|
Batten
down your Windows shop
The job of securing the Windows enterprise never
ends. With news and advice on topics like Network Access Protection
and locking down Hyper-V, this Windows Digest offers resources to
help keep your data safe. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
New
tool makes workstation image management easier in Windows 7
The
Windows Automated Installation Kit has been revised to ease
deployments of Windows 7, and the Deployment Image Servicing and
Management Tool is a command-line tool that you can use to manage
desktop images. Source: SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Avoid
Outlook 2007 performance issues during repairs
Premature
shut downs of Outlook can lead to performance problems. Educating
your users on the reconciliation process is a good start. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Are
you ready to migrate to Windows 7?
Windows
7 features can greatly benefit your organization. Therefore, the
question is not if you should upgrade to Microsoft's newest
operating system, but when. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Remote Desktop Virtualization: Windows
R2's most compelling feature
The Remote Desktop Virtualization
feature stands out as Windows Server 2008 R2's most compelling new
capability. Source: SearchVirtualDesktop.com
How
SQL Server recovery models impact SharePoint
SharePoint administrators can minimize data loss by selecting the
appropriate SQL Server recovery model. But which model is right for
your enterprise? Source:
SearchWinIT.com
The
Windows Report - Inside BranchCache for Windows 2008 R2
In the July edition of The Windows Report, Microsoft MVP Gary
Olsen offers his thoughts on Windows Server 2008 R2's BranchCache
feature, followed by a new tip for cleaning up your server from
Windows expert Brien Posey. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Protect
virtual databases through SQL Server database mirroring
Learn
how database mirroring provides cost-effective protection for
critical databases running on virtual machines. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Managing
multiple passwords in Windows
Allowing
users to manage their passwords can lead to security risks. Enacting
policies, such as base passwords for different systems, can help
keep your Windows environment safe. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Simple
techniques for finding Windows memory leaks
Symptoms of a memory leak can show up long before a server fails.
Check out these tips for catching a leak early and plugging it up. Source: SearchWindowsServer.com
What
Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2 can do for your business
Some killer enterprise features in Windows 7 and
Windows Server 2008 R2 will solve some of your problems. Here’s
one expert’s take on the best of what’s coming in these two new
operating systems. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Windows
desktop security standards best practices
Improve your Windows desktop security by developing
detailed documentation of an organized focused set of security
standards. Source: SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Hyper-V
gains new resiliency features with R2
Live Migration is just one of the improvements made to Hyper-V with
Windows Server 2008 R2. Learn what else has been added to Microsoft
Hyper-V version 2. Source: SearchWindowsServer.com
Implementing
SQL Server 2008 FILESTREAM functionality
Learn to enable the FILESTREAM feature in SQL Server 2008 and
configure your database to support it. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Killing Hyper-V high-availability cluster services and network issues
Tips and
workarounds for achieving high availability with
Hyper-VSource:
SearchServerVirtualization.com
Microsoft
TechEd 2009 conference news coverage
 Get
all the news from the Microsoft TechEd 2009 conference in Los Angeles. Find out about Windows 7, the R2 versions of Windows Server 2008
and Hyper-V and more. Source: SearchWinIT.com
How
to forge an IT consulting career
Before building your IT consulting career, review
these six factors to learn what it takes to be a successful
entrepreneur. Source: SearchWinIT.com
The
state of enterprise security in 2009
Learn about the enterprise security
issues that organizations continue to face, as well as what they can
do to mitigate emerging security threats. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Scaling
up vs. scaling out with SQL Server 2008
To scale your SQL Server properly means
to make it bigger and better. But what is the best method for 2008? Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Top
five Server Core management tips for Windows 2008
Here you'll find some useful tricks for taking the
headaches out of Server Core administration, including how to
disable UAC and the default prompt. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Control
customizing of document libraries in MOSS 2007
Are users customizing default SharePoint document libraries? Learn
how to use templates to control content customization in Microsoft
SharePoint Server 2007. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Combining
folder redirection with roaming profiles
Using roaming profiles and folder redirection can
prevent corporate data loss and streamline network management
processes. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
FAQ:
High-availability solutions with SQL Server 2008
Expert Ross Mistry discusses the different ways that SQL Server 2008
can provide high-availability solutions in this FAQ podcast. Source:
SearchSystemsChannel.com
Windows
2008 R2: Not your father's R2 upgrade
Find details on improvements to Windows Server 2008 R2, and learn
why unlike with Windows 2003 R2, this Microsoft release could be
well worth the upgrade. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Windows
Server 2008 Learning Guide
If you're planning a migration to Microsoft's latest server
operating system or just want more info, this guide provides tips,
videos and more covering the top features and improvements included
with Windows Server 2008. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Top
5 Active Directory tips of 2008
This collection features the very best of our Microsoft Active
Directory advice from the past year, with info on replication,
troublshooting and database management. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Video:
Mark Russinovich on virtualization, Sysinternals and the cloud
Microsoft technical fellow Mark Russinovich
discusses several topics that are on the horizon for Windows
administrators, such as cloud computing, client virtualization and
the release of Windows 7 Server. He also provides insight on the
fate of WinFS, what's new with Sysinternals and the controversy
surrounding Windows Vista. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Podcast:
Discussing Windows 7 with Mark Minasi
What are the compelling reasons to deploy Windows 7? What is
Microsoft planning to do about hardware support for the new OS? Are
there any new features worth getting excited about? Listen to this
podcast with Mark Minasi to learn the answers to these questions and
more about Windows 7. Source: SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
IT
Picks: Top free downloads from Microsoft
This guide reviews the top free downloads from Microsoft including
the five free overall downloads, as well as the top five free tools
for Windows desktop management, Windows server management and
Windows security management. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Podcast:
What to expect from Windows Server 2008 R2
In this podcast, learn what's changing in the areas of AD, failover
clustering and more with Windows 2008 R2, plus how user feedback has
affected some of the other improvements. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Tutorial:
Learn SQL Server basics from A-Z
If you're new to SQL Server of simply want a refresher on some
fundamentals, check out this tutorial on topics from security and
performance to SSIS and using native tools. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Checklist:
Exchange Server security dos and don'ts
Securing Exchange Server against spam and viruses is a challenge.
Follow these security practices to protect Exchange from various
email security threats. Source: SearchExchange.com
Why
Windows Vista is superior to XP
Complaints about Windows Vista have been heard loud and clear, but
is Vista really that much worse than Windows XP? Windows expert
Brien Posey doesn't think so. Source: SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Checklist:
Three don'ts when optimizing Exchange performance
To optimize Exchange Server performance, pay attention to your
hardware setup. You also must avoid these three common Exchange
Server performance pitfalls. Source: SearchExchange.com
What's
there to hate about Windows 2008?
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 is not without its flaws. Learn some
problems Windows admins might have with the new server and how to
fix them. Source: SearchWindowsServer.com
The
Windows manager's guide to e-Discovery
Today's laws demand that certain information be produced and made
readily available as evidence in legal proceedings. IT managers are
now expected to create and support a matrix of information in a way
that makes sense to the legal department. Windows shops that ignore
electronic discovery requirements could be setting themselves up for
some big costs. In SearchWinIT.com's Windows Manager's Guide to
e-Discovery, learn what e-discovery is and how IT shops should
prepare for the possibility. Source: SearchWinIT.com
FAQ:
SQL Server permissions
Permissions problems affect your users login abilities and their
access to certain aspects of SQL Server. Troubleshoot permissions
issues with these FAQs submitted by your peers. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Learning
Center: Windows PowerShell for beginners
Ready to get started with PowerShell? This collection of screencasts,
book excerpts and tutorials lays the groundwork for those using
PowerShell with Windows Server 2008. Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com
Step-by-Step
Guide: How to handle your Vista migration
Rolling out a new operating system is no small task. Even so, there
are things you can and should do to prepare for a Vista migration. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Learning
Center: Understanding Exchange 2007 backup and DR
Exchange Server 2007 backup and disaster recovery has evolved. Learn
about new Exchange 2007 features and tools to backup and restore
data more reliably. Source: SearchExchange.com
When
(and when not) to use failover clustering
While clustering offers several benefits to IT shops running Windows
Server 2008, IT pros should also be aware of the potential
disadvantages before implementing them. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Tutorial:
SQL Server stored procedures
Learn how to write and tune SQL Server stored procedures in this
tutorial. Also included is a collection of stored procedure examples
for you to browse. Source: SearchSQLServer.com
Screencast:
How and why to hack Windows Vista for security testing
In this screencast, learn why you should hack Windows Vista to test the security of your OS and how to pull off a handful of effective security tests. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
eBook
Chapter: Leveraging SANs in Windows servers
An iSCSI storage area network (SAN) offers several advantages over
direct-attached storage (DAS) in a Windows server environment. In
this chapter, get the information every Windows manager needs to
gain the most out of an iSCSI storage platform. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Video:
SharePoint exec tackles technical questions about MOSS 2007
In this videocast Q&A, Tom Rizzo, director of Microsoft Office SharePoint Server, offers practical advice on SharePoint governance issues, tools and tradeoffs between control and empowerment as well as tips on migration, file shares and upcoming
features. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Tip:
How to access SharePoint sites through Outlook
If you have both Microsoft Exchange Server and SharePoint, you can
easily access SharePoint sites directly from Microsoft Outlook.
Here's how.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Video:
Breaking down the RODC with Windows 2008
In part two of our interview with Microsoft's Justin Graham, learn
how the read-only domain controller can help improve branch office
security. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
What's
in a name: Keeping track of virtual servers
Virtual servers can be difficult to keep track of. Learn how a
specialized naming scheme can help admins keep an eye on a virtual
server's location and purpose. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Free
security tools that can improve IIS security
These free security tools can go a long way toward improving the
security of Internet Information Services (IIS) in your enterprise.Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Screencast:
SQL Server PerfMon counters for Windows OS
SQL Server MVP Kevin Kline walks you through best practices and
maximum values to watch for when using PerfMon counters, including
percent usage for page files, processor counters to monitor CPU and
server activity on both SQL Server and Analysis Services. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Mark
Minasi dissects Windows Server 2008
In this exclusive video interview, best-selling author Mark Minasi
offers his usual trenchant opinion to help you decide on deploying
Windows Server 08 by analyzing the pros and cons and why R2 is
making some IT pros wait. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Fast
Guide: How to improve OWA security
Two big Outlook Web Access security issues are
email attachments and OWA user authentication. Get tips on how to
improve Outlook Web Access security here. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Application
Virtualization Guide
In this five-part series, Danielle and Nelson
Ruest break down the basics of app virtualization and detail its
impact on Vista, Windows 2008 and Terminal Services. Source:
SearchWindowsComputing.com
Vista
SP1 vs. XP SP3 -- upgrade or business as usual?
