Microsot's FastStart Kit for UC

Did you know about the FastStart Kit from Microsoft on Unified Communications?
This is especially very useful when working on pre-sales with customer, especially in the Architectural Design Sessions (ADS).

Microsoft has developed a number of pre-sales supporting materials with their FastStart kits. This helps the sales/project team to present ADS in light of an individual product capability possessing the most potential for high impact with the client. Some of them are:
Unified Messaging
Security
Voice and Conferencing

These kits provide a great deal of guidance and content that may be heavily leveraged when creating deliverables for an ADS project. Each provides architecture with emphasis on a particular client interest or concern and each contains a comprehensive execution guide, ADS PowerPoint presentation, Discussion Guide, and FAQ document.

Here are some download links:

Unified Communications – Voice and Conferencing FastStart Kit
Unified Communications – Security FastStart Kit
Unified Communications – Unified Messaging FastStart Kit

OCS R2 Enhances Unified Communications - Unified Communications Strategies Views - Unified Communications Strategies - Print View

OCS R2 Enhances Unified Communications - Unified Communications Strategies Views - Unified Communications Strategies - Print View: "OCS R2 Enhances Unified Communications"

Rob Costello : OCS QOE and QMS

Rob Costello : OCS QOE and QMS: "OCS QOE and QMS"

ISA 2006 SP1 Configuration with Exchange 2010

Here is a very precise document on how to configure ISA 2006 SP1 for Exchange 2010

http://msexchangeteam.com/archive/2009/12/17/453625.aspx

Unify Square Introduces Comprehensive Reporting/Billing and Bandwidth Management Product Suite for Enterprise Office Communications Server

Unify Square, a leading services and solutions firm in Unified Communications (UC) and Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS), announced today a software product suite designed to help global enterprises optimize their UC investments by monitoring and driving OCS usage, integrating with billing and chargeback information, and enabling comprehensive bandwidth planning across the enterprise

Read more here .. http://newsblaze.com/story/2009121713282100002.mwir/topstory.html

i am presenting at Microsoft Singapore's Community Technology Update, 19 Dec 09

http://mstechevents.sg/ViewEvent.aspx?eventId=279.

The OFFICIAL Dilbert Widget

Download details: Update Rollup 1 for Exchange Server 2010 (KB976573)

Download details: Update Rollup 1 for Exchange Server 2010 (KB976573): "Update Rollup 1 for Exchange Server 2010 (KB976573)"

Black Screen of Death on Windows 7 official statement

“The reports on the so called “Black Screens” was investigated by Microsoft and found to be inaccurate. The company which issued the report has apologized and made a full retraction. Windows 7 security updates was not the cause of the black screens. There is no fix or update necessary for this, but customers should keep their anti-virus software up-to-date as a preventative measure. So far, Microsoft is not seeing an occurrence of this particular issue in our support channels locally.

Misleading report on Black Screen of Death on Windows 7

I would like to bring your attention to inaccurate stories following a report by a British company claiming that customers who deployed the Windows 7 November Security updates have experienced the so-called “Black Screens” that would render the system unbootable and unusable due to changes in the registry.

Here’s the background for your reference:
Microsoft has found these reports to be inaccurate. Comprehensive investigation has shown that none of the recently released updates are related to the behavior described in the reports. Microsoft’s support organization is also not seeing this as an issue. The claims also do not match any known issues that have been documented in our security bulletins.

On December 1, Prevx, the company which issued the report, posted an apology to Microsoft which stated the following: “Since more specifically narrowing down the cause we have been able to exonerate these patches from being a contributory factor.”

According to Microsoft’s blog post, the real culprit is a piece of malware that clears desktops and produces a black screen on infected PCs; various security vendors have tools for removing this malware. There is no fix or update necessary for this, but customers should keep their anti-virus software up-to-date as a preventative measure.

So far, Microsoft is not seeing a massive occurrence of this particular issue in our support channels. If customers do encounter an issue with a security update, contact our Customer Service and Support group for no-charge assistance at http://support.microsoft.com/security.

The protection and well-being of Microsoft's customers’ PCs through the deployment of Security Updates is the ultimate goal of the Microsoft Security Response Center.

Because of this, Microsoft continually work with their Customer Service and Support teams to keep a close eye for issues that may impact customers’ deployment of security updates.

Consumers can also download Microsoft Security Essentials provided free.

Solved: Eseutil on running on DPM 2010

As i was protecting an Exchange 2003 (on Windows 2003 R2) from DPM 2010 (on Windows 2008 R2), i needed Exchange 2007 32-bit version of eseutil to be installed on DPM 2010 server.

i had naturally copied the eseutil from Exchange 2003, which did not work so.

So i downloded the Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 Management Tools (32-Bit), installed on a test Windows 2008 Std, 32bit (it had AD installed). i then extracted the eseutil dll and exe and copied to the DPM 2010 server.

This is where i pretty much got the idea that i needed the Exchange 2007 tools.
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb808827.aspx#ExchangeServerDatabaseUtilities

Note
If you installed DPM 2007 on a Windows Server 2008 operating system, and you are protecting Exchange Server 2003 on a Windows Server 2003 computer, you must install the Exchange Server 2007 version of the eseutil.exe and ese.dll files. You can download this version from the Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 Management Tools (http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=112325).

