Desktop management
Desktop management includes various services and utilities that IT needs to account for. This includes OS updates and upgrades, patch management, device provisioning and more. IT needs to find desktop management software or unified endpoint management (UEM) platforms to handle these tasks.
Top Stories
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Tutorial
15 Nov 2024
How to create a custom Windows 11 ISO file
With a custom Windows 11 ISO file, IT departments can streamline deployment and apply new version of Windows to repair OS instances. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2024
How to make the most of Windows Autopatch with Intune
IT administrators can use Intune to manage numerous settings related to Windows OSes and business apps. The Windows Autopatch feature can automate and improve those processes. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 Nov 2024
How to perform a Windows 11 ISO file install
The days of IT departments manually provisioning Windows OSes and company settings onto each PC are long gone, but IT staff still should know how to deploy OSes via ISO file. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Oct 2024
Omnissa-CrowdStrike union reunites management and security
Organizations have growing security and management needs, so partnerships between vendors such as the Omnissa-CrowdStrike partnership provide necessary synergy for IT staff. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is remote desktop protocol (RDP)?
Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a secure network communications protocol developed by Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2024
What's new in System Center 2025?
The key management tool for enterprises with a heavy investment in on-premises infrastructure is set for its next major release to coincide with the arrival of Windows Server 2025. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2024
How to repair Windows 11 with an ISO file
While wiping and reinstalling via a clean install is the simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 desktop, an ISO file repair can help save some of the desktop's settings and files. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2024
Understanding how the Copilot+ PC program uses AI
Organizations looking to boost productivity for key Windows users should learn what Copilot+ PCs can offer and what workflows the features can help with. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2024
What is AMD Ryzen?
AMD Ryzen is the brand name for Advanced Micro Devices' line of desktop and mobile processors. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Aug 2024
User mode vs. kernel mode: OSes explained
Kernel mode exists to keep user applications from disrupting critical system functions. Learn how each state works and what can happen when an error occurs in kernel mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2024
Use diskpart to create, delete and modify disk partitions
Diskpart is one of the oldest disk management tools in Windows, but it remains useful for its advanced capabilities in automation and granular control compared to other utilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Aug 2024
How to fix Windows 11 desktops after CrowdStrike outage
IT administrators had to jump into action after the CrowdStrike outage to recover faulty desktops. Learn how to use the Microsoft Recovery Tool to fix Windows 11 issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Aug 2024
What is a device driver?
A device driver, or driver, is a special kind of software program that controls a specific hardware device attached to a computer. Continue Reading
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News
02 Aug 2024
Intel's weak position in AI chip market leads to mass layoff
Intel's failure to profit from the red-hot AI market is behind plans to cut 15,000 jobs. The workforce reduction is part of a $10 billion cut in capital expenses in 2025. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jul 2024
Researcher: CrowdStrike blunder could benefit open source
Enterprises with the IT talent might turn to open-source software as a backup for commercial products to mitigate damage from a CrowdStrike-like IT outage, researcher said. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
25 Jul 2024
Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line
Running the Software License Manager from the command line or using Key Management Services for automatic activation can sidestep one hurdle to get going with Windows Server 2019. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2024
How to plan a Windows 11 upgrade project
The process of an upgrade to Windows 11 -- or any new desktop OS -- is a massive undertaking. IT professionals must plan out each phase carefully and test the system thoroughly. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2024
Understanding how GPOs and Intune interact
Group Policy and Microsoft Intune are both mature device management technologies with enterprise use cases. IT should know how to pick between these tools or when to use both. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Jun 2024
Is it worthwhile to upgrade to Windows 11 right now?
As Microsoft prods its customers toward Windows 11, organizations should be asking what their approach to the new OS will be and when is best for them to migrate. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
How to edit a Domain Group Policy for a Windows desktop
When IT administrators need to edit a Group Policy at the domain level, they can download the RSAT management tool and change policies from the local Windows desktop. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2024
When does AD domain-joined Group Policy override local?
