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Patch
Tuesday brings a bumper crop of security fixes
Microsoft
released several security bulletins for Patch Tuesday, fixing
vulnerabilities involving remote attacks and client-side issues.
Learn why you should install these patches. (October 13, 2009)
New
AD features in Windows 2008 R2 outshine Hyper-V
IT
pros are more excited about the new Active Directory features in
Windows Server 2008 R2 than anything else, including Hyper-V with
live migration. (October 8, 2009)
Microsoft
releases Sysinternals disk conversion tool
Windows
expert Mark Russinovich describes uses for the new, free
Sysinternals tool, Disk2vhd. (October 8, 2009)
September
2009:
Linux
fans see opportunity in Windows 7 changeover
Open source proponents say that the release of Windows 7 will give
Ubuntu and other Linux distros a chance to grab desktop market
share. (September 25, 2009)
Microsoft
rolls partner technology into Dynamics AX
Microsoft buys technology from Fullscope and Computer Generated
Solutions to add to its Dynamics AX ERP product line. (September 22,
2009)
Microsoft releases temporary fix for SMB2 zero-day
vulnerability
The
software giant released an automated fix disabling the server
message block until a full patch is released. (September 22, 2009)
MDOP
2009 R2 adds Windows 7 support
If you plan to upgrade to Windows 7 soon, you may want to download
Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP) 2009 R2, due out in late
October. (September 14, 2009)
Microsoft
bundles App-V with Remote Desktop Services
IT
shops that upgrade to Windows Server 2008 R2 will get a bonus from
Microsoft. The software vendor will include its application
streaming technology in the license for free. (September 9, 2009)
Act
fast with five critical September patches
Don't turn on your wireless laptop in a hotel or coffee shop, and
limit your Web browsing until you install these five critical
patches. (September 8, 2009)
August
2009:
Exchange
Server 2007 SP2 adds auditing, backup
Exchange
Server 2007 SP2 is ready. One IT expert gives two reasons why
Windows shops should migrate to the new service pack soon. (August
26, 2009)
Microsoft
releases WSUS 3 SP2 with Win 7, R2 support
WSUS
SP2 adds improvements to client performance, and increased server
usability and reliability. It also patches Windows Server 2008 R2
and Windows 7. (August 26, 2009)
VMworld
product deluge begins: News in brief
A
week before VMworld 2009 takes the floor in San Francisco,
virtualization vendors have announced several new wares. (August 25,
2009)
Microsoft
spews preview software; other news
Microsoft
preview deluge; RightScale puts BI on a budget. (August 19, 2009)
Microsoft's
Hyper-V R2 about more than Live Migration
Microsoft
Hyper-V R2's Cluster Shared Volumes (CSV) and Jumbo Frames support
will improve scalability and speed data transfers, one tester says.
(August 19, 2009)
Avoid
these Exchange Server migration pitfalls
One
Exchange administrator gives IT shops some advice on migrating off
older versions of Exchange Server. (August 18, 2009)
Which
Windows skills are in demand?
There are fewer jobs in IT, and employers pay new hires less. But
the news is not all bad. SharePoint experience, for one, is in
demand in Windows shops. (August 17, 2009)
Windows
Server 2008 R2 evaluation bits ready
The evaluation code for Windows Server 2008 R2 RTM is now available
to volume license holders. (August 17, 2009)
Microsoft
releases SQL Server 2008 R2 CTP
The first CTP of Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 is available for MSDN
and TechNet subscribers and previews new features such as
application and multi-server management. (August 14, 2009)
Microsoft’s
August patches run the gamut
Of
the nine patches released this month, the most critical security
update patch helps prevent denial of service attacks on Internet
Information Services. (August 11, 1009)
Cloud
service provider releases Windows 7 testing sandbox
With
the Windows 7 release on the horizon, cloud computing service
provider Skytap released a cloud-based testing environment for
Microsoft's latest desktop OS. (August 10, 2009)
Using
SharePoint as a social network platform
Social
networks are growing within the enterprise, and customization is the
ticket -- at least with MOSS 2007. (August 10, 2009)
Systems management tools: Microsoft
takes aim at the Big Four
Microsoft systems management tools have come a long way in a short
time. Should the Big Four be worried? (August 5, 2009)
Will Microsoft catch up with VMware?
An expert considers Microsoft's virtualization and cloud computing
strategy and weighs its chances against VMware's. (August 4,
2009)
Google Wave to face off against
Exchange, Domino
Microsoft Exchange may be king now, but VARs expect Google Wave
cloud-based email to take a chunk of its business and ding Domino as
well. (August 3, 2009)
Ju ly
2009:
A
turning point in the hypervisor war?
Can
Microsoft capitalize on the release of its Hyper-V R2 virtualization
hypervisor, or is VMware's lead insurmountable? It depends on whom
you ask. (July 27, 2009)
Microsoft
to issue security tool, report at Black Hat
In
addition to updating the public on its new security programs, the
software giant is issuing a guide outlining its patching process and
how to assess vulnerability data. (July 27, 2009)
Enterprises
eyeball new Windows server, Win 7 with care
IT pros
using Windows XP are in no rush to upgrade to Windows 7, while
Vista
users are more eager. And despite Windows Server 2008 R2's
compelling features, adoption will be slow. (July 23, 2009)
Win
7 shoppers bring down online store; other news briefs
Win 7 rush crashes Microsoft store; Avnet picks up Data Domain.
(July 17, 2009)
Microsoft
VARs offer Windows 7 Professional discounts
Microsoft partners can give clients running Windows XP Professional
or Windows Vista Business operating systems a healthy discount off
the Windows 7 Professional upgrade. (July 17, 2009)
Microsoft
readies refreshed install tool beta for Windows 7 and server
Microsoft released
a second beta of its deployment toolkit for IT administrators
looking at Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 adoption. (July 13,
2009)
Microsoft
warns of new Office Web Components flaw
A Spreadsheet ActiveX Control vulnerability in Microsoft Office Web
Components is being actively exploited by attackers. (July 13, 2009)
Microsoft
partner program drops Gold certification
Microsoft
overhauls its channel program, renaming it the Microsoft Partner
Network, restructuring its tiers and streamlining partner
specialization areas. (July 13, 2009)
Microsoft
shuffles Windows management; news in brief
Sinofsky
promoted to lead Windows; Autodesk adds VARs (July 9, 2009)
Microsoft
Azure to undercut Amazon Web Services pricing
Microsoft has told big
customers that its Azure cloud-based services will cost 10% less
than comparable Amazon Web Services. (July 9, 2009)
Microsoft
partner program changes coming at WPC 2009
As the Worldwide Partner
Conference approaches, Microsoft names a new
U.S.
channel chief and plans to restructure its channel partner program.
(July 8, 2009)
New
features in Windows 7 attract enterprise attention
New Windows 7 features, including DirectAccess and BitLocker, are
attractive, but its enterprise application compatibility makes it a
winner, users say. (July 2, 2009)
Netbook
news: Android, Moblin and Win 7 duke it out
Netbooks, devices that fit between cell phones and laptops on the
computing continuum, are a bright spot in IT sales. Get all the
netbook news here. (July 1, 2009)
June
2009:
Microsoft
to open two mega data centers: News in brief
Microsoft will open two mega data centers, one in Chicago and one in
Dublin, Ireland; Oracle adds new management capabilities to its
Oracle Enterprise Manager software; and more. (June 30, 2009)
IT
wish list for SharePoint 2010: Keep it simple
Microsoft SharePoint is popular and widely deployed, but has it
become too complicated? Many think it's an over-packaged package.
(June 30, 2009)
Windows
7 prices set; other news in brief
Microsoft reduces prices on low-end Win 7 SKUs; IT pros sweat cloud
computing details. (June 26, 2009)
Windows
7 downgrade plan changes: News in brief
Microsoft revises Win 7 downgrade game plan; Sun to ditch hardware?
(June 19, 2009)
Documenting
Twitter flaws; other news in brief
Researcher to track Twitter flaws; Dell adds new iSCSI SAN for small
biz. (June 18, 2009)
Linux
Netbooks loosen Windows grip on hardware
Netbooks running Intel Moblin, Google Android or other Linux flavors
chip away at Microsoft Windows franchise. (June 16, 2009)
Partners
still wary of Google Apps for business
Google Apps needed Outlook sync, but VARs won't buy into the latest
Google business software push until they see the money. (June 12,
2009)
Microsoft
enters the VDI market with Windows Server 2008 R2
Microsoft is entering the VDI market with Windows Server 2008 R2.
How will competitors like Citrix and VMware react? (June 10, 2009)
Microsoft
patches WebDAV in bevy of updates
Zero-day flaws in Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) Web
server and Internet Explorer were among 31 vulnerabilities repaired
Tuesday. (June 9, 2009)
Microsoft's
Ozzie warns on cloud margins: News in brief
In today's news in brief, Microsoft's chief architect warns that the
company's cloud margins may be low; VMware tells Veeam Software to
discontinue free ESXI hypervisor support. (June 8, 2009)
VMware
clampdown on free ESXi may prompt defection
A dustup between VMware and Veeam Software over support for the free
ESXi hypervisor highlights the challenges of selling virtualization
to small businesses. (June 5, 2009)
Windows
7 on for Oct. 22; Cisco UCS to come in rack and blade versions
Microsoft vows Oct. 22 date for Win 7; other IT channel news. (June
4, 2009)
Intel's
Moblin raises stakes on netbook OS race
Intel's new Moblin netbook operating system gives business netbook
buyers another non-Windows option besides Google Android. (June 1,
2009)
Security
pros want strong policy for virtualization
Server virtualization adds complexity -- often not addressed -- to
corporate security policy. (June 1, 2009)
May
2009:
64-bit
SharePoint 2010 driven by demand
SharePoint 2010 will be 64-bit only, leaving 32-bit behind. Find out
how this will impact you and your clients. (May 29, 2009)
Server
2008 SP2 with Hyper-V available
In today's news in brief, while the world waits for Windows Server
2008 R2, Microsoft posts Windows Server 2008 SP2 to the Web. (May
28, 2009)
Intel
shows off eight-core Nehalem EX
Intel's upcoming Nehalem EX chip will sport eight cores, supporting
16 threads. (May 26, 2009)
EPA
releases Energy Star server specification
After two years of work, the Environmental Protection Agency has
released its Energy Star spec for servers. (May 21, 2009)
Microsoft
updates Exchange Server 2007 SP1
IT managers this week can download a rollup released for Exchange
Server 2007 Service Pack 1. (May 20, 2009)
Microsoft
OKs virtualized SQL Server clusters
In an about-face, Microsoft will now support failover clustering for
SQL Server instances running in a virtual machine. (May 19, 2009)
Amazon
embellishes cloud service; Intel fined and labeled a cheater
News briefs: Amazon adds monitoring, scaling to EC2; other IT
channel news. (May 18, 2009)
TechEd
crowd eyes Hyper-V R2 features
News Roundup: Microsoft Hyper-V R2 features and Windows 7
technology are the talk of TechEd 2009. (May 15, 2009)
Big
Google glitch explained; Tech Data launches stimulus watch
Headlines: Another Google gotcha; other IT channel news. (May
15, 2009)
Lacking application support poses virtualization hurdle
Some software vendors will
support virtualization only if users can re-create problems in a
physical environment, which has hindered virtualization adoption.
