Tips

Tips

• How Windows Admin Center stacks up to other management tools

  Microsoft is putting a lot of resources into this relatively new tool to manage Windows systems, but is it ready for prime time when compared with more seasoned offerings?  Continue Reading

• Sizing up the Office 365 protection options

  Get serious about protecting your organization from ransomware and phishing attacks by taking a closer look at the leading Office 365 security offerings.  Continue Reading

• Exchange troubleshooting tools help unclog email issues

  When problems with email occur, they can stem from an improper configuration of the Exchange Server system. Here's how to unravel some common messaging platform problems.  Continue Reading

• How to handle service downtime in the cloud age

  You know what happens when you assume. Don't set and forget those critical IT infrastructure services in the cloud without putting together a contingency plan.  Continue Reading

• Check Office 365 usage reports for user adoption insights

  Microsoft gives administrators access to many Office 365 reports to pinpoint ways to improve user adoption rates and tighten up potential security leaks.  Continue Reading

• How to plot out an Office 365 tenant-to-tenant migration

  IT pros in organizations on Office 365 that undergo a merger or acquisition will have their work cut out for them to successfully execute a data migration plan between tenants.  Continue Reading

• Construct a solid Active Directory password policy

  Most user authentication still relies on a strong password to keep attackers at bay. Here's how to keep your guard up without adding to your administrative workload.  Continue Reading

• How to deal with the on-premises vs. cloud challenge

  Some tools and applications aren't a good fit outside of the data center. Try these tactics to cope as more tools and application vendors start to migrate to the cloud.  Continue Reading

• How to manage Windows with Puppet

  Administrators can modernize their organization's management model for both Linux and Windows operating systems with Puppet, a code-based tool, and available community support.  Continue Reading

• Exchange Online vs. Office 365: Which plan is a better fit?

  A switch from Exchange Server to Exchange Online might make financial sense, but it might not fit the needs of your organization. Here are some common migration mistakes to avoid.  Continue Reading

• Does an Azure cloud migration make sense for your workloads?

  While you can't move all of your Windows Server workloads into the Azure cloud and turn off your local server closet, you can get much closer than ever.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 multiple tenants vs. single tenant considerations

  A migration to Office 365 will require the IT staff to adjust how it manages the collaboration platform, which can get complicated if more than one tenant is involved.  Continue Reading

• How to locate privileged accounts in Active Directory

  IT administrators must be able to identify privileged accounts in Active Directory for a more secure enterprise; two methods can make the task easier.  Continue Reading

• 3 steps to prepare for Exchange updates

  If you dread the process of updating Exchange and the possibility that patches will break the servers, you can take control by putting best practices in place with three steps.  Continue Reading

• How to keep an Office 365 outage from ruining your day

  Stay on top of any potential problems with your Office 365 deployment through the monitoring dashboard and a break glass account to avoid Azure authentication outages.  Continue Reading

• How to test the PowerShell pending reboot module

  Learn how to check if your machines have pending reboots with a simple PowerShell module to ensure changes to files do not cause stability issues.  Continue Reading

• Linux on Windows helps systems administrators gain new skills

  The line between Windows and Linux is starting to blur in most organizations. Here's what systems administrators need to know about working with Linux and Windows.  Continue Reading

• Build a Hyper-V home lab in Windows Server 2019

  Production servers aren't the place to experiment with Microsoft's Hyper-V technology. This guide helps you build a lab tailored for a nested virtualization environment.  Continue Reading

• Explore Office 365 phishing protection updates

  Administrators who move to Exchange Online or the entire Office 365 platform will have a veritable arsenal of antiphishing tools, but their use requires attention to detail.  Continue Reading

• How to add the App Compatibility Feature on Demand to Server Core

  Microsoft closed the functionality gap between Server Core and full desktop deployments with the App Compatibility feature, but will it entice admins to the GUI-less server?  Continue Reading

• Is Windows Server troubleshooting on the way out?

  When a Windows Server workload starts to falter, what's the best way to proceed before it keels over? Once upon a time, you would try to fix it, but times have changed.  Continue Reading

• How to successfully migrate Exchange Servers

  Admins have a few options to upgrade their servers, but whether they choose cloud or on premises, the update process involves the same steps to transition old servers and avoid issues.  Continue Reading

• Windows Compatibility module expands PowerShell Core reach

  The PowerShell team closed the cmdlet coverage gap with a compatibility module release for PowerShell Core, but its use requires some caution.  Continue Reading

• How will Microsoft role-based certifications affect admins?

