Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• How come Microsoft Internet Explorer collects my data?

  Some users have noticed that Microsoft Internet Explorer collects personal information through its AutoComplete feature. There is a way to turn it off. Continue Reading

• Managing desktop processes with Mac Activity Monitor

  Desktop admins can use the Mac Activity Monitor to filter views of system activity and diagnose performance problems, similar to Windows Task Manager. Continue Reading

• How do I remove admin restrictions from Windows 7 laptops?

  To relax the usual restrictions on Windows 7 laptops, use the Windows administrator account, but remember to record your password. Continue Reading

• Registry tweaks can speed up Windows 8 performance

  Our latest article on using the Windows registry to improve Windows 8 performance looks at disk access and shutting down Windows Store apps Continue Reading

• Alter Group Policy caching for faster Windows 8.1 startup

  Synchronous Group Policy processing can slow Windows 8.1 startup for devices on the network, so enable caching in Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2. Continue Reading

• Use the Windows 8 registry to reduce CPU cycle waste

  The Windows 8 registry is a key component of the OS that admins can use to disable background checks and other activities to make systems run faster.Continue Reading

• Using Windows 8 settings for performance improvement

  Windows 8 settings and built-in optimization tools such as Windows 8 Fast Startup can make life easier for Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 admins and users.Continue Reading

• Windows 8 disk cleanup is part of routine maintenance

  Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 include built-in utilities for improving and maintaining performance. Start with simple Windows 8 disk cleanup practices.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

• How to enable Windows 8.1 settings for admin troubleshooting

  Changing default Windows 8.1 settings -- such as the dialog box confirming file deletion -- is easy and potentially useful for desktop admins.Continue Reading

• How to enable Windows 8.1 kiosk mode for Modern apps

  It's possible to control user application access on startup with Assigned Access, but note that Windows 8.1 kiosk mode works only for Modern apps.Continue Reading

• Windows kiosk mode locks down PCs, but note workarounds

  Switching from the Windows Explorer shell to a particular app can be useful for single-purpose devices, but users can still foil Windows kiosk mode.Continue Reading

• Using tools to back up and restore bootable USB device images

  Do you have more install or diagnostic environment images to manage than physical UFDs? Learn how to back up and restore bootable USB device images.Continue Reading

• How to allow multiple users to share an Excel workbook

  Public folders allow users to share an Excel workbook, but OneDrive and Windows 8.1 HomeGroups might be better.Continue Reading

• Surveying options after the Windows XP end of support

  The end of Microsoft's support for XP raises a lot of questions, so it's important to know your options and how to proceed.Continue Reading

• The Rufus USB tool may ease building bootable Windows flash drives

  Find out about a quick, free alternative to the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool -- the open source Reliable USB Formatting Utility.Continue Reading

• Five Windows Sysinternals utilities can aid in desktop troubleshooting

  There are many free tools in the Windows Sysinternals suite, but some might help admins more than others for viewing data and managing desktops.Continue Reading

• Why was the Windows XP lifespan so long?

  There are many reasons why the Windows XP lifespan lasted longer than those of most operating systems. Our columnist looks at three major reasons.Continue Reading

• Windows 8.1 user interface improves on previous Windows 8 features

  Several small but significant changes in the Windows 8.1 user interface may placate those who were annoyed by Windows 8's limitations.Continue Reading

• Ten hidden Windows command prompt tricks

  Every desktop admin should have these command prompt tricks up their sleeves to save time and make Windows management easier.Continue Reading

• Ensure compliance with Windows BitLocker encryption using MBAM 2.0

  Before you can use MBAM 2.0 to manage Windows BitLocker encryption across multiple computers, follow these tips on deploying and administering it.Continue Reading

• Microsoft licensing changes with standalone Windows Enterprise upgrade

  Microsoft launched a standalone Windows Enterprise upgrade SKU, but is it a true value or simply a way to lure IT pros to Windows 8?Continue Reading

• Mastery of Excel pivot tables can help IT admins monitor contracts

  Desktop admins can use Excel pivot tables for the critical task of tracking support contracts and software warranties and communicating costs.Continue Reading

• Before a Microsoft Office 2013 install, beware of potential gotchas

  After you deal with a Microsoft Office 2013 install, know about both the problems and workarounds lurking in Office 2013 features.Continue Reading

• Use Excel's IF statement to track, save on IT support contract costs

  Warranty tracking for enterprise software can be an odious task, but if you know how to use the IF statement in Microsoft Excel, you could save money.Continue Reading

• Use your XP migration to explore mobile, cloud computing

  Continue Reading

• Five things to keep in mind as Windows XP end of life approaches

  The Windows XP end-of-life date is coming up fast. IT pros scrambling to upgrade have some serious decisions to make around security and costs.Continue Reading

