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• ActiveX controls

  ActiveX controls are component program objects that Microsoft developed to enable applications to perform specific functions, such as displaying a calendar or playing a video. Continue Reading

• ISA Server

  Microsoft's ISA Server (Internet Security and Acceleration Server) was the successor to Microsoft's Proxy Server 2.0 and was part of Microsoft's .NET support. Continue Reading

• system tray

  The system tray (or "systray") is a section of the taskbars in the Microsoft Windows operating system user interface that provides easy access icons to the user's most commonly used apps and displays the clock. Continue Reading

• strong password

  A strong password is one that is designed to be hard for a person or program to guess. Continue Reading

• MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System)

  MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System) was the Microsoft-marketed version of the first widely-installed operating system in personal computers. Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • What is remote desktop protocol (RDP)?
  • What is a device driver?
  • software patch
  • patch catalog

  • Windows Imaging Format (WIM)
  • Task Manager
  • Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) utility
  • virtualization-based security (VBS)

  View All Definitions

• Excel

  Excel is a spreadsheet program from Microsoft and a component of its Office product group for business applications.Continue Reading

• client

  A client is a hardware or software device that requests access to a service that is typically made available by a server.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Hello

  Microsoft Windows Hello is a biometric identity and access control feature that supports fingerprint scanners, iris scanners and facial recognition technology on compatible devices running Windows.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 disk management terms and tasks IT should know

  Windows 10 disk management is a crucial function that system admins should perform. To manage Windows disks, IT must know the difference between volumes and partitions.Continue Reading

• How to perform Windows 10 disk optimization

  Normal use of a PC causes the disk drive to fragment over time, resulting in suboptimal performance. Use Windows 10 disk optimization to defragment a drive and increase efficiency.Continue Reading

• What's included in Microsoft 365 subscription plans

  Microsoft 365 has different licensing plans for all kinds of businesses. Learn about the different subscription plans that Microsoft offers for this cloud-based platform.Continue Reading

• A Microsoft 365 email migration checklist

  When an organization migrates its email servers and profiles to Microsoft 365, it could use several different processes. Sort through the five options listed below.Continue Reading

• Remote print management and security for the hybrid workforce

  Remote printing via VPN or cloud takes on critical importance as companies reshape a hybrid workforce to accommodate employees returning to the office and those who WFH.Continue Reading

• PCaaS vs. DaaS: learn the difference between these services

  While there is a lot of confusion surrounding DaaS -- devices as a service -- and PCaaS and what these services are defined as, but there may be less of a distinction than you think.Continue Reading

• How to set up MFA for Office 365 on end-user devices

  When it comes to authentication factors, more is always better from a security perspective. Find out how to deploy MFA on end-user devices for Microsoft 365 users.Continue Reading

• A complete guide to troubleshooting Windows Hello

  Windows Hello has several common issues that administrators may need to troubleshoot. Find out what those issues are here and what to do about them.Continue Reading

• Set up Windows Remote Desktop on a Mac device

  Organizations that need to enable remote workers on Mac devices should consider allowing them to remotely access Windows desktops with the Windows Remote Desktop application.Continue Reading

• How to use the Office cloud policy service with Microsoft 365

  The Office cloud policy continues Microsoft's trend of converging management utilities within Microsoft Endpoint Manager, and IT can manage all Office apps within this platform.Continue Reading

• Top 5 enterprise Linux distributions to consider adopting

  While Linux distributions all serve a similar purpose in the enterprise, organizations should still familiarize themselves with the different distributions to find the best fit.Continue Reading

• Passwordless authentication options and best practices

  Organizations that want to move away from passwords for authentication should learn the best practices for implementing passwordless authentication and which factors fit them best.Continue Reading

• Understand and manage Windows 10 virtual memory

  It can be difficult for IT pros to understand the intricacies of Windows 10 virtual memory, but they should develop a basic knowledge of virtual memory to effectively manage desktops.Continue Reading

• How CMT, MDM and EMM merged into UEM software

  The differences between CMT, MDM, EMM and UEM can be confusing. Learn how they differ and how vendors offer these capabilities in a single UEM product.Continue Reading

• How to perform a Windows Subsystem for Linux install

  Want to run Linux on a Windows desktop? Take these steps to perform a Windows Subsystem for Linux install, which includes downloading a distribution and providing authentication.Continue Reading

• How can IT enable Windows Defender Device Guard?