(May 15, 2009)
IT
pros push back on Microsoft volume license deals
More
tech execs question the value of Microsoft multi-year enterprise
agreements. (May 13, 2009)
Microsoft
Office update fixes serious PowerPoint flaws
One of the PowerPoint zero-day flaws was being actively targeted by
attackers. (May 12, 2009)
Microsoft
virtualization software generates buzz
Microsoft
Hyper-V's new Live Migration and a unique solution to
incompatibility problems stirred Microsoft virtualization software
users at TechEd 2009. (May 12, 2009)
Microsoft
reiterates Vista and gushes over new OSes
Microsoft still recommends
Vista
first, yet evangelizes future OSes such as Windows 7 and Windows
Server 2008 R2 to TechEd 2009 audience. (May 11, 2009)
Microsoft
renames SQL Server release
Some say upping the logical processor support in SQL Server may be a
reaction to Oracle's acquisition of Sun. (May 11, 2009)
Microsoft
adds hypervisor support to Windows 2008 R2
Microsoft promises savings for companies running Windows Server 2008
R2 and Windows 7 operating systems. (May 11, 2009)
Microsoft
to highlight Windows 7 and more at TechEd
IT pros await word on Windows 7, SQL Server 2010, Azure, Hyper-V R2
and more at next week's Microsoft TechEd 2009 conference in Los
Angeles. (May 7, 2009)
Windows
Storage Server released to OEMs; BakBone buys Asempra
News briefs: Windows Storage Server goes to OEMs; other IT channel
news. (May 7, 2009)
Virtual
desktop sites slowly gain critical mass
A year after the release of Citrix
XenDesktop, virtual desktops are less of an oddity and instead are
being included in more enterprise-strategic plans. (May 7, 2009)
Citrix
Dazzle opens app storefront for business users
Citrix brings self-service IT, consumer glitz -- including iPhone
support -- to enterprise application delivery. (May 5, 2009)
Citrix
XenServer now supports Active Directory
With role-based access control, Citrix XenServer 5.5 is an
alternative to VMware in production. (May 5, 2009)
IBM
packs more bundled solutions for the midmarket
In its latest solutions-selling push, IBM fires its dynamic
infrastructure and smart products into the midmarket channel. (May
5, 2009)
Spammers
capitalize on swine flu; SugarCRM, Microsoft make CRM moves
Headlines: Swine flu spam epidemic hits; SugarCRM, Microsoft make
CRM moves (May 1, 2009)
April
2009:
Physicians
enlist virtualization for stimulus funds
To adopt electronic health records prescribed by the federal
stimulus package, physicians are now using virtualization and
cloud computing technologies. (April 30, 2009)
Service
Manager beta 2 enhances IT process automation
The long-awaited System Center Service Manager appears to be back
on track as Microsoft releases a second beta with a handful of key
service desk features. (April 29, 2009)
VMware
launches vSphere 4
VMware has officially launched
vSphere 4, the successor to its wildly popular Virtual
Infrastructure 3 platform. With new features like VMware Fault
Tolerance and fully supported VMotion, beta users have much to say
about the long-awaited vSphere. (April 21, 2009)
Oracle-Sun
acquisition raises MySQL, hardware concerns
The
$7.4 billion Oracle acquisition of Sun Microsystems leaves IT pros
wondering about Oracle’s long-term plans for software and
hardware. (April 20, 2009)
Uncertain
future for Sun overshadows new products
With Sun Microsystems in limbo after IBM talks dissolved, the
company faces user concern that has overshadowed its new products.
(April 15, 2009)
Microsoft
Hyper-V improves Linux support: News in brief
In today's news in brief, the release of Linux Integration
Components for Hyper-V should improve Linux virtual machines' ease
of use. (April 15, 2009)
Yahoo
eyes more cuts; eBay to sell Skype
Yahoo layoff plans reported; eBay to spin off Skype; more IT channel
news. (April 15, 2009)
Interoperable
blades to hit market by year's end
The Server Systems Infrastructure Forum said that standards-based
blade servers, chassis and components will be out this year, but not
from HP, Dell, IBM or Sun. (April 7, 2009)
Microsoft
Stirling security console delayed
Without integration of third-party security software, Microsoft's
Forefront Security Management Console isn't worth much, IT managers
say. (April 6, 2009)
IBM
withdraws from deal to purchase Sun: News in brief
In today's news in brief, IBM has withdrawn its bid to purchase Sun
Microsystems, and a
Dallas
colo raided by the FBI is under investigation. (April 6, 2009)
Attackers
target new Microsoft PowerPoint zero-day flaw
Microsoft said it is aware of limited, targeted attacks against a
new PowerPoint zero-day flaw that surfaced Thursday. The software
giant hasn't ruled out an out-of-cycle patch. (April
3, 2009)
Google
Android OS on netbooks strikes intrigue
Hewlett-Packard and Dell are considering the Android OS for their
netbooks, giving Google instant credibility over Microsoft Windows. (April
2, 2009)
VMware
to spill the vSphere beans on April 21
VMware users who have seen the upcoming version say there's a lot to
look forward to. (April 1, 2009)
March
2009:
Inside
the AD Integration feature for SCOM 2007
Microsoft MVP Pete Zerger shares his insight on a new feature in
System Center Operations Manager designed to reduce TCO and minimize
administrative effort. (March 31, 2009)
When
to move off XP, onto Windows 7
IT shops that skipped Vista may want to get at least some desktops
on the newer OS. Otherwise, upgrading to Windows 7 could get a
little crazy. (March 26, 2009)
The
economics of the cloud
If you're trying to determine the potential cost savings from a
cloud computing model, consider cost savings from outsourcing
utility computing and improved data center operations. (March 25,
2009)
Virtual
desktop licensing: IT's next headache
Become familiar with virtual desktop licensing rules and learn some
third-party tools to help ensure that your organization meets
licensing guidelines. (March
20, 2009)
January
2009:
Windows
7 beta hits; customers, VARs weigh migration
Windows 7 beta will be widely available Friday, VARs and their
business customers can start contemplating migrations. Or not. (January
12, 2009)
Microsoft
RPC worm spreads in corporate networks
A worm, exploiting the Microsoft RPC vulnerability, is wreaking
havoc on some corporate networks, according to researchers at
security vendor, F-Secure. (January 9, 2009)
Free
tools and XP piqued admin interest in 2008
These stories grabbed the attention of administrators in 2008. Will
these topics repeat in 2009? (January 7, 2009)
December
2008:
IT
headline makers of 2008
The tech sector took a wild ride in 2008. Some technologies, like
virtualization, entered the mainstream. Big name industry vets bid
adieu. (December 22, 2008)
Microsoft
issues emergency patch to fix IE flaw
The software giant repaired a dangerous flaw being exploited if a
user browses some legitimate websites. (December
17, 2008)
Microsoft
plans more open source outreach
Microsoft will continue the warming trend toward open source
software in 2009. Pragmatism trumps ideology, according to one
executive. (December 11, 2008)
Users
eye VDI but may wait for client hypervisors
VMware, Microsoft and Citrix are building virtual desktop
portfolios, but IT pros suggest vendors refocus on client
hypervisors. (December 10, 2008)
Interest
grows in virtualized Exchange, SQL Server
With proper planning, it's safe to virtualize Microsoft Exchange
Server and SQL Server databases. (December 9, 2008)
Minasi
says cloud computing is rife with flaws
Windows expert Mark Minasi says cloud computing may make sense only
for the largest enterprises, while virtualization is already
simplifying life for IT. (December 8, 2008)
SP2
beta coming for Windows Server 2008, Vista
Hundreds of fixes and new hardware support await IT administrators
in this SP2 beta release, available on TechNet. (December 4, 2008)
Economic
downturns call for AD proficiency
Sharp Active Directory skills and an understanding of identity
management systems are crucial for IT administrators during
corporate downsizing. (December 1, 2008)
Microsoft
learns of successful RPC worm infections
Microsoft said a number of customers are infected with worms that
successfully exploit the RPC flaw and download malware. (December
1, 2008)
November
2008:
New
tool for managing offline VMs
Microsoft Offline Virtual Machine Servicing tool helps IT update
untethered virtual machines. (November 25, 2008)
Novell,
Microsoft ready management pack for SUSE Linux
Novell and Microsoft have set a date to deliver software that better
integrates SUSE Linux and System Center Operations Manager 2007 R2.
(November 20, 2008)
Is
the time right for Microsoft Online Services?
Where others have fallen short, Microsoft hopes to conquer the
online services market with its message of savings and flexibility.
