Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• Windows 10 system requirements for 2020

  IT pros must understand that their desktops' upgrade method, workload and other factors affect whether the Windows 10 system requirements are sufficient.  Continue Reading

• Which Chrome browser management settings should IT deploy?

  Organizations that allow the use of Google Chrome should ensure that their IT departments understand the different settings that shape Chrome browser management practices.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What are Windows 10 disk management terms IT should know?

  Windows 10 disk management is a crucial function that system admins should be able to perform. To manage Windows disks, IT must know the difference between volumes and partitions.  Continue Reading

• Is macOS Catalina stable enough for enterprise use?

  Apple released macOS Catalina in October 2019, but it has some issues. Here are some factors to consider before deciding to implement the OS in an organization.  Continue Reading

• What Windows 10 migration tools are available to IT?

  A Windows 10 migration is a long, tedious journey, but there are tools to help. Discover three unified endpoint management tools that can streamline the process.  Continue Reading

• What are the reasons to stay on Windows 7?

  Most organizations should perform a migration to Windows 10. Some applications aren't compatible with the new OS, however. Learn what to do in these rare circumstances.  Continue Reading

• Which options does IT have for Windows 10 bloatware removal?

  Bloatware isn't just annoying -- it can negatively affect OS security, for example. Find out ways to get rid of Windows 10 bloatware once and for all with these tips.  Continue Reading

• How to replace manual 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

• How can IT use Windows Autopilot to manage Windows 10 PCs?

  Deploying Windows 10 devices can be a pain, especially when pre-installed PCs don't have the right applications or policies. Learn how Windows Autopilot can solve those issues.  Continue Reading

• How can IT assign PCs to Windows 10 servicing channels?

  Microsoft offers different tools to assign Windows 10 PCs to servicing channels. Learn how to assign desktops to servicing channels using a multi-tiered strategy.  Continue Reading

• How does IT sideload apps in Windows 10?

  There are certain cases that make sense for IT to sideload LOB apps to prevent them from reaching the Microsoft Store. Here's how to successfully perform the process.  Continue Reading

• How can IT keep pace with the Windows update process?

  Staying current with the latest Windows updates is a difficult task, but IT can accomplish this without harming the UX with Group Policy, disk capacity planning and more.  Continue Reading

• How can you improve Google Chrome management?

  IT professionals should deploy Group Policies to their browsers to improve the user experience. Check out this step-by-step guide on applying Group Policies to Google Chrome.  Continue Reading

• How can you perform a full Windows Update reset?

  When Windows Update malfunctions, IT must follow this four-step process to fix the problems. Be sure to have admin privileges before getting started.  Continue Reading

• How can you pause Windows Update with Group Policy?

  Mistimed updates in Windows 10 can drive users crazy and cost organizations in terms of productivity. There are steps you can take to pause these updates, however.  Continue Reading

• What's new in the Microsoft Windows 10 October 2018 Update?

  The Windows 10 October 2018 Update might be best known for some of the problems it caused, but it also added some features that can help business users and IT pros.  Continue Reading

• What does a Windows 10 digital certificate do?

  IT pros can build trust into Windows 10 by adding certificates that form trusted connections by confirming the identity of any individuals or entities communicating with the OS.  Continue Reading

• How can IT put Windows 10 containers to use?

  Using Docker containers in Windows 10, IT can isolate apps and processes from users' devices, which can help in several ways, including preventing conflicts with other apps.  Continue Reading

• What are the top Windows Defender features in Windows 10?

  Windows Defender includes several features IT pros can use to tighten security. Application Guard, for example, isolates browser sessions to defend against internet-based attacks.  Continue Reading

• What to do if Windows Defender updates don't work

  Without the latest Windows Defender updates, your users' desktops won't be completely protected. When update problems occur, there are several actions you can take to solve them.  Continue Reading

• How can IT fix Windows Update issues?

  Microsoft offers some built-in troubleshooting methods to resolve Windows Update problems. There are also some third-party options IT should be aware of.  Continue Reading

• How to stop Windows 10 updates temporarily

  A poorly timed Windows 10 update can cause a major headache for an end user. Fortunately, users can pause updates or IT can take steps to halt updates using Group Policy.  Continue Reading

• How can IT turn off Windows 10 automatic updates?

  In some cases, IT pros should disable Windows 10 updates to gain control over the process. They can use methods such as editing group policies and setting a metered connection.  Continue Reading

• Why would IT manually upgrade to Windows 10?

  There are some instances where IT should manually upgrade to Windows 10, including when the desktop runs older software for which IT does not have the installation media.  Continue Reading

• What can you do if a Windows 10 keyboard or mouse is not working?