Vista Service Pack 1 just came out and XP Service Pack 3 will be
here soon. But which should use? Learn about the pros and cons of
each SP in this tip. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Podcast:
The impact of Windows 2008 on an Exchange 2007 migration
Before installing Exchange 2007 SP1 on Windows 2008, learn about
Windows 2008 features and deployment concerns that will impact your
Exchange migration. Source: SearchExchange.com
Why
do Windows servers hang?
Troubleshooting a hung server begins with understanding why the
problem occurs in the first place. Bruce Mackenzie-Low explains some
common causes of Windows server hang. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Tutorial:
Managing an Exchange 2007 CCR setup
Get an overview of the Cluster Continuous Replication (CCR) feature
in Exchange Server 2007 and learn how to configure and manage a CCR
setup. Source: SearchExchange.com
Screencast:
SQL Server PerfMon counters for Windows OS
SQL Server MVP Kevin Kline walks you through best practices and
maximum values to watch for when using PerfMon counters to monitor
OS performance. Source: SearchSQLServer.com
How
to format NTFS: More tricks to improve file system performance
The best security features are the ones that protect a system without slowing down the NTFS. Microsoft MVP Brien Posey offers some suggestions for finding the right balance between NTFS performance and system security. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Admin
Guide: Recovering from configuration changes to Windows XP
In this three-part series, Microsoft MVP Brien Posey runs through
the best practices and strategies for returning Windows XP to a
functional state -- with minimal effort. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Special
Report: Windows Server 2008 ready to make its debut
Windows Server 2008 was officially released on Wednesday. Learn what
to expect with the new features and how to plan for migration. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
All
in One Guide: Microsoft security testing tools
Learn which tools, such as Metasploit, you can use to test the
security in your Windows shop and read about some of the top free
tools available today. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Webcast:
Application virtualization -- Ending DLL hell once and for all
In this webcast, Nelson Ruest looks at the myths and realities
surrounding app virtualization, with details on what the technology
means to Microsoft apps and Terminal Services. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Podcast:
Top
Exchange tip of 2007 -- How to fix corrupt Outlook calendar entries
Discover how to fix Microsoft Outlook 2003 and Outlook 2007 corrupt
calendar entries with the step-by-step strategies revealed in this
tipcast. Source: SearchExchange.com
How
secure is your SQL Server network design?
Here are SQL Server network designs to avoid when designing your SQL
Server system and tools to protect your SQL Server databases. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
2007
New Product Showcase
Editors in TechTarget's Windows Media Group have pulled together a showcase of new products to help orient Windows professionals who have little time to search on their own. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Windows
Vista security: Top 10 tips of 2007
The top 10 Vista security tips of 2007 include advice on hacking
Windows Vista for security purposes, encryption best practices for
Vista and reviews of Vista's security features. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
The new System Center: What happened to SMS and MOM?
Microsoft MVP Gary Olsen looks at Microsoft System Center and describes the things administrators should know about the new enterprise server product suite. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Tutorial:
Group Policy basics for Windows Vista
These book excerpts provide Group Policy management tips for working
with Windows Vista, with info on troubleshooting, configuration and
more. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Editing
content with Windows PowerShell
In this month's Scripting School column, Christa Anderson continues
her in-depth look at Windows PowerShell with scripting advice for
finding and setting content in text files. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Application
lifecycle management made simple with AppV
Danielle and Nelson Ruest break down the basic components of app
virtualization and explain how it can be used to simplify
application lifecycle management. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
eBook:
Email archiving -- Planning, policies and product selection
Learn the essentials of email archiving from the perspective of an
IT manager in the ebook, "Email archiving: Planning, policies
and product selection." Source: SearchExchange.com
Podcast:
Planning Windows security tests
Listen to this podcast to hear Windows expert Kevin Beaver's eight
main reasons why you need to plan out your security testing well in
advance! Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
App
virtualization: The Terminal Services killer?
There are many reasons to deploy Terminal Services. But new
virtualization technologies that simplify application management and
lower server costs could change all that. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Making
the most of the Terminal Services Gateway
When you mention Windows Server 2008 features, you will likely think
of things like BitLocker, Server Core and PowerShell. However, the
new Terminal Services Gateway, in combination with the new Remote
Desktop client, provides a powerful and secure connection to network
resources in remote locations. Source: SearchWinIT.com
How
to use app virtualization for server consolidation
Learn how to take advantage of new application virtualization
technologies for operating system migrations and other server
consolidation projects.
Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Moving
mobile user mailboxes to Exchange 2007
Read about the potential pitfalls of moving mobile user mailboxes
from Exchange 2003 to 2007, and find out how to simplify ActiveSync
mailbox policy management. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Sniffing
out security problems in Windows networks
Learn what tools to use to uncover security vulnerabilities on your
Windows network and how to use them. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Solving
Active Directory replication failure
Every now and then, AD admins are faced with
replication failure. While fixing the error is critical, knowing how
to find the cause of the failure can be just as important. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
A
guide to troubleshooting BIOS beep codes
A pocket guide to BIOS beep codes can help systems administrators quickly troubleshoot the startup error sounds for motherboards using BIOSes from AMI, Award and Phoenix Technologies.
Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Web
security tactics that harden Windows networks
Improve Web security by learning how your Windows network can be
breached via the Web, including how to protect yourself against the
number one Web-based security threat. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Exchange
Server and Internet Information Services (IIS)
Learn to install, configure and secure
Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) for Exchange Server
email communications with these tips, tools, and tutorials. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Upgrading
to SQL Server 2005 FAQs
Here's a list of frequently asked questions that address your SQL
Server 2005 upgrade issues, including DTS packages, copying
databases and creating passwords. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Can
Active Directory benefit from 64-bit technology?
Directory services expert Gary Olsen explains
what 64-bit technology means to Active Directory and compares the
benefits of IA64 and the x64 chip. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Microsoft
Exchange Server 2003 Administration Guide
Browse Exchange Server 2003 administration
best practices, tips, and tools that will help you manage all
aspects of your Microsoft email environment. Source:
SearchExchange.com
The ultimate Microsoft Vista tutorial on security
Read about User Account Control (UAC), Encrypting File System (EFS) and other Windows Vista security features and management best practices in our potpourri grab-bag.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
SQL
Server 2005 Express: Beyond the basics
Find examples of SQL Server stored procedures and parameters not
documented by Microsoft. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
When
and how to migrate to a 64-bit platform
It's
time to get educated on the technical aspects of 64-bit so you can
make informed business decisions on how to take advantage of this
powerful technology. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
What's
hot in Microsoft security: Critical patches
In
this Microsoft security podcast we discuss the implications of
August's critical Windows patches and how admins can better manage
patches in the future.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
IT
Disaster Recovery Planning Guide
In
this series, expert Russell Olsen describes the keys to developing a
solid disaster recovery plan.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Configuring
Microsoft Exchange Direct Push technology
Learn how Microsoft Direct Push technology works and find out how to
configure and implement Direct Push in an Exchange 2003 SP2 email
environment. Source: SearchExchange.com
SQL
Server patch pros and cons
A patch to your SQL Server system can cause problems, but an
unpatched SQL Server is unprotected. Learn the pros and cons of SQL
Server patches. Source: SearchSQLServer.com
Outlook
2007 and Exchange 2007 calendar features
Discover new calendar features in Outlook 2007 and Exchange 2007 and
find out how the new Scheduling Assistant improves meeting and
resource scheduling.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Five
Windows desktop tasks you should automate
Automating desktop tasks is one way for Windows administrators to
make better use of their time. This guide suggests five desktop
tasks that should be automated.
Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Third-party tools to crack Windows passwords
Learn to use password cracking tools to crack Windows passwords and
test their strength in this screencast by Kevin Beaver.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Domain
Name System (DNS) Guide
Active Directory relies heavily on DNS to
function. This guide breaks down the basics of DNS, and provides
some helpful tips on how to assess, manage and protect your
environment.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Active
Directory Learning Guide
This comprehensive guide provides the
information every administrator should know, from the basics of
Active Directory, to tips and explanations regarding DNS,
replication, security, migration planning and more.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
What
is Analysis Services in SQL Server 2005?
Want to learn about Analysis Services 2005 in SQL Server? These Top
10 tips outline helpful features and give examples of this BI tool's
functionality..
Source: SearchSQLServer.com
Getting
to know the RODC for Windows Server 2008
One of the most common questions surrounding
the new Active Directory technologies for Windows Server 2008
involves the read-only domain controller. Active Directory expert
Laura Hunter breaks down the key details of the RODC and how it can
increase AD security and flexibility.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
How
to set up MOM for Exchange Server monitoring
Learn how to set up Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM) 2005 to
monitor Exchange Server 2003 performance, interpret the results and
display them in an easy-to-understand manner. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Storage
management tasks that are a waste of time
Here are six administrative tasks related to storage and storage
management that aren't worth the time they take. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
News
from Microsoft TechEd 2007
TechEd, Microsoft's annual showcase event for enterprise IT
professionals and application developers, was held June 4 to 8 in
Orlando. Check out these articles below to learn more about what
happened at this year's event. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Windows
security testing: Five tips for the summer
Testing Windows security is necessary to ensure that hackers stay
out of your network. Read these five tips to learn security testing
best practices. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Microsoft
Vista interoperability: What's at stake for IT managers?
How well will Vista interoperate within a corporate environment?
Expert Laura Hunter presents key aspects of Windows Vista
interoperability for IT managers' consideration. Source: SearchWinIT.com
FAQ:
SQL Server features comparison
In this FAQ, our SQL Server experts answer your questions about
comparison features in both SQL Server 2000 and SQL Server 2005. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Taking
on Windows configuration management
Windows configuration management is certainly a difficult task.
