Desktop management
Desktop management includes various services and utilities that IT needs to account for. This includes OS updates and upgrades, patch management, device provisioning and more. IT needs to find desktop management software or unified endpoint management (UEM) platforms to handle these tasks.
Top Stories
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Tip
20 Dec 2023
How to back up, repair and restore the Windows 11 Registry
The simplest way to fix a broken Windows 11 registry is to restore a backup, but that isn't always possible. Find out different methods to fix a broken registry. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Intel Core Ultra CPUs with neural processing runs AI on PCs
Intel's Core Ultra CPUs now contain embedded AI neural processing, which adds options for device manufacturers to divide demand for AI processes among different hardware resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Why businesses should recycle enterprise devices
Sustainability should be a consideration at every stage of the device lifecycle, and this doesn't stop at device retirement. Recycling enterprise devices offers several benefits. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2023
Tanium aims to be first with autonomous endpoint management
The new term 'autonomous endpoint management' aims to offer IT teams AI-driven automation that can improve employee experience and simplify device administration. Continue Reading
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Opinion
30 Nov 2023
Amazon thin client spurs conversation about replacing laptops
AWS bowed a new entry into the thin client space, which appeals to a limited audience of Amazon WorkSpaces-based orgs. What we really want is to ditch the work laptop for good. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2023
The 6 best rugged computers for business use cases
Finding the right device for a business scenario can be challenging, and adding rugged conditions to the mix can complicate things further. Learn about that endpoint market. Continue Reading
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News
27 Nov 2023
AWS' remote work gambit: Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client
AWS rolls out a computer in a Fire TV Cube box. The $195 device gives enterprises an inexpensive end-user hardware option for remote workers and promises tighter data security. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2023
What IT admins and office workers get in MS 365 Copilot
Microsoft 365's Copilot assistive AI features come with a big price tag, but experts are bullish that they could return the investment to users -- and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
How to work with the new Windows LAPS feature
Microsoft updated this automated method to manage and back up passwords for local administrator accounts on Windows desktop and server systems. See what's new with Windows LAPS. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Sep 2023
Redefining DEX: Is user sentiment a requirement?
DEX technologies focus on ensuring users have the tools and high-performing technology they need. But is it a good idea to rely on user sentiment as a universal metric? Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
Using the Intune management extension for PowerShell scripts
Intune and PowerShell have a lot of unique management actions they can take, but with the help of the Intune management extension, they can communicate and manage more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Aug 2023
How to set up PowerShell remoting over SSH
Microsoft recommends using WinRM to manage Windows machines remotely, but OpenSSH offers other advantages, particularly in organizations that also use Linux systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2023
How to restart the Intune Management Extension agent service
When IT has issues with Intune deploying commands to endpoints, IT teams should consider restarting the Intune Management Extension to address lingering issues. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Aug 2023
Amazon WorkSpaces finally supports Office 365, but why now?
Microsoft has finally walked back one very specific angle of its Office 365 licensing policy, allowing enterprises to run it on Amazon WorkSpaces. Will others follow? Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2023
Deciding which AppleCare plan is best for the enterprise
Apple provides multiple coverage and support options to supplement basic AppleCare, and it can be difficult to determine whether one will be best suited to an organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2023
A guide to Intune Suite licensing for endpoint management
With the changes to the structure of Intune and the end of Microsoft Endpoint Manager, organizations will need to reevaluate their endpoint management licensing options. Continue Reading
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Opinion
21 Jul 2023
PC as a service is an alternative and a complement to DaaS
When IT teams consider the best way to deploy and manage desktops and endpoints, PCaaS should be a strong consideration to replace or work with desktop virtualization. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2023
Maximize PC lifespans with effective PC lifecycle management
When IT departments set lifecycle policy for PCs and desktops, they will need to set the length of a PC's life for user groups. Learn how to calculate the ideal lifecycle length. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jul 2023
Evaluating the AppleCare Professional Support options
AppleCare+ isn't the only coverage and support option Apple offers. IT should consider the different AppleCare Professional Support options, including AppleCare for Enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jul 2023
The role of Mac file and folder encryption for businesses
IT administrators can enable the Mac FileVault utility across business files and data to provide an extra layer of security and meet compliance standards. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
Understanding Microsoft Intune Suite vs. Endpoint Manager
With the release of the Intune Suite, IT administrators may wonder what that means for Microsoft Endpoint Manager and all its functions. Find out how this new Intune works. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2023
Is AppleCare+ worth it for enterprise organizations?