• Track software licenses and IT support with Excel date functions

  As part of our series on Excel for IT admins, we look at how Excel date functions can help with calculating software licenses and support dates.Continue Reading

• More remote Group Policy Object settings and checking refresh status

  Admins can refresh Group Policy Object settings across multiple computers, but they must verify that Group Policy settings have successfully changed.Continue Reading

• Set IT support and reporting priorities with an Excel pivot table

  An Excel pivot table can help IT report on support, especially if admins use its ability to prioritize data by location, date and other criteria.Continue Reading

• IT can tackle Windows configuration with a well-planned desktop audit

  Enforcing Windows policies across the enterprise seems like a pain, but a few desktop audit practices can help IT reach its configuration goals.Continue Reading

• Excel pivot tables can help IT admins track support, costs

  Excel isn't just for end users. If you know how to properly filter data with Excel pivot tables, you can track expenses and create detailed reports.Continue Reading

• Two methods for remotely refreshing Windows 8 Group Policy settings

  Alternatives for setting Windows Server 2012 and Windows 8 Group Policy to remotely refresh include Microsoft's GPMC and a PowerShell cmdlet.Continue Reading

• Use new Windows 8 Group Policy settings to control the Windows 8.1 UI

  Windows 8.1 administration includes new Windows 8 Group Policy settings. See how Windows 8.1 settings can affect the Start menu and Control Panel.Continue Reading

• Before you clone HDD to SSD, know the benefits and danger to data

  Which type of drive is better: hard disk drive or solid-state drive? HDD to SSD cloning can ease data access, but SSDs aren't without risks to data.Continue Reading

• Five steps for successful bot removal from enterprise desktops

  Botnet infections are an increasing threat to enterprise IT security, so don't be caught catching up. These five steps can help with malware defense.Continue Reading

• Locking down Internet Explorer settings with Group Policy in IE 11

  New Internet Explorer settings can tighten enterprise security, but only if Group Policy is properly enabled in IE 11 and you have Windows 8.Continue Reading

• What you need to know about the Windows Security Accounts Manager

  These five capabilities of Security Accounts Manager, which is built into Windows, can help IT manage and enforce enterprise password management.Continue Reading

• Windows 7 guide: Before, during and after migration

  Check out this Windows 7 guide for tips on migration planning, OS deployment and how to manage desktops once you make the leap.Continue Reading

• Learn how to install Office 2013 with Group Policies or SCCM

  To successfully deploy Office 2013 across a network, you'll need Group Policies or tools such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager.Continue Reading

• Best practices for a Windows XP migration to Windows 7 or Windows 8

  Windows XP support ends on April 8, 2014, and businesses that haven't upgraded should follow best practices to move ahead with a Windows XP migration.Continue Reading

• Top 10 reasons why the enterprise desktop isn't dead yet

  While the PC sales decline is matched by rising mobile device usage, it's too soon to claim that the enterprise desktop is dead, says our columnist.Continue Reading

• Choose a Microsoft Office 2013 license based on user number, devices

  The number of versions of Microsoft Office 2013 can be confusing, so we walk you through Office 2013 license options, including for mobile devices.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Task Manager

  Microsoft Windows Task Manager is a component of Microsoft Windows intended to assist administrators or advanced system users in monitoring, managing and troubleshooting a Windows computer system.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows File Manager

  The Microsoft Windows File Manager is the graphical user interface through which users could see and manipulate files and folders on early-version Windows computers.Continue Reading

• Windows tools and terminology for desktop admins

  There are a number of Windows tools that desktop admins can use, but before you can use them you have to know what the terms actually mean.Continue Reading

• Standardizing on Windows tablet PCs to simplify device management

  The enterprise can learn a thing or two about managing mobile devices from the education industry's standardization on Windows-based tablet PCs.Continue Reading

• Enterprise IT shops put off Windows 8 migrations

  Windows 8 migrations have stalled as IT shops grapple with decisions over hardware and software upgrade costs, Windows security issues and more.Continue Reading

• How to find and use the Windows 8 start menu and admin tools

  Users who miss Windows 7's interface shouldn't despair; the Windows 8 start menu can still be found. Get help tracking down Windows admin tools.Continue Reading

• Microsoft USMT (User State Migration Tool)

  The Microsoft User State Migration Tool (USMT) is a command-line utility used to transfer user files and settings between computers.Continue Reading

• About to Buy Guide: Mobile Device Management Software

  The proliferation of personal mobile devices in the workplace has created new challenges for IT. But managers can wrest back control by making smart purchasing decisions about mobile device management software.Continue Reading