While it may not be the most fun you've ever had, it will save you a
lot of pain down the road. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Inside
Windows Vista: Windows Defender
Will Windows Defender in Vista be the cure-all solution that ends
malware infestation for good? Learn more about Windows Defender in
this tip by Microsoft MVP Brien Posey. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Microsoft
Windows Vista: What's new under the hood
Check out these excerpts from Microsoft Windows
Vista Unleashed by Paul McFedries, with details on the new
performance, stability and security features in Windows Vista.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
8
tips in 8 minutes: Microsoft Outlook email security
Become a Microsoft Outlook security expert! Learn how to use a wide
range of Outlook email security features, including the Outlook
security update, RPC over HTTP, S/MIME and IRM. Source:
SearchExchange.com
A
disciplined approach to the Windows change management process
While change management is a very simple concept,
the process can be very complex. Expert Harris Kern highlights the
IT staff's roles in the Windows change management process.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Stop malware from infecting your system
Learn everything about protection and preventing malware from
infecting your Windows system in this third chapter of the Windows
Security Threats All-in-One Guide. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Book
Chapter: Installing Windows Vista
Mark Minasi's new book provides a step-by-step
explanation of how to install, configure, run, and troubleshoot
Windows Vista. Check out this series of excerpts from chapter two of
Mastering Windows Vista for Business Professionals.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Tip:
Fixing a corrupt Outlook profile after a Vista upgrade
After a Windows Vista upgrade, you may experience a corrupt Outlook
profile that requires troubleshooting. Here are step-by-step
instructions that will resolve the problem. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Windows
Vista: Inside User Account Control (UAC)
UAC is a new Vista security feature, and security expert Serdar
Yegulalp shares his experiences, both good and bad, working with it.
He's got plenty of UAC advice for you as well. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Checklist
for creating a cluster in Windows Server 2003
Here's a checklist for creating clusters in Windows Server 2003
using either the GUI-based Cluster Administrator or the command-line
utility Cluster.exe. Source: SearchWinComputing.com
Stored
procedures in SQL Server: A dozen must-have tips
Your SQL Server stored procedures can run more effectively. Check
out these popular tips offering guidance on structured exception
handling to debugging stored procedures. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Windows
Vista: Inside the new security features
Learn about Windows Vista's new security features, like BitLocker
and the Security Center, with these tips by industry experts.
Vista
Deployment: What's In The Box And What's Not
In this live webcast, Mark Minasi walks you through the best and
worst of the Windows Automated Installation Kit and Vista Business
Desktop Deployment tools. Available now On Demand.
TechTarget
names best Windows products for 2006
Judges evaluated more than 160 entries in 15 categories based on
innovation, performance, ease of integration into existing
environments, functionality and value. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
When
AD replication fails: Debugging Event ID 1311
Perhaps the most infamous Active
Directory replication error is Event ID 1311. But how do you resolve
it? Expert Gary Olsen breaks down all of the factors you must
consider when troubleshooting the error. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Top
10 Exchange administration tips of 2006
Based on your clicks, here are the top 10 most popular Exchange
Server administration tips from 2006. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Scripting
School: Managing Group Policy with VBScript:
Scripting expert Christa Anderson explains how you can use scripting
to manage Group Policy with VBScript. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Configuring
IE7 security in Vista
In our step-by-step guide, read about the new security features
present in IE7 and which of these features are user configurable.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Windows
backup and recovery
Having
a fast and secure backup and recovery plan is a major priority for
any IT manager. This series of webcasts and podcasts offers valuable
information for protecting your Windows network and successfully
backing up Exchange Server, SQL Server and your Windows operating
system. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Is
domain controller virtualization really a good idea?
As virtual application servers continue to
grow in popularity, many IT managers are beginning to explore the
idea of virtualizing domain controllers as well. Expert Gary Olsen
tackles some of the many unanswered questions involving DC
virtualization. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Using
the NETSETUP.log to debug domain join problems in Active Directory
One of the most overlooked features of MPS
Reports is the NETSETUP.log. Expet Gary Olsen breaks down the tool
and explains its value when troubleshooting Active Directory. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Windows
Firewall Basics
In this excerpt from Mark Minasi's latest book, learn the rules of
Windows Firewall, what it does and why it does it. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Terminal
server-based computing: A change management strategy can make a big
difference
IT managers with terminal server-based
computing farms would be wise to integrate a change management
strategy to make their IT infrastructure easier to manage down the
road. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Evolution
of the VML flaw
Prepare for the next time a vulnerability arises in your Web
applications by checking out this series of Web security tips and
guides. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Run
32-bit applications on x64 Windows servers
Because most applications are 32-bit, the x64 version of Windows
makes use of an emulator known as WOW64 to allow 32-bit applications
to run. Source: SearchWindowsServer.com
Windows
Weekly Newscast: Email packages and IE flaws
This week, listen to how Dell's partnership with Symantec could pay
dividends in the email management market, the dangers of the latest
security threat for Internet Explorer, and how upgrading to Office
2007 could affect your bank account. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Chapter
Download: Windows ADM templates for Group Policy
Anyone
who has administered Group Policy knows that it can often be just as
maddening as it is helpful. Understanding the concepts and details
is essential to managing and configuring your Windows network
successfully. With this book, Jeremy Moskowitz provides all the GPO
know-how you need for Windows 2003, Windows 2000 and Windows XP. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Simple
Active Directory tricks: Event logs
When
troubleshooting a problem, looking through event logs in Active
Directory can make you crazy. Read expert Gary Olsen's tricks for
making the process less tedious. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Resetting
Microsoft Outlook's 'nickname cache'
Outlook uses name lists called "nickname caches" as part
of the auto-complete feature. These lists occasionally become
corrupted and need to be manually erased and rebuilt.
Source:
SearchExchange.com
10
tips in 10 minutes: Windows IT management, part 2
Were the first 10 tips in 10 minutes not
enough for you? No problem! We've compiled an all new list of our
top IT management tips and articles for those managers with too much
time on their hands. Learn more about the latest technology and
organizational tools, and prevent network problems before they arise
with this fresh list of tips on Windows IT management.
Source:
SearchWinIT.com
When
an AD design goes bad -- and how to fix it
Sometimes the best way to learn how to do
something right is by examining someone else's mistakes. Expert Gary
Olsen presents a poorly designed Active Directory replication
topology, and leads the way toward fixing some common design flaws. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Expert
answers to your scripting questions
Scripting expert Christa Anderson tackles readers' email and answers
questions about managing variables and string names, killing a
process and whether you should learn to script. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Best
practices for Active Directory replication topology design
A well-designed replication topology is the
key to an efficient Active Directory infrastructure. Expert Gary
Olsen highlights the most important rules to live by when designing
topologies for large, complex networks. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Checklist:
Data mining 101 in SQL Server 2005
Data mining in SQL Server 2005 provides the tools to better
understand your clients. Study this checklist to see if this is a
feature you can benefit from. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Exchange
Server 2007: 32-bit versus 64-bit hardware
SearchExchange.com contributor Serdar Yegulalp explains your 32-bit
and 64-bit options for Exchange Server 2007 and offers warning about
an important installation caveat. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Active
Directory trust relationships, SID filtering and the authentication
firewall
Expert Dean Wells continues his dissection of
the Active Directory architecture by breaking down AD trust
relationships and security identifiers (SIDs), as well as
lesser-known features such as SID filtering and the authentication
firewall. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Data
destruction
Make sure that old data on old hardware gets disposed of properly.
This article covers some secure methods. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Customizing
a RIS installation script
Customizing the default Remote Installation Services (RIS)
installation script requires nothing more than a few simple edits,
which you can do without any real programming. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
Outsourcing
your Windows environment: It isn't as bad as you may think
Hiring an outsourcer to take over some of your IT operations is a
concern for many mangers, but Mark Arnold says while it might change
your daily life, it won't change everything. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
FAQ:
Domain Controller Management
Got a question about domain controllers for our Server Management
expert Laura Hunter? Check this FAQ first to see if she may already
have answered your question. Source:
SearchWinComputing.com
T-SQL
Learning Guide
Improve your Transact-SQL (T-SQL) skills with these overviews, best
practices and stored procedures. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Registry
hacks that improve Exchange and AD performance
Learn two registry hack
techniques that will ease the burden on overloaded Active Directory
domain controllers and boost Exchange Server performance. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Step-by-step
guide: Laptop hacking
Laptops
with sensitive data are getting stolen every day. Contributor Kevin
Beaver says the best way to secure your laptops is to understand how
they will be attacked. He provides the basic attack methods and a
set of preemptive measures in this step-by-step guide. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
GPO
replication: Understanding the ins and outs
Replication services for Group Policy Objects are key to the
stability of a GPO. Expert Derek Melber breaks down the process for
GPO replication, and explains how to ensure a more stable
environment. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Patch
Management Toolbox
 Patch
Tuesday only comes once a month, but keeping up with the latest
security fixes is no easy task. Use the tools in this toolbox to
make patch management as easy as possible. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Fixing
your AD design with GPO Loopback processing
Just
because you're an IT manager with Active Directory design issues
doesn't mean you're stuck. Using GPO Loopback processing puts you on
the road to AD design recovery. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Active
Directory tools ease import/export of data
Expert
Gary Olsen explains how to use LDIFDE import and CSVDE export
features to better manage your Active Directory architecture. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Microsoft
Longhorn features worth watching
Expert
Gary Olsen offers observations on some of the more notable features
in Longhorn that will make a difference in Windows administration.
NAP, Terminal Services and Unix integration are just a few of the
Longhorn features that Olsen discusses. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Top
5 cool Longhorn/Vista features
Expert
Gary Olsen gives an overview of some of the exciting new features
for Windows Longhorn and Vista that were presented at Microsoft's
TechEd 2006. Source: SearchWinIT.com
64-bit
Watch
No
longer a futuristic technology, 64-bit technology is what's
happening right now. So, to show you which 64-bit products are
available now for your Windows network, SearchWinIT.com has put
together these easy-to-read tables as a reference guide. We've
organized the tables into three sections: processors, operating
systems, and software and drivers Source: SearchWinIT.com
Fast
Guide: Active Directory security
Windows
Active Directory has become one of the key components to enterprise
management, and many compaines use it to control large portions of
their networks. With so many factors dependent on the successful
administration of AD, security is especially important. This guide
offers plenty of must-know tips on maintaining a secure AD
environment, starting with the basics and moving on to more advanced
practices. Source: SearchWinIT.com
TechEd
2006 Best Session picks
The
experts of various sites at TechTarget have picked their must-attend
sessions at TechEd 2006 in Boston. You'll find a wide range of
topics that will guide you while at TechEd. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Windows
security toolbox: Network security
Check out these 12 free tools from SearchWindowsSecurity.com to
prevent attackers from crippling your network. Source:
SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
Mastering
the LDAP search filter
Expert Gary
Olsen breaks down the principles of the LDAP search filter, making
it easy for an admin to formulate whatever search he or she wants in
Active Directory. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Top
10 Questions: Setting user rights and restrictions with Group Policy
Group
Policy was designed to make an IT pro's job easier, but it sure
seems like the opposite sometimes! Fortunately, we've gathered our
top reaer questions on dealing with Group Policy user rights and
restrictions to help keep you and your admins on the same page.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Simplifying
LDAP scripting behind the scenes
It is
important for every admin to have an understanding of LDAP when
searching for information in Active Directory. Expert Laura E.
