Tips

Tips

• Sweat the small stuff when it comes to Windows desktop security

  It may seem like hackers use complex methods to bypass Windows desktop security measures, but in reality it's usually simple oversights, such as unpatched software, that let attackers in.  Continue Reading

• Create a single Windows 10 management console with SCCM and Intune

  SCCM brings inventory management to the table. Intune allows for cloud-based PC and mobile device management. Together they create a Windows 10 management platform.  Continue Reading

• How to use WMI and the CIM standard with Windows PowerShell

  WMI, Microsoft's implementation of the CIM standard, lets admins use PowerShell commands to view and modify system data and configuration.  Continue Reading

• The easy way to troubleshoot a Windows 10 activation error

  Microsoft added an activation troubleshooting feature to Windows 10 that makes it so easy to fix activation problems, a caveman could do it.  Continue Reading

• Three ways to recover Windows 10 disk space

  Windows 10 machines should have some free disk space so the OS can work, and reclaiming the space taken up by old files and drivers is a simple task.  Continue Reading

• How to extend the life of an old PC

  Some employees might use old PCs that could use replacing. But if a hardware refresh isn't in your budget, there are some steps you can take to lengthen laptop and desktop lifespans.  Continue Reading

• It's the end of the line for Oracle's Java browser plug-in

  Web browsers are becoming more streamlined and modern. To that end, Oracle will depreciate its Java plug-in.  Continue Reading

• What to look for in client management tools

  Bringing PC and mobile device management under the same umbrella is clutch for IT today. Shops can get that done by picking the right client management tools.  Continue Reading

• A no-frills look at Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 365 versions

  There are more versions than ever of Microsoft Office to choose from, so weighing your options is of the utmost importance. Find out which versions of the productivity suite come with which features.  Continue Reading

• Look before you leap with a Windows 10 Enterprise PoC

  Before a company makes the move to a new operating system, IT should use a proof of concept deployment to test it out. Find out about Microsoft's PoC options for Windows 10.  Continue Reading

• How to handle Windows 10 browser compatibility issues

  IT often runs into problems with legacy apps not functioning well on new browser versions. There are a few ways to combat Windows 10 browser compatibility issues in Internet Explorer 11.  Continue Reading

• How non-volatile memory express speeds up modern PCs

  Non-volatile memory express outperforms SATA at almost every turn, but IT should remember that NVMe does not always work well with older hardware.  Continue Reading

• Internet Explorer support for old versions is over. What now?

  Microsoft stopped supporting Internet Explorer prior to version 11, but the web browser is still present in many organizations. IT must come up with a plan for browser security.  Continue Reading

• Navigate a maze of installers with PackageManagement

  PackageManagement -- formerly OneGet -- lets desktop admins use PowerShell cmdlets to work with several different installer technologies.  Continue Reading

• A day on Intel's Skylake improves memory, graphics and more

  With its built-in hyper-threading, overclocking and DDR4 RAM, among other new features, Intel's Skylake processor microarchitecture can improve a company's processing power.  Continue Reading

• Desktop admins should try Raspberry Pi computers

  Raspberry Pi computers could be en route to an office near you, so it's important to get up to speed on how they work and what you can do with them.  Continue Reading

• Use an in-place upgrade to repair Windows 10

  If your Windows 10 installation has gone wonky and needs some attention, one way to fix it is with an in-place upgrade to the same version of Windows you already use.  Continue Reading

• How to disable Windows 10 pop-up notifications

  You can disable those annoying pop-ups in Windows 7 and 8 that encourage you to upgrade to Windows 10, and it's actually pretty easy.  Continue Reading

• Productivity suite smack down: Office 365 vs. Office 2016

  Microsoft's Office 2016 for the desktop might seem like the de facto option for delivering productivity apps to users, but its cloud-based cousin Office 365 offers more flexibility.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 authentication options leave passwords behind

  Passwords have long ruled the authentication world, but they're not infallible. Microsoft added authentication options in Windows 10, including more Windows Hello and effective PINs.  Continue Reading

• How to support Mac OS X and Linux in Windows environments

  Many IT shops don't give a second thought to supporting Mac and Linux OSes because they're concerned with standardization. Windows is the go-to, but alternative OSes deserve some love.  Continue Reading