There are several types of Group Policies that could exist for a particular desktop, so IT must carefully manage these different GPOs to ensure the correct policies are in place. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 May 2024
AI PCs need apps with broad use cases to gain traction
There are many ways local AI on PC hardware can help users, but the broader use cases aren't there yet. Learn about the emerging AI PC market and where it still needs to grow. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2024
How to deploy macOS compliance controls via Intune
Intune administrators can use many of the same mechanisms to manage compliance policies for Windows and macOS desktops alike. Learn how to create those policies for Macs. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2024
Creating a patch management policy: Step-by-step guide
A comprehensive patch management policy is insurance against security vulnerabilities and bugs in networked hardware and software that can disrupt your critical business processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2024
How to remove a device from Intune enrollment
When a device reaches its end of life, IT needs to remove that device from any management software, such as Microsoft Intune. But there are several removal options to learn. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2024
Google releases GenAI Creative Agent for designers, marketers
Google plants its stake in the marketing and advertising vertical with a bot tuned to help creatives craft campaigns, storyboards, images and text with generative AI. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2024
Windows XP EOL anniversary: 10 years of endpoint evolution
Windows XP EOL meant upgrading to Windows 7, but times have changed. IT pros can use the next upgrade cycle as an opportunity to reevaluate endpoints and consider DaaS or AI PCs. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2024
Guide to Linux patch management
While patching desktops has some universal aspects across systems, there are specific Linux best practices that Linux administrators need to know. Here are eight important ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Apr 2024
10 enterprise patch management best practices
It might not be the most exciting responsibility, but the value of a well-executed patch management strategy can't be denied. Use these best practices to build a smooth process. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2024
How to change a Windows device name with Intune
There are several ways that IT administrators and users can change the name of Intune-managed Windows devices, but first they must understand the different types of device names. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2024
How to create a local admin account with Microsoft Intune
Local admin accounts can cause problems for Windows administrators due to their lack of oversight and privileged account status. Learn how IT can manage these accounts with Intune. Continue Reading
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News
06 Mar 2024
Salesforce users empowered to build no-code Einstein Copilots
Salesforce admins and developers can build custom generative AI assistants for workflows across the platform for sales, service, marketing and e-commerce. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2024
How to add and enroll devices to Microsoft Intune
The Intune enrollment process can follow several paths, but one of the most common and efficient approaches involves Windows Autopilot. IT can set this up within Intune. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2024
Intel, Nvidia aim latest systems-on-a-chip at AI workstations
Nvidia's RTX 500 and RTX 1000 GPUs are for the lightest mobile workstations. Intel's Core Ultra with a built-in GPU can handle many AI-powered tasks on the workhorse computers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Feb 2024
First thoughts on VMware EUC sale to private equity firm KKR
Broadcom's sale of VMware EUC to private equity firm KKR will likely mean big changes, but the deal shouldn't be compared to Citrix's sale to Vista. Here's why. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2024
Broadcom to sell VMware EUC division to KKR for $3.8B
Customers that pair VMware's hypervisor with Horizon and Workspace One desktops might feel licensing jitters, but the deal could lead to more flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
How IT can use the gpresult command to check GPOs
When Windows issues arise, desktop administrators can use the gpresult utility to see what Group Policy settings are in place and which ones should be applied. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2024
How to deploy and force updates with gpupdate
Group Policy can be a helpful tool during the troubleshooting process. Further, refreshing a system's Group Policy settings with gpupdate can solve plenty of issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2024
What to do when Group Policy shows an access denied message
IT administrators might encounter an error message that states 'access denied' when working with Group Policy. There are a few different steps to fix a problem like this. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jan 2024
Microsoft delivers Copilot Pro, eliminates 300 seat minimum
Copilot Pro, a faster version of Microsoft's AI tool, debuts with features such as 'roll your own GPT,' where users can build custom LLMs, along with looser license requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2024
Find the best Windows 11 registry cleaner
Making changes to the Windows registry presents numerous risks for desktop administrators. Find out when to tweak the registry and what tools can help with that task. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2024
How to securely recycle enterprise computers
No matter how an organization wants to retire a device when it reaches its end of life, IT must first ensure that any sensitive data on it has been properly destroyed. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2023
How to install and set up Copilot for Microsoft 365
Copilot for Microsoft 365 offers AI-powered functionality to users, but there's more to consider before installing it. Data governance and licensing determine the setup process. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2023
How to back up, repair and restore the Windows 11 Registry
The simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 registry is to restore a backup, but that isn't always possible. Find out different methods to fix a broken registry. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Intel Core Ultra CPUs with neural processing runs AI on PCs
Intel's Core Ultra CPUs now contain embedded AI neural processing, which adds options for device manufacturers to divide demand for AI processes among different hardware resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Why businesses should recycle enterprise devices
Sustainability should be a consideration at every stage of the device lifecycle, and this doesn't stop at device retirement. Recycling enterprise devices offers several benefits. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2023
Tanium aims to be first with autonomous endpoint management
The new term 'autonomous endpoint management' aims to offer IT teams AI-driven automation that can improve employee experience and simplify device administration. Continue Reading
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Opinion
30 Nov 2023
Amazon thin client spurs conversation about replacing laptops
AWS bowed a new entry into the thin client space, which appeals to a limited audience of Amazon WorkSpaces-based orgs. What we really want is to ditch the work laptop for good. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2023
The 6 best rugged computers for business use cases
Finding the right device for a business scenario can be challenging, and adding rugged conditions to the mix can complicate things further. Learn about that endpoint market. Continue Reading
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News
27 Nov 2023
AWS' remote work gambit: Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client
AWS rolls out a computer in a Fire TV Cube box. The $195 device gives enterprises an inexpensive end-user hardware option for remote workers and promises tighter data security. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2023
What IT admins and office workers get in MS 365 Copilot
Microsoft 365's Copilot assistive AI features come with a big price tag, but experts are bullish that they could return the investment to users -- and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
How to work with the new Windows LAPS feature
Microsoft updated this automated method to manage and back up passwords for local administrator accounts on Windows desktop and server systems. See what's new with Windows LAPS. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Oct 2023
Microsoft Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)
Microsoft Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is a command-line tool that allows IT administrators to service Windows desktop images and virtual hard disks prior to deployment to users. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
DisplayPort
DisplayPort is an interface for digital displays, particularly computer monitors. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Sep 2023
Redefining DEX: Is user sentiment a requirement?