(November 19, 2008)
Microsoft
aims for unified management console
Microsoft will bring a common look and feel across its System Center
management products, and the upcoming Service Manager will help tie
it together. (November 18, 2008)
Revised
Service Manager beta expected within weeks
Microsoft System Center Service Manager is roaring back after a
false start. The service desk has been rebuilt from scratch and is
on track for completion in 2010. (November 10, 2008)
WSUS
3.0 SP2 will offer fixes only
A beta for WSUS 3.0 SP2 is due out later this year or early next
year, according to one of the technology's developers. It will load
on Windows Server 2008 R2. (November 7, 2008)
AD
links aim to ease identity management in the cloud
In a services world, managing identities is a source of anxiety for
IT managers. AD connectors to cloud computing platforms could be a
first step in easing their concerns. (November 6, 2008)
Microsoft
embraces VDI with revamped Terminal Services
Microsoft is repositioning Terminal Services as Remote Desktop
Services to take advantage of the virtual desktop trend. (November
3, 2008)
Windows
identity management tools closer to completion
Updated versions of two identity management tools, ILM and IAG 2007,
add improved control for user access. (November 3, 2008)
Microsoft
sees OS flaws drop, application breaches rise
In its semiannual Security Intelligence Report, Microsoft says it
has seen a significant drop in vulnerabilities discovered in the
operating system. (November 3, 2008)
October
2008:
In
an economic downturn, Windows shops spend to save
Sure, the business climate threatens IT budgets. But for some
Windows managers, it's a time to invest in new technology for
savings and efficiency. (October 16, 2008)
Top
five free Windows server management tools
Check out the most popular free server management tools Windows
shops are downloading from Microsoft. Up next in this series are the
most popular security management tools. (October 15, 2008)
Microsoft
patches Active Directory, IE flaws
Microsoft patched dangerous holes in implementations of Active
Directory on Windows 2000 Server and memory allocation issues with
its Host Integration Server. (October 14, 2008)
New
SQL Server BI features could cut IT chores
The next release of Microsoft's SQL Server database brings
self-service analysis tools and better reporting features straight
to end users. But will it be less work for IT? (October 6, 2008)
Microsoft
releases Process Monitor 2.0
The popular utility adds a handful of features including the
addition of real-time TCP and UDP monitoring. (October 1, 2008)
September
2008:
Five
tips to improve SharePoint doc management
SharePoint expert Bill English says small companies that can't
afford document management software can build document management
into SharePoint. (September 30, 2008)
The
next wave: Client virtualization
VMware and Citrix are among those developing client hypervisors as
IT shops explore traditional desktop alternatives. (September 26,
2008)
Early
Windows 7 code coming at PDC
If your IT shop is sending a developer to Microsoft's PDC next
month, expect a pre-beta copy of Windows 7 to come home in the
goodie bag. (September 24, 2008)
IT
shops shaping 'internal clouds'
VMware and Microsoft are getting some IT shops thinking about
building internal software services, or 'clouds.' For others, the
concept of cloud computing is still ethereal. (September 17, 2008)
Microsoft
polishes the latest MDOP
App-V 4.5 is ready to download and other management tools will be
out shortly as Microsoft puts finishing touches on its newest
version of the Desktop Optimization Pack. (September 17, 2008)
SharePoint
performance needs tuned SQL Server, storage
You need proper storage, on-point SQL Server and 64-bit gear and
settings to get the SharePoint performance you need. (September 16,
2008)
VMware
counters Microsoft with its own dynamic vision
With new CEO in tow, VMware showcases its 'virtual data center OS'
this week at its annual confab, VMworld. (September 15, 2008)
Microsoft
positions virtualization in the private cloud
Consolidating servers is 2007 thinking. Windows shops need to detach
computing from the physical world so users can get resources based
on individual needs. (September 10, 2008)
Microsoft
fine-tunes desktop virtualization story
Connection broker: Check. VDI suite: Check. Microsoft is polishing
its desktop virtualization act with Citrix in a starring role.
(September 3, 2008)
Unraveling
the cost of Microsoft virtualization licensing
Confused about Microsoft virtualization licensing? Figure out how it
applies to your cost management plan. (September 1, 2008)
August
2008:
Data
breach discovery, disclosure outpaces 2007
More data breaches have been reported so far this year than in all
of 2007, according to a report released by a nonprofit group that
works to prevent fraud. (August 26, 2008)
Citrix
readies app virtualization platform refresh
The former thin-client king is positioned to rule the application
and desktop virtualization market, study says. (August 25, 2008)
Microsoft
unveils virtual licensing changes
Microsoft is making strides toward helping IT shops develop dynamic
data centers with changes to application virtualization licensing.
(August 19, 2008)
Windows
7 is really Windows Server R2, Microsoft says
With Windows 7, Microsoft said it is sticking to its schedule of
having one major release and one minor release for its server.
(August 19, 2008)
July
2008:
Tools
make capacity planning easier for Windows shops
Microsoft's System Center Capacity Planner and other capacity
planning tools from hardware vendors can help IT managers get
started mapping out the future. (July 31, 2008)
How
MOF 4.0 enhances IT service management
The push to combine MOF 4.0 with a set of integrated tools that
adhere to the IT service management lifecycle is just what the
doctor ordered. (July 29, 2008)
Microsoft
vs. VMware: What's the next move?
With their hypervisors finally slugging it out in the marketplace,
Microsoft and VMware will now advance their battle for virtual world
dominance. (July 25, 2008)
For
some, the time is nigh for virtualizing desktops
Though the desktop virtualization market will likely see a shake-up
within the next two years, some IT managers are ready to risk the
chaos. (July 23, 2008)
Today's
WSUS shoots for big enterprises
The Windows Server free patch manager has packed on the features
over the years and adds even more functions through its APIs. (July
22, 2008)
Microsoft
Hyper-V raises questions about Microsoft-Citrix partnership
Solution providers aren't sure if the release of Hyper-V will bring
Citrix and Microsoft together or drive them apart. (July 19, 2008)
With
enterprise search the work is never done
Installing enterprise search technology isn't tough, but to maintain
the software's effectiveness, it must be constantly tuned. (July 15,
2008)
ABCs
of enterprise search
Enterprise search is old hat but not all search tools are created
equal. Plus, with Microsoft and Google in the game it's all just
that much more interesting. (July 14, 2008)
Microsoft
adds standalone version of VMM to lineup
The next release of Microsoft's System Center Virtual Machine
Manager adds support for the Hyper-V hypervisor as well as VMware's
ESX. (July 12, 2008)
Hacker
toolkit targets Microsoft Access zero-day
Symantec Corp. is warning that more users of Microsoft Access could
be targeted by attackers using the Neosploit exploit toolkit. (July
11, 2008)
Midmarket
server could save IT a bundle
Microsoft adds tools and upgrade discounts to its midmarket Windows
Essential Business Server. This week the server combo hits its
release candidate milestone. (July 7, 2008)
Microsoft
to issue Windows, SQL Server updates
Microsoft said it would repair vulnerabilities in SQL Server and
Windows that could allow an elevation of privilege, spoofing and
remote code execution. (July 4, 2008)
Microsoft
adds two security features to IE8
Microsoft said Internet Explorer 8 will have improved security
protection against phishing and unwanted attacks. (July 3, 2008)
Microsoft
seeks to simplify volume licensing yet again
There
are perks to be had from Microsoft's new Select Plus licensing
program, but there are also some gotchas. (July 1, 2008)
Ju ne
2008:
Alliance
aims for better Apple Mac and PC integration
IT managers generally don't think Macs integrate well with Windows
machines. A vendor group hopes to change their minds. (June 29,
2008)
Warning
-- your IT shop needs a makeover
SharePoint, cloud computing and other Web 2.0 technologies promise
to keep IT managers on their toes. You'll have to adapt to stay out
of the tar pits. (June 25, 2008)
IT
pros dish on the future of desktops
VDI
is working out the kinks. Thin clients ease desktop management. And
some say cell phones may replace fat clients. (July 23, 2008)
IT
pros still kicking tires on virtual desktops
Is VDI just another buzzword or can it simplify, or even
revolutionize, desktop management? The IT pros at BriForum this week
are trying to figure it all out. (July 21, 2008)
IT
managers split on consumerization of IT
Love it or hate it, social networking tools, mobile devices and
collaboration services are coming to your enterprise. (June 17,
2008)
Can
we improve on the virtual desktop experience?
Protocols
like RDP and ICA were not built to handle today's multimedia
requirements. As desktop virtualization moves to the mainstream,
this will have to change. (June 15, 2008)
IT
shops have full dance card without Vista, thank you
There is no shortage of IT projects in the enterprise, according to
IT managers at TechEd this year. Vista and Windows Server 2008
rollouts are not among them. (June 13, 2008)
Microsoft
updates IT on key product releases
The software company has new beta releases for SQL Server 2008, ILM
and a handful of new topic-specific certifications in the pipeline.
(June 11, 2008)
How
will IT shops manage the new world of Windows?
Microsoft's
Oslo, Velocity and the Sync Framework are new platforms for Windows
developers. What will they mean for IT managers? (June 5, 2008)
Microsoft
to fix Windows, Internet Explorer flaws
Three critical updates address flaws affecting Microsoft Windows and
Windows Server. (June 4, 2008)
Sysinternals
tools now available on the fly
IT administrators can now access Microsoft's free Sysinternals
diagnostic tools via a new service being tested by the vendor. (June
3, 2008)
May
2008:
IT
shops will likely mix and match virtualization tools
Most
companies don't have one IT manager in charge of buying all of the
virtualization software, which could lead to lots of management
inefficiencies. (May 29, 2008)
Mixed
reaction on keeping Vista kernel for Windows 7
Microsoft's
decision to use a refined Vista kernel for its next OS, Windows 7,
is a smart business move, say some. Others ask, how does this help
IT managers? (May 26, 2008)
Citrix,
Microsoft execs discuss tight relationship
Microsoft SVP Bob Muglia said Microsoft briefly considered licensing
the open source hypervisor, Xen. (May 21, 2008)
Citrix
rounds out its desktop plans
Citrix extends its desktop strategy with the release of its desktop
virtualization product XenDesktop. (May 19, 2008)
Microsoft
will release three critical patches in May
There
are four patches for May in total. The three critical patches are
for the Office and Windows platforms. (May 12,
2008)
XP,
Vista SPs out for all but Dynamics RMS users
Microsoft is releasing XP SP3 and Vista SP1 to those who are not
using the retail management application software that caused the
initial problem. (May 9, 2008)
For
IT, desktop virtualization is a hard sell
It's
still not clear whether desktop virtualization has any true value,
but that may be because it's still early in the game. (May 5, 2008)
Microsoft
demos hosted service to troubleshoot Windows
At MMS 2008, Microsoft demonstrated a database service that will one
day help IT shops compare system performance. (May 1, 2008)
April
2008:
Microsoft
plants itself in center of a virtual universe
Microsoft hammers home the message of how it will use its own
management platform to compete against virtualization powerhouse
VMware. (April 30, 2008)
Will
services bring superior security to all?