Installing DPM 2010 Beta in my production.

Installed DPM 2010 beta in a live production environment.
There was very little data on migrating from DPM 2007 SP1 to DPM 2010.

Procedures (#HINT: Read the beta documentation for the basics on the setup. There are also documents on recovery, client protection, SharePoint item level restore etc.).
1. Stopped protection group and retained the protected data.
2. removed the agents (DPM 2007 Sp1) from protection machines.
3. DPm 2010 was installed on a new hardware. Windows 2008 r2 base OS and DPM 2010 Beta. Installation went on without a problem .
4. Installed agents DPM 2010 beta to the servers. They were automatically installed from DPM 2010 Management Console.

Protections Group
Servers i wa protecting in DPM 2007 SP1 were:
Windows 2003 R2 / Windows 2003
SQL Server 2005
SharePoint 2007 SP2
Exchange 2003 Sp2 (Front end and mailbox)
Windows XP SP3 clients.

Moving these servers to protection with DPM 2010 beta, i had this issues.
For a Windows 2008 R2 protected machine i had to install a Windows Server backup before i could successfull add server to a protection group. This was my domain controlller running Windows 2008 R2 which was trying to get the System State back-ed up.

On my exchange 2003 SP2 servers on a Windows 2003 Sp2, i needed a Windows 2003 patch. KB940349 to allow me to backup the exchange storage groups.

Now i am getting issues with Exchange files eseutil not executing. The DPM 2010 is x64 and my exchange 2003 is 32 bit (of course). i loaded the eseutil files to the DPM as requested but seems like it is not working.

The SharePoint 2007 SP2 protection worked like a charm once i had solved the WSS Writer Failures issues with ConfigureSharePoint.exe.

Will write about eseutil once i get it solved.

Microsoft Business Intelligence Project Booster Kit - SQLServerCentral

Microsoft Business Intelligence Project Booster Kit - SQLServerCentral: "Microsoft Business Intelligence Project Booster Kit: Tools and Utilities"

New RCs For Asterisk 1.4.27, 1.6.0.18, 1.6.1.10, and 1.6.2.0, Ready For Download. | VOIP IP Telephony

New RCs For Asterisk 1.4.27, 1.6.0.18, 1.6.1.10, and 1.6.2.0, Ready For Download. VOIP IP Telephony: "New RCs For Asterisk 1.4.27, 1.6.0.18, 1.6.1.10, and 1.6.2.0, Ready For Download."

One place to get all your updates for OCS R2 and clients

Updates Resource Center

HTTPS, SSL attack vector discovered; fix is on the way

A serious security flaw in the TLS protocol could make HTTP communication vulnerable to a man-in-the-middle attack. Security researchers are working to address the issue.

Read more ... http://arstechnica.com/security/news/2009/11/https-ssl-attack-vector-discovered-fix-is-on-the-way.ars

Visual Studio 2010 and .NET Framework 4 Training Kit

Download details: Visual Studio 2010 and .NET Framework 4 Training Kit:
This week, the October preview of the Visual Studio 2010 & .NET Framework 4 Training Kit was released.

The content in this training kit has been tested with Beta 2 and is ready for you to use.

Windows Server 2008: Supported Microsoft Applications

Windows Server 2008: Supported Microsoft Applications: "Microsoft Server Applications Supported on Windows Server 2008 R2"

Exchangepedia Blog: Removing internal host names and IP addresses from message headers

Exchangepedia Blog: Removing internal host names and IP addresses from message headers: "Removing internal host names and IP addresses from message headers"

Apple Hits the Windows Wall — ServerWatch.com

Windows 7 has been out for barely two weeks, and its market share already rivals that of Mac OS X, despite years of marketing and strategizing on Apple's part. Does Windows stand a chance of being dethroned?

Mathematics for Automotive Engineering

Cylinder volume = (π/4) x bore2 x stroke

Displacement = (π/4) x bore2 x stroke x number of cylinders

Displacement of overbore = (π/4) x (bore + overbore)2 x stroke x number
of cylinders

Stroke = displacement/( π/4 x bore2 x number of cylinders)

Compression ratio = (cylinder + chamber volume)/chamber volume

Piston speed in inches per minute = 2 stroke in inches x rpm

Horsepower = (rpm x torque)/5252

Bhp loss = (elevation in feet/1000) x 0.03 x (bhp at sea level)

Horsepower = (mean effective pressure x displacement x rpm)/792,000

Torque = (mean effective pressure x displacement)/150.8

Theoretical cubic feet per minute = (rpm x displacement)/3456

Racing carb cfm = 1.1 x (rpm x displacement)/3456

Center of gravity behind front wheels = (rear wheel weight/overall
weight) x wheelbase