Hunter breaks down the syntax into its component pieces and provides
some essential tips for AD scripting. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Managing
Active Directory users: Getting from Point A to Point B
This is the
second in a two-part series on the use of multi-platform management
tools to unify heterogeneous environments under Microsoft Active
Directory. Source: SearchWinIT.com
10
tips in 10 minutes: Getting technical with Active Directory
The
inner workings of Active Directory can get so complex, it can drive
an admin crazy. Not to fear, though. No one is more adept at the
technical side of AD than our own expert Gary Olsen. Here we have
gathered Gary's ten best tips from the past year, as rated by you,
our readers. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Fast
Guide: Keeping pace with Microsoft certifications
Microsoft
certifications are some of the most sought after certs on the IT
market, and with the upcoming release of Windows Vista, even more
cert exams are hitting streets. This guide features all the latest
developments in the world of Microsoft certifications, as well as
must-know info on MCSA and MCSE to get your IT career on the fast
track to success. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Learning
guide: Patch management
Check out this collection of tips, expert Q & A's, webcasts,
downloads and more that will ensure that you are properly prepared
to handle all of your patch management issues. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Tip:
Extracting AD info quick and easy with LDIFDE
Gathering
data in Active Directory can be a simple task if you know the right
commands. Expert Gary Olsen offers a few helpful scripting tips for
LDIFDE. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Top
10 Questions: MCSA and MCSE
Microsoft
certifications are always a hot topic among IT professionals, and no
one knows more about MCSA and MCSE than our career development
expert Ed Tittel. Here we have gathered our top readers questions
dealing with the two popular Microsoft certs, so before you send
your own question to Ed, check out the great advice he's already
shared! Source: SearchWinIT.com
Top
10 Questions: Printing with Terminal Services
Printer
management is a fact of life for most network administrators.
Consider this Top 10 list as required reading for understanding the
ins and outs of setting up, fine-tuning and troubleshooting those
pesky printer mishaps. Source: SearchWinIT.com
10
tips in 10 minutes: Windows IT management
IT
managers spend a great deal of time troubleshooting issues that pop
up in a variety of different areas. Whether it involves upgrading
new technology or solving security mishaps, it's always a better
idea to prevent problems before they arise. Stay one step ahead of
your next IT dilemma with this collection of our 10 best tips on
Windows IT management. Source: SearchWinIt.com
Fast
Guide: Know your DNS inside and out
Your
Active Directory relies heavily on DNS to function, whether you're
using Windows Server 2000 or 2003. This guide breaks down the basics
of DNS, and provides some helpful tips on how to assess, manage and
protect your environment. Source: SearchWinIT.com
All-in-One
Guide: Active Directory backup and recovery
Ensure that
your Active Directory network remains intact -- even when the worst
happens -- with this collection of tips and advice. Our categories
of Backup Basics, Replication and Disaster Recovery include tips on
establishing secure Active Directory boundaries, backing up DNS
servers and creating a disaster recovery plan. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Group
Policy Under the Hood: Applying a 'master' set of policies in a
non-AD environment
In
this series, expert Jeremy Moskowitz helps readers with such issues
as using Group Policy to force all PC homepages to a specific Web
site and using a registry key to monitor security template changes.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Tip:
The effects of GPO version numbers on Group Policy replication
The
relationship of the version numbers for the Group Policy Template
and Group Policy Console of each GPO are important for proper Group
Policy replication. Expert Derek Melber discusses this relationship
and explains why the numbers don't always add up. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Fast
Guide: The ABCs of GPOs
You
can use Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to control almost every aspect
of your computing environment. This guide breaks down the basics of
GPOs, and offers helpful tips for managing them and keeping them
secure. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Exchange
tips to make backup a breeze
Your Exchange
Server may be humming but there are always ways to make it run just
a bit smoother or tricks for faster and more reliable back up and
recovery. Discover the secrets to more efficient Exchange backups.
Source: SearchWinIT.com
Active
Directory Under the Hood: Monitoring AD performance
In
this series, Active Directory expert Laura E. Hunter gives tips on
monitoring AD usage and totaling users in a specified group. She
also works out issues when trying to add a child domain in a Windows
Server 2003 Active Directory. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Special
Report: Server virtualization
The
big players in the server virtualization market are vying for the
hearts and minds of IT shops as well as the partner community. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Career
expert Ed Tittel recently spoke with Microsoft Learning Group
Project Manager Al Valvano about what's on tap for Microsoft's
certification programs, and how they will be affected by the
upcoming release of Windows Vista. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Active
Directory Under the Hood: Trouble starting AD Users and Computers
In
this series, Expert Laura E. Hunter helps readers with such Active
Directory issues as authorizing the DHCP, resetting the AD Restore
Mode password and starting AD Users and Computers. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Quick
fix for a non-replicating DC
While
it doesn't come up every day, one of the most frustrating
experiences for an AD administrator is to try to fix a
non-replicating DC. Expert Gary Olsen breaks down the process
step-by-step to make troubleshooting your next non-replicating DC a
snap. Source: SearchWinIT.com
All-In-One
Guide: SQL Server backup and recovery
Find out how to successfully back up and
recover SQL Server data with this collection of tips and expert
advice. Our three categories include Basics, Restore Procedures
Maintenance and Troubleshooting, with tips on selecting a SQL Server
backup model, steps to faster backups, optimizing backup performance
and more! Source: SearchWinIT.com
Certifications: Getting work with MCSA and the value of PMP
Career expert Ed Tittel helps readers get on
the right track toward a successful IT career. In this series, Ed
explains the benefits of MCSA and PMP certifications, as well as the
hot new cert trends for 2006. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Featured
Topic: Getting secure with Vista
Both
experts and users seem to have high expectations of the security
features to be included in Microsoft's upcoming release of Vista.
Click here
to see what's being planned. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Rootkit
prevention and detection
Rootkits are virtually undetectable tools used by hackers to control
your Windows systems. Learn how to prevent, locate and eliminiate
these attacks in this learning center. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Utilities
for a surrogate key architecture
Learn how to maintain a surrogate key architecture with this
collection of utility routines and stored procedures. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Eight
reasons to plan out your security testing
Why
take the time to plan before you test your security? Here are eight
reasons why you should take your time before searching for
vulnerabilities. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Active
Directory's inner workings influence backups and restores
Expert Laura Hunter reviews some of the inner
workings of Active Directory, which directly impact the AD backup
and restore process. Source: SearchWinIT.com
Vista's
security features: What to expect
It is still a few months away, but Windows Vista will provide quite
a few security features that administrators will be able to take
advantage of right away. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Microsoft Vista interoperability: What's at stake for IT managers?
For IT managers who are contemplating deploying Windows Vista, perhaps the most critical question at hand is one of interoperability. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
User
rights for Windows domain controllers and servers
Some
Active Directory user rights are more critical than others because
they control key aspects of the server that an attacker could
exploit. This tip reviews the differences between some critical user
rights settings for domain controllers versus member servers. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Hacker
Valentines - Top 5 Windows threats
Hacker's need love too, well maybe not. Watch out for these
not-so-happy Valentines. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Use
command line tools to monitor Active Directory
Monitoring
Replication is critical to maintaining Active Directory health.
Repadmin is a powerful, but often overlooked, Windows Support Tool
that can make AD monitoring a much easier process. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Learning
Center: Certification trends for 2006
Could
Microsoft certifications help you obtain a better job? In some
cases, the answer is yes. Learn how to make the most of your
certification efforts here! Source: SearchWinIT.com
Getting
more FRS debug help from FRSDiag
Expert Gary Olsen explores some powerful
features of FRSDiag that can be used to troubleshoot your Active
Directory network. Source: SearchWin2000.com
New
developer and database exams coming fast and furious
VS.NET
2005, .NET Framework 2.0 and Sequel Server 2005 are the focus of
Microsoft's latest certification offerings. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Active
Directory scripting secrets
While
the Graphical User Interface (GUI) provides great options for many
common administrative tasks, there are times when an admin still
needs more help to get the job done. Expert Laura E. Hunter reveals
some helpful scripting tools to help admins in ways the GUI cannot. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Quest
wins for best Group Policy product of 2005
The
judges gave the gold award for SearchWin2000.com's Group Policy
Products of the Year to Quest Software's Group Policy Extensions for
Desktops 2.0. The silver and bronze awards went to FullArmor's
IntelliPolicy for Clients 1.5 and DesktopStandard's GPOVault 2.1,
respectively. Source: SearchWin2000.com
NetPro
takes gold for best Active Directory product
The
top two awards for SearchWin2000.com's Active Directory Products of
the Year for 2005 went to NetPro Computing, Inc. for their products
ChangeAuditor 2.6 and NetPro RestoreADmin 1.0. Rounding out the top
three was Specops Deploy 3.0, a Group Policy-based software
deployment product. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Best
Exchange Server messaging products of 2005
The SearchExchange.com Products of the Year for 2005 are unveiled,
with awards going to nine products in three categories: Archiving
and Compliance, Backup and Recovery and Security.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Best
SQL Server products of 2005
 The
editors of SearchSQLServer.com sat down this past fall to assess the
2005 crop of products. Here are the winners in the General Database
Utilities category. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Firefox
security
What if Firefox was as big a target as Internet Explorer? Would it
still be the more secure option? Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Third-party
patch management tools
Where
do you go if you are unsatisfied with Microsoft's patch management
offerings? This article examines a few options. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Open
source security in a Windows enterprise
Open
source security products provide a low-cost and, often, highly
effective option for enterprises. So why are many of us reluctant to
adopt them? Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Learning
Center: Curing Active Directory security issues
Recent concern about the new worm threatening
Windows security has made patch management and network security a
hot issue again. This series of links will help you to maintain a
secure Active Directory network, as well as advise you on what to do
when problems slip through the cracks. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Don't
use backup to distribute database tools
You may be tempted to use a full backup to distribute
database-packaged tools to end users, but contributor Serdar Yegulap
advises against it. Find out why in this tip. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Learning
Center: Active Directory backup and recovery
One
the most critical jobs for an Active Directory administrator is the
ability to recover from unexpected mishaps. This series of links
outlines a number of recovery tips to help ensure that your AD
network remains intact; even when the worst happens. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Getting
inside DNS
With the emergence of Active Directory, having
a properly deployed DNS is a must to keep your network running
correctly (or at all). Expert Laura E. Hunter breaks down the
mechanics of DNS and explains how DNS clients and servers work
together to resolve human-readable DNS names into IP addresses.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Checklist:
Test SQL Server security
You must regularly test SQL Server security if you hope to identify
security weaknesses before an intruder does. This checklist will
help you find and fix vulnerabilities. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
Controlling
Access-based Enumeration with Group Policy
The addition
of Access-based Enumeration to the latest Windows Server 2003 server
pack shows that Microsoft has finally jumped on the security
bandwagon. Expert Derek Melber explains how the feature can be
controlled using Group Policy. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Debugging
NTFRS using FRSDiag and the Propagation File Tracer
Debugging FRS can be a major headache for most
network admins. Fortunately, Microsoft has released some useful
tools to make the process less painful. Expert Gary Olsen goes
through these solutions step-by-step, beginning with the FRSDiag
tool and specifically the Propagation File feature. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Checklist:
Top 5 Windows domain settings to audit
Microsoft
has improved its default security settings, but older software might
still have some dangerous default settings. In particular, keep an
eye on your domain controller. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Microsoft's
ABE keeps users honest
The inability to hide files and folders from
users has been an administrative problem for several years, but not
anymore! Expert Derek Melber breaks down Access-based Enumeration
(ABE), a new tool from Microsoft that allows admins to control which
resources users see. Source: SearchWin2000.com
How
to create a VPN for your wireless network
Protect
resources on your wired network from those who might attempt to
access it wirelessly by implementing a wireless gateway VPN (Virtual
Private Network). Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Hack-proofing
your clients
The basic steps to make your clients less hacker friendly. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Four
ways to lock down mobile devices
Mobile
devices can transport your company's data away from your secure
network. Try these steps to protect that data. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
New
MCP exam betas already underway
The next
incarnation of Microsoft certifications has finally arrived. Expert
Ed Tittel runs through the new roster, including individual exam
objectives and planned data test periods where applicable. Source:
SearchWinIT.com
Which
is the best antispyware?