ecurity
software services are growing in popularity. But those services are
not always cheaper than premise-based options, and they're not right
for every situation. (April 24, 2008)
XP
SP3 ready in late April
IT shops are so happy with Windows XP SP2 that they're not moving to
Vista. Will they even be wooed by a new service pack? (April 23,
2008)
System
Center making strides but still second string
In big, diversified IT shops, Microsoft System Center underpins
other established systems management vendors' products. Better
integration tools may improve standing. (April 20, 2008)
With
VM security at the fore; security software vendors respond
Virtual machines are more vulnerable than virtualization vendors let
on, but that doesn't mean new security software can solve VM
vulnerabilities. (April 14, 2008)
Microsoft
buffs image of openness, one deal at a time
Microsoft
was never known as a bastion of standards compliance. But over time,
courts, customers and the network have forced the company to open up
and interoperate. (April 10, 2008)
New
beta out for Microsoft security management dash
This Stirling beta adds a feature called dynamic response, which
automates responses to malicious attacks based on policies set by
IT. (April 9, 2008)
Microsoft
releases April trove of patches
Windows, Office and IE all have patches deemed 'critical' by
Microsoft this month. (April 8, 2008)
March
2008:
Next
services play for Microsoft: Systems management
More
System Center online services will be on tap at the Management
Summit later this month. Don't expect enterprises to be an easy
sell. (March 31, 2008)
Windows
enterprises will stick with XP
Windows Vista Service Pack 1 is here, but many IT managers see Vista
as a step back. For that matter, some managers aren't so hot on XP
SP3 either. (March 30, 2008)
New
user interface in Vista may affect applications
Changes
in the Windows Vista interface may pose compatibility problems.
(March 27, 2008)
Windows
deployment toolkit now available
Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2008 and an update for Business Desktop
Deployment 2007 are ready for download. (March 26, 2008)
Microsoft
warns of actively exploited Word flaw
Microsoft is investigating active attacks on a database engine
vulnerability being exploited through malicious Word documents. (March
25, 2008)
Microsoft
Hyper-V hits RC milestone
Windows
Server 2008's hypervisor is on track for an August release,
Microsoft says. (March 19, 2008)
Hosted
email will boom in the short term, study says
Attractive pricing, more relaxed views about off-site security and
the acceptance of SaaS will accelerate hosted email adoption. (March
16, 2008)
Microsoft
boosts virtual desktop plan with Kidaro buy
Kidaro's
desktop virtualization management software will be added to the
Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack. (March 13, 2008)
VMware
releasing management tool based on PowerShell
Microsoft's PowerShell scripting language figures into VMware's
plans for its virtual environment management tool. (March 12, 2008)
A
glimpse of new AD tools and ILM beta bits
New task-based Active Directory tool lets IT customize the view,
while Identity Lifecycle Manager v2 removes IT's burden of managing
ID profiles. (March 10, 2008)
February
2008:
Microsoft
server chief weighs in on key IT trends
Microsoft's
Bob Muglia knows IT administrators have a lot more to worry about
today than just server management. (February 27, 2008)
Microsoft
deployment tools ready as new server arrives
With Windows Server 2008 on the brink of general availability,
planning tools abound. But also keep in mind installation options
like Server Core. (February 25, 2008)
SharePoint
brings app challenges to Windows shops
Users
love Microsoft's Office SharePoint Server, but the application
brings fresh responsibilities to IT managers accustomed to
infrastructure issues. (February 19, 2008)
Lack
of scripting skills could derail a Windows career
Active Directory and Exchange Server administrators must learn
scripting language and command prompts to keep their careers on
track. (February 15, 2008)
Microsoft
service desk delayed until 2010
Microsoft will reengineer System Center Service Manager after
receiving complaints about its performance from participants in the
initial beta trial. (Feburary14, 2008)
Virtual
desktops promise much, but how do we get there?
IT managers have desktop virtualization goals in mind, but they are
unclear on the impact of this technology. (February 11, 2008)
Microsoft
to release Vista, IE, Office updates
Microsoft on Thursday said it expects to release seven critical
updates next week addressing flaws in Microsoft Windows, Internet
Explorer and Office. (February 9, 2008))
Microsoft
capacity planner 2007 is ready to go
Microsoft's
System Center Capacity Planner 2007, a tool for infrastructure
planning, was released to manufacturing this week. (February 7,
2008)
New
certifications hit as Windows Server RTM arrives
Microsoft's revamped certification program and the debut of Windows
Server 2008 go together, giving IT managers new accreditation
choices. (February 6, 2008)
Windows
Server 2008, Vista SP1 RTM
Two major releases from Microsoft get February off to a big start.
The question is, will enterprise customers bite? (February 4,
2008)
January
2008:
SQL
Server 2008 pushed out to Q3 2008
The
next-generation database server, which will offer business
intelligence and policy-based management features, will be available
later than originally planned. (January 27, 2008)
Microsoft
tightens Citrix ties, adds tools
As
the release of Windows Server 2008 and the Hyper-V hypervisor draw
nearer, Microsoft is turning up the heat on virtualization rival
VMware. (January 22, 2008)
Microsoft
woos Domino users with annual tool upgrade
Microsoft scales Exchange migration tools for IT shops with the
stomach to run large messaging systems side by side. (January 2,
2008)
Help
for nagging Windows server problems from PsTools
Microsoft Sysinternals' PsTools suite is a treasure trove of free
Windows NT and Windows 2000 command-line tools that remotely
diagnose system ills. (January 19, 2008)
Calculating
ROI for Windows Server 2008 migration
Don't let faulty reasoning sabotage your decision to migrate to
Windows 2008. Here are some ideas for calculating your ROI numbers
and avoiding problems down the road. (January 15, 2008)
Expert
offers AD prep tips for Windows Server 2008
Microsoft
MVP Brian Desmond gives administrators some tips and tricks for
working with the next generation of Windows Server and Active
Directory. (January 14, 2008)
Changing
of guard spells opportunity for Microsoft
With Gates and now Raikes bidding adieu, Microsoft is positioned for
new talent not tied to the fat app mentality. (January 13, 2008)
Expert
eyes AD changes in Windows Server 2008
Microsoft
MVP Brian Desmond talks about new Active Directory changes and
features in Windows Server 2008 that will ease management of
passwords and installation. (January 10, 2008)
Microsoft
patches Windows TCP/IP, LSASS flaws
Attackers could exploit Windows TCP/IP, LSASS flaws to hijack
targeted computers and do a variety of damage, Microsoft warned
Tuesday. Windows Vista is affected. (January 9,
2008)
Microsoft
plans two security updates in January
Only
one of the two security updates for Windows coming from Microsoft
this month is deemed critical. (January 3, 2008)
Windows
Server 2008 and virtualization dominate in 2008
IT managers in Windows shops say the high-impact technologies next
year will be Windows Server 2008 and virtualization. (January
2, 2008)
December
2007:
Microsoft's
IT product challenges for 2008
The big servers for IT will arrive as expected from Microsoft in
2008, but the promised service desk isn't likely to make the cut.
(December 27, 2007)
Microsoft
fixes critical DirectX, Windows and IE flaws
Microsoft's December 2007 security update includes seven patch
bulletins -- three of them critical -- for flaws in various versions
of Windows, IE and DirectX. (December 11, 2007)
Windows
shops set sights on encryption in 2008
Windows
security is a never-ending battle, and IT managers have ongoing
plans to add layers of protection in 2008. (December 10, 2007)
Windows
Server 2008 second release candidate hits
Microsoft
gave beta testers an early holiday gift this year with the release
of Windows Server 2008 RC1. (December 6, 2007)
Windows
XP SP3 sits high on user wish list
DLL fixes and NAP interoperability are a couple reasons why Windows
managers put Windows XP SP3 on the top of the pile. (December
5, 2007)
Microsoft
warns of Windows zero-day
Attackers could exploit a zero-day flaw in Windows' Web Proxy
Auto-Discovery (WPAD) feature to access sensitive data, Microsoft
warned Monday. (December 4, 2007)
November
2007:
OS
deployment tools have broader role with new server
Deployment
tools for Microsoft's OSes will accommodate Windows Server 2008.
Expect to see more features coming in early 2008. (November
19, 2007)
Microsoft
readies new Windows Server 2008 CTP
Microsoft released a November test build of Windows Server 2008 to a
group of beta testers. (November 17, 2007)
On
standalone Hyper-V, a fuzzy picture emerges
Microsoft's standalone virtualization server, now called Hyper-V,
won't be ready until late 2008. It's already stirring up questions.
(November 15, 2007)
Microsoft
offers tools to thwart Office 2007 threats
Microsoft
released a free tool and security guide to help IT managers find
malicious code and lock down Office 2007. (November 14, 2007)
Under
the hood: Microsoft's desktop and server manager
Microsoft puts several tools in its System Center product line into
general availability this week, including its new desktop and server
manager. (November 13, 2007)
Microsoft
plans ESX killer with standalone hypervisor
Windows Server 2008 prices set as Microsoft discloses plans for
Hyper-V. (November 12, 2007)
Microsoft's
midmarket server comes together
For medium-sized IT shops, Microsoft's midmarket server has one
license and one management console for Windows Server 2008, Exchange
Server 2007 and more. (November 6, 2007)
Here's
how three IT shops manage passwords
See how three Windows administrators use password management tools
to remove some of the burden of password resets off of the help
desk. (November 5, 2007)
Simple
steps help Windows shops go green
Windows
managers will be the front line to a more eco-friendly and
energy-efficient IT environment. Just a few tweaks can help you go
green. (November 3, 2007)
October
2007:
Viridian
beta may precede new server software
A top executive on the Windows Server 2008 virtualization team says
the next milestone may fall before the new server RTMs in February.
(October 31, 2007)
Early
plans hatched for virtualization management
With
its end-to-end virtualization strategy already on the table, Citrix
brass is now cooking up ideas for a management console as well.
(October 25, 2007)
IT
shops all ears about virtualizing desktops
Application and desktop virtualization have officially captured the
fancy of IT managers -- if the energy at iForum 07 is any indicator.
