, Windows 365 matter for IT services firms
Office 365, Microsoft 365 and Windows 365 differ not only in their feature sets and capabilities, but in the opportunities they afford service providers. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2021
Using Diskpart to create, delete, clean or extend disk partitions
The diskpart is one of the oldest tools in the Windows operating system that handles a wide range of disk management jobs, such as assigning drive letters and deleting partitions. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2021
Microsoft Inspire 2021 takes on 'era of rapid change'
The vendor kicked off its virtual event with new visions for its technologies, aimed at aligning with a world where digital adoption has skyrocketed. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2020
Find and filter Windows event logs using PowerShell Get-EventLog
Use the Get-EventLog cmdlet in PowerShell to pinpoint problems among thousands of entries in Windows logs, on both local and remote systems. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Feb 2020
Ended support for Windows Server 2008 leaves clients circumspect
The conclusion of support for Windows Server 2008 has Microsoft partners helping clients decide what to do next. A wholesale transition to Azure is one option under consideration. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Dec 2019
How to repair Windows Server using Windows SFC and DISM
Administrators can diagnose and treat a buggy server operating system by using the Windows SFC and DISM utilities for image analysis and repairs. Continue Reading
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News
04 Oct 2019
WVD to spark demand for consulting, implementation services
Microsoft's Windows Virtual Desktop offering is poised to boost partner business as it opens opportunities in the desktop-as-a-service market; other news from the week. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
14 Feb 2019
How to manage Windows 7 user accounts and groups
Whether your customers operate in a workgroup or a domain/Active Directory environment, user account setup and group memberships control their rights, permissions and roles. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jan 2019
Unified communications market sees demand for customized offerings
Channel partners can use unified communications APIs to help customers simplify business workflows. Learn about this niche opportunity and what trends will shape the market. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2018
Choosing the best OS: Linux server vs. Windows Server
When determining the best server OS for a data center, you have Windows Server and multiple Linux options. For both, you'll want to look at vendor support, cost and functionality. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2018
Handy PowerShell ISE add-ons for server administrators
PowerShell ISE might be on the way out, but these extensions continue to sustain the development of management scripts for many Windows administrators. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jan 2018
Ubuntu Core: A secure open source OS for IoT
Canonical says easy over-the-air updates put its open source IoT OS ahead of the competition, but others tout its security, flexibility and scalability. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2017
Tap PowerShell DSC resources to automate web server construction
Administrators will create numerous IIS web servers during their IT careers. With Desired State Configuration, admins can automate this task with cleaner results. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jan 2017
Ease migrations with Windows Server Migration Tools cmdlets
An in-place Windows Server upgrade is easier than a server migration. When an upgrade isn't possible, admins can ease the transition with a Microsoft snap-in. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2016
Microsoft SCORCH lights an automated path to more efficiency
System Center Orchestrator tackles tedious tasks and can even make autonomous decisions based on conditions set by the Windows administrator. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Nov 2016
Future of the server operating system
We look at the evolution of the server operating system, and how the next generation is moving into the cloud Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2016
Use Windows PowerShell DSC to construct file servers from scratch
Administrators can take control over the deployment of common resources, such as Windows-based file servers, using PowerShell Desired State Configuration. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
13 Oct 2016
Windows Server 2016: A first look
Windows Server 2016 is a major release of Microsoft's server operating system, with more changes than in Windows Server 2012 R2 back in 2013 Continue Reading
