IT applications, infrastructure and operations
IT infrastructure and operations management excellence has become essential to maintain quality control over technology-related policies, processes and equipment. Read news and tips to assist modern IT operations and infrastructure management, including strategies to ensure the proper flow of data throughout enterprise applications and other information systems.
Top Stories
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Tip
16 Apr 2025
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2025
Quantum AI: Explaining how it will impact the business world
Quantum computers could boost AI with faster training on big data and better problem-solving abilities. But combining the two in practical business applications could take years. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jul 2023
Microsoft repairs 5 zero-days for July Patch Tuesday
The company addressed 130 vulnerabilities and provided additional instructions to fully resolve several bugs, which will require extra attention from IT this month. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2023
Today's blockchain use cases and industry applications
Though not yet a mature technology, blockchain is gaining ground as a sound and generally secure method for conducting myriad transactions in numerous applications and industries. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jul 2023
6 reasons legacy systems are still in use
Staying with tried-and-true legacy systems can feel like the safest route. But as the world changes at a dizzying pace, IT leaders might want to reconsider that strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jul 2023
Replacing vs. maintaining legacy systems
Understanding issues such as which systems hinder organizational performance can help IT leaders decide which legacy systems to replace and which to maintain. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2023
Tech integration partnerships can help boost IT productivity
Enterprise Strategy Group's Doug Cahill discusses survey results that show using integrated technologies from multiple vendors can free up IT teams for strategic projects. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2023
cognitive computing
Cognitive computing is the use of computerized models to simulate the human thought process in complex situations where the answers might be ambiguous and uncertain. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2023
multiprocessing
Multiprocessing is the utilization of two or more central processing units (CPUs) in a single computer system. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2023
How to become a smart contract developer
Blockchain fundamentals, programming knowledge, security awareness, and experience in testing and debugging are among the major requirements in smart contract development. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2023
5 types of software architecture design worth knowing
While it's impossible to identify any software design style as the 'most important' to know, there are five major patterns with which all architects should arguably become familiar. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
Google Play
Google Play, formerly known as Android Market, is the official online store for digital media distributed by Google. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2023
ledger database
A ledger database is somewhat modern and commonly refers to a type of database that uses cryptographic techniques, including blockchain, to secure data and enable an immutable ledger. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jun 2023
SIPOC (suppliers, inputs, process, outputs, customers) diagram
A SIPOC (suppliers, inputs, process, outputs, customers) diagram is a visual tool for documenting a business process from beginning to end prior to implementation. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jun 2023
Server prices drop while cloud costs rise in PPI data
The U.S. government's latest inflation reading shows moderating hardware prices, which spiked in mid-2022. Cloud costs, however, have been moving in the opposite direction. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2023
June Patch Tuesday settles two Exchange Server bugs
Microsoft's plans for upcoming security hardening in Kerberos and Netlogon protocols will have admins busy with testing over the next several weeks. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2023
prototyping model
The prototyping model is a systems development method in which a prototype is built, tested and then reworked as necessary until an acceptable outcome is achieved from which the complete system or product can be developed. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jun 2023
mean time to detect (MTTD)
Mean time to detect (MTTD) is a measure of how long a problem exists in an IT deployment before the appropriate parties become aware of it. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2023
How to write an RFP for a software purchase, with template
Software buying teams should understand how to create an effective RFP. Here's a look at what components to include, along with a free, customizable template. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
A Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) is a small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2023
Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO)
A Chief Medical Information Officer, or CMIO, essentially serves as the bridge between medical and IT departments at a healthcare organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 May 2023
flow control
Flow control is a technique used to regulate data transfer between computers or other nodes in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 May 2023
load shedding
Load shedding (loadshedding) is a way to distribute demand for electrical power across multiple power sources. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 May 2023
Learn about the Azure Stack HCI benefits for admins
The hyper-converged infrastructure offering promises to reduce the headaches associated with running virtualized workloads on hardware sourced from multiple vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
Blockchain vs. database: Similarities, differences explained
Choosing between blockchain and traditional databases -- or using them together -- requires knowing how each one handles data management and the skills needed to make them work. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 May 2023