(October 24, 2007)
Mobile
device management server hits Microsoft lineup
Microsoft this week added a management server for mobile devices
that will allow IT shops to update devices on the fly.
(October 23, 2007)
Release
policies set standards for rollouts
Before
deploying Vista, make sure you develop a release policy that
identifies how the rollout will be managed so that business
requirements are met, tested and implemented. (October 14,
2007)
October
patches fix four threats
A
memory corruption problem that allows arbitrary code to run is one
of the big issues addressed in this monthly patch parade.
(October 10, 2007)
How
to design monitoring controls to manage mistakes
Plagued
by calls from angry users? Using workarounds regularly to do your
job? Then it's time to design and implement controls that will
address potential failures. (October 9, 2007)
Four
critical Windows patches coming in October
Microsoft will deliver four critical security patches that prevent
remote code executions on Windows this coming Patch Tuesday.
(October 8, 2007)
Data
center growth and SaaS drive systems management
Brad Anderson, general manager of Microsoft's management and
services division, says software as a service, data centers and
mobility are priorities for his team. (October 7, 2007)
New
Windows management czar touts fall releases
Brad
Anderson, the new general manager in Microsoft's management and
services division, discusses what's new in Configuration Manager and
his vision for community building and VMM. (October 4, 2007)
Service
provider Microsoft balances IT and partners
After dancing around its plans for business customers for some time,
Microsoft has clarified its software as a service strategy. But
there are still issues to resolve. (October 2, 3007)
Russinovich
finds his place at Microsoft
The
Windows developer, now a Microsoft fellow, is busy integrating
Winternals and Sysinternals tools in Windows and, as always, looking
ahead for new ideas. (October 1, 2007)
September
2007:
AutoPatcher
lives
Microsoft shut down AutoPatcher in August, but its creator says he
thinks he has found a way to revive it that will satisfy IT managers
and Microsoft. (September 28, 2007)
Gadget
patch tool tackles free office apps
IT
managers can't stop the encroachment of free applications, but new
tools can help keep end users properly patched. (September 27,
2007)
Virtualizing
applications: The who and the how
This is the second article in a two-part series on application
virtualization that explores the choices in software vendors and
what to consider before you deploy. (September 26, 2007)
Windows
Server 2008 RC hits with Viridian beta
The first Windows Server 2008 release candidate is ready for
download with a Viridian hypervisor CTP. (September 25, 2007)
Application
virtualization myths debunked
App
virtualization stands to resolve DLL hell and reduce the ills of OS
migration. But its capabilities are often overstated.
(September 24, 2007)
Use
SLAs to assign help desk incident priorities
Service-level agreements help service desks categorize and
prioritize IT incidents according to an organization's strategic
plan. (September 22, 2007)
IT
shops mull new IBM office apps option, Symphony
Windows shops could have an alternative to costly Microsoft Office
with IBM's free Lotus Symphony, which includes document sharing,
spreadsheets and presentation applications. (September 20,
2007)
WSUS,
security suites own patch management these days
IT managers don't go for the patching tool point products as much as
they used to. Broad security suites do the job. (September 19,
2007)
One
insurer shares Vista deployment early hiccups
The IT manager at Puerto Rico's largest insurance provider shares
the good and the bad of his team's Vista migration -- and why
virtualization will play a key role. (September 18, 2007)
The
benefits of detective controls in change management
Change
is a way of life in Windows IT shops. By using detective controls,
Windows managers can minimize the risks associated with changes to
production services. (September 17, 2007)
Microsoft,
Sun expand interoperability, add OEM deal
Mostly
Sun shops with Windows stand to gain by each company's expanded warm
fuzzies that include virtualization interoperability testing and a
Windows Server OEM deal. (September 13, 2007)
Critical
September patch could hit Win 2000 SP4 systems
IT managers got a light load of patches this month with only one
rated critical. (September 12, 2007)
Microsoft,
Citrix join on common VHD format
Uniting against VMware, Microsoft and Citrix will create a common
VHD format for virtual OSes and applications. (September 11,
2007)
Microsoft
makes its case for virtualization
Microsoft's says its virtualization all-in-one play is the way to
go. New licensing terms for its Virtual Machine Manager reflect that
view. (September 10, 2007)
One
critical Windows patch coming in September
The solitary critical Windows patch for September repairs a remote
code execution vulnerability, natch. (September 8, 2007)
Microsoft
spotlights its white hat hackers in new blog
Microsoft
hired white hat hackers for their security expertise and is now
spotlighting them for the public on a blog. (September 4,
2007)
In
PowerShell 2.0, Microsoft adds remote management
PowerShell creator Jeff Snover gives a glimpse into PowerShell 2.0
and the third-party support that's popping up around the popular
scripting language. (September 1, 2007)
August
2007:
Microsoft
puts kibosh on AutoPatcher
Microsoft pulled the plug on AutoPatcher, a free patch distribution
tool created by an independent group. (August 30, 2007)
Windows
Server 2008, real release slides into next year
Microsoft has pushed Windows Server 2008 out one quarter. Instead of
seeing the bits at the end of this year, it will land sometime in
the first quarter. (August 29, 2007)
Windows
XP, Vista service packs coming in 2008
Vista's first service pack is arriving in early 2008, but IT shops
will likely give a warmer welcome to XP SP3, due out sometime in the
first half of next year. (August 28, 2007)
Microsoft's
desktop manager released to manufacturing
System Center Configuration Manager v5 hits the streets with
BitLocker and Virtual Machine Manager integration and Wake-On-LAN.
(August 27, 2007)
New
security technology bypasses the OS
More vendors are opting to develop security software on the hardware
layer and not the OS to improve system manageability. (August
26, 2007)
Future
of WSUS includes integration into other products
Microsoft's popular and free patching tool may morph into something
a little different down the road. (August 23, 2007)
Virtualization
events add options for Windows shops
Virtualization
expert John Palmieri reacts to shifting sands in the virtualization
market and the benefits to Windows administrators. (August 16,
2007)
Microsoft
releases beta for Exchange Server 2007 SP1
The second beta for the first service pack for Exchange Server 2007
is feature complete. (August 15, 2007)
Microsoft
has six critical Windows patches in August
Remote code execution vulnerabilities continue to pile up.
(August 13, 2007)
Integrating
mobile devices in a disaster recovery plan
Because
of their growing popularity in the workplace, don't overlook mobile
devices when creating an action plan in the event of a disaster.
(August 11, 2007)
Users
hold fast to public folders despite iffy future
Popular demand kept Microsoft from dumping public folders from
Exchange Server 2007, but support won't last forever. (August
9, 2007)
Survey
says IT shops without plans patch late
Patching
Windows systems quickly is important. but many IT managers do an
'atrocious' job, according to a Forrester analyst. (August 6,
2007)
Experts
pick Windows security technologies to watch
Network access control, remote attestation and virtualization are
some of the best bets for better Windows security coming down the
road. (August 4, 2007)
Avoiding
software conflicts in a Vista migration
Before considering a Vista rollout, take an inventory of existing
applications to determine how well they will work under the new
operating system. (August 2, 2007)
Ju ly
2007:
IT
managers fret over skipping Vista for Windows 7
IT
shops running Windows XP are worried about whether to wait for the
next OS release, dubbed Windows 7. A Gartner desktop expert says the
fuss is premature. (July 31, 2007)
Virtual
machine manager will RTM in September
Microsoft's new systems management boss, Brad Anderson, gave a
glimpse into the company's System Center release roadmap.
(July 30, 2007)
Microsoft
desktop manager RC1 ready for download
The first release candidate for System Center Configuration Manager
2007, the cornerstone of Microsoft's systems management play, bests
SMS on several counts. (July 28, 2007)
Bug-weary
Windows shops may accept all-in-one tools
Comprehensive
endpoint security tools for Windows are coming, and many
battle-scarred IT managers are willing to look. (July 21,
2007)
Cracking
the TPM chip – is it possible?
The integrity of the TPM chip is vital to the future of computer
security and the value of Windows Vista's BitLocker technology.
Cracking it could turn the IT industry on its ear. (July 19,
2007)
Microsoft
unified communications overwhelms IT managers
IT shops find the long list of features in Microsoft's unified
communications platform to be daunting and unnecessary, at least for
now, say the company's partners. (July 17, 2007)
Here's
what Windows IT shops are buying today
Despite
all the hype about Microsoft's new Vista desktop, it sits on the
shelf. Microsoft partners say their big sellers are Windows Server
2003 and SharePoint. (July 16, 2007)
IT
communication builds incident management successes
The key to successful incident management is a strong connection
among the incident management, service desk and problem management
staffs. (July 15, 2007)
Microsoft
barrels toward a services world
Microsoft's Steve Ballmer made it clear that Microsoft's future and
the future of IT in general is one where services are the
predominant platform. (July 14, 2007)
Microsoft
will launch Windows Server 2008 next February
New
versions of Windows Server, Visual Studio and SQL Server will all
roll at the same time. (July 10, 2007)
A
revised vulnerability rating system gains steam
A common vulnerability rating system is reworked to help IT managers
make better, quicker decisions about security threat levels.
(July 10, 2007)
Postini
buy helps Google address IT compliance demands
With Postini in its pocket, Google hopes to win over IT shops
running Microsoft Office to Google Apps with its new security
credentials. (July 9, 2007)
Windows
Server 2008 RODC adds to branch office security
Laura E. Hunter describes how Windows Server 2008 could improve your
ability to manage remote servers securely, but there are some
operational gotchas you'll need to master first. (July 7,
2007)
Fake
Microsoft patch email sends users to Trojan Horse
A bogus patch update claiming to be from Microsoft is the latest
phishing scam to keep IT managers on their toes. (July 2, 2007)
June 2007:
Microsoft
releases nine Windows Vista updates
Microsoft has released nine updates for Windows Vista that range
from fixing time zone issues to addressing problems in its
dictionary. (June 29, 2007)
Microsoft
pushing app development for Office 2007
Office 2007 as an application development platform could mean more
tasks in the hands of end users -- or more of a burden for IT
managers. (June 28, 2007)
Windows
Server 2008 CTP now available
The
Customer Technology Preview includes IIS 7.0 as part of Windows
Server 2008's Server Core minimal install option. (June 27,
2007)
Four
simple steps to a more secure database
Refresh your knowledge for securing your customer database and make
sure no vulnerabilities are being overlooked. (June 26, 2007)
New
threat attacks transactions in Microsoft browsers
Windows shops can protect themselves against man-in-the-browser
attacks with third-party tools and client-side certifications.