A consolidation of reviews and rankings points to a top antispyware
product. Source: SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com
How to encrypt emails in Outlook
An
e-mail encryption guide for Outlook. Source:
SearchMidmarketSecurity.com
The
four layers of Internet Explorer security
The
best way to secure IE is with a layered approach, highlighted by
careful configuration and user education. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Trinity
to the (system) rescue!
 The
Trinity Rescue Kit, a system recovery toolkit, contains drivers to
provide access to almost every commonly used variety of network,
mass storage or system hardware. Source:
SearchWinSystems.com
Group
Policy Learning Guide
This guide provides an introduction to Group
Policy, explains how it's used, outlines best practices and provides
troubleshooting help and advice. (Source: SearchWin2000.com)
Understanding
the GPC for Group Policy
Understanding
the structure of object and object properties is an important part
of dealing with Group Policy issues. Expert Derek Melber clarifies
the responsibilities of the Group Policy Container (GPC). Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Checklist:
Securing the Windows gateway
Your gateway is the entry point to your network, and ISA Server
might be your most important server. Make sure it is the most secure
by following these five steps. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
New
Microsoft database and developer credentials have arrived
Certification programs have evolved toward
more job-based credentials. Expert Ed Tittel delves into Microsoft's
revamped cert structure and discusses the new credentials available
to IT pros. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Knowing
key settings in Group Policy Template speeds problem resolution
Knowing how to use the Group Policy Template
is vital to successfully managing your Group Policy. Expert Derek
Melber breaks down the folder and file structure of GP and explains
how it can help solve management and application problems. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Google
Hacking your own Web site
Make sure your Web site is not vulnerable to Google hacking. Use
this step-by-step guide to test your site. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Maintaining
a secure Active Directory network
 In
this four-part series, expert Derek Melber discusses the different
aspects of Active Directory network security. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Backup
tape encryption grows up
If
you want to protect your backups, take a serious look at tape
encryption technology. Here's how to speed up the process with
hardware appliances. Source:
SearchWinSystems.com
Top
five Windows networking mistakes
Check
out this top five and make sure these aren't mistakes you're making.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Securing
domain controllers
Domain controllers are essential to keeping Active Directory
running. Secure your domain controllers with Group Policy settings. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
New
tool can help assess your DNS environment
In a complex network, it can be difficult to keep track of changes
to your domains. In this article, Gary Olsen breaks down a new tool
that can help maintain the health of your DNS environment. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Readers'
Choice: 15 admin tools you can't live without!
SearchWinSystems.com
asked our readers to name the one admin tool they couldn't live
without. The response was great, and here we share with you the
overall winner -- Hyena -- along with 14 other admin tools that our
readers cited as their favorites!
(Source: SearchWinSystems.com)
Metasploit
Don't
be left in the dark about your system's vulnerabilities. This
easy-to-use penetration testing tool can help. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
How
attackers install backdoors
How did that backdoor get there? If you've ever found yourself
asking this question, then find out how they get there and how to
stop them. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Securing
Your Active Directory Network
Derek
Melber investigates the security of your Active Directory database
and the objects that exist within the database. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Fingerprinting
the bad guys
Fingerprinting, a hacker technique, can be used against hackers to
both acquire evidence against them and to obscure the identification
of your own servers. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Locking
down services on XP client workstations
Locking down unnecessary services is an excellent way to prevent
security holes in Windows client workstations. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Step-by-Step
Guide: How to deploy a successful patch
This
step-by-step guide explains how to deploy a patch, and provides the
tools you will need to mitigate the risk of a compromised
computer. Source: SearchSecurity.com
System
info tool gathers data fast
A
compact System Information for Windows utility gleans system info in
dozens of categories and makes a powerful addition to an
administrator's on-the-go toolkit. Source:
SearchWinSystems.com
Manually
detecting rootkits
Sometimes
tools come up short. When they do it is just you against the hacker.
Find out what techniques to use to manually track down rootkits.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Single-firewall
DMZ or dual-firewall DMZ? What's it gonna be?
Setting up a DMZ between your internal network and your
outward-facing servers is already a good idea, but is it worth it to
add the security of a dual-firewall DMZ? This article from Windows
Hardening expert Jonathan Hassell examines the tradeoffs of a
single-firewall vs. a dual-firewall DMZ.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Upgrading
and patching Firefox: Security considerations for administrators
Mozilla's Firefox has a reputation for being not only a great
browser, but a highly secure one as well. Many organizations that
don't rely on Internet Explorer or ActiveX technologies are being
urged by this reputation to switch to Firefox, both for safety's
sake and for ease of use. Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Worst
practices for SQL Server backup and recovery
The
following tip highlights some of the most common worst practices
that I encounter when evaluating a company's backup and recovery
practices. Take a look at what you must not do and – if you
are doing them -- how to set things right. Source:
SearchSQLServer.com
An
introduction to Google Hack Honeypots
Google
Hack Honeypots can give you information about would-be Google hacks
attacking your Web site. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Security
concerns of unattended, automatic installations
With
all that is going on in any given day, an admin can't be bothered
with something as mundane and procedural as a new installation.
There is, however, a certain level of vigilance required to make
sure these automatic installations are done securely.
Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Active
Directory-integrated DNS zones and the case of the disappearing
zones! If you've had zones disappear in your Active
Directory-integrated DNS, you know the frustration of trying to find
them again. Expert Gary Olsen gives you guidance on how to fix the
problem or avoid it entirely. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Take
advantage of privilege delegation and off-load your work!
Active Directory has a feature that could be
useful to administrators grappling with assigning administrative
privileges to users. Expert James Michael Stewart explains how you
can take advantage of this feature and off-load some of your work. Source: SearchWin2000.com
What's
in a name? Active Directory security under the covers
Laura Hunter is delving a bit deeper into ways to manage Active
Directory security when you need to create trust relationships
beyond those that are created by default. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
DNS
Primer: Tips for understanding Active Directory integrated zone
design and configuration
Microsoft's development of the Active Directory integrated (ADI) primary DNS zone has some useful benefits for administrators. Gary Olsen's article defines ADI and tells you how to maximize its benefits.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Windows Security Clinic: Rooting out a rootkit
It's the newest IT administrator headache --
rootkits. These pesky programs are a collection of tools that a
hacker uses to mask intrusion to a computer network and obtain
administrator-level access. In this Windows Security Clinic,
"doctors" diagnose and troubleshoot a user problem that wreaks of a
rootkit. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
10 tips in 10 minutes: Configuring Windows 2000 Server
Get a glimpse inside "Microsoft Windows
2000 Server Administrator's Companion, Second Edition,"
with this collection of
10 tips excerpted from Chapter 6, "Configuring New Windows 2000
Server Installations." These tips are full of practical information
to help IT professionals plan the installation, deployment and
maintenance of Windows 2000 Server.
(Source: SearchWinSystems.com)
Find objects with Windows Scripting Host
This month's scripting column by expert Christa Anderson introduces
you to a sampling of the Windows Scripting Host objects and also
explains how they help you perform administrative tasks and work
with your environment. Source:
SearchWinSystems.com
Windows security tools: Our experts' favorite freeware
SearchWindowsSecurity.com's experts list their top
five freeware tools for Windows security. Find out what they say are
the best freeware downloads on the Web! Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Learning Guide: Managing Windows storage
Need to get up to speed on Windows storage? You've come to
the right place! This guide introduces you to storage basics,
reviews best practices and pitfalls to avoid and provides
troubleshooting help and advice. You'll find articles, tips, and
advice to pump up your storage know-how quickly!
(SearchWinSystems.com)
Learning Guide: OS Troubleshooting
Frustrated with Windows and its multitude of
quirks? We hear you! This guide provides OS troubleshooting tips and
advice and explains best practices and what pitfalls to avoid.
