IT Management


Microsoft Unveils New SMS Features

Besides changing Systems Management Server’s name this week, Microsoft opened the veil on new features coming in the next major release, dubbed "Systems Center Configuration Manager 2007."

Outside Programmers Fix Microsoft Flaws

Third-party vendors come to customers' rescue, but what are the risks of using a fix that isn't Microsoft approved?

Profile: Virtualizing Server Solutions

Cassatt Corporation's star-studded brain trust offers server consolidation solutions.

Cover Story: The 800-Pound Gorilla

Can anything threaten the Microsoft desktop empire?

I Spy

An industry alliance formally defines "spyware,"a move that should help companies combat insidious intrusions.

Profile: In Search of Better Data-Center Management

Splunk takes data-center management lessons from the Web.

Longhorn: Is Allchin's Baby Worth the Wait?

Don Jones takes a look at the new features that will be included in the new Windows operating system, slated for release in late 2006.

WSUS: Better Name, Better Product

Readers report that Microsoft's Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) tool is a vast improvement over its predecessor SUS.

Patching Made Simple

Patching your servers is an art that takes time to master. Here's a paint-by-numbers kit to help you get started.

The 10 Essential Rules of Patch Management

The more work you put in up front, the easier it will be to get and stay current when the patches hit.

Grunt Work

Keeping systems patched is time-consuming and laborious, but it's crucial. Here are seven tools that can help you automate the process.

Streamline Your Systems Management

In March 2004, Microsoft refined its new management vision with the announcement of Microsoft Operations Manager 2005 and the first version of its unified operations environment, System Center 2005. Both products are due for release later this summer.

Five Layers of Defense

You can adapt the logical perimeter network design to suit your own access requirements, but most common requirements are met with this design.

A Patchwork Quilt

Patch management is no longer a luxury to have a secure network—it’s a necessity. We test six solutions to the problem of knowing whether or not your servers and desktops are up to date.

Blueprinting Your Database Landscape

Crafting a map of your database servers can help you build better systems, from increased security to solid disaster-recovery plans. Take these steps to get your server network in order.

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