DEX technologies focus on ensuring users have the tools and high-performing technology they need. But is it a good idea to rely on user sentiment as a universal metric? Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
Using the Intune management extension for PowerShell scripts
Intune and PowerShell have a lot of unique management actions they can take, but with the help of the Intune management extension, they can communicate and manage more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Aug 2023
How to set up PowerShell remoting over SSH
Microsoft recommends using WinRM to manage Windows machines remotely, but OpenSSH offers other advantages, particularly in organizations that also use Linux systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2023
How to restart the Intune Management Extension agent service
When IT has issues with Intune deploying commands to endpoints, IT teams should consider restarting the Intune Management Extension to address lingering issues. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Aug 2023
Amazon WorkSpaces finally supports Office 365, but why now?
Microsoft has finally walked back one very specific angle of its Office 365 licensing policy, allowing enterprises to run it on Amazon WorkSpaces. Will others follow? Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2023
BIOS password
A BIOS password is authentication information that's sometimes required to log into a computer's basic input/output system (BIOS) settings before a computer boots up. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2023
Deciding which AppleCare plan is best for the enterprise
Apple provides multiple coverage and support options to supplement basic AppleCare, and it can be difficult to determine whether one will be best suited to an organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2023
A guide to Intune Suite licensing for endpoint management
With the changes to the structure of Intune and the end of Microsoft Endpoint Manager, organizations will need to reevaluate their endpoint management licensing options. Continue Reading
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Opinion
21 Jul 2023
PC as a service is an alternative and a complement to DaaS
When IT teams consider the best way to deploy and manage desktops and endpoints, PCaaS should be a strong consideration to replace or work with desktop virtualization. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2023
Maximize PC lifespans with effective PC lifecycle management
When IT departments set lifecycle policy for PCs and desktops, they will need to set the length of a PC's life for user groups. Learn how to calculate the ideal lifecycle length. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jul 2023
Evaluating the AppleCare Professional Support options
AppleCare+ isn't the only coverage and support option Apple offers. IT should consider the different AppleCare Professional Support options, including AppleCare for Enterprise. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2023
Microsoft Windows System Image Manager (SIM)
Microsoft Windows System Image Manager (SIM) is a tool in the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit that IT professionals can use to create and manage unattended setup answer files for Windows before installing the operating system. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2023
Windows reboot loop
A reboot loop (or boot loop) occurs when a Windows device unexpectedly restarts at some point during its startup process. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jul 2023
The role of Mac file and folder encryption for businesses
IT administrators can enable the Mac FileVault utility across business files and data to provide an extra layer of security and meet compliance standards. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
Understanding Microsoft Intune Suite vs. Endpoint Manager
With the release of the Intune Suite, IT administrators may wonder what that means for Microsoft Endpoint Manager and all its functions. Find out how this new Intune works. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2023
Macintosh
The Macintosh, now called the Mac, was the first widely sold personal computer (PC) with a graphical user interface (GUI) and a mouse. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2023
Is AppleCare+ worth it for enterprise organizations?