(June 25, 2007)
Experts
weigh the good and bad of Windows Server Core
Windows
Server 2008 Server Core and its nine server roles offer a new way to
administer Windows Server. Experts explain the set-up-and-go install
option. ( June 24, 2007)
Quest
snaps up Windows tool maker ScriptLogic
Quest Software has devoured ScriptLogic, one of the few remaining
independent providers of Windows desktop and server management
tools. (June 21, 2007)
Server
Core roles could include Exchange and SAP
With Service Core, IT managers can take advantage of virtualization
and better performance, says Ward Ralston, a product manager on the
Window Server team. (June 19, 2007)
SharePoint
is bursting local boundaries, study says
Once
thought of only as a means of group collaboration, an IDC study
shows that IT managers now use Microsoft SharePoint to collect and
organize data throughout the enterprise. (June 18, 2007)
Incident
management made easier with Microsoft Service Desk
Stuart Galup gives the skinny on Microsoft Service Desk and explains
why help desk software and automated incident management can make
your life a lot easier. (June 17, 2007)
What
service-level management means for IT managers
Expert Harris Kern explains what Windows service-level management
encompasses and how SLAs fit into the service-level management
framework. (June 15, 2007)
Virtual
Server 2005 R2 SP1 now available
The long promised Virtual Server R2 SP1 is
finally ready for download. (June 14, 2007)
Microsoft
service desk beta 1 ready for download
Testers will get a glimpse of System Center Service Manager's
features, including the CMDB and an end user self-service portal
built on SharePoint Server 2007. (June 13, 2007)
Microsoft
delivers critical Vista patches in June
Despite
the new software security development procedures at Microsoft, Vista
has some significant holes that should be plugged right away. Source:
SearchWindowsSecurity.com (June 12, 2007)
Windows
Server 2003 SP2 released via Automatic Updates
The service pack includes the customary hotfixes and offers IT
managers "out-of-the-box" provisioning via Windows
Deployment Services. (June 11, 2007)
Microsoft
June patches include four rated critical
On patch Tuesday, Microsoft will have updates for Windows, Internet
Explorer, Outlook Express and Windows Mail. (June 9, 2007)
IT
managers slow to hop onto Windows Vista
Microsoft
says that Windows Vista is seeing strong adoption in the enterprise,
but IT managers at TechEd 2007 seem in no hurry to upgrade.
(June 8, 2007)
Better
connections promised in next Forefront beta
With
the upcoming beta of Microsoft's Forefront, code-named Stirling, IT
managers can look forward to managing security threats to the client
and server from a single console. (June 6, 2007)
More
free tools coming under Sysinternals brand
Look for Sysinternals to expand its lineup of free Windows tools and
add others from the Microsoft Download Center. (June 5, 2007)
Microsoft's
TechEd 2007 -- high concepts, few products
At Microsoft's biggest Windows confab, IT managers learned about a
new generation of security tools, IIS 7.0 integration with Windows
Server and little else. (June 4, 2007)
May 2007:
Microsoft
crosses signals on open source
Days after saying that open source software infringes on its
patents, Microsoft discloses its plan to build bridges between
Active Directory and OpenLDAP. (May 25, 2007)
Six
steps to Windows IT service management
Expert Harris Kern explains how to harness the complicated world of
Windows IT service management and shares his experiences with
implementing and executing a solid structure. (Maqy 23, 2007)
Considering
BitLocker for remote server encryption
Windows Server 2008 plays up improvements to BitLocker drive
encryption. IT managers should take steps to prep for the
technology. (May 22, 2007)
Microsoft
touts server hardware improvements
IT managers can expect at least one release candidate before Windows
Server 2008, previously known as Longhorn Server, is released to
manufacturing this year. (May 18, 2007)
Windows
Longhorn public beta spurs flurry of downloads
In just three weeks, more than 100,000 downloads are circulating of
Windows Longhorn Server, now named Windows Server 2008. (May
17, 2007)
Free
tool battles Microsoft Office exploits in email
Technology in Microsoft Office 2007 to help block zero-day exploits
in Office 2003. (May 14, 2007)
Microsoft
Viridian hypervisor 'lobotomized'?
Features in Windows Server virtualization hypervisor, code-named
Viridian, are being cut and relegated to a future release.
(May 12, 2007)
Future
SQL Server to add policy management
Microsoft said its plans for the next generation of SQL Server,
code-named Katmai, will include rules-based policy management.
(May 11, 2007)
Older
platforms get the brunt of May patch activity
Internet
Explorer, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Exchange Server are getting
critical patches this month. Most, though not all, are on older
versions of the software. (May 9, 2007)
Microsoft
releases beta for network monitor
A beta of Microsoft's latest network traffic monitor is available
for download. Windows Vista support and improved wireless tracking
are among the new features. (May 9, 2007)
Taking
a fresh look at content and collaboration
Burton Group collaboration expert Peter O'Kelly tells IT managers
why now is the time to develop a serious content and collaboration
corporate strategy. (May 8, 2007)
Case
study: One IT department tackles security with NAP
Fulton
County's IT shop started to investigate Network Access Protection,
Microsoft's new quarantine technology for laptops, after the Welchia
worm brought down its network. (May 7, 2007)
Critical
fixes coming for Windows, Office and Exchange
On Patch Tuesday, Microsoft will release 14 updates, and seven will
be for security issues. (May 4, 2007)
Windows
roadmap ties security tools to management
Microsoft's
Forefront and System Center Essentials are using Dynamic Systems
Initiative technology to integrate security and management
processes. (May 3, 2007)
Viridian
available to TAP testers
Microsoft's Windows Server virtualization hypervisor code-named
Viridian is now open to testers in the software maker's Technology
Adoption Program. (May 3, 2007)
Microsoft
releases WSUS 3.0
Free scanning tool has improved reporting features and a Microsoft
Management Console-based user interface. (May 2, 2007)
April 2007:
Downloads
hint of PowerShell's powerhouse potential
Although
the PowerShell scripting language might be tricky for IT managers at
first, early adopters say learning it is well worth the effort.
(April 30, 2007)
Microsoft
to release Systems Management Server SP3
This new service pack gives IT managers using SMS 2003 the ability
to support Windows Vista. (April 29, 2007)
First
public beta for Windows Longhorn Server arrives
Microsoft is touting better task automation and security features
such as quarantine and read-only domain controller in Windows
Longhorn Beta 3. (April 27, 2007)
Unclear
definition undermines app virtualization
IT
managers are interested in exploring application virtualization but
aren't sure if it can conquer DLL errors and ease Vista migration
and incompatibility issues. (April 17, 2007)
Host-based
anti-malware tools help fend off attacks
IT managers looking for multi-protection products are checking out
host-based anti-malware tools. Microsoft will enter the fray in May
with its Forefront Client. (April 17, 2007)
Microsoft
delays betas for virtualization software
Beta releases for Microsoft's Viridian hypervisor and Virtual Server
2005 SP1 have been pushed back. Analysts say ship dates and
third-party vendors could be affected too. (April 16, 2007)
Special
Report: IT managers take on compliance
The complexity of adhering to compliance
regulations can make any IT manager's head spin. Read our special
report that helps you to navigate the murky waters of compliance.
(April 4, 2007)
Overlooking
features trips up email archiving projects
IT managers and archiving experts share a few tips on what elements
to look for in an email archiving system. (April 9, 2007)
Five
security patches expected on Patch Tuesday
Microsoft said it will make available four updates for Windows, at
least one of which will be critical, and one critical security
update for Microsoft Content Management Server. (April 6,
2007)
Microsoft
intros virtualization-friendly Vista license
Microsoft's
new Vista Enterprise license makes it legal – and cost-effective
– to virtualize your desktops using VDI. (April 4, 2007)
Regulations
spark growing demand for data encryption
Sarbanes-Oxley and HIPAA are prompting IT
managers to use encryption for securing personal data on mobile
devices. Microsoft is responding with its own encryption toolkit.
(April 2, 2007)
March 2007:
Companies
could buy into SaaS sooner than expected
Quick
corporate pick up of collaboration services, like those from Google,
will hinge on how fast the digital generation can get their way.
(March 23, 2007)
Lawsuits
drive email archiving
Litigation and compliance requirements are giving email archiving
systems a higher profile in corporations. (March 21, 2007)
IT
managers turn to training to reduce internal threats
Microsoft and security companies offer materials and services that
help companies educate careless users who expose networks to
information breaches. (March 20, 2007)
Embed
disaster recovery for best results
Most
companies strive to create a disaster recovery plan with a
one-size-fits-all template, but the key to a good DR plan is to
integrate its components into daily operations. (March 20,
2007)
Securing
enterprise endpoints is key to IT control
IT managers need all the help they can get locking down enterprise
end points. This is especially true with mobile devices.
(March 19, 2007)
Windows
Server 2003 SP2 drops on patchless Tuesday
New service pack from Microsoft includes mostly security updates.
(March 13, 2007)
DST
switch offers lessons learned
Those
who survived the daylight-saving time deadline offer some words of
wisdom in case the laws change yet again. (March 12, 2007)
No
March security patches issued from Microsoft
Patch Tuesday this month is security patch-free, which will give
administrators some time to recover from getting their DST patches
in place. (March 9, 2007)
Expert
releases tools to demystify Group Policy
Getting the most from Group Policy is tough for IT managers if they
don't stay on top of it. One expert has launched his own products to
help simplify the process. (March 5, 2007)
IT
managers need to be half techie, half detective
Some
basic forensic skills should be part of the job these days as
security threats and litigation become more widespread. (March
5, 2007)
Worm
uses Symantec tools to infiltrate SQL Server
Considered a moderate threat, the worm gains access to Microsoft's
SQL Server and SQL databases by exploiting vulnerabilities in
Symantec's antivirus software. (March 2, 2007)
February 2007:
All
features now available in new SMS beta
Systems Management Server v4 beta 2 is ready for download. The new
desktop manager supports Wake-On-LAN and sports a new console.