  IT administrators should already know that the only constant for Microsoft products is change. Certifications are the next thing to get an overhaul.  Continue Reading

• How to upgrade Windows Server 2008 before support ends

  With the end of Windows Server 2008 support drawing closer, administrators must navigate multiple obstacles, from locating old software to ensuring hardware compatibility.  Continue Reading

• Lessons learned during a migration to Exchange Online

  There are a number of perks for administrators who move to Exchange Online, but there are spots of frustration that will require a few workarounds to ease the transition process.  Continue Reading

• The clock is ticking on the Exchange Web Services change

  Another change that might affect your Exchange environment is coming in 2020. Here's what you need to know to prepare.  Continue Reading

• How to set up and enforce Azure multifactor authentication

  Azure Active Directory offers multifactor authentication to further secure login credentials. Get started with these instructions to set up this Microsoft cloud service.  Continue Reading

• Migrate Exchange to Office 365 with these tips

  Check this list of common issues that can occur during an Exchange migration to steer the organization away from potential mishaps during the messaging platform's relocation.  Continue Reading

• Compliance with GDPR in Exchange requires extra effort

  Exchange administrators outside of the European Union might not think that GDPR affects them, but they should work toward compliance to avoid a stiff penalty if a violation occurs.  Continue Reading

• Windows Admin Center lures IT pros with Azure integration

  If System Center is overkill for your needs and the older tools aren't up to task, then the Windows Admin Center just might be the tool to manage your data center.  Continue Reading

• Ways administrators can avoid IT burnout

  The last thing an overextended admin needs is additional work, but there are certain practices that, once introduced, can curb tech burnout in the long run.  Continue Reading

• Stay in control with these Active Directory basics

  Administrators have an ever-increasing number of resources to handle and permissions to track, but they can cut this seemingly impossible task down to size with Active Directory.  Continue Reading

• Unlock storage savings with Windows Server deduplication

  Windows Server comes with a data deduplication feature to reduce the organization's storage crunch, but it's important to plan around some potential drawbacks.  Continue Reading

• Resolve an Outlook outage when using Office 365

  When administrators get reports about an Outlook outage, they must work quickly to identify the affected accounts, research the causes and know where to turn for support.  Continue Reading

• Hyper-convergence forms core of Windows Server 2019 features

  The latest server OS release from Microsoft upgrades many of its software-defined features to make it easier to use a hybrid cloud model.  Continue Reading

• Understanding what Azure AD federation really means

  A company that adopts SaaS apps to get work done can ease the transition by implementing a single sign-on method. Learn how to set up this arrangement in a secure manner.  Continue Reading

• Hunt down zombie VMs to trim Windows Server licensing costs

  Temporary workloads can cause organizations to buy more Windows Server licenses than they need, but admins can track down zombie servers to consolidate workloads and keep costs down.  Continue Reading

• Use this Microsoft deployment tool for easier setups

  It's not new, but the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit tends to be overlooked when administrators need a way to set up Windows in an automated fashion. See why MDT is worth using.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell Core 6.1 offers many small improvements

  New PowerShell Core functionality includes the addition of Windows PowerShell 5.1 modules, making this version worth a closer look for administrators.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Exchange Unified Messaging change presents dilemma

  The arrival of Exchange 2019 also means the end of unified messaging in the on-premises offering. Admins who use voicemail in Outlook should explore their options.  Continue Reading

• Make IT infrastructure documentation a regular task

  Even though documenting IT processes might not be at the top of an admin's to-do list, they should not let it fall by the wayside. Learn documentation best practices here.  Continue Reading

• Mulling a public folders migration? Weigh your options

  Should you stay or should you migrate? Microsoft offers a bevy of alternatives to public folders. This tip breaks down each option to help you make a decision.  Continue Reading

• Explore the Cubic congestion control provider for Windows

  Microsoft made Cubic the default congestion control provider for Windows 10 and plans to do the same for Windows Server 2019. Learn what this means for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Windows troubleshooting tools to improve VM performance

  Fine-tune virtualized workloads and diagnose performance issues with help from these Windows troubleshooting tools every server administrator should know.  Continue Reading

• Learn the tricks for using Microsoft Teams with Exchange

  As Microsoft Teams gains prominence for business collaboration, administrators should investigate the integration options with their Exchange Online or on-premises Exchange setup.  Continue Reading

• Set up Office 365 alerts to keep threats at bay

  Office 365 offers administrators integrated tools to warn the IT staff about potential attacks or breaches of conduct. Find out what the options are and how to configure them.  Continue Reading

• Exchange 2013 hybrid to Exchange 2016 hybrid considerations

  Part of the work required for a successful shift from one hybrid Exchange environment to another is to have a full understanding of all the areas that will be affected by the move.  Continue Reading