AppleCare is a useful limited warranty that comes with all Apple devices, but some organizations should consider the benefits of additional coverage options such as AppleCare+. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2023
Deploying Intune's Microsoft configuration manager console
Organizations looking to deploy Microsoft Configuration Manager console must make sure to set up this platform correctly and should follow these steps. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jun 2023
4 PC lifecycle management best practices
There isn't a perfect PC lifecycle plan for all organizations, so IT teams and management should ask themselves these four questions to shape their PC policy. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jun 2023
Apple's M2 Ultra targets Mac Pro users with a need for speed
Apple debuted it fastest chip to date, the M2 Ultra, featuring new technologies to improve speed and performance. The company also showed off a new AR/VR headset. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
How to build a plan for PC and desktop lifecycle management
Comprehensive device-as-a-service plans and full in-house management are two options for desktop lifecycles, but there are plenty of in-between options that can be a good fit. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2023
Best practices for a PC end-of-life policy
Organizations that deploy PCs need a strong and clear policy to handle hardware maintenance, end of life decisions, sustainable disposal practices and more. Continue Reading
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News
31 May 2023
Alcion applies AI, security focus to Microsoft 365 backup
Alcion launches to combine backup and security for Microsoft 365 protection. The backup-as-a-service vendor's CEO sees a gap in data protection. Continue Reading
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Opinion
17 May 2023
Is it time for a new name for thin clients?
The thin client market has evolved significantly to the point where these endpoints aren't all that thin. Find out the case for renaming these devices to 'rich clients.' Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2023
Does macOS need third-party antivirus in the enterprise?
Macs are known for their security, but that doesn't mean they're safe from viruses and other threats. IT teams can look into third-party antivirus tools to bolster macOS security. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2023
Setting up Windows 11 kiosk mode with 4 different methods
Windows 11 kiosk mode offers improvements over previous versions for desktop admins. IT should learn these four methods and choose the best deployment for their organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2023
Should organizations turn on the native firewall on Mac?
The native macOS firewall is off by default, so IT might wonder if it's worth it to set up the security feature. Find out how to enable the Mac firewall and why it's important. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2023
How to use the Apple Rapid Security Response updates
Typical Apple OS updates are large and infrequent, but the Rapid Security Response feature helps admins keep Apple devices patched without performing full OS updates. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2023
PC sales head south as users look for reasons to buy
PC sales continue to sag as business users and consumers remain conservative in spending and wait to see if the macroeconomic trends improve or deteriorate. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2023
9 end-user experience monitoring tools to know
The end-user experience monitoring market is chock-full of options that can be confusing to keep track of. Take a look at nine EUEM tools IT professionals should know about. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Mar 2023
Translating the experience optimization products' acronyms
When organizations look for software and services that can help monitor users, customers and IT system functionality, they need to learn what DEX, EUEM and other terms mean. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2023
Why you should plan to migrate to Exchange 2019 soon
An upgrade to the latest Exchange version will bring added functionality for end users and security enhancements. But it will also help ease the transition to Exchange vNext. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2023
How to filter Security log events for signs of trouble
Certain accounts, such as company executives, will draw unwanted attention from hackers. Learn how to catch these targeted attacks by checking Windows event logs. Continue Reading
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News
06 Feb 2023
Dell to lay off 6,650 workers, cites economy, slow PC sales
Dell joined Microsoft in cutting 5% of its workforce due to slowing PC sales. The company said the action will better position it for future growth. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
Speed up onboarding with Active Directory user templates
Active Directory account templates are not difficult to make. But it helps to know how to use certain shortcuts, like variables, to create home directories and roaming profiles. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Feb 2023
Understand the emerging digital employee experience market
The emerging market of digital employee experience is a very broad concept with many components and several major players touching different aspects of this process. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2023
3 tips to reduce enterprise e-waste