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News
11 Oct 2016
How Linux has influenced modern IT
On 25 August 1991, Linus Torvalds released the Linux kernel. We look at how the open source operating system has evolved in the last quarter of a century Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2016
These Windows configuration management tools can prevent mishaps
It's a challenge to limit downtime and speed up deployments in the data center. Configuration management tools can help IT maintain control. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2016
Test and confirm functions with PowerShell parameters
Windows PowerShell functions support parameters that can prevent scripts from being run accidentally and simulate the outcome of the function. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2016
Start using the PowerShell pipeline with this example
An administrator can create functions to support the PowerShell pipeline, which improves upon text-based shells by allowing the scripter to pass objects across the pipe. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2016
How to upgrade to PowerShell 5
PowerShell version 5 is the most recent iteration of the scripting language and offers new features from previous versions. Admins can upgrade to the new version in a few steps. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2016
PowerShell script examples and reference guide for admins
Microsoft unveiled PowerShell in 2006, but many Windows administrators are still unaware of the tremendous amount of resources available to help automate numerous tasks. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
29 Feb 2016
Eight influential Microsoft experts to follow on Twitter
Stay up to date with all things Microsoft by following some of the most knowledgeable experts on Twitter, including CEOs, CTOs and MVPs. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Feb 2016
Six alternative Hyper-V management tools
There are a number of third-party Hyper-V management tools available for organizations that need to handle a few dozen nodes. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Jan 2016
Test your knowledge of the SharePoint 2016 Beta 2
Released in November 2015, the SharePoint 2016 Beta 2 introduced new compliance and site creation features. Find out what may be included in the RTM version. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2015
Using XPath syntax to root through XML documents
Using XPath syntax and the Select-XML cmdlet can help uncover the information you need in an XML document. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2015
Learn Group Policy basics for Windows administrators
Group Policy hasn't changed much since its introduction, but it can be overwhelming to beginners. Learn how to use Group Policy to manage users and computers. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jul 2015
Constant and read-only PowerShell variables for admins who fear change
Constant and read-only PowerShell variables can prevent accidental changes to a script. Here’s how they differ and how to use them. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2015
A Windows Server 2016 Group Policy walkthrough
Administrators who work with Group Policy will appreciate that the structure hasn't changed in Windows Server 2016, but there are new policies unique to the release worth noting. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Apr 2015
Learn how to use BitLocker in Windows Server 2012
BitLocker is an encryption feature in all versions of Windows Server 2012 that can protect the data on your PC and hard drive. Learn how to install and use it. Continue Reading
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Quiz
24 Apr 2015
Test your knowledge of Microsoft Azure
How much do you know about Microsoft Azure, the latest version of Microsoft’s Azure cloud software? This quiz will test your knowledge. Continue Reading
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News
23 Mar 2015
Microsoft's Nano Server: What to expect from this leaner, meaner Windows Server
With Microsoft reportedly set to announce a stripped-back version of Windows Server, what can IT leaders expect to see? Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2015
IIS exploits in Windows Server and how you can fix them
There are several flaws in IIS that can jeopardize the security of Windows servers. Here are some of the top threats and how to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Feb 2015
Master Linux service management on System V and systemd
Managing services on Linux is an essential task for administrators. Learn to work with either System V or systemd. Continue Reading
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News
30 Apr 2014
Oracle updates Solaris, but is its server strategy sound?
