Tips

Tips

• Windows Phone 8 security should be part of any mobile device strategy

  Windows Phone 8 security is yet another thing for IT admins to consider, but mobile device management policies and systems should include it.  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

• Securing Windows systems with Microsoft's free Attack Surface Analyzer

  Attack Surface Analyzer, free Microsoft software, takes snapshots of Windows systems, giving admins a view into potential security vulnerabilities.  Continue Reading

• Using Windows 8 AppLocker and application sideloading in Windows 8

  Windows 8 AppLocker, which IT can use to set policies for which apps can run on enterprise desktops, should be in every administrator's toolbox.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft improves Windows 8 DirectAccess as a VPN alternative

  Microsoft has made Windows 8 DirectAccess easier for small businesses to deploy, providing IT more control over Windows remote access than with a VPN.  Continue Reading

• Windows System Control Center organizes utilities for admin toolboxes

  Just as Windows Sysinternals gathers freeware tools, Windows System Control Center collects numerous Windows utilities, including those from NirSoft.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft RemoteFX and BranchCache add functions to Windows 8

  Notable features in Windows 8 Enterprise Edition include Microsoft Remote FX for virtual desktops and BranchCache for satellite locations.  Continue Reading

• Windows 8 Enterprise has notable features not in Windows 8 Pro

  Windows 8 Enterprise has features absent in the Windows 8 Professional edition, including Windows To Go and DirectAccess.  Continue Reading

• Examining what's new in Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack 2012

  The Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack aids with Windows management and virtual apps. MDOP 2012 includes updates to User Experience Virtualization.  Continue Reading

• What's new with Windows 8 SSD storage management and defragmentation

  How Windows 8 Storage Optimizer handles storage allocation and defragmentation has improved with Windows 8 SSD management.  Continue Reading

• IT needs to keep up with workers who use desktop cloud backup

  While enterprise IT wants users to back up their data, you should review desktop cloud services to make sure they're efficient, compatible and secure.  Continue Reading

• Assessing the pros and cons of Linux desktop environments

  Linux has moved from servers to the desktop, providing options beyond Windows 8. See how licensing, support and compatibility affect Linux desktops.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows certification moving toward expiration dates

  Expiration dates for Microsoft Windows certification may go away, as the company changes its credentials scheme from platforms to products.  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

• Comparing Office 2013 and Office 365 pricing, packages

  We explain the differences between Microsoft Office 365 and Office 2013, including the evolution of Office and Microsoft Office pricing.  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

• Top 10 Windows tips of 2012

  Check out the most-read Windows tips of 2012. Microsoft Windows 8, Windows Store apps and Office 2013 dominated your interests this year.  Continue Reading

• Java malware, fileless malware pose threats to desktop security

  Conventional antivirus software can't detect fileless malware, and recent attacks highlighted Java vulnerabilities on Windows and Mac OS machines.  Continue Reading

• Windows 8 app development: What you need to know

  For successful Windows 8 app development, IT should consider things such as the processor type, hardware and contact sharing when preparing apps.  Continue Reading

• Windows XP end of support: What are the risks for users?

  As the Windows XP end of support nears, see what IT admins should do to prepare for the end of life of Microsoft's venerable OS.  Continue Reading

• Don't ignore Windows 8 security when reviewing desktop vulnerabilities

  Microsoft Windows 8 security may not be at the top of IT admins' to-do lists, but they should pay attention to the OS's features and flaws.  Continue Reading

• Simplifying Windows 7 troubleshooting tasks with built-in tools

  There are numerous tools for Windows 7 troubleshooting and management, and here are some helpful ones that IT admins may have overlooked.  Continue Reading

• Another look at Windows Sysinternals finds yet more useful tools

  Our expert takes another look at Windows Sysinternals and finds more potentially useful tools for Windows management, troubleshooting and security.  Continue Reading

• Examining alternatives to Windows 8

  As enterprise IT gets ready for Windows 8, some are opting out and looking at alternative operating systems. Let's explore some Windows alternatives.  Continue Reading

• What we know so far about Microsoft Office 2013

  We do have some early knowledge of Microsoft Office 2013. Check out what we know so far in this FAQ.  Continue Reading

• How to manage portable passwords with storage apps and devices

  Tracking multiple passwords is a hassle. Our expert takes a look at encrypted files and a password management app for portable password use.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft USMT: Answering Windows 7 migration questions

  IT shops can get help from Microsoft USMT for Windows XP to Windows 7 migrations. But first, be ready to answer some questions.  Continue Reading

• Windows Intune gives desktop management a cloud-based facelift

  Windows Intune helps offload administrator responsibility by placing desktop management in the cloud and, ultimately, into the hands of end users.  Continue Reading

• Hedging your bets on Microsoft Software Assurance

  Microsoft Software Assurance requires enterprises to roll the dice on upgrades vs. unneeded expense. IT shops can improve their odds, however.  Continue Reading

• How to install Windows 8 on your laptop in just 45 minutes

  The process of installing the Windows 8 Consumer Preview isn't difficult. Follow these steps and get to testing Microsoft's new OS in under an hour.  Continue Reading

• What type of Windows user profile should you use?