• Acceptable use policies, MDM help desktop admins wrangle devices

  Managing an eclectic collection of devices is challenging, but IT administrators just need to establish policies and find a mobile device management tool to help enforce them.  Continue Reading

• Modern endpoint management comes with new rules

  Desktop administrators need to know that the rules of endpoint management have changed: It's not all about PCs anymore.  Continue Reading

• Office 2016 features new security enhancements IT will appreciate

  With Office 2016, Microsoft introduced a host of new security features ranging from email and file encryption to multifactor authentication for application access.  Continue Reading

• Choosing between Microsoft Office 2016 versions

  Choosing between Office 2016 versions may seem like a simple choice, but don't jump to conclusions: Consider functionality, operational consistency and cost.  Continue Reading

• Glassware 2.0 prevents legacy apps from holding up OS upgrades

  Glassware 2.0 from Sphere 3D lets IT admins virtualize business-critical apps that may not be compatible with newer operating systems during a migration.  Continue Reading

• What IT admins need to know about 3D printing technology

  3D printing has made significant inroads in the enterprise. It offers an efficient way to prototype ideas, generate samples and build products, but it presents new challenges for admins.  Continue Reading

• What to look for in endpoint management tools

  Many endpoint management tools share common features, but there are more advanced functions IT can employ, too.  Continue Reading

• Console, data access most important in endpoint management tools

  Every IT shop has different needs when it comes to endpoint management tools. Although feature and console requirements may differ, all tools must provide users with the access they need.  Continue Reading

• How to swat away five common Windows 10 bugs

  Windows 10 has as many problems as any other OS before it, including startup speed issues, Windows defender failures, device driver issues and more.  Continue Reading

• Four ways to put Sysinternals Process Explorer to work

  IT admins can use Process Explorer in Sysinternals to find suspicious software, inspect process and object privileges, and more.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office Trust Center settings that help stop malware

  The Trust Center in Microsoft's Office suite has some important and useful settings to prevent users from opening files infected with malware and viruses, but admins need to know about and enable them.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10's Cortana boosts productivity, privacy concerns

  In Windows 10, Cortana can enhance user productivity with improved organization and Web searching, but it collects location and text information, as well as other data.  Continue Reading

• Mac OS X security flaws IT should know about

  If you support Macs in your company it's important to remember that OS X has security flaws just like the Windows operating system.  Continue Reading

• Uncover PII security risks with free tools

  Personally identifiable information can live outside the databases on corporate networks, and it needs to be locked down so attackers can't get it. Luckily, there are free tools IT can use to improve PII security.  Continue Reading

• Don't blow your Windows XP to Windows 10 migration

  Moving from Windows XP to Windows 10? Microsoft doesn't support in-place or leapfrog upgrades, so you likely have hardware inventory, application compatibility testing and a clean install in your future.  Continue Reading

• Windows 7 migration costs more with procrastination

  As Windows 7's EOL approaches, shops must consider how to transition away from the aging operating system. In extended support, companies must pay for help from Microsoft.  Continue Reading

• Considerations for a Windows 8 to Windows 10 upgrade

  Until mid-2016, eligible Windows 8 customers can upgrade to Windows 10 for free, but it's important to keep hardware requirements and app function in mind before making the jump.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 branches out with three update options

  Windows 10's update format has three servicing options called branches: There's Current Branch, Current Branch for Business and Long Term Servicing Branch. Each meets different needs, so it's up to IT to decide which one is right for their shop.  Continue Reading

• Be on the lookout for Linux security vulnerabilities

  Some of the most common Linux security vulnerabilities are also Windows vulnerabilities. They're all fairly easy to guard against, but some shops overlook securing any Linux systems that may be on their network.  Continue Reading

• Universal Windows Platform powers adaptive Windows 10 applications

  The Universal Windows Platform in Windows 10 marks a new generation of apps that can work across a variety of device types.  Continue Reading

• Considerations for your Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration

  It's not very hard to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 -- it just takes some planning and testing to make sure things go smoothly.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 command-line console gives IT long-awaited capabilities

  Microsoft's command-line console has new editing options and is easier to use in Windows 10. Just switch legacy mode off to take advantage of opacity options and better text controls.  Continue Reading

