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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Tip
17 Dec 2024
What IT needs to know about Windows 10 Print Management
With the Windows 10 Print Management utility, Windows administrators can make the most of printing settings and avoid errors leading to lost productivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2024
See what's new in Desired State Configuration v3
Avoid unexpected surprises, and learn how to bring consistency to your on-premises infrastructure and cloud resources with the overhauled configuration management tool. 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
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Definition
06 Feb 2023
soft reset
A soft reset is a restart of a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or personal computer (PC). Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
Speed up onboarding with Active Directory user templates
Active Directory account templates are not difficult to make. But it helps to know how to use certain shortcuts, like variables, to create home directories and roaming profiles. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Feb 2023
Windows 7
Windows 7 is the Microsoft Windows operating system (OS) released commercially in October 2009 as the successor to Windows Vista. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Feb 2023
Understand the emerging digital employee experience market
The emerging market of digital employee experience is a very broad concept with many components and several major players touching different aspects of this process. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2023
3 tips to reduce enterprise e-waste
Sustainable device management is an important area CIOs and IT teams should focus on to support organizational ESG goals. Learn how it can also help lower e-waste and save money. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2023
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface)
Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) is a standard to transmit and store music, originally designed for digital music synthesizers. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2023
5 steps to identify and fix Windows 11 performance issues
Windows 11 administrators may encounter numerous desktops with varying performance issues. Follow these steps to identify the root cause of the performance issues and fix them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2023
Troubleshooting the most common issues with Windows 11
When Windows 11 administrators encounter an issue with a desktop without a clear fix, they should perform general troubleshooting steps in a specific order to minimize risk. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2023
Microsoft layoff signals shift from rapid hiring to caution
Microsoft's layoff of 10,000 workers follows a similar tech industry pattern: rapid employment growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a relatively modest cutback. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Slowing PC sales spark lower prices
PC prices are dropping as manufacturers lower prices to move inventory. Market saturation following the pandemic is a significant factor in the drop in sales. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2023
Thousands of Citrix, Tibco employees laid off following merger
Cloud Software Group lays off 2,250 workers following major changes to sales and product development after merging Citrix Systems with Tibco Software. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jan 2023
Intel releases Raptor Lake chips for laptops, mobile devices
Hoping to gain back market share from AMD, Intel debuted what it believes is the fastest processor for mobile devices. The new processor contains a record 24 cores. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Dec 2022
Sysprep (System Preparation Tool)
Sysprep is Microsoft's System Preparation tool intended to duplicate, test and deliver new installations for the Windows operating system based on an established installation. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Dec 2022
fully qualified domain name (FQDN)
A fully qualified domain name (FQDN) is the complete address of an internet host or computer. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Dec 2022
The enterprise endpoint device market heading into 2023
Modern enterprise organizations have numerous options to choose from on the endpoint market. Learn about some of the main offerings that business leaders should consider. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Nov 2022
desktop computer
A desktop computer is a personal computing device designed to fit on top of a typical office desk. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2022
digital workspace
A digital workspace is an integrated technology framework that centralizes the management of an enterprise's applications, data and endpoints, allowing employees to collaborate and work remotely. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2022
general-purpose computer
A general-purpose computer is one that, given the application and required time, should be able to perform the most common computing tasks. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2022
hard-drive encryption
Hard-drive encryption is a technology that encrypts the data stored on a hard drive using sophisticated mathematical functions. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Nov 2022
display
In computing, a display is a device with a screen that shows a rendered electronic image made up of pixels that are illuminated in a way that distinguishes text and graphic elements. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2022
default password
A default password is a standard preconfigured password for a device or software. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Oct 2022
How to avoid common GPO backup and restore problems
Group Policy Objects help admins maintain control of the enterprise environment, but it takes some planning to understand how to properly protect and recover GPOs to avoid trouble. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2022
Questions remain following Citrix-TIBCO merger
Investment firms Vista Equity Partners and Evergreen Coast Capital completed the acquisition of Citrix, but questions about partnerships and potential product spinoffs remain. Continue Reading