marketecture (marchitecture)
Marketecture (also known as marchitecture) refers to non-technical descriptions of a company's products or services that let various stakeholders understand the product's core functionality and how it works with other products as part of a broader ecosystem. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2023
Early-stage companies pursue the practical at CIO event
Startups in the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium's Innovation Showcase said their offerings tackle key enterprise IT concerns, from automating manual processes to cutting cloud costs. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 May 2023
4 tips CIOs can use to drive change management
CIOs and IT leaders should be key drivers of change management programs. Learn valuable tips for navigating complexity and scaling technology rollouts. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 May 2023
vendor lock-in
Vendor lock-in is a situation in which a customer using a product or service cannot easily transition to a competitor's product or service. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 May 2023
How one CIO drives business transformation through tech
Tom Peck, CIDO at Sysco, shares valuable insights into the key role that CIOs play as a transformation driver while managing emerging technologies such as AI. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2023
Improve automation skills with the AD Administrative Center
You might know that you can use PowerShell to handle repetitive Active Directory tasks. But were you aware the Active Directory Administrative Center can help write the code? Continue Reading
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News
16 May 2023
CIOs take on organizational adaptability, resilience
CIOs and other tech executives are bracing their organizations to remain flexible in a period of unpredictable developments and bounce back when they take a punch. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 May 2023
Network Configuration Protocol (NETCONF)
The Network Configuration Protocol (NETCONF) is an Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) network management protocol that provides a secure mechanism for installing, manipulating and deleting the configuration data on a network device such as a firewall, router or switch. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2023
frequency band
In telecommunications, a frequency band -- sometimes called a band -- refers to a specific range of frequencies in the electromagnetic frequency spectrum assigned to certain applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 May 2023
Generally Accepted Recordkeeping Principles (the Principles)
Generally Accepted Recordkeeping Principles is a framework for managing records in a way that supports an organization's immediate and future regulatory, legal, risk mitigation, environmental and operational requirements. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2023
Light May Patch Tuesday will weigh heavily on Windows admins
A zero-day that targets the Secure Boot feature will require extensive work from sysadmins to protect Windows systems from the Black Lotus bootkit. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 May 2023
MIT-CIO event explores digital resilience amid disruption
Allan Tate, executive chair of the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium, shares an overview of the 2023 event, including focus areas such as cybersecurity and tech evaluation. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
5 steps for mainframe migration
The complicated task of migrating time-tested mainframe environments calls for careful assessment, attention to technical details and thorough project planning. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
04 May 2023
Generative AI in the enterprise: Lessons learned
The use of generative AI in the enterprise is changing software interactions and customer engagement. Four use cases can help IT leaders better understand the tech's potential. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 May 2023
differentiated services (DiffServ or DS)
Differentiated services, often shortened to DiffServ or DS, is a class of service (CoS) model to specify and control IP network traffic by class. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2023
Unify business and IT with DevOps value stream management
Value stream management can be a powerful tool to align DevOps with the business by optimizing data analysis and improving collaboration and reporting. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2023
graceful degradation
Graceful degradation is the ability of a computer, machine, electronic system or network to maintain limited functionality even when a large portion of it has been destroyed or rendered inoperative. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Apr 2023
Get a grip on your infrastructure with a custom MMC
Microsoft provides great administration tools, such as PowerShell and Server Manager. But don't neglect the venerable Microsoft Management Console for its flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2023
Examine the benefits of data center consolidation
Many data centers have too many assets. Data center consolidation can help organizations make better use of assets, cut costs, and improve security and compliance. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
systems operator (sysop)
In IT, a systems operator (sysop) is a person who runs computer servers and other devices on a daily basis in a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
keystone jack
A keystone jack is a female connector used in audio, video and data communications. It serves as a receptacle for a matching plug, which is a male connector of the same type as the jack. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Apr 2023
Build, operate, transfer (BOT)
Build, operate, transfer (BOT) is a project management technique where a company hires a third-party firm to create a new subsidiary or product. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2023
WinZip
WinZip is a software product used to archive, compress and encrypt files in a variety of archive formats for more efficient storage and distribution. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2023
Microsoft Exchange Online Protection (EOP)