  Windows user profiles come in a few flavors: local, roaming and mandatory. Each one offers different availability and performance to IT and users.  Continue Reading

• Full-disk encryption can save IT grief from lost laptops

  Full-disk encryption can help enterprises comply with data security regulations, but it can hurt performance. See if the pros outweigh the cons for this laptop protection measure.  Continue Reading

• Rootkit detection and malware removal FAQ

  This malware FAQ guide provides several tips and tools on rootkit detection, prevention and removal.  Continue Reading

• Using desktop management software for physical vs. virtual desktops

  Desktop management software is necessary for both physical and virtual desktop environments. IT has different endpoint management tasks for each, such as hardware inventory.  Continue Reading

• Patching Windows FAQ: Securing desktops as a Windows admin

  Admins need to stay abreast of security vulnerabilities and ways to patch them. These tips for patching Windows can help IT assess what needs to be patched and various patch tools.  Continue Reading

• Use data loss prevention software to secure endpoints from malicious insiders

  Mobile devices make it easier than ever for malicious insiders to take sensitive data from the enterprise. Data loss prevention software can help with endpoint security management.  Continue Reading

• Windows Runtime and Metro style can make a sysadmin's life easier

  If you're thinking about migrating to Windows 8, it's best to know the programming foundation Windows RT and how it can put an administrator's mind at ease.  Continue Reading

• A first look at Microsoft Office 15 features

  Microsoft is set to release Windows 8 later this year, as well as the Microsoft Office 15 beta. But how will users cope with learning new Office 15 features?  Continue Reading

• Deploying Windows 7: Four hardware-based lessons we've learned

  When you deploy Windows 8, remember what you learned from your Windows 7 implementation. Windows 7 taught us to use SSDs and that a hardware upgrade isn't always necessary.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft licensing FAQ: Watching Windows 8, BYOD and the cloud

  Microsoft licensing rules have always been complex, but IT might not know how they apply to VDI and mobile devices. As Windows 8 and Office 15 approach, see whether you comply.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Security Compliance Manager enhances desktop security

  Security baselines in the free Microsoft Security Compliance Manager tool can enhance desktop security by standardizing configurations, as well as help with the IT audit process.  Continue Reading

• Group Policy settings FAQ: Why they matter

  Group Policy settings in Microsoft's Active Directory are useful not only for managing user access and applications, but IT admins can also apply them to desktop and server security.  Continue Reading

• What place do biometric passwords have in enterprise security?

  Traditional passwords and smart cards alone may not be enough to protect data anymore, so biometric passwords could be the next big thing in enterprise security.  Continue Reading

• Tuning and tweaking device drivers on the Windows 8 Consumer Preview

  The Windows 8 Consumer Preview recognizes most hardware, but you should keep up on OS and chipset developments and review Windows device drivers. Here's where to start.  Continue Reading

• Delivering Windows device drivers made easy with deployment images

  Windows device drivers are needed to get a variety of hardware to work together. The deployment image for updating operating systems and apps can facilitate desktop maintenance.  Continue Reading

• Mac OS X Lion security flaws no longer a reason to delay adoption

  Mac OS X Lion security vulnerabilities have delayed adoption since Apple released the operating system. After some much-needed updates, is the OS finally enterprise-ready?  Continue Reading

• How Microsoft OneNote 2010 can improve productivity, organization

  If organization isn't your strong suit, you can get help from Microsoft OneNote 2010. This powerful tool can save important emails, documents and more in easy-to-find locations.  Continue Reading

• Endpoint management FAQ for desktop admins

  The proliferation of consumer endpoints and concerns about mobile endpoint security are giving IT headaches. Answering these endpoint management questions could ease your pain.  Continue Reading

• Desktop backup oversights that can get you into a bind

  Enterprise policy and regulatory requirements dictate that desktop backups cover data and apps, but many people still save only locally. Here's how to overcome that risky behavior.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft OneNote 2010: Office's best-kept productivity secret