Drive wheel torque = flywheel torque x first gera x final drive x 0.85

Wheel thrust = drive wheel torque/rolling radius

g = wheel thrust/weight

rpm after shift = (ratio shift into/ratio shift from) x rpm before shift

mph = (rpm x tire diameter)/(gear ratio x 336)

tire diameter = 2 x (section width x aspect ratio)/2540 + rim diameter

Actual mph = (new tire diameter/old tire diameter) x indicated mph

Blood alcohol concentration = (ounces x %alcohol x 0.075)/weight — (hours x 0.015)

Free eBook : Master-PowerShell | With Dr. Tobias Weltner - PowerShell.com

Master-PowerShell With Dr. Tobias Weltner - PowerShell.com: "Master-PowerShell With Dr. Tobias Weltner"

Get Started Developing on SharePoint 2010

Get Started Developing on SharePoint 2010: "Get Started Developing on SharePoint 2010"

OCS/Exchange Integration: How to Change the Shared Folder Location for an OCS Enterprise Pool

Doug Deitterick's Blog : How to Change the Shared Folder Location for an OCS Enterprise Pool: "How to Change the Shared Folder Location for an OCS Enterprise Pool"

10 Ways to Take your Site from One to One Million Users by Kevin Rose

High Scalability - High Scalability - 10 Ways to Take your Site from One to One Million Users by Kevin Rose

SharePoint 2010: Hands on Labs in C# and Visual Basic

Download details: SharePoint 2010: Getting Started with Development on SharePoint 2010: Hands on Labs in C# and Visual Basic: "SharePoint 2010: Getting Started with Development on SharePoint 2010 Hands-on Labs in C# and Visual Basic"

Unified Communications Group Team Blog

Unified Communications Group Team Blog: "Exchange 2010 – Revving the Engines for Launch"

Microsoft Case Studies where Office SharePoint Server 2007 Accessibility Kit was used

Microsoft Case Studies: State of West Virginia: "State Government Modernizes Portal, Drives Internet Usage with Improved Online Services"

free eBook for Deploying Windows 7

The new eBook from Microsoft Press, Deploying Windows 7, offering essential guidance from the Windows 7 Resource Kit and TechNet Magazine. You'll find selected chapters from the Windows 7 Resource Kit on deployment platforms, planning, and testing application compatibility, to name a few. You'll also get six new articles on Windows 7 from industry experts on migration, running Windows 7 in mixed environments, certification and more. The eBook is free for a limited time.

This book addresses the two issues everyone face in new deployments: application compatibility and deployment

Facebook is Many Things…but “UC Killer” is not one of Them

Facebook is Many Things…but “UC Killer” is not one of Them « BroadbandIgnite

SQL Remote Blob Storage Team Blog

This is another feature used by SharePoint 2010 which will be important in storage/performance optimization.

Microsoft vows no upgrade nightmares with monster SharePoint 2010 release

Microsoft vows no upgrade nightmares with monster SharePoint 2010 release: "Microsoft vows no upgrade nightmares with monster SharePoint 2010 release"

SharePoint 2010 is here.

The SharePoint 2010 NDA has been lifted as of October 19th, 9:00AM Pacific Standard Time

Here are some SharePoint 2010 links to share with all of you.

- SharePoint 2010 Website - to view SharePoint 2010 in action
- SharePoint 2010 forum- for SharePoint 2010 questions
- SharePoint 2010 PressPass- for the SPC 2009 keynote video, a Q&A with Jeff Teper, and more
- SharePoint 2010 Developer Center - for developer info
- http://www.mssharepointitpro.com - for IT Pro info
- http://www.microsoft.com/sharepoint - for more SharePoint information

File Classification Infrastructure

Was at a "File Classification Infrastructure" presentation at SharePoint Conference 2009 today.
Especially the topic was about SharePoint and the FileShare strategy from Microsoft.

For once there is proper plans on bring SharePoint and FileShare servers/infrastructre from Microsoft.

Read more from here : http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/fci.aspx

I was told it would go beta in the next few days

7 tools for Windows 7 rollouts | NetworkWorld.com Community

7 tools for Windows 7 rollouts NetworkWorld.com Community: "7 tools for Windows 7 rollouts"

Microsoft beefs up its hosted Exchange/SharePoint suite | NetworkWorld.com Community

Microsoft beefs up its hosted Exchange/SharePoint suite NetworkWorld.com Community: "Microsoft beefs up its hosted Exchange/SharePoint suite"

a cool use of presence

Onze Mensen - Wortell

Snow Leopard bug deletes all user data

Apple's Snow Leopard OS bug deletes all user data.
I have not seen something this bad in Windows before.