Microsoft Exchange Online Protection (EOP) is a cloud-based service that provides email filtering designed to protect organizations against spam, malware, and other email-based threats. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2023
Tips to avoid a bumpy Exchange 2010 migration to Office 365
Now that Exchange Server 2010 and Exchange 2013 are legacy products, administrators should make the push to migrate to avoid becoming the next ransomware target. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2023
Microsoft Hybrid Configuration Wizard
The Microsoft Hybrid Configuration Wizard (HCW) is a tool provided by Microsoft to help organizations set up and configure a hybrid deployment between their on-premises Exchange Server and Exchange Online, which is part of Microsoft 365. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2023
traceroute
Traceroute is a command-line utility that returns information about the communication route between two nodes on an Internet Protocol (IP) network. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2023
Apache
In computers, the Apache Software Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining many open source software projects. Continue Reading
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News
14 Apr 2023
Tech pricing dips slightly in March as broader PPI declines
Servers, storage and professional services all saw decreases in the U.S. government's latest inflation update. Will prices continue to drop or repeat last year's volatility? Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2023
reactance
Reactance is a form of opposition generated by components in an electric circuit when alternating current (AC) passes through it. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Apr 2023
prototype
A prototype is an early version of a product from which future versions are developed. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2023
Microsoft mends Windows zero-day on April Patch Tuesday
What's old is new again as multiple security updates from the past made a comeback this month to push the total number of vulnerabilities addressed to 102. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
operational-level agreement (OLA)
An operational-level agreement (OLA) is a contract that defines how various IT groups within a company plan to deliver a service or set of services. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
organizational unit (OU)
An organizational unit (OU) can refer to different things depending on the context, such as an organizational group within a company that is intended to accomplish a specific business function. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2023
IT spending priorities point to cyber, cloud and data
TechTarget's survey of IT professionals underlines the continued importance of security and cloud initiatives, as well as increased interest in data management and governance. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
transport layer
The transport layer is Layer 4 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. It is responsible for ensuring that the data packets arrive accurately and reliably between sender and receiver. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
session layer
The session layer is Layer 5 of the OSI communications model. It is the long-lived logical connection that persists between endpoints over time. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Windows Admin Center
Windows Admin Center (WAC), formerly Microsoft Project Honolulu, is a browser-based management tool from Microsoft that allows administrators to manage Windows servers and clusters from a centralized, graphical user interface. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Agile Manifesto
The Agile Manifesto is a document that identifies four key values and 12 principles that its authors believe software developers should use to guide their work. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Apr 2023
Pentium
Pentium is a widely used series of microprocessors developed by Intel Corporation. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Apr 2023
Outlook Anywhere
Microsoft Outlook Anywhere is a software feature that lets clients using Outlook 2010, Outlook 2007, or Outlook 2003 connect to the Microsoft Exchange server and access their email from outside the corporate domain without having to use a virtual private network (VPN). Continue Reading
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Guest Post
28 Mar 2023
3 strategies CIOs can use to improve IT's efficiency
In uncertain times, CIOs need to take appropriate measures to improve IT efficiency. These practical strategies can also strengthen an organization's long-term goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2023
Top 10 enterprise technology trends for 2023
IT investments underpin an organizational performance and help businesses gain a competitive edge. That's why CIOs and IT leaders should know the top enterprise tech trends. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2023
Deploy WebJEA to empower your users with PowerShell
Give your automation scripts a GUI that makes it easier for end users to get the information they need with a more streamlined approach. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2023
Sarbanes-Oxley Act
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is a federal law that established sweeping auditing and financial regulations for public companies. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2023
IT leaders drive evolution of digital transformation
Some CIOs are redefining digital transformation, while others abandon the term. What comes next will feature smaller projects, higher levels of automation and a dose of pragmatism. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2023
AWS public cloud advocate talks cloud spend, ChatGPT and ESG
In this Q&A, AWS' Mark Schwartz argues that a pure cloud future is inevitable to manage ESG compliance, test cutting edge technologies and weather economic turbulence. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
project constraint
A constraint in project management is any restriction that defines a project's limitations. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2023
Rockwell Automation manufacturer poll finds tech paralysis
Rockwell Automation's annual manufacturer survey found a third unable to choose technology and almost half struggling to achieve a return on investment on purchased technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2023