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News
28 Sep 2022
Intel expands Developer Cloud, updates GPUs, CPUs
Administrators who manage many users can go one step further toward streamlining license assignments by taking advantage of a new feature from Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2022
How Windows 11 Safe Mode works and when to use it
Windows 11 desktops can run into problems that don't have a clear cause. Safe Mode runs a pared-down version of the OS, making it easier to identify and solve system issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2022
How to fix Windows 11 when it keeps restarting
When a Windows 11 desktop keeps restarting, there are a few factors that may be behind the issue. IT administrators should understand all the possible causes and how to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2022
How to perform a factory reset on a Windows 11 desktop
A factory reset may be necessary when a device has performance issues or is set to go to a new user. IT can execute this process in Windows 11 while avoiding unwanted data loss. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2022
HP, Dell report cooling PC sales as business demand wavers
Businesses have delayed and reduced their desktop and laptop orders from HP and Dell, executives reported. The PC market has weakened after a two-year winning streak. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2022
7 benefits of PCaaS that businesses should know
Organizations that take on a PCaaS agreement will have to pay monthly costs, but the benefits they receive, including lifecycle management and support, provide plenty of value. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2022
PC shipments plummet as market boom ends
PC manufacturers shipped fewer than 80 million computers for the first time in seven quarters as low demand and supply chain issues hit the market, IDC reports. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jul 2022
How to choose a PCaaS vendor
The PC-as-a-service and device-as-a-service market is still developing and maturing, so organizations should learn who the major vendors are and how these services work. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jun 2022
Windows Registry Editor (regedit)
The Windows Registry Editor (regedit) is a graphical tool in the Microsoft Windows operating system (OS) that enables authorized users to view the Windows registry and make changes. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jun 2022
Apple Mac performance, features boost business appeal
The upcoming MacBook Air and Pro models will feature Apple's high-performing M2 chip, which will help workers in creative businesses edit videos and images faster. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 May 2022
What is desktop management and how does it work?
Desktop management is a comprehensive approach to managing all the computers within an organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
How to support Mac computers in Windows environments
Organizations that support both Windows and Mac desktops must approach them differently, but there is plenty of overlap with the tools and practices they can use. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2022
Comparing 8 desktop management software options for business
Organizations that need desktop management software should survey a variety of platform types. UEM can often provide the most value and functionality in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2022
How to enroll and manage Mac devices with Intune MDM
Organizations may turn to basic MDM platforms to help manage Mac devices in a Windows-focused environment. Often, these platforms provide just enough management. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2022
5 macOS management software options for the enterprise
While Windows desktops are still the leading OS in the enterprise, organizations have adopted macOS desktops, and each OS requires a different management approach. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2022
desktop management interface (DMI)
The desktop management interface (DMI) is a standard industry framework that manages and tracks components on one or more personal computers, usually from a centralized console. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2022
font
The word 'font' refers to a set of printable or displayable typography or text characters in a specific style and size. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2022
remote desktop
A remote desktop is a program or an operating system feature that allows a user to connect to a computer in another location, see that computer's desktop and interact with it as if it were local. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2022
PC as a service (PCaaS)
PC as a service (PCaaS) is a device lifecycle management model in which an organization pays a monthly subscription fee to lease endpoint hardware and management services from a vendor. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2022
Lenovo unveils an Arm laptop with Microsoft Pluton security
The advanced security in Lenovo's ThinkPad X13s is through Qualcomm's Arm-based Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 chipset. Lenovo plans to ship the laptop this year. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2022
Use Jamf Pro's basic features for enterprise management
While Apple devices are vital to many workplaces, they present unique management challenges. Jamf Pro is a device management platform that helps tackle Apple-specific challenges. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2022
Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM)
Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM) is a cloud-based solution that is designed to address the challenges associated with deploying, managing and securing devices in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
Dell, Lenovo, HP pitch sustainable laptops
Dell, Lenovo and HP have introduced laptops to help customers meet environmental, social and governance policies, which have become critical factors in buying decisions. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2021
Explore Jamf's products and features for Apple management
Apple macOS devices make up a significant portion of enterprise endpoints, and vendors such as Jamf offer tools to help organizations manage Apple endpoints securely and easily. Continue Reading
