Microsoft messaging and collaboration
Exchange Server is a difficult product to manage. Get tips to sort out issues related to connectivity and client issues to keep email flowing in the on-premises messaging platform. For enterprises on Office 365, find advanced tutorials designed to ease the management of Exchange Online and Microsoft Teams with PowerShell and Microsoft Graph.
Top Stories
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Answer
22 Oct 2024
How to deploy an Exchange Server cumulative update
Cumulative updates give the Exchange Server platform stability and security. This guide explains how to perform this maintenance properly to avoid a major service disruption. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2024
Stop phishing with help from updated DMARC policy handling
Exchange admins got a boost from Microsoft when it improved how it handles DMARC authentication failures to help organizations fight back from email-based attacks on their users. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Jun 2019
Tech communities offer more than just a quick fix
IT professionals who join tech meetups and online communities might find there's more than just troubleshooting help available when they invest their time in a group. Continue Reading
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Quiz
07 Jun 2019
Can you ace this quiz on Windows Server 2019 HCI?
With each new server release, Microsoft gives administrators a whole new slew of features to learn. Challenge yourself on how well you know the Windows Server HCI features. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 May 2019
How do I avoid Exchange disk space issues?
Exchange Server log files tend to chew up a lot of space, particularly on the later versions. Here's how to keep the mail flowing when a hard drive fills up. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2019
System administrator resources you'll actually use
The learning resources available for IT administrators are more plentiful than the technology that admins manage. How do they sift through the inundation of information? Continue Reading
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Answer
30 May 2019
Hyper-V vs. vSphere: How do the latest versions stack up?
Microsoft recently released Windows Server 2019, so how do the features in this version of Hyper-V compare to VMware's virtualization platform? Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2019
How to add the App Compatibility Feature on Demand to Server Core
Microsoft closed the functionality gap between Server Core and full desktop deployments with the App Compatibility feature, but will it entice admins to the GUI-less server? Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2019
May Patch Tuesday fixes zero-day, new Intel CPU bugs
Microsoft fixed 23 critical vulnerabilities in its latest monthly security updates, as well as patches for supported and unsupported Windows systems to ward off a worm that has the potential to be the next WannaCry. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 May 2019
System administrator skills you need to succeed in the cloud
Cloud technology gives IT administrators more tools to manage enterprise resources than ever before, but the expanding technology also requires admins to develop a new skill set. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2019
Is Windows Server troubleshooting on the way out?
When a Windows Server workload starts to falter, what's the best way to proceed before it keels over? Once upon a time, you would try to fix it, but times have changed. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2019
Windows Compatibility module expands PowerShell Core reach
The PowerShell team closed the cmdlet coverage gap with a compatibility module release for PowerShell Core, but its use requires some caution. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2019
How will Microsoft role-based certifications affect admins?
IT administrators should already know that the only constant for Microsoft products is change. Certifications are the next thing to get an overhaul. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2019
Potential PowerShell telemetry raises security concerns
When admins discovered the PowerShell team proposal for additional telemetry, some bristled; however, the data collection could mean a better management language for IT pros. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Apr 2019
What service does the Microsoft WSSD program provide?
A do-it-yourself approach with hyper-converged infrastructure can lead to trouble when software-defined features just won't work. See how the WSSD program can prevent issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2019
How to automate with PowerShell in Windows Server 2019
Microsoft developed many tools to simplify tasks in Windows Server 2019, but PowerShell skills still remain a staple of an administrator's tool set. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
01 Apr 2019
How to uninstall Exchange 2013 after a cutover migration
Don't throw a retirement party for that Exchange 2013 server and pull the plug prematurely without going through this checklist to avoid any issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2019
Windows Server cluster sets add more protection to workloads
Microsoft stepped up its high availability game with its cluster sets technology in Windows Server 2019 to give on-premises workloads more cloudlike resiliency. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2019
Server 2008 R2 end of life hitting home for many in IT
As Microsoft support for Server 2008 R2 nears its sunset, a raft of complications make it difficult for many in IT to get on board with the Azure platform. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2019
Got infrastructure needs? These PowerShell tutorials can help
From streamlining remote sessions to setting up an SSL certificate, these PowerShell tutorials show IT admins how to get more done with the management tool. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Mar 2019
Understand Azure Update Management basics
Microsoft provides a variety of tools that IT administrators can use to simplify update deployment, including Azure Update Management. Find out if the service will work with your systems. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Mar 2019
What are some potential Windows Server cluster set snags?