• Get to know the awk command for Linux

  Awk lets you find and process patterns in text. It can get complicated, but the basics are pretty simple and a good place to start learning about Linux commands.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 improvements help the OS meet enterprise needs

  Windows 10 mashes up some of the best features of Windows 7 and 8, and delivers them to users and IT shops in a way that could make it the de facto OS for the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• Windows 8 GPO settings to configure search, indexing options

  Windows 8 and 8.1 GPOs can help with many tasks, including creating Start screen layouts that adhere to corporate policies, as well as configuring search and indexing settings.  Continue Reading

• Control app updates with Windows 8 and 8.1 GPO settings

  Some Windows 8 and 8.1 GPO settings that you might not know about can make dealing with automatic updates from Windows Store applications a lot easier.  Continue Reading

• Hands-on look at Microsoft's Edge Web browser

  Microsoft Edge, the new browser for Windows 10, makes reading websites easier, allows users to annotate a page and integrates with Cortana.  Continue Reading

• Your guide to desktop support certifications

  There are many different certifications from Microsoft, Apple and other vendors. Admins can use these certs to validate their skills and make themselves more marketable to hiring IT shops.  Continue Reading

• Windows 10 security improves with Windows Hello and Passport

  Biometrics and multifactor authentication in Windows 10 make it easier and more secure for users to access the resources they need.  Continue Reading

• Putting the Windows 10 Action Center to work

  The Windows 10 Action Center is a carryover from Windows Phone that puts all your notifications in one place. It also makes accessing some features and settings easier.  Continue Reading

• Ten most useful Windows Sysinternals utilities

  Sysinternals utilities such as Autoruns and TCPView can target specific problem areas in a Microsoft Windows environment, including performance issues.  Continue Reading

• What to expect from Macs in the enterprise

  For enterprise IT, Apple's Mac OS can pose a few problems, including compatibility, applications, support, networking and other issues. But if you know what could be coming your way, you can get the training and tools to manage Macs.  Continue Reading

• What Windows desktop admins need to know about mobile OSes

  Today's workers are mobile, so Windows desktop administrators have new challenges to face from mobile devices. Luckily, Apple and Google have made devices and OSes more enterprise-friendly.  Continue Reading

• Group applications, users with Windows Apportals

  With Windows Apportals, IT administrators can build custom environments -- which include specific applications and data -- for groups of users, which lets users skip the Start menu and get right to the tools they need.  Continue Reading

• Desktop management tools and best practices

  Desktop management tools are the key to making sure things in your fleet are running smoothly. Systems such as Desktop Central and Client Management Suite cover the big five of desktop management.  Continue Reading

• Software deployment tools, patching critical to endpoint management

  The software deployment component of your endpoint management system plays an important role in desktop health. So too do monitoring, patching and security capabilities.  Continue Reading

• The importance of desktop inventory management tools

  Desktop inventory management tools help keep track of how many endpoints are in use and who's using them. That basic information can help with sundry other management tasks, such as budgeting and responses to security breaches.  Continue Reading

• How to do an Oscar-worthy hardware demo

  Treat a hardware demo like you're going on stage. Prepare your script, rehearse like crazy and make sure your material is rock solid.  Continue Reading

• Three ways to manage Macs in the enterprise

  Although they’re still uncommon, Macs are making their way into corporate IT shops. Luckily, you can take your pick from a few different management approaches.  Continue Reading

• Configuration options for Windows 10 startup

  Startup in Windows 10 is a little different than Windows 8. The Continuum feature alters how the OS behaves depending on what kind of device it's running on.  Continue Reading

• The Windows 10 Command Prompt includes new capabilities

  The Windows Command Prompt has been a stable feature for years, but Windows 10 brings some much-needed tweaks to the command prompt window.  Continue Reading

• Synchronize Windows 8 settings across PCs with OneDrive

  Windows 8 settings can be synchronized across devices, but the differences between OneDrive and Active Directory will determine which one you use.  Continue Reading

• What non-Linux admins need to know about the apt-get tool

  Apt-get is a widely used application manager for Unix and Linux systems, so even Windows and Linux admins can benefit from knowing its requirements.  Continue Reading