• Best practices for Windows XP to Windows 7 migration stragglers

  IT shops belatedly moving from Windows XP to Windows 7 should have a Windows migration plan that deals with apps, data and potential problems.Continue Reading

• Third-party Windows desktop management tools to consider

  IT admins who are eyeing Windows desktop management software beyond Microsoft’s products have many options. Our expert looks at three of the best tools.Continue Reading

• application manager (app manager)

  An application manager (app manager) is programming for overseeing the installation, patching and updating and perhaps access of software applications.Continue Reading

• Using Windows 7 Task Manager features for Windows memory management

  To fix your Windows memory management problems, you must first diagnose how memory is allocated. Certain Windows 7 Task Manager features can cure what ails your desktops.Continue Reading

• Need more memory? Getting started with Windows memory management

  Do you need more memory? Our expert explains how to manage Windows memory, both physical and virtual, and how to diagnose memory-related performance issues.Continue Reading

• Managing client encryption with BitLocker To Go

  Windows 7 Enterprise users have access to BitLocker To Go, Microsoft's encryption program for removable drives. Find out how to use it easily and automate with Group Policy settings.Continue Reading

• Tablet licensing rules with Microsoft Office

  As tablets make their way into the enterprise, it might be time to brush up on licensing rules for mobilizing Microsoft Office. We also provide some solutions for reducing costs.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows 7 Task Manager troubleshooting tips

  Here are some troubleshooting tips for Microsoft Windows 7's improved Task Manager -- from identifying processes and services to using the Resource Monitor.Continue Reading

• Who should know about Microsoft licensing? And why should you care?

  Microsoft software licensing is complicated, but our licensing expert breaks it down and gives the basics of what you need to know, including budgeting and volume purchasing.Continue Reading

• The truth about Microsoft licensing for portable devices

  Microsoft's rules for portable devices are different from those for desktops and include a catch-22 in its licensing policy.Continue Reading

• The facts about Windows 7 licensing

  Windows 7 licensing can be complicated, partly because the OS has had multiple predecessors and editions. Get control by using helpful tools and avoiding common problems.Continue Reading

• Managing Windows desktops with PowerShell

  PowerShell isn't just for Windows servers -- Microsoft made the scripting language the core management platform in Windows 7.Continue Reading

• Windows 7 Learning Guide

  The recent release of Windows 7 SP1 means Microsoft's newest operating system is likely coming to a desktop near you. Prepare for the unexpected with this guide.Continue Reading

• Patch management guide for Windows desktops

  Routinely patching your Windows desktops is a necessary evil -- but patch management can be overwhelming. Get a grasp on the process with this learning guide.Continue Reading

• A desktop admin's guide to passwords in the enterprise

  If password management causes headaches in your enterprise, don’t stress. This guide will get you back to basics and help heal your password woes.Continue Reading

• Options for licensing Windows in virtual scenarios

  Confused by Microsoft's virtual licensing? Who isn't? Our expert describes options you may not know about and explains how to bypass SA's stringent requirements.Continue Reading

• Creating an IT admin's PowerShell toolbox

  The PowerShell scripting tool in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 should be the staple of any IT administrator's toolbox. Learn how it can help you.Continue Reading

• Using security and desktop management products to block USB access

  While gluing your USB ports shut is one way to avoid data loss via a portable driver, a less drastic -- but still effective -- option is a security or desktop management product.Continue Reading

• Weighing Microsoft Office 2010

  Microsoft Office 2010 offers a slew of new features for both end users and IT pros. Check out the pros and cons of the newest suite in this guide for enterprises and consumers.Continue Reading

• A comparison of Windows 7 migration tools

  The results are in. Our expert tested five Windows 7 migration tools from a variety of vendors. Check out the findings.Continue Reading

• A guide to Windows 7 migration tools

  Upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows XP is no easy task, but several tools from Microsoft and third-party vendors can simplify the process.Continue Reading

• desktop management

  Desktop management is a comprehensive approach to managing all the computers within an organization. Despite its name, desktop management includes overseeing laptops and other computing devices as well as desktop computers. Desktop management is a ...Continue Reading

• Using Group Policy settings to secure local admin groups on your desktops

  Controlling local admin group memberships with Group Policy settings is relatively easy -- but you need to proceed with caution to avoid disastrous errors.Continue Reading

• Top 10 command-line commands for managing Windows 7 desktops

  Admins don't always need fancy software to manage Windows 7 desktops. Here are 10 command-line utilities that can help you handle scripting tasks.Continue Reading