Sustainable device management is an important area CIOs and IT teams should focus on to support organizational ESG goals. Learn how it can also help lower e-waste and save money. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2023
5 steps to identify and fix Windows 11 performance issues
Windows 11 administrators may encounter numerous desktops with varying performance issues. Follow these steps to identify the root cause of the performance issues and fix them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2023
Troubleshooting the most common issues with Windows 11
When Windows 11 administrators encounter an issue with a desktop without a clear fix, they should perform general troubleshooting steps in a specific order to minimize risk. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2023
Microsoft layoff signals shift from rapid hiring to caution
Microsoft's layoff of 10,000 workers follows a similar tech industry pattern: rapid employment growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a relatively modest cutback. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Slowing PC sales spark lower prices
PC prices are dropping as manufacturers lower prices to move inventory. Market saturation following the pandemic is a significant factor in the drop in sales. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2023
Thousands of Citrix, Tibco employees laid off following merger
Cloud Software Group lays off 2,250 workers following major changes to sales and product development after merging Citrix Systems with Tibco Software. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jan 2023
Intel releases Raptor Lake chips for laptops, mobile devices
Hoping to gain back market share from AMD, Intel debuted what it believes is the fastest processor for mobile devices. The new processor contains a record 24 cores. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Dec 2022
The enterprise endpoint device market heading into 2023
Modern enterprise organizations have numerous options to choose from on the endpoint market. Learn about some of the main offerings that business leaders should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2022
7 steps to fix a black screen in Windows 11
A black screen can be a symptom of several issues with a Windows 11 desktop. Knowing where to look for the source of the problem can simplify the troubleshooting process. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Oct 2022
How to avoid common GPO backup and restore problems
Group Policy Objects help admins maintain control of the enterprise environment, but it takes some planning to understand how to properly protect and recover GPOs to avoid trouble. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2022
Questions remain following Citrix-TIBCO merger
Investment firms Vista Equity Partners and Evergreen Coast Capital completed the acquisition of Citrix, but questions about partnerships and potential product spinoffs remain. Continue Reading
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News
28 Sep 2022
Intel expands Developer Cloud, updates GPUs, CPUs
Administrators who manage many users can go one step further toward streamlining license assignments by taking advantage of a new feature from Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2022
How Windows 11 Safe Mode works and when to use it
Windows 11 desktops can run into problems that don't have a clear cause. Safe Mode runs a pared-down version of the OS, making it easier to identify and solve system issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2022
How to fix Windows 11 when it keeps restarting
When a Windows 11 desktop keeps restarting, there are a few factors that may be behind the issue. IT administrators should understand all the possible causes and how to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2022
How to perform a factory reset on a Windows 11 desktop
A factory reset may be necessary when a device has performance issues or is set to go to a new user. IT can execute this process in Windows 11 while avoiding unwanted data loss. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2022
HP, Dell report cooling PC sales as business demand wavers
Businesses have delayed and reduced their desktop and laptop orders from HP and Dell, executives reported. The PC market has weakened after a two-year winning streak. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2022
7 benefits of PCaaS that businesses should know
Organizations that take on a PCaaS agreement will have to pay monthly costs, but the benefits they receive, including lifecycle management and support, provide plenty of value. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2022
PC shipments plummet as market boom ends
PC manufacturers shipped fewer than 80 million computers for the first time in seven quarters as low demand and supply chain issues hit the market, IDC reports. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jul 2022
How to choose a PCaaS vendor
The PC-as-a-service and device-as-a-service market is still developing and maturing, so organizations should learn who the major vendors are and how these services work. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jun 2022
Guide to Linux patch management
While patching desktops has some universal aspects across systems, there are specific Linux best practices that Linux administrators need to know. Here are eight important ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jun 2022
Creating a patch management policy: Step-by-step guide