• How a bastion forest limits exposure of admin privileges

  A Windows Server 2016 feature called a bastion forest is the centerpiece of Microsoft's privileged access management model that limits the exposure of admin rights.  Continue Reading

• Authenticating email in Exchange for brand protection

  With help from the combined use of the SPF, DKIM and DMARC technologies, Exchange administrators can curb email spoofing to protect users and the company brand.  Continue Reading

• How to tackle an email archive migration for Exchange Online

  A move from on-premises Exchange to Office 365 also entails determining the best way to transfer legacy archives. This tutorial can help ease migration complications.  Continue Reading

• How to build a Packer image for Azure

  Packer is an open source tool that automates the Windows Server image building process to give administrators a consistent approach to create new VMs.  Continue Reading

• Thorough Exchange Server testing regimen eliminates doubt

  Don't assume your Exchange 2016 implementation will work because you bought the right gear. Follow these pointers to execute a successful Exchange 2016 migration project.  Continue Reading

• Organize Active Directory with these strategies

  Administrators tasked with cleaning up the Active Directory user group structure need not search any further. Use these tips to avoid Active Directory maintenance headaches.  Continue Reading

• What is the future for Microsoft Exchange Unified Messaging?

  As its cloud services have matured, Microsoft has adjusted the unified messaging features in Exchange Server. What will unified messaging look like on Exchange Server 2019?  Continue Reading

• Kubernetes in Azure eases container deployment duties

  Using containers in the cloud will require an orchestration tool. Azure Kubernetes Service helps create and manage the clusters when running containers on the Azure platform.  Continue Reading

• Mind the feature gaps in the PowerShell open source project

  Administrators who switch to the cross-platform version of PowerShell might find it challenging to use, but there are several ways to cope with a transition from Windows PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• The top 5 unheralded Windows Server 2016 features

  Windows Server 2016 is still a novel operating system for many administrators. Check out some of its new and enhanced features that might have slipped under the radar.  Continue Reading

• How to protect PowerShell credentials in task automation

  When administrators use unencrypted credentials in PowerShell scripts, they expose sensitive information. Find out the ways to secure credential use with automated tasks.  Continue Reading

• Azure IaaS vs. PaaS: Find the right service to reduce costs

  Ready to migrate on-premises workloads to the cloud? Administrators should question their assumptions before diving in with Azure IaaS and consider the benefits of PaaS.  Continue Reading

• Exchange Online security setup requires joint effort

  A company that moves to Exchange Online must coordinate the efforts of its email administrators and its security team to maximize protections and meet compliance requirements.  Continue Reading

• Failover cluster quorum considerations for Windows admins

  Microsoft introduced Cloud Witness in Windows Server 2016, which adds a new wrinkle to its quorum model for failover clusters, but it might not be a good fit for some enterprises.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server pricing muddies purchasing decision process

  As the cost of Windows Server continues to rise with each new version, enterprises must evaluate whether the price of admission for the latest enhancements is too much to bear.  Continue Reading

• Azure PowerShell cmdlets monitor, manage VMs

  PowerShell gives administrators a way to customize reports that hone in on the details that matter to the business, such as the configuration of production VMs.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Project Honolulu shows promise but needs work

  Microsoft Project Honolulu is still in the technical preview stage, but it needs to resolve a number of issues before it's a viable alternative to manage production machines.  Continue Reading

• Cloud-based email security tools barricade entry to Exchange

  The pressure is on Exchange administrators to avoid a ransomware outbreak that cripples the on-premises email system. Cloud-based security tools can help blunt trending attacks.  Continue Reading

• Migrating public folders requires extensive planning

  Do your homework to find the right option for public folders when making a move to Exchange Online. Here are guidelines to help you navigate the requirements and limitations.  Continue Reading

• Azure AD B2B offers a secure way to grant external access

  Organizations that open up their resources to external users can restrict access using the Azure AD B2B service with minimal effort on the part of the administrators.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell 6 expands reach but lags behind Windows version

  Cross-platform PowerShell arrived without all the functionality that's available in Windows PowerShell -- but it brings the ability to manage Linux and macOS systems.  Continue Reading

• Using Microsoft Exchange certificates requires planning

  Exchange certificates typically require minimal management effort after they have been set up, and they offer a secure means of communication between different organizations.  Continue Reading

• Creating PowerShell scripts for task automation

  At a certain point, administrators who run PowerShell commands from the console will find it more efficient to develop a script that does not require manual intervention.  Continue Reading

• Windows Defender Credential Guard secures login data

  Windows Defender Credential Guard uses virtualization to isolate access to domain credentials and diminish the threat of attacks based inside the data center.  Continue Reading