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News
17 Dec 2021
LastPass goes solo, plans to focus on mobile features
After spinning off from LogMeIn, password management firm LastPass plans to grow its business by providing faster feature updates, more mobile options and better customer service. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2021
How to build a virtual lab with Hyper-V
While there are lots of uses for Hyper-V, Windows 10 administrators can take advantage of its isolated VMs for lab testing of patches, updates and more. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2021
Apple ditches hated MacBook Pro features, adds M1 chips
The new MacBook Pro laptops come in 14-and 16-inch models, return ports that were missing in the past few iterations, and add faster, more energy-efficient processors. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right PC for business
With seemingly endless options to choose from, finding the right PC for a business can feel daunting. Explore these top seven choices below. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right Mac for business
Despite a smaller selection than Windows PCs, finding the right macOS device can still be challenging. Learn more about the available options and how they compare. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2021
Comparing macOS vs. Windows security
Windows and macOS have their pros and cons and, often, security comes down to the individual use case. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Aug 2021
How to evaluate Mac vs. PC for businesses
While PCs have long been the preferred option for businesses, Mac computers are gaining in popularity due to improved functionality. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2021
VPN and cloud-based printing options change with the times
Print workflow and IT infrastructure are key considerations when choosing between a VPN and cloud printing setup that can accommodate the needs of a hybrid workforce. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2021
How to evaluate printer management freeware for business
While freeware isn't always feature-rich enough, organizations shouldn't overlook this option to manage all types of printing jobs, such as virtual desktop and remote printing. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2021
6 steps to troubleshoot remote printing via VPN
While each organization's printing infrastructure is different, IT administrators should follow these six general steps to determine the cause of remote printing issues over a VPN. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2021
Dell releases 7 PCs for CAD, graphic designers
Dell has designed the Precision series desktops for power-hungry tasks like CAD and data science. But they come when desktop sales are on the decline. Continue Reading
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News
21 Apr 2021
VMware launches Anywhere Workspace to secure remote workers
Anywhere Workspace is an integrated product bundle that includes Workspace One, the VMware secure access service edge architecture and the Carbon Black endpoint security tool. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2021
Incorporating zero trust into endpoint security
Zero trust is a complex term, but organizations that take security seriously must know what it is and how it can support existing endpoint security platforms. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2021
Keeping tabs on employees in the hybrid workplace
Companies want better ways to determine if their employees are mentally healthy or are at risk of a breakdown in the hybrid workplace. Vendors line up to meet the demand. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
Top 6 endpoint security software options in 2021
The market for endpoint security software can be confusing to navigate for decision-makers, but this market roundup should help them navigate this process. Continue Reading
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News
10 Mar 2021
Component shortages to constrain PC market through 2022
Chip and GPU shortages will prevent PC manufacturers from meeting demand through 2022. Supply constraints could limit PC market growth to single digits, forecasters say. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2021
Microsoft makes Productivity Score useful to tech buyers
Microsoft's Productivity Score update lets an organization's tech buyers monitor, without the help of IT staff, the average performance of employees' PCs and mobile devices. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jan 2021
Rebound in IT spending expected in 2021
Worldwide IT spending is slated to grow this year, as companies increase support and security for remote workers. Gartner projects spending will hit nearly $4 trillion. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2021
CES: Laptops sport designs friendly for remote workers
Top PC manufacturers Dell, HP and Lenovo emphasized at-home flexibility in their CES laptop announcements. Remote work has driven the need to be productive anywhere. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Dec 2020
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
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News
22 Dec 2020
Remote work to drive portable monitor demand in 2021
Manufacturers like Lenovo, HP and ViewSonic expect high demand for portable monitors in 2021 as workers try to get the dual-screen experience at home. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2020
Microsoft Pluton chip will secure future Windows PCs
Microsoft said its Pluton security chip would protect data even when an attacker has physical control of a computer. Future Windows PCs will include the new chip. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2020
When to use SCCM in the cloud with a CMG
Organizations can run SCCM in the cloud with the help of a cloud management gateway. IT admins should determine if their organization fits within these use cases before deployment. Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2020
Microsoft Productivity Score limited by lack of data
Microsoft's new Productivity Score tool for 365 needs third-party data and security information to be entirely useful to enterprises, analysts said. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2020
Smartphones and laptops for business hinge on cost, use, apps