  IT professionals should learn how they can enable Windows Defender Device Guard to take advantage of the numerous security features it offers for Windows 10 desktops.Continue Reading

• Manage Windows 10 default file type associations with SetUserFTA

  Windows 10 default file type associations dictate which applications open for different file types. Find out how IT can manage these associations with the SetUserFTA tool.Continue Reading

• Cut through confusion of the digital workspace market

  What is a digital workspace, exactly? Find out the definition of this new technology, what it means for the future of end-user computing, and how organizations should prioritize it.Continue Reading

• How to fix printer problems after a Windows 10 update

  Windows 10 updates, especially an update to Windows 10 version 1809, can sometimes cause printer issues. You can fix these problems with these tips.Continue Reading

• How to use and troubleshoot with Device Manager in Windows 10

  Device Manager can be extremely useful if you know how to use it properly. Understand how to access and use Device Manager in Windows 10 to manage device drivers and more.Continue Reading

• 10 Microsoft Ignite 2019 sessions for Windows admins

  Windows OS admins attending Microsoft Ignite 2019 will have a variety of relevant sessions from which to choose. Consider these 10 sessions to get new management techniques and tips.Continue Reading

• Learning Thunderbolt Technology & Connections

  When Belkin sends me a miniature dock more or less out of the blue, I dig in and start learning Thunderbolt technology & connections. Good stuff, but occasionally puzzling.Continue Reading

• AI sharpens unified endpoint management tools and apps

  Endpoint management is never simple, but AI can help. In this handbook, learn how AI in UEM tools can significantly improve device security and management.Continue Reading

• 4 steps to check application compatibility with Windows 10

  Before a Windows 10 migration, IT admins should make sure all applications are compatible with the new OS. Here are four steps to get started with the process.Continue Reading

• How to automate Windows 10 imaging with Packer

  Windows 10 imaging isn't easy, especially with Microsoft's continuous release model. Here's how IT can use Packer and MDT to reuse code for Windows images and automate the process.Continue Reading

• All roads and flight paths lead to unified endpoint management

  Mobile device management, enterprise mobility management and now unified endpoint management -- how can IT keep track? Delve into the details with this handbook.Continue Reading

• How to boot to Windows Safe Mode on Windows 10

  Having problems with Windows crashes, applications or performance issues? Try booting to Windows Safe Mode on Windows 10 to pinpoint and troubleshoot the problem.Continue Reading

• How to use Windows Admin Center to manage Windows 10

  Windows Admin Center started as a Windows Server tool, but it can manage Windows 10 desktops too. Learn which features can help with Windows 10 management.Continue Reading

• What IT should know about the Microsoft Office app for Windows 10

  Microsoft released a new Microsoft Office app during an update to Windows 10. Learn about the changes that this new app brings and how to take advantage of its features.Continue Reading

• What to know about Microsoft's new Windows Sandbox mode

  Windows Sandbox is Microsoft's integrated Windows 10 sandbox environment to test applications and files in isolation. Learn about the new program and its features.Continue Reading

• 5 digital workspace components to look for

  The ideal digital workspace should handle a variety of tasks. By focusing on these five digital workspace components, IT pros can find the right platform to meet their needs.Continue Reading

• How to create Windows 10 toast notifications with PowerShell

  IT can send pop-up notifications to a Windows 10 user's taskbar with a PowerShell module called BurntToast. Here's how to get started creating toast notifications.Continue Reading

• Unified endpoint management systems harness upsurge in devices

  As more endpoints enter the IT landscape, a UEM tool becomes more critical. Learn how UEM can help simplify the complexities of endpoint management.Continue Reading

• Digital workspaces upgrade IT delivery, management benefits

  Thanks to more simplified management and delivery, digital workspaces can benefit IT pros and users. This guide takes a closer look at the technology and latest features.Continue Reading

• What IT needs to know about Windows 10 update troubleshooting

  The Windows update process can cause a whole slew of problems for users and IT. Get acquainted with these Windows 10 update troubleshooting tips and make the process a lot easier.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 customizations for enterprise desktops

  Microsoft offers different services that IT can use to adjust its users' desktop experience. These Windows 10 customizations are a must in an admin's toolbox.Continue Reading

• Quiz yourself on top features of Windows 10

  With each update, Microsoft introduces many new features that it can be hard to keep track of. Challenge yourself on how well you know these Windows 10 key features and other terms.Continue Reading

• How to find Wi-Fi settings in Windows 10

  In Windows 10, the Wi-Fi -- and wired -- connectivity settings are in a new spot, but they're as easy to access and configure as ever. You just have to know where to look.Continue Reading

• Learn about the device-as-a-service model and its use cases

  Device-as-a-service offerings can help IT pros provide their users with support and high-functioning devices, but they must consider the ramifications of choosing such a program.Continue Reading

• How can you improve Google Chrome management?