  If users encounter problems with a Windows 10 mouse or keyboard, IT pros can follow these steps to troubleshoot the connectivity issue quickly and easily.  Continue Reading

• How do the Windows 10 servicing channels work?

  IT can use the servicing channels for Windows 10 to assign different deployment cadences to different devices and defer updates where necessary.  Continue Reading

• How can you change Windows 10 update settings?

  Windows 10 updates can disrupt your workflow and cause frustration. With the right settings, however, you can minimize the risk of an update getting in the way of productivity.  Continue Reading

• How can IT convince users of the benefits of Windows 10?

  Users may not see the Windows 10 improvements as an upgrade from their current OS. As a result, IT must highlight relevant new features to gain user support.  Continue Reading

• What Microsoft Outlook alternatives can IT choose from?

  When IT pros are seeking an alternative to Outlook, they should consider the features their users need the most and select an email client that best matches those needs.  Continue Reading

• How does Microsoft Near Share for browser file sharing work?

  Microsoft Edge, Windows 10's default browser, includes a file-sharing tool called Near Share, which is helpful, if not truly groundbreaking.  Continue Reading

• Can IT make the transition to Windows 10 smooth for users?

  IT can take a few steps to make the move to Windows 10 easier on users, including considering an in-place upgrade and holding off on any other major changes.  Continue Reading

• Can IT save user settings, files in the move to Windows 10?

  IT can help users maintain their personal settings and files when moving to Windows 10 through an in-place upgrade or through manual or automated processes during a clean upgrade.  Continue Reading

• Can you create a dynamically expanding virtual hard disk?

  If you build a dynamically expanding VHD it is important to remember to set the size to match the maximum possible storage space it will use.  Continue Reading

• Should IT use desktop management tools in the cloud?

  Desktop management was more straightforward before cloud computing came along. With cloud-based desktop management tools, organizations must choose wisely.  Continue Reading

• Can you use Sysprep to install a custom Windows 10 image?

  With the right know-how, IT can create and install a custom Windows 10 image using Microsoft's System Preparation tool.  Continue Reading

• How can IT create the most efficient help desk possible?

  When users run into issues that make them turn to the IT help desk, they expect quick, efficient service that gets them back to work. That starts with easy access to IT resources.  Continue Reading

• Does Windows 10 virtualization-based security defend the OS?

  With Windows 10, Microsoft emphasized virtualization-based security, such as Device Guard and Credential Guard, to keep corporate information off users' devices.  Continue Reading

• What user experience monitoring tools are available to IT?

  User experience monitoring tools, such as ControlUp Real-time and Goliath Technologies' Logon Simulator, help IT get in front of issues before they affect users.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 VDI, third-party tools help boost the OS

  Not everything IT needs is necessarily built into Windows 10. IT pros share the technologies and third-party tools they use to make their deployments run smoothly.  Continue Reading

• How to use a technician machine to create a custom Windows 10 image

  IT pros must be able to mold Windows 10 into the OS their organization needs. To do so, they need to first learn to install Windows 10 on a technician machine.  Continue Reading

• Are there viable spreadsheet app alternatives to Microsoft Excel?

  Microsoft Excel may be widely used, but other spreadsheet applications such as Google Sheets and Thinkfree are available for organizations to use.  Continue Reading

• How to navigate the Windows ADK download process

  The Windows ADK can help ensure Windows 10 compatibility for apps, software and hardware. There are six key steps to the installation process.  Continue Reading

• Does the enterprise have a viable Microsoft Word alternative?

  Microsoft Word may be the go-to application for word processing, but there are solid alternatives that organizations can turn to instead.  Continue Reading

• How can IT put PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment to use?

  PowerShell ISE is a great tool for IT admins and developers of all degrees of experience. It can help them learn PowerShell and assist in script development.  Continue Reading

• Are third-party firewalls worth the investment?

  It might be effective, but Windows Firewall is not the be-all and end-all of security. In some cases, third-party firewalls add the extra layer of protection IT needs.  Continue Reading

• How can you access Windows 10 advanced repair options?

  To resolve Windows 10 boot problems you can access a few repair options by entering the OS through the back door. Here's how to do it.  Continue Reading

• How can you use Group Policy to tighten PowerShell security?

  PowerShell can unlock a lot of management capabilities for IT, but it is also a potential security gap. Put Group Policy to work to fill in the hole.  Continue Reading

• How can you whitelist apps and fight ransomware with Windows 10 AppLocker?

  With application whitelisting, admins can create a list of approved apps users can work with. This way, users cannot accidentally open an app containing ransomware.  Continue Reading

• How can you use PowerShell to enable automated software deployment?

  The quest to keep up with constant changes to software is tough for IT admins, but they can make their lives easier by automating the deployment process using PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• Why does the active window sometimes lose focus?