Factors like cost, usage, applications, management, longevity and security figure in the selection of company-issued smartphones, laptops and printers for digital workers. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2020
7 essential remote worker security policies for IT departments
With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing so many to work remotely, IT admins need to update the security aspect of their organization's work-from-home policies to keep pace with this trend. Continue Reading
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News
13 Oct 2020
Mac users key in defending against Apple T2 chip flaw
IT pros should lean on Mac users to protect corporate networks against exploiters of the Apple T2 chip vulnerability. Hard drive encryption will also help defend against attackers. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2020
Lenovo launching the first foldable PC, the ThinkPad X1 Fold
Lenovo touted the ThinkPad X1 Fold as a unified experience for workers who use laptops and tablets. The company has started taking orders. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2020
Microsoft Endpoint Manager gets better Mac, iPad management
Microsoft Endpoint Manager will eventually have new tools for securing and managing Macs, iPads and virtual endpoints. A more secure Edge browser is also on tap. Continue Reading
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News
26 Aug 2020
PC sales soar as pandemic restructures the computer market
There's no question that the pandemic has bolstered PC sales. But analysts disagree on whether rising PC ownership means the computer market has reached a sustainable new height. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2020
Microsoft puts Universal Print in preview
Microsoft says cloud-based Universal Print simplifies printer management by replacing on-premises infrastructure. The service is available through 365 on Windows 10 devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
How to fix a Windows 10 boot loop
A Windows reboot loop is a vicious and frustrating cycle, but there are ways you can fix a Windows 10 boot loop problem, including booting in Safe Mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2020
How to enable Hyper-V on Windows 10 for a lab environment
While there are several ways to test new updates on virtual machines, Hyper-V enables desktop administrators to add multiple VMs to a single desktop and run tests. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2020
COVID-19 recession looms for PC market
The PC market will likely contract as 2021 nears, analysts say. The second quarter was a positive one for PCs, as companies bought laptops to enable remote work. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2020
Citrix microapps look to ease office reopening
With new Workspace microapps, Citrix is looking to make it easier for offices to reopen. Company representatives said the tools were informed by the firm's own experiences. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jun 2020
Macs to run on Apple silicon, leaving Intel behind
Future Macs will not run on Intel processors but on Apple silicon chips. The change could present compatibility issues, although it could be a step toward a consistent user experience. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jun 2020
New Quest Kace products make UEM easier for IT admins
With the latest Quest Kace UEM updates, IT pros can now better control Chromebooks and manage Apple TVs. Experts say managing a variety of devices is critical for a remote workforce. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jun 2020
New HP hardware directed at remote work
HP hardware releases are centered on 'micro mobility' around the home, enabling remote employees to be productive in spaces not designed for work. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 May 2020
How SCIM can automate user provisioning
Using SCIM allows users to access resources within unrelated partner environments automatically without organizations needing to create and maintain external user accounts. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 May 2020
Manufacturer turns to micro apps to save time
An electronics manufacturer is in the planning stages of implementing micro apps in Citrix Workspace in the hopes of saving time and easing distractions. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 May 2020
End-user productivity becomes a priority for remote work
The initial response to COVID-19 focused on purchasing new technologies and retooling systems to support work from home, but organizations must help maintain end-user productivity. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2020
How to optimize the digital workspace experience
Digital workspaces aim to converge users' resources and IT's management into a single technology, but this massive undertaking can present some administration and UX challenges. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 May 2020
IT needs durable remote work strategy to keep employees home
After the initial rush, IT admins are now faced with how to keep remote work going. Continue Reading
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News
30 Apr 2020
Security is central in Ubuntu 20.04 LTS release
Canonical released its Ubuntu 20.04 LTS Linux distribution, emphasizing a holistic approach to security -- from hardware to applications. Continue Reading
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News
17 Apr 2020
HP ProBook 400 series additions aimed at SMBs, remote work
The new ProBooks -- the 445 GH and 455 G7 -- feature the latest AMD Ryzen 4000 chip processor and enhanced security features to enable remote work and aid small businesses. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2020
COVID-19 drives PC market supply down, demand up
The COVID-19 pandemic pushed PC market shipments down, despite higher demand for remote work devices. A looming recession, though, could dampen sales. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2020
How the EUC space is reacting to Coronavirus: Our big list of resources and stories (Updated 4/08)
How-to guides; updated licensing terms; free products; what the community is doing; and more. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2020
VMware Workspace One feature speeds remote onboarding
Several new features for VMware Workspace One are now generally available -- including an option to accelerate remote onboarding. Continue Reading