AppleCare is a useful limited warranty that comes with all Apple devices, but some organizations should consider the benefits of additional coverage options such as AppleCare+. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
hotkey
A hot key is a key or a combination of keys on a computer keyboard that, when pressed at one time, performs a task (such as starting an application) more quickly than performing a task by using a mouse or other input device. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2023
Deploying Intune's Microsoft configuration manager console
Organizations looking to deploy Microsoft Configuration Manager console must make sure to set up this platform correctly and should follow these steps. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jun 2023
4 PC lifecycle management best practices
There isn't a perfect PC lifecycle plan for all organizations, so IT teams and management should ask themselves these four questions to shape their PC policy. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jun 2023
Apple's M2 Ultra targets Mac Pro users with a need for speed
Apple debuted it fastest chip to date, the M2 Ultra, featuring new technologies to improve speed and performance. The company also showed off a new AR/VR headset. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
How to build a plan for PC and desktop lifecycle management
Comprehensive device-as-a-service plans and full in-house management are two options for desktop lifecycles, but there are plenty of in-between options that can be a good fit. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2023
Best practices for a PC end-of-life policy
Organizations that deploy PCs need a strong and clear policy to handle hardware maintenance, end of life decisions, sustainable disposal practices and more. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
desktop
A desktop is a computer display area that represents the kinds of objects found on top of a physical desk, including documents, phone books, telephones, reference sources, writing and drawing tools, and project folders. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
TrackPoint (pointing stick)
A TrackPoint, also called a pointing stick, is a cursor control device found in Lenovo ThinkPad notebook computers. Continue Reading
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News
31 May 2023
Alcion applies AI, security focus to Microsoft 365 backup
Alcion launches to combine backup and security for Microsoft 365 protection. The backup-as-a-service vendor's CEO sees a gap in data protection. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 May 2023
Mini-ITX
Mini-ITX is a compact motherboard configuration designed to support relatively low-cost computers in small spaces such as in automobiles, set-top boxes and network devices. Continue Reading
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Opinion
17 May 2023
Is it time for a new name for thin clients?
The thin client market has evolved significantly to the point where these endpoints aren't all that thin. Find out the case for renaming these devices to 'rich clients.' Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2023
treemap
A treemap is a visual method for displaying hierarchical data that uses nested rectangles to represent the branches of a tree diagram. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2023
Does macOS need third-party antivirus in the enterprise?
Macs are known for their security, but that doesn't mean they're safe from viruses and other threats. IT teams can look into third-party antivirus tools to bolster macOS security. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Apr 2023
Microsoft Windows Defender Device Guard
Windows Defender Device Guard is a security feature for Windows 10 and Windows Server designed to use application whitelisting and code integrity policies to protect users' devices from malicious code that could compromise the operating system. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2023
Setting up Windows 11 kiosk mode with 4 different methods
Windows 11 kiosk mode offers improvements over previous versions for desktop admins. IT should learn these four methods and choose the best deployment for their organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Apr 2023
mouse
A mouse is a small device that a computer user pushes across a desk surface in order to point to a place on a display screen and to select one or more actions to take from that position. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2023
Should organizations turn on the native firewall on Mac?
The native macOS firewall is off by default, so IT might wonder if it's worth it to set up the security feature. Find out how to enable the Mac firewall and why it's important. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2023
How to use the Apple Rapid Security Response updates
Typical Apple OS updates are large and infrequent, but the Rapid Security Response feature helps admins keep Apple devices patched without performing full OS updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
Google Drive
Google Drive is a cloud-based storage service that enables users to store and access files online. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2023
PC sales head south as users look for reasons to buy
PC sales continue to sag as business users and consumers remain conservative in spending and wait to see if the macroeconomic trends improve or deteriorate. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2023
9 end-user experience monitoring tools to know
The end-user experience monitoring market is chock-full of options that can be confusing to keep track of. Take a look at nine EUEM tools IT professionals should know about. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Mar 2023
Translating the experience optimization products' acronyms
When organizations look for software and services that can help monitor users, customers and IT system functionality, they need to learn what DEX, EUEM and other terms mean. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
Microsoft Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (Windows ADK)
The Microsoft Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit is a set of tools IT professionals can combine to prepare, assess and launch image-based Windows deployments. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2023
end-user experience monitoring (EUEM)
End-user experience monitoring (EUEM) is the process of monitoring the performance of IT resources from the perspective of an end user. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
Windows event log
The Windows event log is a detailed record of system, security and application notifications stored by the Windows operating system that is used by administrators to diagnose system problems and predict future issues. 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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Tip
16 Feb 2023
How to filter Security log events for signs of trouble
Certain accounts, such as company executives, will draw unwanted attention from hackers. Learn how to catch these targeted attacks by checking Windows event logs. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Feb 2023
Windows Autopilot
Windows Autopilot is a desktop provisioning tool native to Windows 10 that allows IT professionals to automate image deployment of new desktops with preset configurations. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Feb 2023
Microsoft Assessment and Planning (MAP) Toolkit
Microsoft Assessment and Planning (MAP) Toolkit is a free utility IT can use to determine whether its infrastructure is prepared for a migration to a new operating system, server version or cloud-based deployment. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Feb 2023
personal computer (PC)
A personal computer (PC) is a microcomputer designed for use by one person at a time. Continue Reading
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News
06 Feb 2023
Dell to lay off 6,650 workers, cites economy, slow PC sales
Dell joined Microsoft in cutting 5% of its workforce due to slowing PC sales. The company said the action will better position it for future growth. Continue Reading