  Microsoft OneNote lives in the shadows of other Office programs, but it can be one of the most useful. OneNote 2010 helps organize data, emails, notes and more all in one place.  Continue Reading

• Desktop patch management software features: A checklist

  Desktop patch management is a critical function, but the amount of patch management software can be overwhelming. Focus on the most important patch management software features.  Continue Reading

• Supercookies take a bite out of enterprise desktop security

  Supercookies pose the latest threat to enterprise desktop security. Many IT shops aren't yet aware of these new tracking cookies in Flash, let alone how to stop them.  Continue Reading

• Why the Windows 8 tablet PC will fail

  The Windows 8 tablet PC was supposed to play to Microsoft's enterprise strengths, but if it can't join a domain, what good is it?  Continue Reading

• How application whitelisting can help prevent advanced malware attacks

  Advanced malware can be tricky, but application whitelisting on desktops can provide an additional layer of protection against malware attacks.  Continue Reading

• One Windows management console to rule them all: Will it ever happen?

  A single Windows management console is IT's dream, but it may not be attainable. Figuring out how to handle multiple dashboards is the next best thing, and several tools can help.  Continue Reading

• Windows 8 FAQ: Windows 8 features, news and more

  Now that the consumer preview is out, we have more information about new Windows 8 features. This Windows 8 FAQ has the latest Windows 8 news and analysis.  Continue Reading

• Free open source security tools for finding and fixing Windows flaws

  IT pros searching for ways to find Windows flaws should look no further. This list of must-have free open source security tools provides numerous options for staying a step ahead.  Continue Reading

• Windows 7 improvements: Hype vs. reality

  It has been almost three years since Microsoft's previous OS release, so it's time to see if Windows 7 improvements, such as the Aero user interface, have lived up to IT expectations.  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

• Targeted malware attacks, social engineering schemes threaten desktops

  Targeted malware attacks and social engineering schemes such as phishing and whaling pose a growing security threat because cybercriminals are getting help from unwitting users.  Continue Reading

• Using Group Policy settings to lock down enterprise desktop security

  Enterprise desktop security involves many moving parts, but Group Policy settings can help. Use them to manage IE and Outlook, as well as Windows 7's Control Panel and UAC.  Continue Reading

• Desktop audit checklist: Five steps to a successful desktop audit

  Now that 2012 has begun, consider doing a desktop audit to get your IT house in order. A strong desktop audit checklist can help you manage hardware, software and applications better.  Continue Reading

• Don't ignore mobile security effects on enterprise desktop management

  Mobile devices are the new endpoints, so they must be protected as well as -- or better than -- stationary endpoints. Read some advice on boosting enterprise mobile security.  Continue Reading

• With Microsoft server software, desktop licensing costs can add up

  Licensing Microsoft server software per desktop is tempting, but do the math. The desktop licensing costs can sneak up on you if you're not careful.  Continue Reading

• The year's top 10 security news and tips

  With increasing security threats, IT pros are always looking for ways to increase desktop protection. Find out which 10 security stories of 2011 were most popular among readers.  Continue Reading

• Top desktop-related news and tips of 2011

  In 2011, Microsoft software and both Windows 7 and 8 operating systems were all hot topics on SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com. Here's a list of the year's top desktop content.  Continue Reading

• Windows desktop maintenance checklist for the holidays

  With the holiday season upon us, IT pros may have some extra time on their hands. Here are a few Windows desktop maintenance items to take care of while the office is mostly empty.  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

• Microsoft may demand recertification for all credentials

  Microsoft's Windows certification programs have been changing, and some now require re-examination. Our expert discusses the possibility of recertification for all credentials.  Continue Reading

• Why 32-bit Microsoft apps persist on 64-bit Windows desktops

  While Microsoft’s latest server products are 64-bit, Windows desktop apps come in 32- and 64-bit versions. In some cases -- such as Outlook 2010 -- the old 32-bit version wins.  Continue Reading

• BitLocker's improvements leave gaps to be aware of

  Microsoft's BitLocker encryption tool is built into the Windows operating system, but is it completely free? Beware of some hidden costs that could outweigh improvements.  Continue Reading

• Balancing desktop and workload management virtually or physically

  Desktop management can be a challenge, but what happens when desktops are virtualized? Our expert describes how IT admins can successfully control them through virtual desktop infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• Full-system encryption with BitLocker vs. third-party alternatives