(February 26, 2007)
IT
jitters grow as DST deadline nears
What's
patchable for daylight-saving time and what is not? What will it
cost to patch? The experts lay it out here. (February 22,
2007)
Loaded
USB stick helps fend off hacker attacks
A tool inspired by hackers can give IT managers the edge they need
to thwart attacks directed at their Windows systems. (February
21, 2007)
Microsoft
releases free tools for Notes migration
Transporter
Suite for Lotus Notes allows users to analyze their Notes
application infrastructure and determine the best course of action.
(February 18, 2007)
Service
Desk to have its own reporting capabilities
Despite reports to the contrary, Microsoft says System Center
Reporting Manager will remain a standalone product. (February
15, 2007)
Web
services and open source will link directories
Microsoft and Novell are testing three ways to improve Active
Directory and eDirectory interoperability. Novell says more info is
forthcoming later this spring. (February 14, 2007)
Microsoft
to release five patches for Windows
Twelve
security patches will be made available on Tuesday, including some
critical ones for Windows and Office, according to Microsoft's
monthly security bulletin. (February 12, 2007)
Microsoft
puts final touches on System Center road map
IT managers look forward to more standard features in SCCM 2007 and
less need for third-party tools. (February 8, 2007)
Gates
sees end-to-end security through cooperation
Microsoft
chairman announces a handful of security products in his RSA
Conference keynote and a renewed commitment to work with others for
safer computing. (February 7, 2007)
Many
IT managers still dousing security fires
As Bill Gates touts policy-based security as a potential cure-all at
RSA this week, IT managers may not have the resources or
infrastructure to make it happen. (February 6, 2007)
New
zero-day attack targets Microsoft Excel
Microsoft says maliciously crafted Excel files may permit the
execution of arbitrary code. Other Microsoft Office applications may
be at risk. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(February 5, 2007)
IT
shops balance security with other priorities
Fixed
budgets require a longer view and wider results when safeguarding
systems. (February 2, 2007)
Free
translator tool ready for download
Microsoft and Novell serve up an OpenXML Translator, which lets
users open and save documents in both OpenXML and ODF.
(February 2, 2007)
Microsoft
uses Whale technology in new gateway device
Intelligent Application Gateway helps IT managers balance remote
access with network security in a single piece of hardware.
(February 2, 2007)
January 2007:
Microsoft
ambitious service desk tool revealed
More
details are emerging about Microsoft's upcoming help desk product,
code-named Service Desk, during a company road show for partners.
(January 29, 2007)
What
to look for in a CMDB
If you are shopping for a configuration management database, make
sure it has four key capabilities, Gartner says. (January 25,
2007)
Windows,
systems management players gird for battle
Microsoft has a good shot at grabbing business from the Big Four
systems management vendors. But can it ever do more than Windows?
(January 24, 2007)
IT
shops explore connectivity options for remote users
VPNs are prevalent in enterprises, but Terminal Services and
streaming application technology from Microsoft are slowly gaining
ground for remote connectivity. (January 17, 2007)
Out-of-cycle
Microsoft patch likely, experts say
Patch
specialists and IT administrators were surprised Microsoft didn't
fix much-publicized Word zero-day flaws Tuesday. But they don't
fault the company for holding back. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (January 15, 2007)
Vista
features that may hurry your migration plans
Expert Bernie Klinder talks about the new Vista features that really
improve end users' experiences and may have them clamoring for a
quicker upgrade plan from IT managers. (January 12, 2007)
IT
shops explore connectivity options for remote users
VPNs
are prevalent in enterprises, but Terminal Services and streaming
application technology from Microsoft are slowly gaining ground for
remote connectivity. (January 11, 2007)\
Bumper
crop of malware expected in 2007
Malware attacks will strike three-quarters of enterprises this year,
according to Gartner analysts. As threats abound, IT managers
scramble to plug holes. (January 10, 2007)
Critical
fixes for Excel, Outlook and Windows
Microsoft starts the year with security updates for Excel, Outlook
and Windows. Three of the fixes are rated critical. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (January 9, 2007)
Microsoft
nixes four patch bulletins
Eight security updates were originally scheduled for Tuesday, but
Microsoft has decided to hold back on half of them. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (January 8, 2007)
Virtual
PC 2007 release adds Vista support
New feature gives IT managers the ability to test how applications
will perform on the operating system while still maintaining a
Windows XP environment for users. (January 3, 2007)
December 2006:
Employers
to seek more security talent in '07
Learn
what certifications are growing in demand and how employers are
looking at the job market in 2007. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (December 24, 2006)
You
can't pretext an exploding laptop: Winners, losers
They were the biggest losers -- and winners. From exploding laptops
to a 29-year-old media millionaire, 2006 saw players either rising
from the ashes, or falling from grace. Source: SearchCIO.com
(December 23, 2006)
Geeks
name the must-see movies of 2007
From the wacky wall-crawler to the Man of Steel, geeks talk about
the year in movies and give their top picks for 2007. Source:
SearchOracle.com (December 22, 2006)
Microsoft
releases end of the year code
The
elves at Microsoft are still cranking out code. Bits for Windows
Server 2003 SP2 and Longhorn Server came out this week.
(December 21, 2006)
Kill
the IT buzzwords
IT analysts, executives and administrators list their least favorite
tech words. If the comments give you a case of securanoia, maybe you
should avoid lists like this next time. (December 20, 2006)
IT
managers offer up holiday wish lists
With
visions of virtualization dancing in their heads, IT managers are
hoping the holiday spirit will loosen up budgets this season.
(December 19, 2006)
More
free downloads claim space on corporate desktops
End users are downloading consumer tools like IM and Skype to use at
work -- a trend that is making some IT managers cringe.
(December 14, 2006)
Windows
shops weighing Service Desk as an option
IT
managers' interest is piqued by Microsoft's foray into the help desk
space, but many high-end and low-end software players are already
entrenched in IT organizations. (December 12, 2006)
Microsoft
fixes two zero-day flaws
The December security update from Microsoft includes patches for
zero-day flaws in Visual Studio and Windows Media Player, but two
zero-day flaws in Word remain unfixed. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (December 12, 2006)
IDC
predicts 'disruption' in 2007
Analysts
offer their forecasts on what IT managers can expect in the new
year. (December 11, 2006)
Exchange
Server 2007 ready to go
The server that Microsoft describes as the cornerstone to its
collaboration strategy – Exchange Server 2007 – was released to
manufacturing late this week. (December 8, 2006)
New
zero-day affects Microsoft Word
Microsoft confirmed reports of "limited" zero-day attacks
and warned customers to be cautious when opening unsolicited Word
attachments. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (December 6, 2006)
Microsoft
flip-flopping on future Exchange features
Will
the next version of Exchange Server have a new data store or public
folders? Even Microsoft doesn't seem to know for sure.
(December 1, 2006)
November 2006:
It's
showtime for Vista, Office and Exchange
Early adopter IT administrators can start the downloading. Vista,
Office 2007 and Exchange Server 2007 are ready to rock.
(November 30, 2006)
Office
2007 collaboration features puzzle IT managers
As
Microsoft touts SharePoint as a collaboration boost for Office 2007,
IT managers are left wondering why SharePoint is right for them.
(November 28, 2006)
The
business case against migrating to Vista
There are plenty of benefits to using Windows Vista OS, but
migration has its downsides as well. Expert Bernie Klinder outlines
his reasons for thinking twice before migrating. (November 27, 2006)
The
business case for Microsoft Windows Vista
In
part one of this series, expert Bernie Klinder discusses some of the
operating system's major improvements. (November 20, 2006)
Microsoft's
SUS gets a reprieve
IT
shops that still use SUS 1.0 will get a little more time to migrate
to the new version of the free patching tool. (November 15,
2006)
Critical
flaws fixed in IE, Windows
Five of the bulletins Microsoft released are critical and patch
flaws in Internet Explorer, Windows and Macromedia Flash Player.
Attackers could exploit them to hijack a PC. (November
14, 2006)
Free
software converts Group Policy templates in Vista
IT shops should save a one-time conversion problem using a free tool
to help migrate Group Policy templates in older versions of Windows
to Vista. (November 14, 2006)
Users
eye iPods as cool enterprise tools
The
holidays may bring a flood of new consumer gadgets into the
enterprise. New research shows that corporate IT should find ways to
include them. (November 13, 2006)
For
some, the new Exchange is the old Exchange
Microsoft is queuing up Exchange Server 2007, but for many IT shops,
their interest will remain with Exchange Server 2003 for a long
time. (November 9, 2006)
Microsoft
to patch critical zero-day flaws in Windows
Microsoft plans to repair five critical flaws in Windows and a flaw
in XML Core Services as part of its monthly patch update next week. (November
9, 2006)
Mark
Manasi highlights Vista pluses
New
features in Vista 2007 will include better security, but users are
still figuring out how that will affect applications, said the
Windows guru. (November 6, 2006)
IT
admins search for beef in Microsoft-Novell pact
Is the alliance between Microsoft and Novell just another Kumbaya
moment between vendors, or will there be some serious benefits for
multi-vendor IT shops? (November 6, 2006)
It's
a wrap for Office System 2007
Microsoft has officially sent its Office 2007 suite to
manufacturing. (November 6, 2006)
Symantec
to reactivate IT support discussion boards
A
year after shutting down its discussion forums for IT professionals,
Symantec is set to reactivate them as part of a revamped technical
support portal community coming in 2007. (November 1, 2006)
October 2006:
Virtualization
going gangbusters, market data shows
Recent
market data proves what we already knew: the virtualization market
is on fire, and sales of VMware are fanning the flames. Source:
SearchServerVirtualization.com (October 30, 2006)
Windows
desktop search tool gets upgrade
As analysts say desktop search's time has come in corporate
environments, Microsoft tries to stay in the game with its own tool.