  There are several things that could cause the active window to lose focus in Windows 10, but check device drivers first.  Continue Reading

• How do I troubleshoot Windows 10 performance problems?

  Making room on your SSD, checking running processes in Task Manager and using Performance Monitor are all ways you can improve Windows 10 performance.  Continue Reading

• How do I get rid of browser malware?

  Browser malware can make it impossible to access websites you might need for work. Luckily, there's a simple way IT and end users can get rid of pesky scam pages.  Continue Reading

• How do PowerShell execution policies prevent malicious activity?

  There are four common execution policies IT administrators can choose from to secure PowerShell against malicious attacks. Figure out which one is right for you to secure your OS.  Continue Reading

• How can I improve Windows 10 battery life?

  Windows 10 features such as Cortana and background applications can drain power on laptops, but there are some quick fixes that can improve battery life.  Continue Reading

• Can I access the clipboard in PowerShell 5.0?

  The new version of PowerShell in Windows 10 makes it easier than ever to interact with the clipboard using a few simple commands.  Continue Reading

• How do I boot to Safe Mode in Windows 10?

  Booting to Safe Mode in Windows 10 isn't the same process as it was in older versions of the operating system.  Continue Reading

• How do I disable Wi-Fi Sense?

  Wi-Fi Sense is a feature in Windows 10 that lets users share network passwords with their contacts. Disable the feature to stop unauthorized users from accessing the corporate Wi-Fi.  Continue Reading

• How do I configure wireless access on Windows devices?

  Users connect their Windows devices to wireless networks outside the office when they're on the go. This lets them be productive, but it might be something IT administrators want to control.  Continue Reading

• Why should I limit the number of desktop audit logs?

  A Windows audit log can get big and cumbersome, which presents a problem if you need to look at it after a security breach. Only audit what is necessary.  Continue Reading

• How does Windows AppLocker work?

  Windows AppLocker lets you use rules to whitelist or block applications based on attributes such as publisher or path, but it's not a comprehensive application control tool.  Continue Reading

• Can I control the Windows 10 user interface?

  You can control the Control Panel, Shared Folders, Start menu and other components in Windows 10 using Group Policy settings.  Continue Reading

• Can I control Windows 10 notifications?

  The pop-up notifications users get in Windows 10 can be pretty annoying, but there are some controls workers can use to limit the number of distractions the OS creates.  Continue Reading

• How do I change data's default save location in Windows 10?

  If you don't want to save data in Windows' default locations, there are two ways you can choose new defaults. One is for non-domain joined machines, and the other uses AD.  Continue Reading

• How do I troubleshoot Windows 10 Office problems?

  If Microsoft's Office applications give you trouble on Windows 10, check for updates, then dig into some other troubleshooting methods to fix the problems.  Continue Reading

• What happens to all of the saved passwords in the Microsoft Edge browser?

  The Microsoft Edge browser can save users' passwords so they don't have to enter them every time they visit a website. Users can turn this feature off if they want.  Continue Reading

• Why do I keep getting Windows 10 driver errors?

  If you keep getting driver errors in Windows 10, a video driver could be to blame. Luckily, the problem is easy to troubleshoot.  Continue Reading

• What do I do when I can't activate Windows?

  When you can't activate a Windows installation there are two things you should check before you pull out your hair.  Continue Reading

• Can I change the Windows Update settings?

  Windows Update can reboot machines at the worst times, but in Windows 10 you can schedule updates.  Continue Reading

• How do Web Notes in the Edge browser work?

  Workers can use Web Notes in Microsoft's Edge browser to mark up websites, but saving the notes is a little wonky.  Continue Reading

• How can I improve Windows 10 security?

  Everyone should observe the minimum Windows 10 security settings, but there are steps you can take to make devices even more secure.  Continue Reading

• How can I troubleshoot a frozen PC?

  Sometimes users' desktops freeze up when they're in the middle of working on them. It's often easier to reimage the PCs, but there are troubleshooting steps you can take first.  Continue Reading

• What is Wi-Fi Sense and should workers use it?

  Wi-Fi Sense is a new feature in Windows 10 that allows users to share hotspots, but that means workers could potentially connect to unsecure networks.  Continue Reading

• How does Windows 10 virtualization-based security work?

  The Isolated User Mode in Windows 10 is a virtualization-based security technology that helps power Credential Guard and Device Guard.  Continue Reading

• How can I clean up the notifications area on the Windows 10 taskbar?

  If your Windows 10 taskbar is overcrowded with notifications, you can disable them on an app-by-app basis.  Continue Reading

• What are the new features in Microsoft Autoruns?

  With Microsoft Autoruns, IT admins can see everything that runs when Windows starts up to identify if anything is there that shouldn't be.  Continue Reading

• Can I alter the information on the Microsoft Windows 10 Start menu?