Windows Server 2019 cluster sets bring some Azure-like capabilities into the data center, but new features also bring new challenges for administrators. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Mar 2019
What are some Microsoft SDDC integration challenges?
Microsoft added a number of new software-defined features in Windows Server 2019, but deploying a fully virtualized data center remains a challenge for several reasons. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2019
How is the Microsoft SDDC concept becoming a reality?
The promise of a software-defined infrastructure and its ability to pool resources require the right administrative tool to keep the virtualized fabric from fraying. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Mar 2019
How do you build Windows Server 2019 cluster sets?
Microsoft debuted cluster sets in its Windows Server 2019 release. Here's a rundown on how to deploy this high availability feature in your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Mar 2019
Understanding the three main goals of PowerShell Core 6
The book 'Learn PowerShell Core 6.0' offers a closer look into the history of PowerShell and its evolution into the PowerShell Core open source project. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2019
March Patch Tuesday shuts down two zero-day exploits
In addition to the March Patch Tuesday updates, Microsoft's attempts at improving performance following Spectre variant 2 patches backfire for some users on Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2019
Lessons learned during a migration to Exchange Online
There are a number of perks for administrators who move to Exchange Online, but there are spots of frustration that will require a few workarounds to ease the transition process. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2019
What Windows Server 2019 SDN features should I know about?
Administrators in highly virtualized environments can tap into enhanced Windows Server 2019 SDN functionality to run Hyper-V VMs more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2019
What features make up Windows Server 2019 cluster sets?
Windows Server 2019 takes clustering to a new level with the cluster sets feature that wraps another layer of high availability around critical VMs. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
26 Feb 2019
Set up users with key PowerShell Active Directory commands
User management in Active Directory doesn't have to fill you with click-induced anxiety. Try these PowerShell tips for a more efficient way to get this work done. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2019
What advantages do Windows Server cluster sets offer?
Administrators don't need to stress about workload uptime with a new Windows Server 2019 clustering feature, which makes sharing resources and moving VMs easier. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2019
The clock is ticking on the Exchange Web Services change
Another change that might affect your Exchange environment is coming in 2020. Here's what you need to know to prepare. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Feb 2019
Server Core vs. GUI: Is Server Core ready for prime time?
IT Director Christopher Rivers says the Windows Admin Center is a step in the right direction to boost adoption of Server Core, but administrators will still encounter challenges. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Feb 2019
What are some common Windows Server 2019 SDN errors?
The complexity of setting up and managing Microsoft SDN can increase the risk of administrators facing common networking errors that are difficult to troubleshoot. Continue Reading
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Quiz
25 Jan 2019
How well do you know open source PowerShell Core?
Do you know how PowerShell Core differs from Windows PowerShell? Find out with this quiz on the open source PowerShell management utility. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jan 2019
What are some Microsoft SDN features in Windows Server?
SDN functionality helps administrators shape network traffic to reduce congestion and boost security. Discover what other SDN features Microsoft added to its Windows Server offerings. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Dec 2018
Discover the top Windows Server and PowerShell tutorials of 2018
Administrators can level up their management game with these Windows Server tips and PowerShell tutorials that got the most attention on the SearchWindowsServer site in 2018. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2018
Ways administrators can avoid IT burnout
The last thing an overextended admin needs is additional work, but there are certain practices that, once introduced, can curb tech burnout in the long run. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Nov 2018
Unlock storage savings with Windows Server deduplication
Windows Server comes with a data deduplication feature to reduce the organization's storage crunch, but it's important to plan around some potential drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 Nov 2018
How PowerShell Direct helps polish off those VMs
PowerShell Direct offers administrators a remoting option that does not rely on a network connection to manage Hyper-V VMs, but be sure you meet the requirements for its use. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Oct 2018
Use this Microsoft deployment tool for easier setups
It's not new, but the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit tends to be overlooked when administrators need a way to set up Windows in an automated fashion. See why MDT is worth using. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Oct 2018
Why do admins need both powershell.exe and pwsh.exe?
