04/01/2009
April 2009 - The Strength to Endure
This month, we explore why Microsoft is going to beat the recession. Plus, how Windows 7 stacks up next to Vista; getting the most out of SharePoint using workflows; three can't-miss Exchange Server add-ons; and more.
In-Depth
Microsoft Office SharePoint Server is one of the hottest products in Redmond's arsenal and can provide a major productivity boost for companies. In this four-part guide, we detail how IT administrators can get the most out of SharePoint by effectively using workflows.
Microsoft has the stuff to come out of this recession on top.
Early testers reveal a snappier, crisper and far more satisfying desktop effort.
Mimosa, Quest and CA provide functionality that Microsoft hasn't added yet.
Barney's Rubble
We've got opinions, and we're not afraid to use 'em.
Foley on Microsoft
Microsoft's neither confirming nor denying, but Azure certainly has all the symptoms of a platform -- and developers should take note.
Mr. Roboto
Sometimes, all you want is a quick reassurance that your server farm is OK. Here's a script to give you some peace of mind.
Pop Quiz
Figuring out quorum configuration.
Prof. Powershell
Some COM objects work just fine in PowerShell -- maybe better.
Security Advisor
Managing Server Core can be a challenge; here are some tips to help you keep it secure.
Windows Advisor
How to find and protect it, in eight steps.
News
A survey of IT professionals conducted last month for systems management provider KACE found that a majority of respondents expect that they won't deploy Windows 7 in the next year.
Microsoft will end "mainstream support" of XP on April 14, 2009, meaning that there will be no more free per-incident support for that operating system.
Microsoft Office 2003 moved off "mainstream support" on April 14, which means that those seeking technical support for the product will have to pay for it.
Microsoft Learning to put Exam 70-680 through the proverbial wringer from May 5-18.
Microsoft rolled out eight fixes in its monthly security release, addressing some 23 vulnerabilities.
Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows XP has IT pros worried.
Microsoft branded some of its best-selling products to come with the "2010" stamp, beginning with the debut of Exchange Server 2010 beta.
Default security settings in Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser could open a company's intranet to hacking attacks, according to a recent security white paper.
The desktop solution falters in its first Windows-based tests.
On April 28, Microsoft plans to release SP2 for Microsoft Office 2007, along with SP2 releases for some of its server products.