  The Microsoft Windows Start menu can easily become inundated with ads. Fortunately a few settings tweaks can end the deluge.  Continue Reading

• How do I fix a frozen or locked application?

  Apps can freeze or lock up for a variety of reasons, including bad memory, operating system issues, update problems and more.  Continue Reading

• How do I pinpoint the cause of wireless Internet connection problems?

  Even established technologies such as Wi-Fi have service interruptions. Fix them quickly by first discerning if the issue is widespread or not.  Continue Reading

• What are Microsoft Windows 10 update rings?

  Microsoft's Insider Program lets members choose from two different update rings -- a fast and a slow speed -- to get OS updates on their Windows 10 machines.  Continue Reading

• Are there any new Windows 10 Group Policy settings?

  Microsoft keeps a spreadsheet of all the Group Policy settings for the Windows OS, and you can filter it to see which ones are new in Windows 10.  Continue Reading

• How do I create a standard Windows 10 Start menu for all users?

  Users can customize the Windows 10 Start menu, but you might not want them to for business reasons. Luckily, there's a way you can make it so all workers use the same Start menu configuration.  Continue Reading

• What's new with the Windows 10 File Explorer?

  File Explorer changes with each new Windows version. In Windows 10, the dynamic Quick Access folder replaces the Favorites listing to make recent folders more easily accessible.  Continue Reading

• Why is there a Windows 10 Control Panel and a Settings window?

  Windows 10's multiple settings menus are a vestige of Windows 8, but users can access almost all the settings configurations they may need from the Settings windows.  Continue Reading

• How does Universal Windows Platform create an adaptive UI for apps?

  Developers can use the Universal Windows Platform to build apps that work on Windows 10 PCs, tablets and smartphones. The apps adapt to devices based on their screen size and resolution.  Continue Reading

• Are there any major Windows 10 bugs?

  Even in the early days of Windows 10, bugs have been minimal. Because Microsoft rolls out updates quickly, the small bugs that do exist are fixed in a flash.  Continue Reading

• Can I change the info in the Windows 10 Action Center?

  Users can change what types of notifications they receive in the Windows 10 Action Center by accessing their system settings  Continue Reading

• Can Cortana on Windows 10 work in the enterprise?

  Cortana brings value to the business world by providing quality desktop search and Web browsing functionalities.  Continue Reading

• Can I customize the Windows 10 Start menu?

  In Windows 10 there are four options you can use to turn off different features of the Start menu and customize it to your liking.  Continue Reading

• Do users need special Windows 10 training?

  There will always be users who need help with a new operating system, but whether everyone in your organization needs Windows 10 training is a tough nut to crack.  Continue Reading

• Should I deploy Windows 10 immediately or wait?

  Old-school tech advice says to wait for the bugs to get worked out of a new OS before making the leap, but Windows 10 could turn that into an old wives' tale.  Continue Reading

• What is the best way to transition from Windows XP to Windows 10?

  If you're still on Windows XP, there's really only one Microsoft-supported way you can move from XP to Windows 10.  Continue Reading

• What will happen to my Windows-based mobile device now that Windows 10 is out?

  Whether you can get Windows 10 on your mobile device depends on what type of Windows mobile device you have, but Surface tablets get the upgrade the same way desktops do.  Continue Reading

• How does EdgeHTML affect webpage rendering?

  Microsoft Edge outstrips Internet Explorer in terms of performance and security with a new rendering engine called EdgeHTML.  Continue Reading

• Are there any reasons to avoid a Windows 10 upgrade?

  Application and hardware compatibility issues and undiscovered bugs are important factors to consider when facing a Windows 10 upgrade.  Continue Reading

• Can Windows 10 run native Android and iOS apps?

  Native Android and iOS apps aren't a reality in Windows 10, but two SDKs make it easier for developers to port existing app codes to Windows.  Continue Reading

• Should I be concerned about Windows 10 application compatibility?

  Microsoft expects most applications developed for older OSes to work fine on Windows 10, but administrators shouldn't expect every application to work perfectly.  Continue Reading

• How do I upgrade to Windows 10?

  Upgrading to Windows 10 is free on many Windows 7 and 8 devices. All you have to do is reserve your update, wait for it to download and install it.  Continue Reading

• What is Cortana and how does it benefit my users?

  Microsoft integrated Cortana in its Windows 10 operating system. It's capable of carrying out complex search requests and it can help enterprise users navigate their desktops.  Continue Reading

• What is the multiple desktop feature in Windows 10?

  The Windows 10 multiple desktop features gives workers the feel of using multiple monitors on the same screen, which can increase productivity for users that keep many windows open at once.  Continue Reading