While the PowerShell development team wants IT to move on to the newer PowerShell version, the powershell.exe executable will remain to avoid breaking changes. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
11 Oct 2018
Tips to track down and neutralize PowerShell malware
The benefit of PowerShell is its wide-ranging access to Windows systems, but industrious hackers can exploit its abilities to launch attacks from inside your data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Oct 2018
Make IT infrastructure documentation a regular task
Even though documenting IT processes might not be at the top of an admin's to-do list, they should not let it fall by the wayside. Learn documentation best practices here. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
04 Oct 2018
Getting started with AWS Tools for PowerShell
Want to make a move from on-premises systems? The AWS Tools for PowerShell module builds on your knowledge of handling Windows machines and carries it into the Amazon cloud. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Oct 2018
How to compare Windows and Linux for enterprise workloads
How do Windows and Linux rank when it comes to running production workloads? Organizations should consider more than just the initial cost. Continue Reading
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News
26 Sep 2018
Windows Admin Center unlocks Server 2019 features
Not just for troubleshooting, Windows Admin Center helps admins unlock the full potential of the latest Windows Server offering. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2018
Mulling a public folders migration? Weigh your options
Should you stay or should you migrate? Microsoft offers a bevy of alternatives to public folders. This tip breaks down each option to help you make a decision. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Sep 2018
What are the steps for an Exchange certificate renewal?
An expired Exchange 2010 certificate is one of those issues that catches everyone's attention. Check and replace certificates with these basic commands. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2018
Explore the Cubic congestion control provider for Windows
Microsoft made Cubic the default congestion control provider for Windows 10 and plans to do the same for Windows Server 2019. Learn what this means for your organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Aug 2018
Learn the tricks for using Microsoft Teams with Exchange
As Microsoft Teams gains prominence for business collaboration, administrators should investigate the integration options with their Exchange Online or on-premises Exchange setup. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2018
Set up Office 365 alerts to keep threats at bay
Office 365 offers administrators integrated tools to warn the IT staff about potential attacks or breaches of conduct. Find out what the options are and how to configure them. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2018
Exchange 2013 hybrid to Exchange 2016 hybrid considerations
Part of the work required for a successful shift from one hybrid Exchange environment to another is to have a full understanding of all the areas that will be affected by the move. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2018
How a bastion forest limits exposure of admin privileges
A Windows Server 2016 feature called a bastion forest is the centerpiece of Microsoft's privileged access management model that limits the exposure of admin rights. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Jul 2018
What are the Microsoft IRM requirements for Exchange 2016?
Before a company can take advantage of information rights management on the Exchange 2016 platform, administrators must ensure the server setup meets the technical requirements. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Jul 2018
How do you use Outlook IRM to protect email content?
The information rights management feature in Exchange prevents unauthorized parties from viewing sensitive content. Admins can tailor the settings to fit the company's needs. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2018
July Patch Tuesday brings three public disclosures
Microsoft resolved three public disclosures and updated its Spectre and Meltdown advisory this July Patch Tuesday. In total, Microsoft addressed about 54 vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Jul 2018
What are the Windows Defender management tools?
If you're using Windows Defender AV to protect your company, it's imperative to configure the malware protection properly. This tip lays out the management options for admins. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jul 2018
Taking stock of Windows Server management tools
Microsoft provides a mix of server management tools that administrators can choose from to control the machines that run the business. This comparison can help steer your decision. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2018
How to tackle an email archive migration for Exchange Online
A move from on-premises Exchange to Office 365 also entails determining the best way to transfer legacy archives. This tutorial can help ease migration complications. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2018
How to build a Packer image for Azure
Packer is an open source tool that automates the Windows Server image building process to give administrators a consistent approach to create new VMs. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jun 2018
How do I get access to Office 365 preview versions?