WSUS Product Team Blog : New Product Family Name for Visual Studio coming soon

WSUS Product Team Blog : New Product Family Name for Visual Studio coming soon: "New Product Family Name for Visual Studio coming soon"

Download details: Patch Registration Cleanup Tool

Download details: Patch Registration Cleanup Tool: "Patch Registration Cleanup Tool"

Brief Description
On a computer that has a Windows Installer based product installed, you may receive an error while installing an update for the product and the installation of the update may fail.

patterns & practices SharePoint Guidance

Project Description

Microsoft develop guidance to help devs and architects build applications on SharePoint. The second version of guidance expanded coverage to LOB integration, content driven applications, and adding enterprise qualities to your SharePoint applications. The release includes a library of reusable components, a guide, and a new reference implementation of a Partner Portal application. It expands upon the first release which delivered a Training Management application, and guidance around unit testing SharePoint, fundamental design and implementation decisions, and how to setup team development environments with SharePoint.

http://www.codeplex.com/Wiki/View.aspx?ProjectName=spg

Developing SharePoint Applications - from Patterns and Practices

Developing SharePoint Applications
Guidance for building collaborative applications that extend your LOB systems

Summary
The Developing SharePoint Applications guidance helps architects and developers design and build applications that are both flexible and scaleable. It shows developers how to provide IT professionals with the information they need to maintain those applications and diagnose problems when they arise. The two reference implementations illustrate how to solve many of the common challenges developers encounter. One reference implementation addresses basic issues such as creating lists and content types. The other addresses more advanced problems such as how to integrate line of business services, how to create collaboration sites programmatically, and how to customize aspects of publishing and navigation. A library of reusable components helps you adopt techniques used in the reference implementations. The guidance discusses approaches for testing SharePoint applications, such as how to create unit tests, and documents experiences with stress and scale testing one of the reference implementations.

Should You Virtualize Your Exchange 2007 SP1 Environment?

Good place to start with a "checklist" and guide. This scenario applies a lot to what i am doing currently:Branch Office Deployments. Putting virtual servers on branch office with the many tools to assist remote deployments and administration, tremendously helped increase availability and productivity of the folks in the branch office.

Read more from Exchange Team Blog: http://msexchangeteam.com/archive/2009/01/22/450463.aspx


Sarbjit

SQL Server Tempdb Usage and Bottlenecks tracked with Extended Events

I find this a pretty good and useful information on monitoring performance in SQL Server's Tempdb.

http://www.mssqltips.com/tip.asp?tip=1853&home

Now Available! Updated Deployment and Operations Infrastructure Planning and Design (IPD) Guides"

Five Steps to Windows 7 Application Readiness

Five Steps to Windows 7 Application Readiness: "Five Steps to Windows 7 Application Readiness"

Exchange 2010 System Requirements: Exchange 2010 Help

Here are some Exchange 2010 System Requirements where the requirements for Virtualization is set for Exchange 2010.

Microsoft SQL Server Tops All Databases in Emerging Markets

database news around the world: Survey: Microsoft SQL Server Tops All Databases in Emerging Markets: "Microsoft SQL Server Tops All Databases in Emerging Markets"

a dedicated blog to SSRS and SharePoint

RS SharePoint Integration: "RS SharePoint Integration"

Microsoft Security Essentials - in beta and ready to download and it's FREE.

Microsoft Security Essentials is now beta and ready to download.
Start using it now.

it took 4 clicks after downloading (which is about 4m in size), and it was done.

Microsoft Integrated Virtualization ROI Tool

Here is a great tool for ROI calculations just like Branch Office ROI tool i posted about earlier.

This one is the "Microsoft Integrated Virtualization ROI Tool"

The Microsoft Integrated Virtualization ROI Tool was developed independently by ex-Gartner TCO/ROI experts at leading ROI tool developer Alinean, Inc. This ROI tool helps partners and customers examine current production server, development / QA lab, desktop and application virtualization opportunities, quantifying the potential savings, service level and agility benefits, investment and ROI for implementing Microsoft Integrated Virtualization solutions.

https://roianalyst.alinean.com/microsoft/virtualization/

WINDOWS 7 GOVERNMENT-APPROVED

Feds Prepare To Make Leap to Windows 7 -- Redmondmag.com: "Feds Prepare To Make Leap to Windows 7"

Exchange 2010 RTM !!!

You Had Me At EHLO... : Exchange 2010 is Code Complete and on its way to General Availability: "Exchange 2010 is Code Complete and on its way to General Availability"

Exchange Server Supportability Matrix: Exchange 2007 Help

With Windows 2008 R2 generally available and Exchange upgrades coming along for Exchange 2003 and Exchange 2007 to Exchange 2010, i thought this would be useful.
Exchange Server Supportability Matrix: Exchange 2007 Help: "Exchange Server Supportability Matrix"

Exchange 2010 + Outlook Mobile + Windows Mobile 6.5 = Awesome!

View these videos on cool WM6.5 features with Ex2010 and Outlook mobile.
Exchange 2010 + Outlook Mobile + Windows Mobile 6.5 = Awesome!"

Configure a server farm for minimal downtime during software updates (Office SharePoint Server 2007)

This article describes how to update Office SharePoint Server farms with minimal downtime. By following the procedures in this article, you can update servers to add the latest service pack or cumulative update without incurring significant downtime for users. This article describes a step-by-step process for Office SharePoint Server farms that incorporate SQL Server mirroring.

You can achieve similar results on Office SharePoint Server farms that are set up in a clustered server environment.

