Windows OS and management
For decades, Windows desktops have had a massive share of the overall desktop OS market. Therefore, enterprise desktop administrators must focus their energy on building a strong management plan for the latest versions of Windows. This process includes testing and applying updates and patches, upgrading to new versions and much more.
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
11 Dec 2024
7 steps to fix a black screen in Windows 11
A black screen can be a symptom of several issues with a Windows 11 desktop. Knowing where to look for the source of the problem can simplify the troubleshooting process. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2023
Windows as a service
Windows as a service is the approach Microsoft introduced with Windows 10 to deploy, update and service the operating system. 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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Definition
14 Jul 2023
System Restore (Windows)
System Restore is a Microsoft Windows utility designed to protect and revert the operating system (OS) to a previous state. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2023
5 techniques to debug network issues in Linux and Windows
Debugging a network issue should start with basic troubleshooting. If that doesn't fix it, admins should check, verify and configure connections to the client, server and network. 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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Definition
07 Jul 2023
context menu (right-click menu)
A context menu is a pop-up menu that provides shortcuts for actions the software developer anticipates the user might want to take. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jul 2023
Internet Explorer (IE)
Internet Explorer (IE) is a web browser that formerly came bundled with the Microsoft Windows operating system. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
Microsoft Windows File Explorer
Microsoft Windows File Explorer is a graphical file management utility for the Windows operating system (OS). Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2023
HyperTerminal
HyperTerminal is a communications and terminal emulation program that came with the Windows 98 and Windows XP operating systems. 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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Feature
18 May 2023
What does the new Microsoft Intune Suite include?
With all the recent name changes with Microsoft's endpoint management products and add-ons, IT teams need to know what Intune Suite -- Microsoft's latest bundle -- offers. 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
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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Definition
04 May 2023
FDISK
FDISK is a disk utility included in all versions of MS-DOS, Windows and Linux for formatting or partitioning a hard disk drive, or to delete different portions of it. 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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Definition
26 Apr 2023
Microsoft Windows 10 Shared PC Mode
Microsoft Windows 10 Shared PC Mode is an operating system feature that allows IT administrators to configure computers for multiple user access. 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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Opinion
26 Apr 2023
Are devices that run only Microsoft Teams in our future?
Microsoft Teams has consistently grown and added new functionality, so what's next for this feature-rich platform? Maybe a dedicated device for Teams could be in the future. 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
25 Apr 2023
glyph
In information technology, a glyph -- from a Greek word meaning carving -- is a graphic symbol that provides the appearance or form for a character. 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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Tip
28 Mar 2023
Costs to migrate from Windows 10 to 11
Each organization's cost to migrate to Windows 11 will be slightly different depending on existing licenses, so IT teams should be familiar with the associated guidelines. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Mar 2023
Will Windows 11 become a subscription-only service?
There are several ways to handle Windows 11 licensing, only some of which are truly subscription-based. Find out what the landscape is for Windows licensing moving forward. 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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Tip
23 Mar 2023
What does a Windows 11 license cost for business?
There are many approaches to licensing Windows 11 along with other Microsoft business software and services, which can be daunting, but executives and IT teams can learn the basics here. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
Process Explorer
Process Explorer is a free Windows task manager and system monitoring tool that details which programs in a user's system have a specific file or directory open. 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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Tip
13 Mar 2023
What do the different licenses for Windows 11 come with?