Oracle has released a beta versdion of Solaris 11.2. But does Solaris and the Sparc server platform have a future? Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Dec 2013
Creating a quorum disk and fencing for Linux high availability nodes
The quorum disk and fencing on a Linux high availability cluster let its nodes know when they are operational and shut them off if they are not. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2013
Facing threat from competitors, Microsoft spells out cloud plans
With stiff competition from cloud competitors like Amazon, Microsoft is offering Azure discounts to customers who enter into enterprise agreements. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2013
Essential Windows Server 2012 R2 system requirements
Before upgrading to Windows Server 2012 R2, read up on hardware requirements to ensure there are enough resources to preserve performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2013
Desired State Configuration helps admins avoid configuration drift
The new feature Desired State Configuration feature in Windows Server 2012 R2 gives admins yet another reason to learn PowerShell. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Aug 2013
PowerShell 4.0 further facilitates task automation for Windows admins
Has PowerShell finally grown up? A mature PowerShell 4.0 in Windows Server 2012 R2 brings with it new parameters, simpler implementation and more. Continue Reading
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News
09 Aug 2013
Microsoft hikes Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter edition pricing
Microsoft made changes to its license pricing, upping the cost of Windows Server 2012 R2 by as much as 28%. It also discussed a new licensing option. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2013
Analyzing and optimizing Linux power consumption with PowerTop 2
The PowerTOP tool tracks power consumption in Linux servers. You can tweak servers and applications to consume less power if you understand PowerTOP. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jul 2013
Use Windows Server 2012 R2's Storage QoS feature to boost performance
Learn how the new Storage QoS feature in Windows Server 2012 R2 can boost storage performance and make the best use of capacity. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2013
Q&A: Anderson talks BYOD management in Windows Server 2012 R2
Microsoft's Brad Anderson talks about changes to expect in Windows Server 2012 R2 features, including some to security and enterprise mobility. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jun 2013
Q&A: Microsoft's Brad Anderson talks Windows Server 2012 R2
Microsoft's Brad Anderson discusses new features in Windows Server 2012, including a faster update cycle and cross-platform integration. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jun 2013
Windows Server 2012 R2, System Center 2012 R2 support hybrid clouds
Microsoft will deliver new versions of Windows Server 2012 and System Center 2012 this year, with focus on hybrid clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2013
PowerShell tutorial: Managing Windows Storage Spaces
This PowerShell tutorial shows users how to fully interact with Windows Storage Spaces, which will help them script the storage provisioning process. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2013
Five ways admins can embrace Windows Server 2012 Remote Management
As Microsoft encourages Windows admins to deal with servers offsite, here are some easy steps they can use for Windows Server 2012 Remote Management. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Mar 2011
Creating, viewing and installing Oracle Solaris 10 into a domain
Check out the proper commands to create a guest domain, view its devices and install Oracle Solaris 10 into it while monitoring the domain's activity. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jan 2011
Working with configuration files in Linux systems
Learn how to find and edit configuration files in your customers' Linux systems by using the shell commands provided in this chapter excerpt. 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
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
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
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
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
Using PowerShell ISE and alias cmdlets
This chapter excerpt details what PowerShell ISE can offer solutions providers, including command and script panes, and how to use alias cmdlets to administer new aliases. 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
05 Apr 2010
Remote Desktop Services: Server and client requirements
In this article, you'll learn about Remote Desktop Services server and client requirements and how to retrieve information on the RDS server using the Performance Monitor tool. 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
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
09 Dec 2009
Understanding run-level scripts in Fedora 11 and RHEL
Solutions providers can use run-level scripts in Fedora 11 and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) to start certain services and execute various commands. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Nov 2009
Monitoring Hyper-V performance and utilizing System Center VMM
See the benefits of monitoring Hyper-V performance and utilizing System Center Virtual Machine Manager, including centralized management and organized placement of virtual machines. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Nov 2009
Installing and managing Hyper-V on Windows Server 2008 Server Core
Follow the necessary steps to install Hyper-V on Windows Server 2008 Server Core and learn how to remotely manage your customers' Hyper-V environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 May 2009
Using the Ubuntu Linux system monitor tool
Learn how to use the Ubuntu Linux system monitor tool with this chapter excerpt from "Ubuntu Linux Secrets." 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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Tip
23 Nov 2008
Best practices for securing domain controllers at the branch office
Companies that implement domain controllers at branch offices face a number of challenges, security-related and otherwise. Follow these best practices to keep branch-office domain controllers secure and effective. 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
01 Feb 2007
Configure USB devices to Linux: task 2.4
Configuring USB devices to a Linux system important because most accessories now interface through computers with them. Learn more here. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2007
Set BIOS options for Linux: task 2.1
Setting BIOS options correctly ensures that a computer will boot-up and initialize hardware properly. Get the necessary tools for a smooth Linux installation here. Continue Reading