• Using Windows 7 to configure workstations for optimal power management

  Windows 7 can help organizations manage their power consumption. Learn how to use power management reports, workstation settings and group policy settings to save energy and money.Continue Reading

• Underlying causes of inconsistent patch management

  Think your business is secure? Think again. Many environments, including those with patch management systems, are missing critical patches. Learn how to secure your organization.Continue Reading

• Manage the desktop image lifecycle to limit work, ensure security

  An image lifecycle management plan makes it easier to balance the need to limit the number of desktop images with the need to keep up with security patches and new software.Continue Reading

• Protect your computer from direct attacks in Windows 7

  Secure Windows 7 by taking basic precautions like turning on Windows Firewall, locking your computer and requiring Ctrl+Alt+Delete at startup.Continue Reading

• Manage Microsoft Windows Firewall

  Windows Firewall is an important weapon in computer security. However, there are times when you'll need to poke a hole in the barrier by creating an exception.Continue Reading

• Confirm crucial Windows 7 security settings are enabled

  Windows 7 includes four security features by default. Make sure these important settings are enabled.Continue Reading

• Using Sysinternals tools in security management scenarios

  Discover three valuable Sysinternals tools and common Windows security management scenarios in which these tools would be used.Continue Reading

• A Windows security checklist for IT managers

  Do the Windows security products you're considering address every security issue? Use this high-level checklist as a quick reference to make sure all your bases are covered.Continue Reading

• Step-by-step guide: Laptop hacking

  Laptops with sensitive data are getting stolen every day. Contributor Kevin Beaver says the best way to secure your laptops is to understand how they will be attacked. He provides the basic attack methods and a set of contingencies in this ...Continue Reading

• Step 3: Crack them with software

  An unknown BIOS password can be a pesky obstacle to overcome. Find out the best methods for solving this problem in this step-by-step guide.Continue Reading

• Step 4: Managing the BIOS password

  An unknown BIOS password can be a pesky obstacle to overcome. Find out the best methods for solving this problem in this step-by-step guide.Continue Reading

• Tools for virus removal and detection

  Learn about antivirus tools and best practices for removing viruses from your system in this section of our malware learning guide.Continue Reading

• Step 1: Guess BIOS passwords yourself

  An unknown BIOS password can be a pesky obstacle to overcome. Find out the best methods for solving this problem in this step-by-step guide.Continue Reading

• Step 2: Fiddle with the hardware

  An unknown BIOS password can be a pesky obstacle to overcome. Find out the best methods for solving this problem in this step-by-step guide.Continue Reading

• Step 4: Start the BitLocker encryption process

  In Vista, the BitLocker function allows you to encrypt your hard drive, but a computer with Trusted Platform Module is preferred. Not to worry … learn how to use BitLocker on a computer without TPM and encrypt your hard drive with this ...Continue Reading

• Windows XP Troubleshooting Tutorial

  Need help troubleshooting Windows XP? This tutorial features tons of tips and tricks that admins can use to solve a variety of system and network problems, with advice on troubleshooting Windows XP system startup issues, printer problems and more.Continue Reading

• Windows server access management in Active Directory

  With so many ways to manage server access in Active Directory domains, you'll want to learn about some of these Windows security strategies.Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Windows XP Device Manager error codes continued

  Brien Posey expands on the error codes he described in his first article on Windows XP Device Manager. Here are more error code explanations, starting with error code 10, which relates to the device driver.Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting Windows XP Device Manager error codes

  Windows XP Device Manager alerts you if a system's hardware malfunctions, but often you need an advanced degree in unraveling cryptic code in order to understand the problem. Device Manager's error codes may be puzzling, but once you crack them, ...Continue Reading

• Microsoft patch management tools

  Check out some Microsoft patch management tools, including our entirely free patch management toolbox.Continue Reading

• Folder/file management for Windows network security

  Learn how to prevent users from creating and deleting folders, and improve folder management and file management for Windows network security.Continue Reading

• Internet Explorer security settings and controls

  Managing Internet Explorer security is a complicated job. You need to be aware of all of the latest IE flaws and threats as well as how to prevent hackers from using these flaws to hack your Windows network. Read about how you can keep IE secure in ...Continue Reading

• Security Accounts Manager

  The Security Accounts Manager (SAM) is a database in the Windows operating system (OS) that contains user names and passwords... (Continued)Continue Reading

• Security Accounts Manager (SAM)

  The Security Accounts Manager (SAM) is a database in the Windows operating system (OS) that contains user names and passwords... (Continued)Continue Reading

• Tips on hardening and securing IE7

  Jonathan Hassell gives his recommendations on how you can make IE7's new features secure and hardened for your everyday needs.Continue Reading