05/01/2005
May 2005 - Content Cops
Should IT be the long arm of the law? Plus: Thumbs sideways for Baseline Security Analyzer; 7 ways to the get the most out of MOM; server management shootout and more.
In-Depth
The right server management tool closely monitors your network and offers proactive responses to most common problems.
Many businesses expect IT to use
the equivalent of a radar gun and monitor employees for infractions. But laying down the law can have serious repercussions, both for employees and the IT departments doing the watching.
Microsoft's free vulnerability scanner works well—as long as you don't have to stretch it too far.
There's a saying in IT that
"complexity is the enemy of security." It's also the enemy of efficiency, troubleshooting
and other critical network functions. Here are six ways to untangle that crowded web
you've weaved.
Remote management has never been a Microsoft strong suit, but Windows Server 2003 is helping users manage servers that no IT staff can touch.
Advice from an in-the-trenches expert for getting the most out of Microsoft
Operations Manager.
Product Reviews
Recovery Manager lets you do large-scale, store-level Exchange backups, while still helping locate and restore individual messages.
StorageX takes a global approach to streamlining file management.
ADtoolkit enables anyone to perform Active Directory group edits.
Asset Navigator helps you keep tabs on what you have and how it's being used.
Barney's Rubble
Will public policy make a difference in virus attacks and spyware infiltration?
Beta Man
Get ready to upgrade to Win2003 x64.
Letters to Redmond
Ira Winkler's "Dumb and Dumber" article struck many a funny bone; positive and negative words for Sun's Scott McNealy; and some of you do read Doug Barney's Chief Concerns column.
Mr. Script
Used appropriately, PopUp is a powerful addition to any scripter's toolbox.
Security Advisor
Redmond's new Security Advisor drills down the specifics of what should be considered when selecting your next firewall.
Ten
Denied the actual list of names submitted by Microsoft to the EC, we felt it our duty to do our best guesstimating.
Windows Insider
Don't let either the real or perceived limitations in Microsoft's default Group Policies prevent you from taking full advantage of this technology.
News
From the business wires this week: a .NET framework that supports ASP.NET; products and services that reduce your spam intake; and an online service that can help you recover Microsoft Access files.
Microsoft's exam retake promotion is coming to an end on May 31, which means just a sliver of time remains to take advantage of it.
Beefed-up four-ways and "Truland" take center stage.
A look at Microsoft's current collaboration technologies and how Groove Networks' Vritual Office fits in.
Defrauded customers may be eligible for free Windows XP Pro, but with some strings attached.
From the business wires this week: data recovery software for Windows File Systems, a .NET tool for creating application skins, and a near-indestructible tablet PC.
From the business wires this week: a GPMC tool for change control, free network monitoring software, and Microsoft invests in LapLink.
Popular exam savings and retake offer extended through Microsoft Certfied Partners and Microsoft Business Solutions programs.
Latest attempt to bring data mining to the masses with SQL Server 2005 hinges on new features, ease-of-use and low cost.
From the business wires this week: a bevy of anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-spam solutions to keep your computer clean and you sane.
Windows OneCare service provides one-stop solution against malware and mucked-up computers.