Source: SearchWinIT.com (October 25, 2006)
Microsoft
releases beta for digital certificate tool
Certificate
Lifecycle Management Beta 2 is out, but experts say the technology
is still a solution waiting for a problem. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (October 24, 2006)
Windows
XP Service Pack 3 delayed until 2008
Microsoft
is pushing back the release of XP Service Pack 3 until the first
half of 2008 and the release of Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2
until first quarter 2007. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(October 19, 2006)
IT
managers go on the offensive against threats
As attitudes about system security shift from passive to aggressive,
vendors rush to develop proactive products. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (October 18, 2006)
Microsoft
serves up Virtual Hard Disk for free
Microsoft
hopes to take a bite out of VMware's dominance in the virtualization
space with free access to its virtualization technology. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (October 18, 2006)
Quest
expands features in Active Directory tool
End-user provisioning and cross-platform identity integration are
added, giving IT managers cross-platform control from a single
console. Source: SearchWinIT.com (October 17,
2006)
Heat
from vendors forces changes to Vista security
To accommodate third-party security vendors and appease antitrust
regulators in Europe, Microsoft will make some final tweaks to
Windows Vista. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(October 16, 2006)
Linux
saves day by recovering data in Windows servers
Expert
Gary Olsen provides some options for retrieving lost data, including
a cool way to recover data from a Windows disk using a Linux server.
Source: SearchWinIT.com (October 12, 2006)
ITMU
gets fix in SMS Service Pack 3
An
upcoming service pack for SMS will fix the lingering ITMU problem
and include technology acquired from AssetMatrix. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (October 10, 2006)
Microsoft
fills in Group Policy gaps with latest buy
With its purchase of DesktopStandard, Microsoft's Group Policy adds
much to customers' wish lists, but Microsoft keeps mum on what its
exact plans are for the technology. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(October 9, 2006)
Vista,
Office hit new marks
On Friday, the company told beta testers that Office 2007 will go to
manufacturing within weeks. There is also a new Vista build.
Source: SearchWinIT.com (October 6, 2006)
Microsoft
buy promises easier Group Policy management
Microsoft
snapped up closely held DesktopStandard, a small software company
that specializes in policy-based management tools. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (October 2, 2006)
IT
must keep close eye on growing SaaS
With software as a service on the rise, IT administrators have to
know which applications will be entering their lines of business.
Source: SearchWinIT.com (October 2, 2006)
September 2006:
Windows
PowerShell RC2 ready to go
PowerShell technology gives Windows administrators a command line
shell and scripting language of their own. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 28, 2006)
Microsoft
offers beefed-up backup beta
System
Center Data Protection Manager 2006 version 2 now covers Exchange
2000 Server, Exchange Server 2003, SQL Server 2000 and SQL Server
2005. Source: SearchWinIT.com (September 27,
2006)
Microsoft
patches IE flaw early
Attacks against the Internet Explorer VML flaw were increasing to
the point where Microsoft saw the need to fix it outside its normal
patch cycle. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(September 26, 2006)
Fending
off an Active Directory attack
Whether you view the security of Active Directory as a matter of
defense or of improving its configuration management, it's a system
that must be protected. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(September 26, 2006)
Unsecured
devices worry IT professionals
IT
admins keep working to make networks secure even as more unsecured
personal gadgets, like smart phones and BlackBerrys, find their way
into companies. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(September 25, 2006)
IE
attacks intensify, patch due in October
Microsoft aims to patch the Internet Explorer VML flaw as part of
its October security update, as the browser comes under attack from
an increasing array of malware. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(September 20, 2006)
IT
admins get help minding remote users
With
mobile user numbers growing each year and IT managers desperate for
ways to keep tabs on wireless devices, new features in Exchange
Server 2003 SP2 bring relief. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 19, 2006)
Microsoft
betas progress toward completion
Windows Server 2003 SP2 beta is inching along, and a new package,
Essentials, has reached a new milestone. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 19, 2006)
Microsoft
warns of new Internet Explorer threat
Days after Patch Tuesday, Microsoft warned of a new threat against
Internet Explorer. Attackers could exploit it to crash machines or
take them over. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(September 15, 2006)
New
Exchange exams likely to emphasize roles, security
Brush
up on your knowledge of Exchange Server roles and security. These
changes in the next generation of Exchange will likely factor
heavily in the certification exams. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 12, 2006)
Three
patch updates coming for Windows, Office
Microsoft said it will release two security updates for Windows and
one for Office this week. The Office update will address at least
one critical security flaw. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (September 11, 2006)
Users
anticipate joint Cisco and Microsoft security
Users
are all for the plan of interoperable security architecture by
Microsoft and Cisco. For enterprise security, however, Cisco still
wins more respect from IT shops. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 7, 2006)
Microsoft,
Cisco release NAP/NAC roadmap
Microsoft and Cisco released plans on just how they would make their
competing security architectures interoperable. A private beta will
start later this year. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (September 6, 2006)
New
Microsoft Word zero-day exploit discovered
Trojan.MDropper-Q is exploiting a vulnerability in Microsoft's
word-processing application that could allow attackers to take
control of certain machines. Source:
SearchSecurity.com (September 5, 2006)
August 2006:
Google
eyes a home in the enterprise
Later
this year, Google will offer a desktop collaboration suite for
enterprise users. Will IT shops bite? Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 30, 2006)
Vista
pricing goes public
Prices are posted for Microsoft Windows Vista courtesy of Amazon.com.
But users will likely pay more after they factor in hardware and
other software. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(August 29, 2006)
Microsoft
tweaks legacy software support program
Microsoft has restructured its custom support program for those who
choose to patch products forever. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(August 28, 2006)
Microsoft
and Cisco ready to demo NAP/NAC
Harmony
at last between two high-tech elephants: At a Boston security
conference, Microsoft and Cisco will demonstrate how their competing
security technologies will co-exist. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 23, 2006)
Microsoft
and Citrix woo IT with branch combo
More love for the branch office. This time Microsoft will team with
Citrix to develop an integrated appliance. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 23, 2006)
Microsoft
says ITMU fix is in the works
It
might take another month, but a Microsoft executive said the company
is preparing a fix for Microsoft Update's scan engine. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 22, 2006)
Get
ready for Exchange Server 2007 with a tool check
With a new release of Exchange Server coming next year, it's time
for IT administrators to check their toolbox in advance of planning
a migration. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(August 21, 2006)
VMware
users worry about VM sprawl
Server virtualization makes it easy as pie to deploy a new system --
maybe a little bit too easy, say industry observers. Source:
SearchServerVirtualization.com (August 17, 2006)
Microsoft
to fix IE patch glitch
IT
administrators have reported configuration problems with last week's
Internet Explorer patch. Microsoft will tweak and re-release the
patch Aug. 22. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(August 16, 2006)
WSUS
3.0 public beta is ready
The next version of Microsoft's free patch management tool, Windows
Software Update Services, is all set for downloading. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 15, 2006)
Comparing
app streaming to thin clients: Pros and cons
When
is application virtualization the way to go instead of thin-client
computing? They're both right in different scenarios. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 14, 2006)
IT
managers on software licensing: Keep it simple
Licensing software in a world where multi-core processors and
virtualization are expected to be the norm is raising a whole new
set of challenges for IT managers. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (August 10, 2006)
Microsoft's
August update patches 23 flaws
Microsoft
releases a dozen security updates Tuesday, nine critical, addressing
a range of serious vulnerabilities in Windows, Office and Internet
Explorer. Source: SearchSecurity.com
(August 9, 2006)
Microsoft
readies VM Manager beta
Microsoft's
foray into virtual machine management came closer to reality today
with the release of the first beta for its Virtual Machine Manager. Source:
SearchServerVirtualization.com (August 8, 2006)
Easing
patching pain with virtualization
IT
managers are learning that using desktop virtualization software to
patch their enterprise desktops has the potential to save time,
money and energy. Source: SearchWinIT.com (August
7, 2006)
Twelve
Microsoft fixes coming on Patch Tuesday
Microsoft
Tuesday will release a dozen new security bulletins for its Windows
and Office products, likely including fixes for several outstanding
PowerPoint flaws. Source: SearchWinIT.com (August
4, 2006)
Windows
Update bug brings computers to crawl with scan
Windows
experts said a bug in Microsoft Update causes computers to slow down
considerably when scanning the system. Microsoft is looking into the
problem. Source: SearchWinIT.com (August 3, 2006)
Filemon,
Regmon will stay free
Sysinternals
founder Mark Russinovich says Microsoft's top priority is keeping
widely used admin tools like Filemon, Regmon and Process Explorer
freely available. Source: SearchWinIT.com (August
2, 2006)
July 2006:
Virtualization-enhanced
chips may rev up performance
Intel
and AMD promise virtualization will lead to better performance with
their enhanced processors Source:
SearchServerVirtualization.com (July 31, 2006)
IT
angst continues over future of Filemon, Regmon
With
Vista migrations on the horizon, IT managers want more details about
the future of Filemon and Regmon, two of their favorite free
utilities, which are now a part of Microsoft. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (July 27, 2006)
The
risks of using free virtualization products
Although
free virtualization products are handy and benefit the industry,
using them in the enterprise without proper planning could cause
problems. Source: SearchServerVirtualization.com
(July 26, 2006)
Microsoft
aims management bundle at midsized users
System
Center Essentials 2007 is a Windows manageability package ready for
public beta this fall. The features are targeted at midsized
companies, but how about the price? Source: SearchWinIT.com
(July 25, 2006)
IT
professionals worry about availability of Sysinternals tools
In
the wake of Microsoft's acquisition of Sysinternals, IT managers
worry about how long the software giant will continue to make free
tools available on the Web site. Source: SearchWinIT.com
(July 24, 2006)
Microsoft
delivers Exchange Server 2007 public beta
Microsoft
released a public trial of its next generation messaging server,
Exchange Server 2007, along with its email security package, newly
dubbed Forefront Security for Exchange Server. Source:
SearchWinIT.com (July 24, 2006)
Branch
office software bundle aims for enterprise
Microsoft
is readying another branch office software bundle, this time for the
enterprise branches. The SKU offers full-strength Windows Server
2003 R2. Source: SearchWinIT.com (July 13,
2006)
Microsoft
channels rich client to IT shops
Microsoft's Steve Ballmer told partners to bet on a host of new
technologies that add up to a very rich client. Will IT shops buy
what's barreling through this channel? Source:
SearchWinIT.com (July 12, 2006)
Multi-core
processing infiltrates the enterprise
The days of single-core chips are
limited, experts say, as more IT shops move with mixed success to
multi-core. Source: SearchWinIT.com (July
11, 2006)
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