  The BitLocker feature in Windows allows for full-system encryption, but it may not do everything you need. Consider third-party encryption products, but be aware of their costs.  Continue Reading

• Best practices: Standardizing client deployment

  Are you refreshing your hardware in the coming year? Our expert presents some tips on how to go about standardizing your client deployment with minimal fuss.  Continue Reading

• What to expect from Windows 8 if you're an IT manager

  The release of Windows 8 is still a year or so away, but our expert explains what IT pros can expect from the new OS, including an app store and new virtualization features.  Continue Reading

• Considering IPv6 support in Windows 7 shops

  Internet Protocol version 4 addresses will soon be exhausted, so organizations with Windows 7 PCs will need to consider adding support for the new IPv6 addresses.  Continue Reading

• Top three inexpensive desktop upgrades -- in bang-for-the-buck order

  Here are some quick pointers about how to go about inexpensively refreshing your hardware. Our expert outlines the top three upgrades in bang-for-the-buck order.  Continue Reading

• Top features worth considering in Microsoft Office 2010

  In the final segment of his three-part tip, our expert discusses his favorite features in Microsoft Office 2010 -- including Word, Excel and Outlook.  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

• Responding to the top three iPad complaints in the enterprise

  The iPad is making its way into the enterprise, so you're bound to encounter difficulties with it. Here are the top three complaints you might come across and ways to resolve them.  Continue Reading

• The what, why and how of wireless intrusion-prevention systems

  Trying to figure out if a wireless intrusion-prevention system is right for your enterprise? Find everything you need to know about WIPS here.  Continue Reading

• Top reasons your business shouldn't go to Office 2010 -- yet

  Migrating to Microsoft Office 2010 takes planning, time and money. Our expert explains why some businesses should wait to adopt the latest versions of Word and Excel.  Continue Reading

• Why your business shouldn't move to Office 2010 and Outlook just yet

  Continuing his series on Microsoft Office 2010, our expert looks at more reasons why enterprises may want to wait to move to the latest version of it and apps such as Outlook.  Continue Reading

• Exposing Windows vulnerabilities by using Metasploit

  Rather than wait for a malicious user to infiltrate your system, find out how to use Metasploit to expose the missing patches in time to protect your desktops.  Continue Reading

• How Windows 8 could affect the future of Microsoft Hyper-V

  With the release of Windows 8 approaching, a revised version of Microsoft Hyper-V will be included in both desktop and server versions. Find out what this new version has to offer.  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

• Automating Windows 7 Deployment: tools and strategies

  Enterprises have some decisions to make as they deploy Windows 7. Should they use Microsoft's tools or use third-party options? Here are some steps to follow and example tools.  Continue Reading

• Integrating Windows Phone 7 with SharePoint enterprise systems

  Accessing anything on a Windows Phone 7 with SharePoint requires Unified Access Gateway. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to create the SharePoint application in UAG.  Continue Reading

• Enterprise password protection checklist

  Everyone should know by now that passwords are often the weakest link in enterprise security. Here's a password protection checklist for both end users and IT managers.  Continue Reading

• Using Windows 7 management tools to your advantage

  The potential benefits of the management tools that come with Windows 7 have yet to be realized by many enterprises. Our expert picks three of his favorites.  Continue Reading

• The limitations of restoring files in Windows using Previous Versions

  Microsoft's Previous Versions function can retrieve files, but only copies made during a system checkpoint or snapshot. Our expert found a third-party backup tool to span the gap.  Continue Reading

• How much should employees know about Microsoft software licensing?

  Here are some guidelines for what Microsoft licensing information that employees -- from line-of-business managers to systems administrators -- should be familiar with.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2010: Configuring the deployment database

  Find out how to use the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit to configure a database to apply apps, operating systems and more to various computers in order to install Windows.  Continue Reading

• What to do when USB flash drives refuse to mount in Windows

  If you're having trouble figuring out why a USB flash drive won't mount in your PC, this expert tip will help by providing advice on how to fix such a problem.  Continue Reading

• Why aren't you using Metasploit to expose Windows vulnerabilities?

  Many enterprise IT shops run vulnerability scans, pronounce systems at risk and leave it at that. Metasploit can help you find Windows flaws and demonstrate the value of security.  Continue Reading

• Why you should take notice of Microsoft's licensing rules

  Microsoft's software licensing is notoriously complicated, but you can learn to tame the process, from procurement to asset management.  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

• Why Microsoft wants you to make the move to Office 365

  Here are some of Microsoft's motivations to get enterprises onto Office 365. Make sure your own motivations are in alignment.  Continue Reading