Your power users will want to be the first in line to try out upcoming features through the Office 365 targeted release program. Set up early access with this step-by-step guide. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jun 2018
Thorough Exchange Server testing regimen eliminates doubt
Don't assume your Exchange 2016 implementation will work because you bought the right gear. Follow these pointers to execute a successful Exchange 2016 migration project. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jun 2018
Organize Active Directory with these strategies
Administrators tasked with cleaning up the Active Directory user group structure need not search any further. Use these tips to avoid Active Directory maintenance headaches. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2018
Adobe zero-day fix precedes June Patch Tuesday
Adobe closed a zero-day vulnerability last week, which Microsoft added to its June Patch Tuesday updates. Administrators have a lighter workload, with about 50 exploits to address. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2018
What is the future for Microsoft Exchange Unified Messaging?
As its cloud services have matured, Microsoft has adjusted the unified messaging features in Exchange Server. What will unified messaging look like on Exchange Server 2019? Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jun 2018
Kubernetes in Azure eases container deployment duties
Using containers in the cloud will require an orchestration tool. Azure Kubernetes Service helps create and manage the clusters when running containers on the Azure platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 May 2018
Mind the feature gaps in the PowerShell open source project
Administrators who switch to the cross-platform version of PowerShell might find it challenging to use, but there are several ways to cope with a transition from Windows PowerShell. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 May 2018
The top 5 unheralded Windows Server 2016 features
Windows Server 2016 is still a novel operating system for many administrators. Check out some of its new and enhanced features that might have slipped under the radar. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2018
Will Exchange Server 2019 address admin issues?
As Exchange Server 2019 draws closer, one administrator hopes Microsoft will incorporate some of the feature requests from the Exchange technicians in the field. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2018
How to protect PowerShell credentials in task automation
When administrators use unencrypted credentials in PowerShell scripts, they expose sensitive information. Find out the ways to secure credential use with automated tasks. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 May 2018
How do I avoid Windows Defender compatibility issues?
Microsoft offers a free antimalware tool for client and server systems, but administrators need to tune the layers of protection to avoid problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 May 2018
Azure IaaS vs. PaaS: Find the right service to reduce costs
Ready to migrate on-premises workloads to the cloud? Administrators should question their assumptions before diving in with Azure IaaS and consider the benefits of PaaS. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2018
Exchange Online security setup requires joint effort
A company that moves to Exchange Online must coordinate the efforts of its email administrators and its security team to maximize protections and meet compliance requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2018
Failover cluster quorum considerations for Windows admins
Microsoft introduced Cloud Witness in Windows Server 2016, which adds a new wrinkle to its quorum model for failover clusters, but it might not be a good fit for some enterprises. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2018
Zero-day exploits resolved by Microsoft on May Patch Tuesday
Microsoft resolved two zero-day exploits and two public disclosures, amid more than 65 exploits affecting operating systems, browsers and Microsoft Office this May Patch Tuesday. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2018
Windows Server pricing muddies purchasing decision process
As the cost of Windows Server continues to rise with each new version, enterprises must evaluate whether the price of admission for the latest enhancements is too much to bear. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 May 2018
How do admins check the Exchange IRM setup?
Testing Exchange information rights management functionality can be tedious, but Microsoft offers a dedicated cmdlet for Exchange 2016 administrators that streamlines the process. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 May 2018
What are System Center DPM 2016 limitations?
Not every tool is right for the job of backing up data. Find out what limits System Center DPM 2016 protection and which alternatives cover what it lacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Apr 2018
How do I keep Windows Defender definitions current?
Administrators in charge of keeping antivirus software up to date have a few options to protect their servers. Learn about the methods and services to use with Windows Defender Antivirus. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Apr 2018
How does the Office Insider program work?