A comprehensive IT patch management policy is insurance against network hardware and software prone to bugs and vulnerabilities that can disrupt critical business processes. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jun 2022
Apple Mac performance, features boost business appeal
The upcoming MacBook Air and Pro models will feature Apple's high-performing M2 chip, which will help workers in creative businesses edit videos and images faster. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
How to support Mac computers in Windows environments
Organizations that support both Windows and Mac desktops must approach them differently, but there is plenty of overlap with the tools and practices they can use. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2022
Comparing 8 desktop management software options for business
Organizations that need desktop management software should survey a variety of platform types. UEM can often provide the most value and functionality in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2022
How to enroll and manage Mac devices with Intune MDM
Organizations may turn to basic MDM platforms to help manage Mac devices in a Windows-focused environment. Often, these platforms provide just enough management. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2022
5 macOS management software options for the enterprise
While Windows desktops are still the leading OS in the enterprise, organizations have adopted macOS desktops, and each OS requires a different management approach. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
08 Mar 2022
Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line
Running the Software License Manager from the command line or using Key Management Services for automatic activation can sidestep one hurdle to get going with Windows Server 2019. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2022
Use Jamf Pro's basic features for enterprise management
While Apple devices are vital to many workplaces, they present unique management challenges. Jamf Pro is a device management platform that helps tackle Apple-specific challenges. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
Dell, Lenovo, HP pitch sustainable laptops
Dell, Lenovo and HP have introduced laptops to help customers meet environmental, social and governance policies, which have become critical factors in buying decisions. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2021
Explore Jamf's products and features for Apple management
Apple macOS devices make up a significant portion of enterprise endpoints, and vendors such as Jamf offer tools to help organizations manage Apple endpoints securely and easily. Continue Reading
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News
17 Dec 2021
LastPass goes solo, plans to focus on mobile features
After spinning off from LogMeIn, password management firm LastPass plans to grow its business by providing faster feature updates, more mobile options and better customer service. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2021
How to build a virtual lab with Hyper-V
While there are lots of uses for Hyper-V, Windows 10 administrators can take advantage of its isolated VMs for lab testing of patches, updates and more. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2021
Apple ditches hated MacBook Pro features, adds M1 chips
The new MacBook Pro laptops come in 14-and 16-inch models, return ports that were missing in the past few iterations, and add faster, more energy-efficient processors. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right PC for business
With seemingly endless options to choose from, finding the right PC for a business can feel daunting. Explore these top seven choices below. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2021
How to choose the right Mac for business
Despite a smaller selection than Windows PCs, finding the right macOS device can still be challenging. Learn more about the available options and how they compare. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2021
Comparing macOS vs. Windows security
Windows and macOS have their pros and cons and, often, security comes down to the individual use case. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Aug 2021
How to evaluate Mac vs. PC for businesses
While PCs have long been the preferred option for businesses, Mac computers are gaining in popularity due to improved functionality. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2021
VPN and cloud-based printing options change with the times
Print workflow and IT infrastructure are key considerations when choosing between a VPN and cloud printing setup that can accommodate the needs of a hybrid workforce. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2021
How to evaluate printer management freeware for business
While freeware isn't always feature-rich enough, organizations shouldn't overlook this option to manage all types of printing jobs, such as virtual desktop and remote printing. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2021
6 steps to troubleshoot remote printing via VPN
While each organization's printing infrastructure is different, IT administrators should follow these six general steps to determine the cause of remote printing issues over a VPN. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2021
Dell releases 7 PCs for CAD, graphic designers
Dell has designed the Precision series desktops for power-hungry tasks like CAD and data science. But they come when desktop sales are on the decline. Continue Reading
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News
21 Apr 2021
VMware launches Anywhere Workspace to secure remote workers