  IT professionals should deploy Group Policies to their browsers to improve the user experience. Check out this step-by-step guide on applying Group Policies to Google Chrome.Continue Reading

• How does Parallels Mac Management for Microsoft SCCM work?

  With Mac Management from Parallels, IT professionals can manage Windows and Apple macOS desktops side by side with System Center Configuration Manager's native features.Continue Reading

• Modern desktop transformation focuses on workspace technology

  As workspaces trend toward mobility and device flexibility, IT departments must evolve to fit users' needs by moving away from a desktop-centric approach.Continue Reading

• How to set up a Windows Autopilot deployment

  IT can set profiles for its devices running Windows 10 and enroll them in Active Directory with the Windows Autopilot tool, but Autopilot does not cover many settings.Continue Reading

• The complete guide to Windows 10 security tools

  IT professionals must carefully consider which security tools they use to protect their Windows 10 desktops. They may want to stray from the Microsoft path in some instances.Continue Reading

• Can you put together an efficient help desk system?

  Help desk software should not be an organization's only plan for incident management. An effective help desk should include agreed-upon timelines, a knowledge base and more.Continue Reading

• Understanding third-party Windows 10 security tools

  Third-party security tools provide value and new utilities for Windows 10 desktop administrators. IT should consider non-Microsoft options for patching, firewalls and more.Continue Reading

• Create an email phishing test to minimize attack vectors

  With email phishing testing, IT can improve its end-user security. Phishing attacks prey on user ignorance, so IT can use a test to teach users how to avoid this attack vector.Continue Reading

• What does a Windows 10 digital certificate do?

  IT pros can build trust into Windows 10 by adding certificates that form trusted connections by confirming the identity of any individuals or entities communicating with the OS.Continue Reading

• Windows Defender Application Guard

  Windows Defender Application Guard is a security tool built into Microsoft Edge that isolates browser sessions from the desktop in a virtual machine (VM) to prevent any malicious activity from reaching the desktop.Continue Reading

• How to create an internal phishing campaign from scratch

  When IT begins an email phishing campaign, it must determine what server the emails will come from, consider phishing tool options and more.Continue Reading

• Understand Windows Insider Program for Business options

  With its business-friendly Insider Program, Microsoft allows IT and users to test Windows 10 preview builds for compatibility and performance issues.Continue Reading

• 8 VMworld 2018 sessions for EUC admins to attend

  Put your plan in place now by exploring eight of the top sessions on Windows management, VDI and more at VMworld 2018 in Las Vegas.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 Update Assistant

  Windows 10 Update Assistant is a native update management tool designed to help individual users keep up with OS updates as Microsoft publishes them.Continue Reading

• Get smart with IAM tools for your EUC strategy

  Identity and access management (IAM) is an evolving market that now includes software and services that incorporate machine learning, analytics and microservices. IT departments can use IAM tools to strengthen end-user security. This month's cover ...Continue Reading

• Desktop and mobile malware detection takes on high priority

  End-user computing professionals must embrace modern Windows and mobile malware protection technologies to defend against ransomware and other attacks.Continue Reading

• Create an effective email phishing test in 7 steps

  The best way for IT to improve email phishing security is through comprehensive testing, which helps identify which users are susceptible and what type of fake email is most effective.Continue Reading

• Top Windows 10 April 2018 Update features you need to know

  Microsoft's latest update to Windows 10 helps IT pros and users alike. On the user front, Focus Assist can help employees silence notifications while they work.Continue Reading

• Effective end-user management helps fuel productivity

  To keep users at their most effective, IT pros must focus on security, pick the right productivity apps, consider companion apps and more.Continue Reading

• How to create a custom Windows 10 image for deployment

  IT pros can build a Windows 10 image with custom apps, Start menu tools and more that they can easily deliver throughout the organization.Continue Reading

• It's time to relinquish control over operating system updates

  For the most part, vendors and manufacturers are in control of operating system updates today. IT admins won't be getting their powers back anytime soon.Continue Reading

• Four factors to consider when you migrate to Windows 10

  When making the move to Windows 10, there are some important factors for IT to keep in mind, including whether to perform an in-place upgrade or a clean installation.Continue Reading

• How AI and machine learning affect end-user computing

  End-user computing administrators need to start paying attention to AI and machine learning, not because these technologies will take over their jobs, but because they can bring productivity benefits to both business software and IT management tools...Continue Reading

• Does Windows 10 virtualization-based security defend the OS?

