Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• What does Windows 8 startup offer fans of Windows 7?

  Easier file access across devices and faster Windows 8 startup are among the Windows 8.1 features that could win over Windows 7 users. Continue Reading

• Alternative OS and productivity suites gain steam

  Admins considering open source alternatives to Microsoft desktops should know what an alternative OS, office suite or graphics editor can do. Continue Reading

• MDOP 2014 gets BitLocker, app virtualization updates

  The MDOP 2014 suite includes changes in tools for remotely managing and restoring Windows, as well as new BitLocker Group Policy settings. Continue Reading

• What's the best way to deploy a Windows service pack?

  It's possible to deploy a Windows service pack with either Group Policy or Windows Server Update Services, but our expert says that one is better. Continue Reading

• What security needs is Windows Defender best for?

  Windows Defender is included with Windows 8, but it isn't enabled by default, and enterprises will want more third-party antimalware protection. Continue Reading

• What options exist for installing Linux on Windows 7?

  A Windows 7/Linux dual-boot environment is just one approach for running Linux on Windows 7 machines. Which you use depends on storage preferences.Continue Reading

• When is a Surface Pro 3 tablet not suitable for work?

  Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 is good for mobile users and runs enterprise-grade apps, but its light weight and processor capacity pose some limits.Continue Reading

• What's the best way to remote wipe a user-owned laptop?

  Tools are now available to IT for a remote wipe of user-owned laptops. But set clear BYOD security policies and inform users.Continue Reading

• Bypass Microsoft SA with the Windows 8.1 volume license

  Windows 8.1 Enterprise doesn't require Microsoft Software Assurance, which could save organizations money, but watch Windows 8.1 volume license terms.Continue Reading

• Four utilities can verify Group Policy object settings

  Client-side extensions could cause a Group Policy object to fail. Fortunately, there are a few different ways to track down Windows GPO settings.Continue Reading

• Four third-party Windows 8 tools empower PC users

  Useful Windows 8 tools include third-party products for launching and uninstalling apps, grabbing screens, and editing PDFs.Continue Reading

• Avoid potholes on the migration path from XP to Windows 8.1

  Organizations moving from Windows XP should consider app compatibility, security and alternative OSes before conducting a migration to Windows 8.1.Continue Reading

• What's the best way to delete a file or folder whose Windows path is too long?

  In addition to Copy as Path, the third-party Long Path Tool might be helpful for deleting a file or folder whose Windows path is too long.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows 8 tools can extend IT capabilities

  Microsoft's downloadable, in-house Windows 8 tools can help IT with virtualization, server management and malware removal.Continue Reading

• LibreOffice is a robust Microsoft Office alternative

  Is an open source Office alternative enough to dethrone Microsoft's productivity suite? See how LibreOffice compares with Office 2013 and Office 365.Continue Reading