(SearchWindowsServer.com)
Best
Practices: Desktop Disaster Recovery
A
desktop system crashes. Critical data is at stake. What steps should
you take? Here are 5 Best Practices that lay the groundwork for what
you should do. (SearchWindowsServer.com)<
Windows
Security Clinic: Got spyware? Clean it up
Annoying
pop-up ads, hijacked browsers and persistent search toolbars keep
your end users complaining and slow productivity to a crawl. Three
security "doctors" offer their diagnoses and cures for
such ailments. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
A look at file management tools for Windows
What's
the first thing you think of when you hear "file management
tools?" Probably Explorer, but you have a number of other
options that may suit your needs better. (SearchWindowsServer.com)
Checklist:
Quick setup for the Security Configuration Wizard (SCW)
Windows
Server 2003 Service Pack 1 includes a new security enhancement that
contributor Jonathan Hassell calls one of the "most
significant" ever made to a Windows server version: Security
Configuration Wizard (SCW). In this checklist, he explains how to
set up SCW to reduce the Windows server attack surface. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Learning
Guide: Freeware
There
may be no such thing as a free lunch -- but there's always freeware!
This guide will help you get a grasp on the concept of freeware with
tips, articles, expert advice and Web resources. (SearchWinSystems.com)
Battling
malware on multiple fronts: How to keep systems protected
A
devious malware author won't limit his target to a single Windows
vulnerability. He will try to attack the door, the window and come
down the chimney all at the same time instead. Contributor Tony
Bradley offers six simple steps to defend against any type of
threat. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Checklist:
Network access quarantining
Mobile
desktops must meet security policy before accessing the network --
or you could be allowing malware and malicious users in along with
them. This advanced checklist will help you understand and apply
network access quarantine options using a new feature in Windows
Server 2003. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Windows
Exchange Tip: Cleansing an infected mail server
If
your server is heavily infected, the sheer volume of infected
messages can overwhelm the machine, and your antivirus software may
not be able to keep pace with the server. If you find yourself in a
situation like this, here are the steps you need to take. (SearchExchange.com)
Windows
Security Tip: Securing Windows laptops
Sensitive
company and private information lives on Windows laptops, making it
critical that you safeguard that data in the event of an attack,
loss or theft. Get tips and advice on laptop security in this week's
Learning Center. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Windows
Security Tip: Keeping remote PCs patched
Patching
is a necessary evil in today's networked world -- particularly for
Windows machines that are not always on the network. Site
contributor Tony Bradley offers three quick tips to help you ensure
remote computers are regularly patched, or at least protected until
they can be patched. (SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Learning
Guide: Scripting
This
guide offers news, tips, expert advice and resources to help boost
your scripting know-how quickly. Included in this guide are basic
scripting concepts, advanced scripting concepts, tips to create
scripts and help you debug your scripts, expert advice and Web
resources. (SearchWindowsServer.com)
How
to Google hack Windows servers
You
must Google your
public-facing Windows servers before a bad guy Googles them first.
You may be shocked to learn just how much sensitive information can
be found. In this tips series, site expert Kevin Beaver offers
Google tools and queries to help you perform ethical hacking tests
and identify Windows vulnerabilities. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Step-by-Step
Guide: Time Management
In the
hustling bustling world of IT, one thing Windows computing managers
never have enough of is time. How often have you arrived at work in
the morning with an ambitious agenda, only to find yourself sitting
at your desk eight to ten hours later with nothing crossed off your
to-do list? If this happens to you regularly, you may have a time
management problem. Here are 10 steps to help you work more
efficiently, reduce your stress and increase your productivity. (SearchWin2000.com)
Checklist:
Automate security administration for standalone PCs
IRoberta
Bragg says she's sick and tired of small business IT professionals
complaining that Microsoft offers no tools to automate security in a
workgroup -- when the tools they need are right in front of them.
She provides step-by-step advice for automating workgroup security
for a standalone PC, without having to move to a domain environment,
in this checklist. (SearchEnerpriseDesktop.com)
Undo
your Windows patching mistakes
Imagine
a worm is on the loose and you deploy a critical patch immediately
to prevent an attack -- but the patch breaks a critical business
application in the process. Sound familiar? Contributor Tony Bradley
offers three tips to help you undo untested patch mistakes. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Windows
Security Tip: Combat security threats with user education
Experts
say user education is the key to securing your Windows environments
from viruses and spam, but administrators at a recent New England
Information Security Group (NEISG) meeting are weary about how far
education can actually go. (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)
Learning
Center: Harden Windows communications
Make
sure data is moving securely across your Windows networks. Here
you'll learn how to use three basic security processes to protect
LAN, WAN and Web communications. (SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Checklist:
Tools that diagnose Exchange performance problems
This
checklist of tools will help you quickly diagnose and remedy your
Exchange performance problems. (SearchExchange.com)
Learning
Center: 15 steps to hardening Windows Server 2003
Don't leave any stone unturned when it comes to
Windows server security. Here we'll highlight Jonathan Hassell's 15
steps to hardening Windows Server 2003, and a few related resources
to help you lock down. (SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Authentication
Learning Guide
Overlooking the importance of strong authentication is like giving
hackers and crackers an all-access pass to your Windows systems. Get
help locking down authentication for user logon, remote and wireless
access, and Web servers in this learning guide.(SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Featured
Topic: An executive's guide to open source/Linux adoption Experts
predict this will be a critical year for Linux and open source
adoption. Check out the resources, case studies and advice you'll
need to make a smart open source decision. (SearchCIO.com)
Learning
Guide: Managing remote users
Whether you're dealing with business travelers
or telecommuters, or both, this collection of tips and expert advice
will teach you how to set up, secure and troubleshoot remote user
connections to your network. (SearchWinSystems.com)
Topics:
Spy Fighters: Antispyware lessons learned
When asked which antispyware solutions work best,
SearchWindowsSecurity.com readers have a lot to say. A group of 10
true spy fighters share their spyware nightmares, product reviews
and technical advice on beating spyware. (SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Learning
Guide: Backup Solutions
Trying to make your backups run more smoothly, or thinking about
swapping out your existing system for something more current? Browse
SearchWinSystems.com’s collection of
tips, articles and expert advice to get started! (SearchWin2000.com)
Learning
Guide: 12 steps to project management success
Managing a successful Windows or IT project is about managing
people. Here are the twelve keys to project management success. (SearchWin2000.com)
How
much encryption is too much?
Many security companies try to thwart competitors by including
stronger encryption in their products. But is this a battle worth
fighting? Brien Posey offers his take on encryption-strength wars
and explains how to ultimately achieve adequate encryption in
Windows systems. (SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Special
report: Coming to terms with compliance
Unlike the largely
unnecessary Y2K spending spree, investments to meet the demands of
government regulations like Sarbanes-Oxley are making it easier for
businesses to see why IT matters. (SearchWinIT.com)
Windows Server Tip: No
separate Windows license required for Ultimate Boot CD
Check out the Ultimate Boot CD.
Unlike the Ultimate Boot CD for Windows, this free diagnostic
software doesn't require a separately licensed version of Windows.
(SearchWindowsServer.com)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
February
2005
Exchange
Tip: Allow
local servers to relay
Exchange
2003 ships "locked down." This is great from a security
perspective, but can create problems for programs on other servers
that notify admins of system issues via e-mail..(SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Checklist:
Good security is not optional
Don't look at security as an optional component of a
Windows implementation. Roberta Bragg explains why good security
practices are a must and lists some security policy do's for
standalone and workgroup computers, as well as Active Directory
domains.(SearchWindowsSecurity.com)
Learning Guide: Secrets of the Windows registry:
The registry is the heart of the Windows operating system, making
troubleshooting and fine-tuning skills a must. Browse our collection
of tips, news, articles and expert advice! (Source:
SearchWindowsServer.com)
Malware
Learning Guide
This guide introduces you to three types of
malware: spam, spyware and viruses. Each malware-specific section
explains how to recognize the problem, protect Windows from attack
and handle the cleanup if you've already been hit.
Learning Guide: Man your wireless LAN
As if managing your Local Area Network isn't challenging
enough, managing and securing a wireless LAN can be even trickier.
SearchWinSystems.com has collected tips, expert advice, news and
White Papers to help make your job easier.
Network Access Control Learning Guide
Understand how access control works and get various tips for
preventing unauthorized access in this Learning Guide.
Checklist: Control Joe User's actions
The only true way to prevent users from abusing their rights is to
take those rights away. How can you do that without hindering their
work? Find out in this checklist from security expert Roberta Bragg.
Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
December
2004
Auld lang syne
Join us for an eclectic look at 2004: the best security products,
the best movies for geeks, the best newsworthy moments, the highs
and lows, the effects of outsourcing and more!
A primer on Exchange public
folders
Learn
how to make the most of public folders -- from
setting permissions and storage limits to
customizing, recovering and troubleshooting public
folder content.
20 tips on protecting and recovering Exchange data in 20 minutes
Protecting and recovering your Exchange data could be one of the
most important operations you can perform. We offer a crash course
to help you keep your data -- and your job.
LEARNING CENTER: Crash Course -- SMS
Microsoft is about
to release two new feature packs for their Systems Management
Server. This collection of SMS info will get you up to speed
quickly!
Checklist: XP Service Pack 2
Pre-Installation
The long-awaited Windows XP Service Pack 2 is finally here, and to
many administrators, it is a double-edge sword. The new security
features, policy settings and improvements to the firewall are
welcome additions. However, these same features may have a major
impact on the way some applications perform, especially if they
require communication via specific TCP/IP ports. Before rolling out
SP2, you'll need to thoroughly test your hardware and applications.
Bernie Klinder, MVP and technology consultant, provides this
pre-installation checklist to help you prepare and plan for a
trouble-free XP Service Pack 2 installation. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
VB.NET troubleshooting
Need help
navigating the VB.NET roadblocks? Then browse this collection of
common development challenges, handy resources and enlightening
solutions.
Exchange 2003 best practices
Have you recently migrated to Exchange 2003 or are in the process of
doing so? Here is a collection of Exchange 2003 best practices, tips
and expert advice to help you through it and get you up to speed on
your new environment.
Learning Center: 2004 Hall of Fame Tips
The tip which receives the highest user rating each month is
inducted into the Tip of the Month Hall of Fame. To make it easier
for you to view these "top tips" we have compiled the most recent
winners here.
Submit a tip and be the winner for October! In addition to being
included in our Hall of Fame, the user who submits this month's
winning tip will receive a Rio Forge 256 MB Sport MP3 player. Visit
the
2004 Hall of Fame Tips section to find out how to submit your
tip.
Featured VS.NET tip: Project structure best practices
The .NET Framework
is designed to allow tight integration with development tools.
However, there are things that you should know before you start a
team project, or any production project for that matter. This
article outlines some common-sense best practices for structuring
development projects. Source: SearchVB.com
8 EXCHANGE 2003 SECURITY TIPS IN 8 MINUTES
Are you looking to
firm up your server side and client side security? Then look no
further: we have excerpted 8 tips from a book by David McAmis and
Don Jones, "Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 Delta Guide."