  With Windows 10, Microsoft emphasized virtualization-based security, such as Device Guard and Credential Guard, to keep corporate information off users' devices.Continue Reading

• How to use a technician machine to create a custom Windows 10 image

  IT pros must be able to mold Windows 10 into the OS their organization needs. To do so, they need to first learn to install Windows 10 on a technician machine.Continue Reading

• How to build and use a bootable recovery partition in Windows 10

  Understanding how to set up a bootable recovery partition in Windows 10 allows you to restore a damaged OS or troubleshoot a litany of problems.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office 365 suite

  Microsoft Office 365 suite is a hosted, online version of Microsoft Office software. IT administrators access it from a web-based portal to set up new user accounts, control access to features and see the status of all Office 365 services and tools.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

• How does Windows AppLocker work?

  Windows AppLocker lets you use rules to whitelist or block applications based on attributes such as publisher or path, but it's not a comprehensive application control tool.Continue Reading

• What are Microsoft Windows 10 update rings?

  Microsoft's Insider Program lets members choose from two different update rings -- a fast and a slow speed -- to get OS updates on their Windows 10 machines.Continue Reading

• Can I customize the Windows 10 Start menu?

  In Windows 10 there are four options you can use to turn off different features of the Start menu and customize it to your liking.Continue Reading

• What is the best way to transition from Windows XP to Windows 10?

  If you're still on Windows XP, there's really only one Microsoft-supported way you can move from XP to Windows 10.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 guide for IT administrators

  Windows 10 boasts of bevy of features, including Contiuum, Universal Windows apps, Cortana and improved security. Before you migrate to the latest OS, read up on what it has to offer.Continue Reading

• What is the multiple desktop feature in Windows 10?

  The Windows 10 multiple desktop features gives workers the feel of using multiple monitors on the same screen, which can increase productivity for users that keep many windows open at once.Continue Reading

• Is Windows 10 really the last version of Windows?

  Microsoft has said that Windows 10 is the last version of Windows, and that's sort of true. Rather than releasing Windows 11 in years to come, the company will deploy perpetual updates to Windows 10.Continue Reading

• How do I build Apportals in Windows 8.1?

  Windows Apportals let you put the applications certain user groups need right in front of them, but you need some development knowledge and a Windows Developer License if you want to build them yourself.Continue Reading

• Can you provision desktop apps with Windows To Go?

  It's OK to install desktops applications on a Windows To Go image, as long as they're small enough to fit on the USB drive and can run locally.Continue Reading

• What are my options for configuring Windows 8 startup?

  The System Configuration tool features four tabs of options you can use to configure Windows 8 startup.Continue Reading

• How do I open an .xpx file in Office 2002 SP3?

  An .xpx file can cause problems for Office 2002 SP3 users, but Microsoft does provide help in Windows 7 and with a free XPS viewer.Continue Reading

• Why doesn't closing a file return me to Microsoft Windows Explorer?

  If you open a Windows document in Windows Explorer rather than in the Microsoft Word interface, closing it launches File Explorer. The file hasn't moved.Continue Reading

• What are some alternatives to Windows Defender?

  Windows Defender is useful for Windows 8 security, but it can't keep up with malicious software alone. Several third-party products can help.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Click-To-Run

  Microsoft Click-to-Run is a way to quickly install Microsoft products, including versions of Office 2010 and Office 2013. Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE)

  The Microsoft Windows Recovery Environment, or Windows RE, is a simplified, scaled-back version of the Windows operating system that is used to boot the system when Windows 8.x, Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2 can't.Continue Reading

• client-side extension (CSE)

  A client-side extension (CSE) is an integral component of enterprise group policy administration that applies Group Policy to users or endpoint systems.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

• 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

• If you're not using Windows Sysinternals tools, you should be

  Windows Sysinternals tools can make work a lot easier for IT administrators, but many people don't even know the suite exists. Get with the program!Continue Reading

• AppX file

  AppX is the application distribution file format that was introduced with Microsoft Windows 8.Continue Reading

• desktop personalization

  Desktop personalization is the process of adjusting the look, feel and organization of a Windows end-user experience.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

• 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