Web Application Measurements Tool

Check out this tool from Keynote which allows you to monitor your online business performance.
Web Application Measurements Tool: "Application Perspective"

AvePoint News: AvePoint Introduces Free Tool for Item-Level SharePoint Restores from SQL Server and DPM Backups

AvePoint News: AvePoint Introduces Free Tool for Item-Level SharePoint Restores from SQL Server and DPM Backups: "AvePoint Introduces Free Tool for Item-Level SharePoint Restores from SQL Server and DPM Backups"

This is wonderful to hear. I run DPM and SharePoint in my client's environment and i would love to see how this works out.
Will update in the blog if it really works as mentioned or there is a catch.

An early look at SharePoint 2010 | Windows - InfoWorld

An early look at SharePoint 2010 Windows - InfoWorld: "An early look at SharePoint 2010"

"U.S. Government's Official Website Powered by SharePoint"

http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20090928_4383.php?oref=topstory

Microsoft Launches New Open Source CodePlex Foundation : BillS IIS Blog : The Official Microsoft IIS Site

Microsoft Launches New Open Source CodePlex Foundation : BillS IIS Blog : The Official Microsoft IIS Site: "Microsoft Launches New Open Source CodePlex Foundation"

XMPP Gateway update for OCS 2007 R2

Download details: Office Communications Server 2007 R2 XMPP Gateway: "Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 XMPP Gateway"

Unified Communications: Uniting Communication Across Different Networks: Eric Swift, general manager of the Unified Communications Group at Microsoft, talks about today’s Microsoft Office Communications Server news and Microsoft’s commitment to increase interoperability of its unified communications and collaboration solutions with products from other vendors.

Unified Communications: Uniting Communication Across Different Networks: Eric Swift, general manager of the Unified Communications Group at Microsoft, talks about today’s Microsoft Office Communications Server news and Microsoft’s commitment to increase interoperability of its unified communications and collaboration solutions with products from other vendors.: "Unified Communications: Uniting Communication Across Different Networks"

BBC NEWS | Science & Environment | Fossil finds extend human story

BBC NEWS Science & Environment Fossil finds extend human story: "Fossil finds extend human story"

GIAC Certifications in High Demand

GIAC Certifications in High Demand: "GIAC Certifications in High Demand"

You can have your own personal Windows Supercomputer

SGI - Products: Servers: SGI Octane III: "Supercomputing Gets Personal"

Download details: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2010

Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2010 is the newest version of Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, a Solution Accelerator for operating system and application deployment. MDT 2010 supports deployment of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 in addition to deployment of Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003, and Windows XP.


Download details: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2010: "Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2010"

Download details: Office Communications Server 2007 R2, PreCallDiagnostic Resource Kit Tool

Overview
The PreCallDiagTool is an application that reports expected audio quality as it relates to the network effect. The tool should be installed on any desktop or laptop PC that suffers from inconsistent network connection quality. The PreCallDiagTool can provide a quick check of the current network conditions and also preserve a history of quality data to let users profile their network performance over time or other conditions. The tool is particularly useful for home/mobile users and users using WIFI access points

Download details: Office Communications Server 2007 R2, PreCallDiagnostic Resource Kit Tool: "Office Communications Server 2007 R2, PreCallDiagnostic Resource Kit Tool"

You Deleted Your Cookies? Think Again | Epicenter | Wired.com

You Deleted Your Cookies? Think Again Epicenter Wired.com: "You Deleted Your Cookies? Think Again"

Cisco Repairs Massive TCP flaw — ServerWatch.com

Cisco Repairs Massive TCP flaw — ServerWatch.com: "Cisco Repairs Massive TCP flaw"

Reshaping Cisco: The world according to Chambers | The Economist

Reshaping Cisco: The world according to Chambers The Economist: "The world according to Chambers"

I am Microsoft Learning's MVP Certification Hero for 2009

Thank You Microsoft Learning

Nortel to Avaya: You can buy our love … for $900M

Nortel to Avaya: You can buy our love … for $900M

Magic Quadrant for Unified Communications

Magic Quadrant for Unified Communications: "Magic Quadrant for Unified Communications"

a useful SQL Server Integration Services site

SQLIS SQL Server Integration Services - SSIS: "SQL Server Integration Services - SSIS"

Pre-Conference session today

Today is the second day of pre-con sessions. It is Greg Low's session. It is going to be very valuable i am sure.

at TechED Australia 2009, GoldCoast

Arrived in GoldCoast yesterday. It was raining in he afternoon but today it is just beautiful with sun out in full force and blue skies.

From my accomodations i can see the beach.

Data Platform Insider : Microsoft ships the first technology preview for Project code-named "Madison"

Data Platform Insider : Microsoft ships the first technology preview for Project code-named "Madison": "Microsoft ships the first technology preview for Project code-named 'Madison'"

No support for Address List Segregation in Exchange 2003

Dgoldman's WebLog : Exchange 2003 Address List Segregation Document: "Exchange 2003 Address List Segregation Document"

How to restrict OWA address searches to multiple organizational units

Have you had an issues with OWA and multiple GALs due to the structure of your organisation or hosting environment?
you may find this very useful.

How to restrict OWA address searches to multiple organizational units: "How to restrict OWA address searches to multiple organizational units"

You Had Me At EHLO... : Hungry for More Info on Exchange 2010? Try some Learning Snacks!