Anywhere Workspace is an integrated product bundle that includes Workspace One, the VMware secure access service edge architecture and the Carbon Black endpoint security tool. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2021
Incorporating zero trust into endpoint security
Zero trust is a complex term, but organizations that take security seriously must know what it is and how it can support existing endpoint security platforms. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2021
Keeping tabs on employees in the hybrid workplace
Companies want better ways to determine if their employees are mentally healthy or are at risk of a breakdown in the hybrid workplace. Vendors line up to meet the demand. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
Top 6 endpoint security software options in 2021
The market for endpoint security software can be confusing to navigate for decision-makers, but this market roundup should help them navigate this process. Continue Reading
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News
10 Mar 2021
Component shortages to constrain PC market through 2022
Chip and GPU shortages will prevent PC manufacturers from meeting demand through 2022. Supply constraints could limit PC market growth to single digits, forecasters say. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2021
Microsoft makes Productivity Score useful to tech buyers
Microsoft's Productivity Score update lets an organization's tech buyers monitor, without the help of IT staff, the average performance of employees' PCs and mobile devices. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jan 2021
Rebound in IT spending expected in 2021
Worldwide IT spending is slated to grow this year, as companies increase support and security for remote workers. Gartner projects spending will hit nearly $4 trillion. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2021
CES: Laptops sport designs friendly for remote workers
Top PC manufacturers Dell, HP and Lenovo emphasized at-home flexibility in their CES laptop announcements. Remote work has driven the need to be productive anywhere. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Dec 2020
PCaaS vs. DaaS: learn the difference between these services
While there is a lot of confusion surrounding DaaS -- devices as a service -- and PCaaS and what these services are defined as, but there may be less of a distinction than you think. Continue Reading
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News
22 Dec 2020
Remote work to drive portable monitor demand in 2021
Manufacturers like Lenovo, HP and ViewSonic expect high demand for portable monitors in 2021 as workers try to get the dual-screen experience at home. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2020
Microsoft Pluton chip will secure future Windows PCs
Microsoft said its Pluton security chip would protect data even when an attacker has physical control of a computer. Future Windows PCs will include the new chip. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2020
When to use SCCM in the cloud with a CMG
Organizations can run SCCM in the cloud with the help of a cloud management gateway. IT admins should determine if their organization fits within these use cases before deployment. Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2020
Microsoft Productivity Score limited by lack of data
Microsoft's new Productivity Score tool for 365 needs third-party data and security information to be entirely useful to enterprises, analysts said. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2020
Smartphones and laptops for business hinge on cost, use, apps
Factors like cost, usage, applications, management, longevity and security figure in the selection of company-issued smartphones, laptops and printers for digital workers. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2020
7 essential remote worker security policies for IT departments
With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing so many to work remotely, IT admins need to update the security aspect of their organization's work-from-home policies to keep pace with this trend. Continue Reading
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News
13 Oct 2020
Mac users key in defending against Apple T2 chip flaw
IT pros should lean on Mac users to protect corporate networks against exploiters of the Apple T2 chip vulnerability. Hard drive encryption will also help defend against attackers. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2020
Lenovo launching the first foldable PC, the ThinkPad X1 Fold
Lenovo touted the ThinkPad X1 Fold as a unified experience for workers who use laptops and tablets. The company has started taking orders. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2020
Microsoft Endpoint Manager gets better Mac, iPad management
Microsoft Endpoint Manager will eventually have new tools for securing and managing Macs, iPads and virtual endpoints. A more secure Edge browser is also on tap. Continue Reading
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News
26 Aug 2020
PC sales soar as pandemic restructures the computer market
There's no question that the pandemic has bolstered PC sales. But analysts disagree on whether rising PC ownership means the computer market has reached a sustainable new height. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2020
Microsoft puts Universal Print in preview
Microsoft says cloud-based Universal Print simplifies printer management by replacing on-premises infrastructure. The service is available through 365 on Windows 10 devices. Continue Reading