Before organizations migrate to Windows 11, they must determine what the best options are for licensing. Learn about the choices to license via base Windows 11 or Microsoft 365. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2023
memory dump
A memory dump is the process of taking all information content in RAM and writing it to a storage drive as a memory dump file (*.DMP format). 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
13 Feb 2023
configuration service provider (CSP)
A configuration service provider (CSP) is a component of Windows client operating systems that shows IT professionals device configuration choices and allows them to apply the settings across multiple Windows OSes. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2023
How Windows 11 Print Management can fix printer issues
With the Print Management utility in Windows 11, IT administrators can perform all sorts of tasks, such as troubleshooting user issues, restarting devices and much more. 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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Tip
01 Feb 2023
4 steps to troubleshoot Windows 11 network issues
When IT administrators encounter problems with a Windows 11 network connection, they have plenty of options to fix the issue. Learn the steps to troubleshoot these issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2023
How to fix Windows 11 when Secure Boot and TPM don't work
When organizations consider upgrading to Windows 11, they'll encounter several unique requirements, including TPM 2.0, UEFI and Secure Boot. Learn how to handle these requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
QWERTY keyboard
The QWERTY (pronounced KWEHR-tee) keyboard is the standard typewriter and computer keyboard in countries that use a Latin-based alphabet. 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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Definition
18 Jan 2023
interrupt request (IRQ)
An interrupt request (IRQ) is a signal sent to a computer's processor to momentarily stop (interrupt) its operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Nov 2022
cursor
A cursor is the position indicator on a computer display screen where a user can enter text. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Nov 2022
Windows 10 (Microsoft Windows 10)
Windows 10 is a Microsoft operating system for personal computers, tablets, embedded devices and internet of things devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
How to monitor Windows files and which tools to use
Monitoring files on Windows systems is critical to detect suspicious activities, but there are so many files and folders to keep track of. This is where automation tools come in. Continue Reading
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News
21 Oct 2022
Latest Windows 11 update adds tabbed File Explorer
The latest Windows 11 update offers a tabbed File Explorer for rearranging files and switching between folders. The OS also includes collaboration features through OneDrive. 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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News
23 Sep 2022
Microsoft focuses on remote security with Windows 11 update
Microsoft's Windows 11 2022 Update includes features for protecting sensitive corporate data and helping remote workers avoid malware and phishing attacks. 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
20 Sep 2022
Top 5 Windows 10 monitoring tools for business
Users need unfettered access to all their apps and services to maintain productivity. Windows monitoring tools can verify the status of these components for IT teams. 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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Tip
26 Aug 2022
The role of Windows log monitoring in the enterprise
Whether organizations automate their log monitoring within Windows desktops or inspect them manually, logs can offer IT administrators valuable insight. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2022
message passing interface (MPI)
The message passing interface (MPI) is a standardized means of exchanging messages between multiple computers running a parallel program across distributed memory. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2022
The Windows 11 system requirements and what they indicate
When organizations consider upgrading to Windows 11, they need to compare the Windows 11 system requirements to their existing hardware before making the move. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2022
CONFIG.SYS
CONFIG.SYS is a text file containing disk operating system (DOS) commands that tell the operating system (OS) how the computer is initially set up. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2022
File Allocation Table (FAT)
File Allocation Table (FAT) is a file system that Microsoft developed to support small disks and simple folder structures. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jun 2022
Windows 11 upgrade issues that desktop admins should know
Windows upgrades have caused numerous issues in the past, and the move to Windows 11 is no exception. Learn what problems IT can expect during a migration to Windows 11. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2022
VBScript
VBScript is an interpreted script language from Microsoft that is a subset of its Visual Basic programming language designed for interpretation by Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) web browser. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2022
How to set up automated log collection with PowerShell
Gathering logs from on-premises Windows Server systems or Office 365 cloud services is a necessary but tedious job. Try a PowerShell script to ease the pain. 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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Tip
14 Jun 2022
Windows 11 migration tools for desktop administrators
While there are plenty of approaches to a Windows 11 migration, IT should plan out the process carefully and ensure they have the right tools and products to support it. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2022
icon
In today's age of technological advancement, most people recognize the word 'icon' as referring to a small selectable or nonselectable image representing or leading to something else in a computer's graphical user interface (GUI) or on the web. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2022
Completing a migration to Windows 11 with Microsoft Intune
When IT administrators plan the switch to Windows 11, they may notice how similar the process can be to a Windows 10 update if they use Microsoft Endpoint Manager and Intune. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 May 2022
graphic equalizer
A graphic equalizer is a high-fidelity audio control that allows the user to see graphically and control individually a number of different frequency bands in a stereophonic system. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
17 May 2022
Query event logs with PowerShell to find malicious activity
Every action on a Windows Server system gets recorded, so don't get caught by an avoidable security incident. Learn how to find potential security problems in event logs. 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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Tip
19 Apr 2022
Windows 365 compared to Windows 10
Organizations may look at Windows 365 as a clear improvement from an administrative perspective, but a traditional Windows physical desktop environment still has its perks. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2022
built-in administrator account
In the Windows operating system, the built-in administrator account -- the first account created when the OS was installed -- has the highest permissions of any profile on the computer system. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2022
Microsoft responds to cloud antitrust complaints
Microsoft has drawn antitrust scrutiny for rules that make it more expensive to run Windows and Office on rivals' clouds. The company promised a fix but has provided no details. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2022
Network File System (NFS)
Network File System (NFS) is a networking protocol for distributed file sharing. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Apr 2022
IO.SYS
IO.SYS is a hidden executable binary file that processes instructions that tell the operating system (OS) how the computer is set up when it is booted or started. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2022
Microsoft brings Windows 365 Cloud PC closer to Windows 11
Microsoft will make Windows 365 more like a local install of Windows by letting employees work offline and switch between their local desktops and Cloud PC. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2022
Microsoft: Windows 11 features ease hybrid work strain on IT
Microsoft has aimed its latest Windows 11 features at helping IT staff automate updates, secure corporate data and assist workers remotely. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2022
How to work with an SCCM technical preview lab
System Center Configuration Manager technical previews give Microsoft customers a way to test and provide feedback to the company for its device management product. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Mar 2022
What Microsoft Defender Antivirus features are on Windows?