You Had Me At EHLO... : Hungry for More Info on Exchange 2010? Try some Learning Snacks!: "Hungry for More Info on Exchange 2010? Try some Learning Snacks!"

SharePoint Questionnaire for requirements gathering.

SharePoint Questionnaire: "SharePoint Questionnaire"

From Heather Solomon's blog

thanks

You Had Me At EHLO... : Exchange Server 2007 Service Pack 2 available in Q3 2009

You Had Me At EHLO... : Exchange Server 2007 Service Pack 2 available in Q3 2009: "Exchange Server 2007 Service Pack 2 available in Q3 2009"
and here is the What's new in Exchange 2007 SP2: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ee221150.aspx

Rubens Barrichello WINS!!!

YES !!! I have supported Rubens all this time. He has come close to winning this year but either the team, his team mate and even himself have failed him, sometimes at the last stages.
He won in last weekend's Valencia F1 race.
http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/8/9794.html

Finally he has done!! I am happy for you.
Let's hope the world championship can be your target now. Not many points behind button.

Sarbjit

SharePoint in Plain English

Get The Point blog – http://sharepoint.microsoft.com/blogs/GetThePoint
MS Showcase – www.microsoft.com/video/en/us/details/76e8d3af-c2bd-42a6-bb12-befcbd041bf1
MSN Video – http://video.msn.com/video.aspx?mkt=en-US&vid=76e8d3af-c2bd-42a6-bb12-befcbd041bf1
YouTube – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s12Jb5Z2xaE

Countdown to PDC09: 10 Minutes Gets You the Goods

Countdown to PDC09: 10 Minutes Gets You the Goods

You Had Me At EHLO... : Exchange Server 2010 Release Candidate Available Today!

You Had Me At EHLO... : Exchange Server 2010 Release Candidate Available Today!:

Love the quote ---> "In fact, Exchange is now is approaching $2B in annual revenues. If Exchange were a standalone business, it would be the 9th largest software company in the world."

STSDEV: Simple Tools for SharePoint 2007 Development - Release: STSDEV 1.4

STSDEV: Simple Tools for SharePoint 2007 Development - Release: STSDEV 1.4: "STSDEV: Simple Tools for SharePoint 2007 Development"

118 blogs for OCS/UC (and counting)

Office Communications Server Team Blog : 118 blogs for OCS/UC (and counting): "118 blogs for OCS/UC (and counting)"

What's Wrong With Windows Mobile and How WM7 and WM8 Are Going to Fix It - Apple - Gizmodo

What's Wrong With Windows Mobile and How WM7 and WM8 Are Going to Fix It - Apple - Gizmodo: "What's Wrong With Windows Mobile and How WM7 and WM8 Are Going to Fix It"

Zune HD video hands-on: chock-full of media edition

Zune HD video hands-on: chock-full of media edition: "Zune HD video hands-on: chock-full of media edition"

SlySoft Download | AnyDVD, CloneDVD, CloneCD, GameJackal, Any DVD, Clone DVD, Clone CD, Game Jackal

SlySoft Download AnyDVD, CloneDVD, CloneCD, GameJackal, Any DVD, Clone DVD, Clone CD, Game Jackal: "Virtual CloneDrive"
From the latest Mark Minasi newsletter, it is mentioned that the ISO mounting tool, Virtual CloneDrive will work on Windows 7 for both 32bit and 64bit.

"Welcome to the Microsoft Branch Office Savings Calculator"

I have a client which is looking at the ROI for deploying servers to their branch office. Right now PCs/Laptop and even VoIP phones from the branch office connects back to servers and Call Manager in the HQ.

After doing a POC for a Branch Office Scenario, the high management did not approve the purchase of servers for the branch office, which happen to be a vessel. :)

I have been told by the technical manager to justify the branch office scenario using some ROI tool.
Searching around and even trying to do my own, i found this tool: The Microsoft Branch Office Savings Calculator. https://roianalyst.alinean.com/branch/launch.html
"The Branch Office Savings Calculator was developed independently by leading IT research firm IDC, and leading ROI tool developer Alinean, Inc. "

Within 30 min i had a cool 87 page reports and the summary one of 9 pages. i think with some more thing customizing my data, i could have some i could hand over to my client and the senior management.

Give it a try if you have a similar scenario.

Microsoft’s SharePoint Thrives in the Recession - Bits Blog - NYTimes.com

A very good article on SharePoint.

Microsoft’s SharePoint Thrives in the Recession - Bits Blog - NYTimes.com: "Microsoft’s SharePoint Thrives in the Recession"

DPM 2007 SP1 Implementation – Notes from the field - Dario IT Solutions Blog

DPM 2007 SP1 Implementation – Notes from the field - Dario IT Solutions Blog: "DPM 2007 SP1 Implementation – Notes from the field"

This is useful for me when i was configuring DPM Server 2007 Sp1 for backing up Hyper-V.