Improve IT efficiency with a PowerShell self-service portal
You can jump over the technical barriers that impede automation efforts in your organization by exploring how to deploy a web-based portal that hosts your scripts. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Mar 2023
How to prepare for the next version of Exchange Server
The Exchange Server roadmap charts several twists and turns that shows Microsoft deviating from its typical course with the server-based email platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2023
packet filtering
Packet filtering is the process of passing or blocking data packets at a network interface by a firewall based on source and destination addresses, ports or protocols. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2023
clock speed
Clock speed is the number of times a second that a circuit operates and is most associated with the central processing unit (CPU). Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2023
Connected product, a Bluetooth jump-rope, reflects digital shift
Crossrope faced hardware, software and marketing challenges -- along with the need to satisfy data-hungry fitness enthusiasts -- when it launched its first connected offering. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
IT operations management (ITOM)
IT operations management (ITOM) is a strategic approach to managing an organization's information technology needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
bare-metal provisioning
Bare-metal provisioning is the process of installing an operating system (OS) or Type 1 hypervisor directly on a computer's hard disk. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a cross-platform browser created by Microsoft and installed by default on all new Windows devices. Continue Reading
- Definition 15 Mar 2023
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
antivirus software (antivirus program)
Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other types of malware from computers, networks and other devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
Group Policy Management Console (GPMC)
Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) is a Microsoft Management Console snap-in that provides a graphical user interface that enables Active Directory (AD) administrators to manage Group Policy Objects (GPOs) from one console. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2023
Microsoft stops two zero-days for March Patch Tuesday
The company corrects actively exploited vulnerabilities that affected Microsoft Outlook and the Windows OS in this month's batch of security updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
transaction
In computing, a transaction is a set of related tasks treated as a single action. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
event stream processing (ESP)
Event stream processing (ESP) is a software programming technique designed to process a continuous stream of device data and take action on it in real time. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2023
Silicon Valley Bank failure might further stymie tech funding
While the finance and tech sectors shuddered after the sudden demise of two tech-focused banks, financial damage appears to be contained amid general slowdown in tech funding. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2023
device ID (device identification)
A device ID (device identification) is an anonymous string of numbers and letters that uniquely identifies a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch. Continue Reading
- Definition 09 Mar 2023
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
hackathon
A hackathon, also known as a codefest, is a social coding event that brings computer programmers and other interested people together to improve upon or build a new software program. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2023
proof of concept (POC)
A proof of concept (POC) is a demonstration of a product in which work is focused on determining whether an idea can be turned into a reality. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2023
URN (Uniform Resource Name)
A URN (Uniform Resource Name) is a permanent identifier for internet resources that employs the urn scheme. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2023
Why you should plan to migrate to Exchange 2019 soon
An upgrade to the latest Exchange version will bring added functionality for end users and security enhancements. But it will also help ease the transition to Exchange vNext. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2023
hard skills
Hard skills are specific abilities, capabilities and skill sets that an individual can possess and demonstrate in a measured way. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Mar 2023
pizza box server
The term 'pizza box server' refers to the shape of a computer server enclosed in a rectangular and horizontally- arranged chassis and often installed in a rack with similar servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Mar 2023
million instructions per second (MIPS)
Million instructions per second (MIPS) is a measure of a processor's speed, providing a standard for representing the number of instructions that a CPU can process in 1 second. Continue Reading
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Podcast
28 Feb 2023
New SAP blockchain applications target B2B collaboration
SAP's Benjamin Stoeckhert reveals the most common types of blockchain applications, explains SAP product offerings and gives tips on how to get started. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2023
megahertz (MHz)
Megahertz (MHz) is a unit multiplier that represents one million hertz (106 Hz). Hertz is the standard unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI). Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2023
hosting (website hosting, web hosting and webhosting)
Web hosting -- also known as website hosting or webhosting -- is the process where a web hosting provider stores and maintains website files and applications on a server to make its customers' websites accessible on the internet. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2023
10 key digital transformation tools CIOs need
A key responsibility of the CIO is to stay ahead of disruptions. Learn about digital transformation tools that could help secure an organization's long-term success. Continue Reading