• Flying without a net: How to find Windows 7 support

  IT can buy extended support for Windows 7 desktops from Microsoft, but security and other features may make Windows 8 and 10 increasingly appealing.  Continue Reading

• Tighten Windows 8.1 security in five simple steps

  Microsoft has improved Windows 8.1 security, but no OS is free of vulnerabilities. Some basic settings can further protect Windows 8.x systems.  Continue Reading

• Options abound for running Windows on Mac machines

  The best way to run Windows on Mac OS devices depends on whether you need performance, open source support or centralized management.  Continue Reading

• Comparing Windows 10 features with those in earlier OSes

  IT got a glimpse of new Windows 10 features in the technical preview and updated build. See how they compare to Windows 7 and Windows 8 features.  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

• Don't pass the hash for Windows 8.1 security

  Single sign-on lets users skip multiple logins but also threatens Windows 8.1 security. Fix the vulnerability in that OS and Windows Server 2012 R2.  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

• 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

• Office Telemetry reports on Office 2013 docs and apps

  If IT administrators need information on document and application usage, they can use Office Telemetry, an Office 2013 feature that gathers such data.  Continue Reading

• Save WIM file space with WIMBoot in Windows 8.1 update

  With Windows 8.1 Update 1, it's possible to boot desktops directly from a WIM file. Follow these steps to create WIMBoot images and save disk space.  Continue Reading

• How to perform a Windows XP upgrade to Windows 8.1

  As organizations must now implement a Windows XP upgrade to Windows 8.1, they should understand that Windows 8 and 8.1 aren't identical and use the Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant.  Continue Reading

• For missing GPO settings, check the Winlogon component

  If a Windows system isn't applying certain Group Policy settings, you may need to check Winlogon and common client-side extensions.  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

• The open source GIMP editor has lots of support and useful features

  The free GIMP editor is not only a potential Adobe Photoshop alternative, but it also has a host of useful features and an online support community.  Continue Reading

• Consider GIMP as an Adobe Photoshop alternative for graphics editing

  Adobe Photoshop and other expensive graphics editors may suit power users, but there are good reasons to test the GNU Image Manipulation Program.  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

• Process Monitor eases Windows troubleshooting of performance problems

  Microsoft's built-in tools may not be enough for Windows troubleshooting, so try Sysinternals Process Monitor to find desktop performance problems.  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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• What's old, what's new for the enterprise with the Windows 8.1 update

  Microsoft's Windows 8.1 update has stirred controversy among users who still hate its interface. Features such as BYOD support may change some minds.  Continue Reading

• Click-to-Run and MSI provide Office 2013 installation options

  The Microsoft Installer has competition for Office 2013 installation. See how Office Click-to-Run allows Office 2013 to run without a full download.  Continue Reading

• Comparing Windows Defender in Windows 8 vs. third-party malware tools

  Microsoft has strengthened Windows Defender for Windows 8, but IT may find third-party anti-malware products more useful than Windows 8 Defender.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft's revised Resource Kit can ease Office 2013 deployment

  Microsoft's free Office 2013 Resource Kit provides documentation for Office 2013 deployment, as well as for management after an Office deployment.  Continue Reading

• Using Active Directory activation and other new Office 2013 tools

  Among the new Office 2013 tools for IT admins are a method for volume activation, administrative template files and files for custom installations.  Continue Reading

• New Office 2013 features can help IT pros as much as end users

  New features in Microsoft Office 2013 make desktop management more efficient. See what Office Web Apps Server, Office Telemetry and more can do.  Continue Reading

• UEFI vs. BIOs in Windows 8 for desktop startup

  The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface can speed and secure startup for today's computers, but systems that dual-boot into Linux spur controversy.  Continue Reading

• Stripping a Microsoft Office password from a document with DocRecrypt

  DocRecrypt, an Office 2013 tool, allows an admins to get into an otherwise inaccessible file by stripping it of its Microsoft Office password.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server Update Services weaknesses you may not know about

  Built-in tools such as WSUS can help with Windows patching, but you may still need other tools to verify that enterprise systems are safe.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office 2013 crackable, so look to Office password recovery

  Microsoft Office 2013 may have improved protection, but third-party tools have already cracked passwords. See how to use Office password recovery.  Continue Reading