Jose Barreto's Blog : Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V Failover Clustering Options

Many ways to implement Windows 2008 Clustering and Hyper-V
Read more at Jose Barreto's Blog : Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V Failover Clustering Options: "Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V Failover Clustering Options"

The 40 Most Popular Tools For Your System Admin Bag

The 40 Most Popular Tools For Your System Admin Bag: "The 40 Most Popular Tools For Your System Admin Bag"

I have been confirmed for TechED Australia 2009

I will be serving my duties as a TLG (Technical Learning Guide). This is a role created for MCTs and MVPs and have been very popular and successful in many TechEds around the world.

The last time i did work as a TLG was in Orlando in 2007 and Boston the year before that.

If you going to be there, do check out the Technical Learning Centres and the many hands on labs and instructor led trainings. Also don't loose the chance of catching up on Microsoft certifications exams as it would be heavily discounted.

I am presenting at Singapore Windows User Group event

I will be presenting STEALTHbits's StealthAUDIT focusing on Exchange and Active Directory auditing.

Here is the full agenda. http://sgwindowsgroup.org/blogs/swug/default.aspx

Applying Remote Technical Consulting to Your Business

This is a good artcile on building a model and following these best practices for your remote consulting business, you can avoid problems and reduce costs.

Download details: Microsoft SDL - Developer Starter Kit

Overview
The Microsoft SDL - Developer Starter Kit provides a compliation of baseline developer security training materials on the following core Microsoft Security Development Lifecycle (SDL) topics: a) secure design principles; b) secure implementation principles; c) secure verification principles; d) SQL injection; e) cross-site scripting; f) code analysis; g)banned application programming interfaces (APIs); h) buffer overflows; i) source code annotation language; j) security code review; k) compiler defenses; l) fuzz testing; m) Microsoft SDL threat modeling principles; and n) the Microsoft SDL threat modeling tool. Each set of guidance contains Microsoft Office PowerPoint slides, speaker notes, train-the-trainer audio files, and sample comprehension questions. All materials have limited formatting so that you can leverage the content to achieve broader, enhanced adoption of Microsoft SDL principles in your development organization.

Download details: Microsoft SDL - Developer Starter Kit: "Microsoft SDL - Developer Starter Kit"

If you find Carbonite on your systems...

Carbonite, the consumer/small business online backup company, has struck a deal with Sun to piggyback on Java and offer a free 30-day trial of its widgetry to anybody who upgrades to the latest version of Java or downloads in for the first time.

Carbonite Piggybacks on Java JAVA Developer's Journal:
http://java.sys-con.com/node/1027624

Registration :: Microsoft PDC09

Registration :: Microsoft PDC09: "PDC09 Registration is Open"

"So is Microsoft f*%&ed? Not even close."

Microsoft Gets FAM-iliar With Cloud Computing.

A good read from Paul Thurrott at WindowsITPro.com

SharePoint Management PowerShell scripts - Home

SharePoint Management PowerShell scripts - Home: "SharePoint Management PowerShell scripts"

Check out this Codeplex's project on SharePoint management with Powershell.

iPhone hack with SMS from BlackHat USA 2009

http://www.blackhat.com/presentations/bh-usa-09/MILLER/BHUSA09-Miller-FuzzingPhone-PAPER.pdf

7 Vendor Tech Certifications End Users Love - Surveys

7 Vendor Tech Certifications End Users Love - Surveys: "Surveys: 7 Vendor Tech Certifications End Users Love"
Microsoft is at No. 1

McAfee, Inc. to Acquire MX Logic and Provide Industry's Most Comprehensive Security-as-a-Service Portfolio

McAfee, Inc. to Acquire MX Logic and Provide Industry's Most Comprehensive Security-as-a-Service Portfolio: "McAfee, Inc. to Acquire MX Logic and Provide Industry's Most Comprehensive Security-as-a-Service Portfolio"

Now McAfee is also has cloud based services to offer.

Windows Server 2003 Security Compliance Management Toolkit

I have been asked to provide a Windows Infrastructure security audit. The first i looked (besides the SANS.org security policies etc), was the Windows Server 2003 Security Compliance Management Toolkit.

I would be exploring this toolkit in the next few days and write down how a security audit and compliance work can be planned from this tool kit.

Sarbjit

BBC NEWS | Technology | Wireless power system shown off

BBC NEWS Technology Wireless power system shown off: "Wireless power system shown off"

I am thankful and humbled to be acknowledged

I got a wonderful email from my MVP Lead.

================================

Hello Singapore MVPs,

The Microsoft Learning Team and SEA MVP Team would like to take this opportunity to call out MVP Sarbjit Singh Gill.

MVP Sarbjit has been a great advocate for the technical community. Just to share some of his initiatives which include helping to promote Microsoft certifications to the community and making of the Voice of the Community video, stepping up to speak and share his expertise for various Microsoft partners/customers and delivering webcasts to help jumpstart MS Certifications to the masses. His great advocacy and support for Microsoft technology and Microsoft certifications has led to many positive feedbacks from both internal and external parties, some of whom came from as far as New Jersey.

Kudos Sarbjit and thanks for going the extra miles!