The Office Insider program can benefit organizations that want as much lead time as possible to see what new features Microsoft plans to release for its Office 365 platform. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Apr 2018
How does Windows Defender Antivirus protect against malware?
Microsoft offers Windows Defender Antivirus as its native tool to prevent malware attacks. Discover how it works and what advanced protections it provides. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2018
Azure PowerShell cmdlets monitor, manage VMs
PowerShell gives administrators a way to customize reports that hone in on the details that matter to the business, such as the configuration of production VMs. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Apr 2018
Exchange IRM helps enterprises lock down information
Exchange Server's information rights management features put boundaries on messages and documents to avoid the mishandling of restricted content. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2018
Windows out-of-band patches overshadow April Patch Tuesday
Microsoft delivered out-of-band security patches to address the Total Meltdown and malware engine exploits as a precursor to its regularly scheduled April Patch Tuesday fixes. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2018
Microsoft Project Honolulu shows promise but needs work
Microsoft Project Honolulu is still in the technical preview stage, but it needs to resolve a number of issues before it's a viable alternative to manage production machines. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2018
Cloud-based email security tools barricade entry to Exchange
The pressure is on Exchange administrators to avoid a ransomware outbreak that cripples the on-premises email system. Cloud-based security tools can help blunt trending attacks. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Apr 2018
Migrating public folders requires extensive planning
Do your homework to find the right option for public folders when making a move to Exchange Online. Here are guidelines to help you navigate the requirements and limitations. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2018
Azure AD B2B offers a secure way to grant external access
Organizations that open up their resources to external users can restrict access using the Azure AD B2B service with minimal effort on the part of the administrators. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2018
PowerShell 6 expands reach but lags behind Windows version
Cross-platform PowerShell arrived without all the functionality that's available in Windows PowerShell -- but it brings the ability to manage Linux and macOS systems. Continue Reading
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News
26 Mar 2018
Windows Server 2019 preview draws Azure closer
Windows Server 2019 will come with a number of enhancements to cater to administrators who want a tighter connection to the Azure cloud platform, Microsoft said. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
Using Microsoft Exchange certificates requires planning
Exchange certificates typically require minimal management effort after they have been set up, and they offer a secure means of communication between different organizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2018
Creating PowerShell scripts for task automation
At a certain point, administrators who run PowerShell commands from the console will find it more efficient to develop a script that does not require manual intervention. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2018
Windows Defender Credential Guard secures login data
Windows Defender Credential Guard uses virtualization to isolate access to domain credentials and diminish the threat of attacks based inside the data center. Continue Reading
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News
13 Mar 2018
Intel microcode updates complicate admin patching duties
March Patch Tuesday adds several more mitigations for the Spectre and Meltdown exploits, this time for 32-bit server and client operating systems. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Mar 2018
How do you fix Outlook display issues?
Outlook crashes and rendering issues might require an upgrade -- or a downgrade -- for administrators who want to avoid a Band-Aid approach and want a permanent solution. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Mar 2018
CLI vs. GUI: Find the right admin tool for various scenarios
Standard Windows and Linux command-line utilities oftentimes have niche, yet important functionality not available in GUI tools that require IT workers to make custom workflows. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2018
These PowerShell script examples help tidy up code
Even the most grizzled scripting veterans might learn some new PowerShell tips and tricks to tighten their automation code or produce clearer error messages. Continue Reading
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News
08 Mar 2018
IT shops find their reasons to upgrade to Windows Server 2016
Selected technical features and technical support twilight inspires more Windows Server 2008 and 2012 IT shops to upgrade to Windows Server 2016. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Mar 2018
What DPM monitoring options are there?
Administrators tasked with checking the status of System Center Data Protection Manager have a few choices, some of which are better suited for larger DPM deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Mar 2018
Office 365 email encryption options grow for enterprise needs
Each enterprise has different needs when it comes to preventing data leakage. Admins should be aware of the Office 365 mailbox and encryption features that help the organization meet its requirements. Continue Reading