New answers from Samuel Matzen
ASP.NET, VB.NET and VS.NET expert Samuel Matzen just came through
with a major round of answers to tricky user questions. Browse
Samuel's answers today!
Exchange goes down. What do you do?
Obvious answer:
Bring your server back online as quickly as possible. Here are some
tools and a checklist to help you remedy your problem as quickly as
possible. Source: SearchExchange.com
Managing Active Directory -- 10 tips in 10
minutes
Active Directory is Microsoft's trademarked directory service and
an integral part of the Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003
architecture. Here are 10 tips and expert advice to help you with AD
administration and maintenance. Source: SearchWin2000.com
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
September
Checklist: Windows services you should
disable today
Windows services running by default are
exposing your systems to attack. Which ones should be turned off
immediately? Find out in this checklist by site expert Roberta
Bragg. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
PDF
manipulation in the .NET environment part 2
Ed Tittel's recent
article about PDF manipulation triggered a huge reader response ranging from the enthusiastic to comments that'll
make your hair catch fire if you stand too close. Faced with such
tremendous feedback, Ed had no choice but to revisit the topic and
set the record straight.
>>
More on PDF manipulation in the .NET environment
Will Longhorn include WinFS after all?
Microsoft's
official position is that its next-generation operating system,
Longhorn, will ship in 2006 without some anticipated features like
WinFS. But a pre-beta version of Longhorn and sources inside
Microsoft say otherwise. Source: SearchExchange.com
Webcast: Real-world .NET issues
Consulting Director
and veteran site expert Berni McCoy has been working with clients on
a wide variety of projects since .NET's first use in industry. With
industries ranging from travel, ERP, CRM to financial, scientific
and medical applications using a variety of .NET technologies, there
are few challenges Berni hasn't faced at one time or another. This webcast
taps that vast experience by providing a solid overview of how to
resolve .NET development problems. Tune in for step-by-step,
practical tips for discovering, isolating, analyzing and resolving
the most stubborn challenges. Don't miss out
on this opportunity - tune in today!
Fast Guide: Archiving
Is archiving your
priority? Now more than ever, keeping important information backed
up tops every IT list. Look here for a collection
SearchExchange.com's latest articles and tips on keeping your
Exchange data safe. Source: SearchExchange.com
Windows Management -- 10 tips in 10 minutes
Here are 10 tips for the future of Windows management. Look for a
new Microsoft Operations Manager, Systems Management Server service,
feature packs and Software Update Services. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Shortcuts to AD security
Numerous security settings exist in Active Directory, and it's
essential to set the proper ones early on to avoid problems later.
Here you'll find a series of tips from the Administrator shortcut
guide to Active Directory security. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Exchange Admin 101: Downsizing databases
You can decrease a database's file size by
defragmenting it - offline -- and reclaim lost disk space. This tip
explains how to perform the process and what to be cautious of when
you do it. Source: SearchExchange.com
How do you rank on our Windows
geek-o-meter?
The end of summer is always depressing, isn't it? We felt as though
we all needed something light and fun to start out this week. So, we
challenge you to take this quick quiz and see how you measure up on
our Windows geek-o-meter. How many can you guess without peeking?
When you're done,
share your score with us and be entered to win a great tan and
navy TechTarget canvas bag!!! Source: SearchWinITcom
Best of Ask the Experts
Do you
have an Exchange problem that is driving you nuts? We have taken the
top Ask the Expert questions voted on by our members from the last
six months and put them together so you can send your Exchange
problems packing. Source: SearchExchange.com
Get your network hacked in 10 easy steps
Microsoft security expert Jesper Johansson
offers 10 common mistakes administrators make that can allow a
hacker to freely roam a network. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
August
Crash course: E-mail protocols
Are you looking for
the right e-mail protocol for your system? SearchExchange.com
features today's top candidates and includes tips to help you master
your pesky protocol problems. Source: SearchExchange.com
Gold, silver or bronze?
Our readers were the judges, and our content, the competition. Where did your favorite article place in the 'page view' Olympics? Don't
miss the title holders for top 10 of 2004. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
IT Career Success -- 10 tips in 10
minutes
Frustrated
with your job or scared you might lose it? Here are 10 tips to help
you stay at the top of your class, reach for a bigger paycheck or a
promotion, and stay out of the unemployment line. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Roberta Bragg's 10 Windows hardening tips
in 10 minutes
Roberta
Bragg explains how to think proactively about Windows security and
offers 10 things to do right now to harden your Windows systems. All
10 tips are excerpted from Chapter 1 of her book "Hardening
Windows systems." Source: SearchWindowsSecurity.com
Sharpen your C# skills
C# is a key skill
for any well-rounded .NET developer. Brush up on your C# skills
today! Source:
VB.net
Crash course: E-mail protocols
Are you looking for
the right e-mail protocol for your system? SearchExchange.com
features today's top candidates and includes tips to help you master
your pesky protocol problems. Source: SearchExchange.com
IT Career Success -- 10 tips in 10
minutes
Frustrated with your job or scared you might lose it? Here are 10
tips to help you stay at the top of your class, reach for a bigger
paycheck or a promotion, and stay out of the unemployment line.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Know Exchange? Join our team of site
experts!
We're looking for
an Exchange guru to join our team of site experts. Think you've got
what it takes? Want to beef up your resume and earn extra
professional exposure? Apply today! Source: SearchExchange.com
New C# expert: Mark Belles
We have a new
member on the SearchVB.com expert team!
Mark Belles is a self-proclaimed “techhead” in search of new
challenges. While C# is Mark's primary field of expertise, he also
has extensive knowledge of VB/VS.NET, VC7, COM and .NET Web
Services. Over the years, Mark has also worked with ASP.NET, Windows
API and encryption technology. Make his day --
send your toughest questions today!
Chapter Download: 'Harden communications'
What is
the best approach to bulletproofing your system? In this chapter,
SearchWin2000.com site expert Roberta Bragg offers her take on the
matter along with tons of tips and tricks for securing LAN, WAN and
Web communications with SSL. Get the complete rundown of the three
basic security processes for hardening network communications:
authentication, integrity and encryption. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
New! Visit our just-launched site
SearchWindowsSecurity.com
SearchWindowsSecurity.com is the new mecca for tactical expert
advice and news about securing Windows systems. It is designed to
help you with Windows administration, deployment and infrastructure
security; identify domain, local and account-level weaknesses;
address security concerns before breaches occur and recover quickly
in the event that they do. SearchWindowsSecurity.com's experts and
educational resources offer how-to advice, essential tips and best
practices for hardening Windows systems and securing valuable
company information. Visit our new site today!
Exchange Admin 101: Outlook's group
calendars
Outlook's calendar
lets you do more than set reminders to yourself. Learn how to manage
events for groups and master other advanced calendar functions.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Fresh answers from Berni McCoy
Our VS.NET/Business Issues of .NET Development expert Berni McCoy
recently came through with a fresh batch of answers to user
questions. Source: SearchVB.com
*
Can I use VS.NET on a server that's not
upgraded to .NET Framework?
*
How can I display an active image from
webcam using Visual C++ code?
Click and Learn: Outlook Web Access
Wish you knew a
little more about Outlook Web Access? Here are a number of tips and
tricks that would surprise even an OWA expert. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Featured Topic: Group Policy 101
Is the vast world of Group Policies driving you crazy? You're not
alone! Get the scoop from our articles, tipsters and site experts,
and learn how to be a Group Policy pro.
Featured Topic: Terminal Services 101
Thin clients are no longer the pariah they once
were. Ease of patching, security and greater control have all
contributed to renewed interest. Find out how to install, deploy and
operate a Terminal Services environment.
Expert advice on backup
and recovery
Think your organization has a solid backup and
recovery plan? Your data may not be as secure as
you think. Here are some tips and tricks that will
help get your storage plans back on track.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Ask the Expert: New
answers from Berni McCoy
VB/VS.NET guru Berni McCoy recently came in with a
fresh batch of expert answers to common user
problems. Browse to find the golden tidbit of
information that just may save your day tomorrow!
Source: SearchVB.com
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
July
When the lights go out:
Exchange disaster recovery, part 1
Do you have a backup plan in the event of an
unexpected disaster? Here are the basics on what
you need to do if a power outage or crash strikes
and you are left in the dark.
New SearchVB.com site
expert
We have a new face on the team! Samuel Matzen is
an expert .NET developer for both Windows Forms
and ASP.NET with has 35 years of application
software development experience. Samuel has
written 200+ tutorials for the Infragistics Net
Advantage products and runs a popular developer
resource site alongside his consulting business.
Let's welcome Samuel by sending him your toughest
ASP.NET and VB/VS.NET questions! Source:
SearchVB.com
Expert advice on backup
and recovery
Think your organization has a solid backup and
recovery plan? Your data may not be as secure as
you think. Here are some tips and tricks that will
help get your storage plans back on track.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Defragging 101
Defragging is high
on most administrators' "hate lists." But this
mundane chore is crucial to maintaining
high-performance. This collection of tips,
articles and advice can help make defragging
easier and less time-consuming. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Exchange
Admin 101: Database architecture primer
Today we introduce a category of tip aimed at the
Exchange newbie -- Exchange Admin 101. Check out
today's topic on database architecture. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Product review: MailEssentials' new version
tackles more than spam
Our reviewer finds GFI MailEssentials Version 10
offers features that improve filtering accuracy
almost immediately, and discusses other product
benefits beyond anti-spam features.
Source: SearchExchange.com
Chapter of the Week:
'Building a load-balanced cluster'
Load balancing is also known as server
clustering, server farms and Web farms.
Regardless of the name, the goal of this
technology is to distribute client requests
across multiple nodes to avoid swamping any one
machine. This chapter from the book "Windows
2000 Clustering and Load Balancing Handbook," by
Joseph Lamb, explains how this technology works,
how to set it up, and best practices for
configuration and testing.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
SearchVB Free Code
Library
Browse thousands of free VB code downloads and
snippets in our Visual Basic Code Library.