While there are plenty of viable enterprise-grade third-party desktop security platforms, Microsoft has built out a strong array of native features that IT admins can utilize. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2022
Windows
Windows is Microsoft's flagship operating system (OS), the de facto standard for home and business computers. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2022
File Explorer tabs reappear in new Windows 11 preview build
The latest Windows 11 developer build lets people open multiple folders in the file management app. The feature is supposed to cut down on time switching between folders. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2022
Critical Exchange Server bug fixed for March Patch Tuesday
The vulnerability on the on-premises mail server system is one of just three critical flaws from a total of 71 bugs corrected in Microsoft products this month. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2022
What is BitLocker?
BitLocker Drive Encryption, or BitLocker, is a Microsoft Windows security and encryption feature. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2022
Key native features for Windows 10 security and maintenance
Desktop administrators should look for Windows 10's native security features and architecture to establish a baseline of desktop security before turning to alternative tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2022
3 tools to check Windows 11 update compatibility
Updating to Windows 11 isn't recommended for every PC. Tools such as PC Health Check assess whether a device meets the specifications and requirements to upgrade. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2021
How to scan and repair disks with Windows 10 Check Disk
Windows 10 Disk Check is an intuitive tool that can scan and repair hard drives to reduce the risk of total disk failure and loss of critical information. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
How to troubleshoot when Windows 10 won't update
Windows updates can lead to unexpected issues for IT administrators, but there are some simple steps they should always take to find the cause of the update issue. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
7 Windows 10 issues and how to troubleshoot them
Microsoft offers different troubleshooters to fix common Windows 10 problems, and once you find the right one for your issue, these troubleshooters are easy to use. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2021
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
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Tip
02 Nov 2021
Top 5 methods to address Windows 10 performance issues
Strong desktop performance is a difficult balance to maintain, but with these 5 methods and a careful approach, IT admins can address any Windows 10 performance issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2021
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
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Definition
15 Oct 2021
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
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News
08 Oct 2021
Windows 11 bugs cause app slowdown on AMD chips
The flaws can slow application performance by as much as 15% on high-performance PCs for gaming and other demanding software. AMD said a fix will come this month. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2021
How to manage Windows 10 Power Options in settings
Any Windows 10 desktop -- especially one that users access remotely -- needs special attention for its Power Options to ensure that the connection stays live throughout the session. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Sep 2021
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
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News
27 Sep 2021
Microsoft designs latest Surface models for Windows 11
The Surface hardware is better suited for Teams, which will come standard on the new OS. The hardware will also make use of Windows 11's haptic feedback capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2021
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
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News
16 Sep 2021
Microsoft offers passwordless login to all customers
All Microsoft customers will be able to replace passwords with biometric identity, security keys or text confirmation to access their Microsoft accounts. Continue Reading
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News
19 Aug 2021
Windows 10 vs. Windows 11 requirements force PC upgrades
Microsoft's new operating system will bring default security features for enterprises. Installation will be akin to a Windows 10 update for IT shops with the right hardware. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2021
Enterprise IT pros unclear on Microsoft Windows 11 benefits
Microsoft recently unveiled Windows 11, but its consumer-focused presentation left IT pros with questions about hardware requirements and the business benefits for the new OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
6 components to look for in an endpoint security platform
When it comes to selecting an endpoint security product, customers should look for essential features, such as application protection, that are crucial for enterprise security. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2021
Microsoft to drop Edge Legacy from upcoming Windows update
Microsoft is doing some spring cleaning with its Edge browser. The April Windows update will uninstall Edge Legacy and replace it with the new, Chromium-based Edge. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2021
Why endpoint security is important and how it works
Organizations and IT admins must understand the fundamental approaches that endpoint security platforms take to secure endpoints and defend against common threats. Continue Reading