• CLI vs. GUI: Find the right admin tool for various scenarios

  Standard Windows and Linux command-line utilities oftentimes have niche, yet important functionality not available in GUI tools that require IT workers to make custom workflows.  Continue Reading

• These PowerShell script examples help tidy up code

  Even the most grizzled scripting veterans might learn some new PowerShell tips and tricks to tighten their automation code or produce clearer error messages.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 email encryption options grow for enterprise needs

  Each enterprise has different needs when it comes to preventing data leakage. Admins should be aware of the Office 365 mailbox and encryption features that help the organization meet its requirements.  Continue Reading

• Five system administrator skills Windows admins should hone

  IT workers need to learn how to ride the wave of innovation and master these five technologies related to Windows Server that can ease their workload and help the business.  Continue Reading

• Be ready if Microsoft Exchange updates go wrong

  Everyone wants a smooth patching process, but things can fall apart despite everyone's best efforts. Develop a solid recovery plan and test it before trouble strikes.  Continue Reading

• Options for server management tools expand to meet IT needs

  Not only do admins have to contend with a mix of server OSes, there are diverse scenarios to complicate their management. Learn about the tools worth exploring for administration.  Continue Reading

• New Office 365 administrators grapple with challenges

  More enterprises mulling the move to Office 365 should factor in the adjustments necessary to get the IT department up to speed to manage the platform properly.  Continue Reading

• Curb stress from Exchange Server updates with these pointers

  Some administrators let the memories of a bad patch linger and put off Exchange updates. Here are some tips to make this necessary chore less of a traumatic experience.  Continue Reading

• Roll your own Windows patching tool with PowerShell

  This tutorial based on PowerShell helps administrators build an automated routine that audits Windows machines, then applies missing patches to lighten this management task.  Continue Reading

• Server Core management remains a challenge for some

  Server Core, the minimal Windows Server deployment, removes some admins from their GUI comfort zone, but its benefits reduce some chores associated with the full server OS.  Continue Reading

• Compliance Manager tool aims to ease security audit process

  Administrators who wrestle with compliance tasks in Office 365 and Azure workloads might find some relief with Microsoft's dashboard platform, which automates part of the process.  Continue Reading

• Set Office 365 group limits to avoid administrative hassles

  With help from PowerShell, administrators can tailor Office 365 Groups to develop common-sense restrictions on the tools and other components in the collaboration service.  Continue Reading

• Monitor Active Directory replication via PowerShell

  Most enterprises rely on Active Directory to control access to resources on the network. Here's how admins can use PowerShell to check the health of the replication process.  Continue Reading

• Set up remote domains to control Exchange messaging

  Administrators can configure a remote domain to perform particular tasks, such as converting certain email formats and stopping users from forwarding messages to another domain.  Continue Reading

• Use eseutil for Exchange database repair with care

  If Exchange crashes and you lack valid backups, just stay cool. The eseutil tool can be powerful, but if used improperly, it can do more harm than good.  Continue Reading

• Automate Active Directory jobs with PowerShell scripts

  Much of what admins do in Active Directory is not exactly cutting-edge, and they don't want to waste time on mundane tasks. A dash of PowerShell can speed things along.  Continue Reading

• Lost and found: Use an Exchange recovery database to restore data

  PowerShell can come to the rescue to restore messages and other items from an Exchange 2016 recovery database when trouble strikes -- or when lawyers make requests.  Continue Reading

• How to use Azure Active Directory differently than classic AD

  Windows administrators can't just whip up an Azure Active Directory deployment and expect it to mimic the classic AD, but Azure AD has several meaningful uses.  Continue Reading

• Office 365 admin roles give users the power of permissions

  No matter your organization's size, it's helpful to have users handle some functions typically reserved for IT. But limit access to elevated access to reduce security risks.  Continue Reading

• Debug an Active Directory domain join failure on Windows Server

  The domain join process typically works without issue. But when a device can't connect to Active Directory, the administrator must seek the culprit from the usual suspects.  Continue Reading

• Manage Linux servers with a Windows admin's toolkit

  Even Microsoft recognizes it's no longer just a Windows world. Here's what Windows administrators can do to pick up Linux management and monitoring.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Dig into the Exchange 2016 hardware requirements

  A move to Exchange 2016 may mean increased costs to hardware that can support the latest Microsoft messaging platform.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Understanding Exchange Online's Role-Based Access Control model

  The Role-Based Access Control model manages and evaluates permissions in Exchange Online. Admins can explore the model, create new permissions and customize roles.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Log Parser Studio provides flexibility for Exchange troubleshooting

  Administrators can use default queries in Log Parser Studio or modify existing queries to analyze logs and troubleshooting Exchange issues.  Continue Reading