Source: SearchVB.com
Crash course: Outlook
Check out our top 10 tips and other links for
those of you that need to brush up on your
Exchange fundamentals. Whether you are looking
into implementation or just need to sharpen your
skills, these tips are for you. Source:
SearchExchange.com
Chapter of the Week:
Clustering Design Issues
Setting up a cluster server is a complex
undertaking, but smart planning can help smooth
the ride. This chapter from the book "Windows 2000
Clustering and Load Balancing Handbook," by Joseph
Lamb, walks through the planning process in a
simple, step-by-step manner to ensure minimum
disruption and optimal performance. Source:
SearchWin2000.com (July 12, 2004)
The Windows Server 2003
reference guide shootout
For Windows administrators looking for some summer
reading, Bernie Klinder offers a review of the
most popular reference books on Windows Server
2003. Be warned, however: Don't drop these tomes
on your toes. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Visual Studio .Net Info
Center
Visit the VS.NET Info Center on SearchVB.com --
NEW FEATURES: We now have two new experts ready to
answer your toughest Windows development questions
... check out the buzzing forum ... and you can
still find downloadable code and the latest news!
Source: SearchVB.com
Security best practices dos and don'ts
While there is no magic formula for keeping Exchange totally secure,
these best practices lay the groundwork for the
start of a solid plan.
Part 1 Security best practices dos and don'ts, part 1
Part 2
Security best practices dos and don'ts, part 2
The Exchange
administrator's toolbox
Here are the top 10 tips and expert advice that
every Exchange admin needs to know! Source:
SearchExchange.com
Featured Topic: Crash
Course – Spyware
Spyware is often considered a malicious thief, but
it can have legitimate uses. It can yield vital
information used in investigations. For example,
spyware can determine whether an employee is
stealing confidential company information. Check
out this compilation of tips and expert advice to
help you weigh the pros and cons of spyware, and
learn how to best protect yourself. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Migration advice
Your time has come to migrate off Exchange 5.5 and
on to Exchange 2000 or Exchange 2003. Check out
these tips and expert advice to avoid the
challenges and problems others before you have
encountered. Source: SearchExchange.com
Webcast: Securing Web
Services with WSE 2.0
Microsoft's new Web Services Enhancements (WSE) v
2.0 will help leverage the latest in Web Services
standards. This webcast explains how to apply the
OASIS WS-Security standards for authentication,
encryption and message signatures using WSE 2.0,
and demonstrates how WS-Policy is applied to
further automate the process. Pre-register today!
Source: SearchVB.com
12 ways to protect your
Exchange 2003 data
How do you keep your Exchange data secure? In "12
ways to protect your Exchange data," excerpted
from Mike Daugherty's new book, "Monitoring and
Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003," we have
12 tips to teach you how. Source: SearchExchange.com
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
June
Migration 101
Migration can be tricky business. We have the
tools and resources to help you plan, implement,
troubleshoot and fully utilize your new system.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Chapter of the Week: 'Capacity Analysis and
Performance Optimization'
Are you getting your money's worth out of Windows
Server 2003? This chapter from the book "Microsoft
Windows Server 2003 Unleashed," by Rand Morimoto,
et al., examines the analysis and fine-tuning
skills you need to achieve optimal performance.
Starting with established baselines, the author
walks through the available tools, monitoring
procedures, patch management and Best Practices
you need to get the job done. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Learning guide: Migrating
to Windows Server 2003
Considering Windows Server 2003? You're not alone.
But how to approach such a complex migration? How
can you be sure you're getting the most use out of
your investment and avoid the pitfalls, all while
keeping your system secure? We have gathered a
wealth of helpful information to assist you
through the process, from planning to
post-implementation troubleshooting. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Chapter of the Week:
'Planning, implementing and maintaining routing
and remote access'
Remote network access doesn't have to be a
technical headache; it can also be a security
nightmare. Learn how to dodge the culprits in this
information-packed chapter, from the book "MCSE
Windows Server 2003 All-in-One Exam Guide", by
Brian Culp, et al. The topics include routing
protocols, remote security and access policies,
authentication, IPSec policy and troubleshooting.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
12 credit cards in one
This is a programmable card in development that
can represent all of your credit, debit, and
consumer cards, so you only have to carry one
card. Working in conjunction with a small handheld
device called the Pocket Vault, this card has
security features that guard against identity
theft, physical theft of cards, and theft of
credit card information over the Internet. The
device also has built in radio frequency
identification (RFID) technology and the capacity
to display a user's photo. Think you know this
term? Find out if you are right! Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Blocking
spyware via the ActiveX kill bit
Most spyware installs through an ActiveX plug-in
when a browser window is opened. Disabling ActiveX
controls entirely can cripple IE to the point
where many legitimate sites don't work at all, and
using the Trusted and Restricted Sites feature in
IE isn't always helpful either. One way to stop
spyware from installing itself is to attack it in
the Registry, by preemptively blocking specific
ActiveX controls from being installed. Read this
tip to learn more. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Microsoft's Security
Guidance Center for Small Business
The primary thrust of Microsoft's Security
Guidance Center for Small Business is what they
call a "small business security checklist." Read
this tip to take a look at this checklist.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Welcome to the Blooper
Zone
The May Blooper contest is over and we have a
winner! A.S., a former technical support person
from Illinois, snagged the top spot. Read his and
other hilarious stories here! Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Got IT job woes? Get
advice from the pros
Are you an underpaid systems admin, a tech
specialist ready to tar and feather a user or an
IT manager trying to get your boss' job? Here are
some tips and advice that can enrich your job or
help get you the one you want. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
What is a good tool
for logon scripts for Windows?
Dear Serdar:
We migrated from Novell two years ago to Win2k. As
you know, Novell had good instructions for writing
Logon script for different OS mapping and
deep-level mapping. Win2k is not as easy. What is
a good tool for logon scripts if you don't know
Csript, Wscript or VB?
Read Serdar Yegulalp's expert response.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Fast guide to Windows
storage
A number of factors are driving more data centers
to run some -- if not all of their storage -- off
a Windows-based platform. The move to open
systems, coupled with Microsoft's recent
involvement in storage, makes understanding the
nuances of Windows-based storage all the more
important. This guide has the latest news and
technical resources you need to get up to speed on
Windows storage. Source: SearchStorage.com
Ask the Expert: How to
remove a child domain
Dear Paul:
What is the correct way to remove a child domain?
Read Paul Hinsberg's expert response.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
May
Vertical partitioning of
large databases
Partitioning tables into different files contained
in the same database is a good way to improve
performance of large databases. You can choose to
partition your tables using either vertical or
horizontal partitioning depending upon the nature
of your data. This tip examines the option of
vertical partitioning. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
‘Migrating from Win 2000
to Win Server 2003’
Get the skinny on migration challenges in this
chapter from the book "Microsoft Windows Server
2003 Unleashed, 2nd edition," by Rand Morimoto.
The topics include a comprehensive migration
process overview, AD forest upgrades and domain
consolidation and migration using AD Migration
Tool v2.0. Source: SearchWin2000.com (May
21, 2004)
Administrator's guide to
deploying Office 2003 - Expert Webcast
The process of deploying Office 2003 is similar to
Office XP. There are subtle differences that
affect how you design and distribute your
configuration, however. In this webcast Jerry
Honeycutt describes those differences and what
they mean for you. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Use crash dumps to
troubleshoot hardware/OS issues
Microsoft has introduced a special function into
the PS/2 keyboard mouse driver that allows users
to manually initiate a BSOD/dump action. If a user
is able to manually initiate a crash, the problem
with the operating system which can be traced and
debugged from the crash dump. Read this tip to
find out how and why to perform this action.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
The 2004 Microsoft Report
Card!
The results are in! We crunched numbers from 1,000
responses to our third annual Microsoft Report
Card survey and -- just as we suspected -- there
are some interesting trends to report. You'll find
the details -- including all the data, whys and
wherefores -- in our Microsoft Report Card for
2004. Look it over and let us know if you agree or
disagree. Source: SearchWin2000.com
'Maintenance and
Troubleshooting'
Think you know all there is to know about
maintaining and troubleshooting Microsoft's newest
IIS web servers? Check your understanding of
critical HTTP error messages, IIS logging issues,
event lots and other critical topics in this
chapter from the book "IIS 6 Administration," by
Mitch Tulloch. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Tip of the Day: Remind
users to never patch from e-mail attachments
As with any other e-mail attachments, it's
essential to train your
users never to use them to patch systems. This tip
discusses why this
is so important and how you can be sure your users
know what not to
open. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Featured Topic: XP SP2 explained
If you're waiting for XP SP2, we've got the
lowdown on how it will change XP security and how
it will impact your systems. Here are tips, expert
responses and news stories to guide you in your
planning. Source: SearchWin2000.com (May
13, 2004)
Troubleshooting sleep-mode problems due to
improper profiles
Most versions of Windows use the Advanced
Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) to enter
a number of different low-power consumption modes
by the user or after a certain amount of elapsed
time without activity. There are five different
power states available to Windows on an ACPI
computer. Occasionally, some of these power states
become unavailable. Find out the cause of this
problem and how to fix it in this tip. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
How to remove NT4 BDC
from Active Directory
Congratulations to Muhammad Haneef, our April Tip
of the Month 3rd place winner. Read
Muhammad's winning tip on how to remove NT4 BDC
from Active Directory.
Chapter of the Week:
'Managing and maintaining Group Policy'
Troubleshooting Group Policy application and
deployment can be tricky business. Get the inside
scoop on little-known tools and methodologies in
this chapter from the book "MCSE Windows Server
2003 Active Directory Infrastructure Study Guide,"
by Dennis Suhanovs, along with helpful tips and
tricks on efficient Group Policy management.
Source: SearchWin2000.com
Install
Windows XP without booting to CD
Congratulations to Billy Brown, our April Tip of
the Month 2nd place winner. Read Billy's winning
tip on how to install Windows XP without booting
from a CD. Source: SearchWin2000.com
Get DOS applications to
print in a timely manner
Congratulations to David Bonham, our April Tip of
the Month winner. In addition to being inducted
into our Hall of Fame, David won a Rio S35S Sport
digital audio player. Read David's winning tip on
how to get DOS applications to print in a timely
manner.
Stabilizing Windows: 20
tips in 20 minutes
No administrator worth his or her salt wants to
deal with an operating system crash. Here are 20
tips and nuggets of expert advice to show you how
to increase the overall stability of your Windows
servers and workstations. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
Chapter of the Week:
'Planning and implementing Active Directory
infrastructure'
You're probably aware that spending time on
careful planning tends to pay off tenfold through
the Active Directory life cycle. But are you up to
speed on the changes and enhancements of Windows
Server 2003? This chapter from the book "MCSE
Windows Server 2003 Active Directory
Infrastructure Study Guide," by Dennis Suhanovs,
walks through the finer points of an AD
implementation on Windows Server 2003. Source:
SearchWin2000.com
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