When will you get Windows 7 RTM? - Windows 7 Team Blog - The Windows Blog

When will you get Windows 7 RTM? - Windows 7 Team Blog - The Windows Blog: "When will you get Windows 7 RTM?"

"SharePoint 2010 Sneak Peek" are out.

Paul Andrew from the SharePoint blogged about it.

Click http://blogs.msdn.com/pandrew/ for details

Microsoft Ties Dynamics CRM to Twitter - Business Center - PC World

Microsoft Ties Dynamics CRM to Twitter - Business Center - PC World: "Microsoft Ties Dynamics CRM to Twitter"

VMware customers outraged by the vSphere upgrade path - UPDATED | virtualization.info

VMware customers outraged by the vSphere upgrade path - UPDATED virtualization.info: "VMware customers outraged by the vSphere upgrade path - UPDATED"

SIP Trunking and Direct SIP

1) SIP Trunking: this is a solution for the interconnection of an IP-PBX system with the PSTN network over an IP trunk carrying SIP signaling and RTP media (with a range of options). Microsoft participates in the establishment of standard solutions in this domain via the SIP Forum. There is a specific program in the OIP for qualification of service providers.

2) Direct SIP: this is a solution for interoperability of OCS with a third party telephony solution, typically Gateway or IP-PBX. It also uses an IP trunk carrying SIP signaling and RTP media. Microsoft has specific programs in the OIP for qualification of third party gear. The Direct SIP requirements may involve call flows that are more complex/different from the SIP Trunking, with private number manipulation, call transfers, holds on both sides, etc.

Thanks Francois

DMTF : Phone Numbers and Dial Plans in Office Communications Server

DMTF : Phone Numbers and Dial Plans in Office Communications Server: "Phone Numbers and Dial Plans in Office Communications Server"

SharePoint Service Pack 2 Update

Service Pack 2 Update.

The public update for the Service Pack 2 expiration date issue http://blogs.msdn.com/sharepoint/archive/2009/06/25/service-pack-2-update.aspx is now available for download.

Developer's guide to development in SharePoint

This is what you need .
http://www.microsoft.com/click/SharePointDeveloper/

Check out the New Windows 7 Packaging - Windows 7 Team Blog - The Windows Blog

Check out the New Windows 7 Packaging - Windows 7 Team Blog - The Windows Blog: "Check out the New Windows 7 Packaging"

Worldwide Intranet Challenge (WIC): 8 good business reasons for having an intranet (tips for writing an intranet business case)

Worldwide Intranet Challenge (WIC): 8 good business reasons for having an intranet (tips for writing an intranet business case): "8 good business reasons for having an intranet (tips for writing an intranet business case)"

Digital Landfill: 8 Things You Need to Know about SharePoint Governance

Digital Landfill: 8 Things You Need to Know about SharePoint Governance: "8 Things You Need to Know about SharePoint Governance"

You Had Me At EHLO (Exchange Team Blog)... : Named Properties, Round 2: What lies Ahead

You Had Me At EHLO... : Named Properties, Round 2: What lies Ahead: "Named Properties, Round 2: What lies Ahead"

"How we did it"

"How We Did It." This informational blog series is designed to provide a glimpse into the minds who architect and deploy innovative and cool SharePoint solutions.

Facts and Fallacies about First Normal Form

Facts and Fallacies about First Normal Form: "Facts and Fallacies about First Normal Form"

Good read of the fundamentals.

Google Apps gets Outlook-sync plug-in - ZDNet.co.uk

Google has released a tool to help enterprises move their email, calendaring and contacts infrastructure across from Microsoft Outlook to the paid-for versions of Google Apps.

Google Apps gets Outlook-sync plug-in - ZDNet.co.uk: "Office applications Toolkit"

How to make OCS 2007 R2 non-RFC 3966-compliant using RemovePlusFromRequestURI

How to make OCS 2007 R2 non-RFC 3966-compliant using RemovePlusFromRequestURI: "How to make OCS 2007 R2 non-RFC 3966-compliant using RemovePlusFromRequestURI"

Performance profiling for .NET code

i have heard many good things about this product. this is a profiling tool when developing dot net code.

Performance profiling for .NET code: "ANTS Performance Profiler™"

THIS IS NOT Best Practices of SharePoint Farm configuring and deployment Part 2 - Installation & Configuration | SharePoint Magazine

This is not a best practise as the poster of the blog has mentioned. There are some statements which are true but a whole other stuff is just plain wrong, or it is now it is done. SO beware before blindly following so called best practises out there on the internet. Here is the article i was talking about ----> Best Practices of SharePoint Farm configuring and deployment Part 2 - Installation & Configuration SharePoint Magazine: "Best Practices of SharePoint Farm configuring and deployment Part 2 - Installation & Configuration"

Updates available for expiration date issue with the evaluation editions of Office Communications Server (OCS) 2007 R2 and Office Communicator (OC) 20

Microsoft has just released the following Knowledge Base articles (KB972041, KB972042) to address the incorrect calculations of license expiration dates for Office Communications Server (OCS) 2007 R2 and Office Communicator (OC) 2007 R2 Evaluation Edition. The current expiration dates were calculated based on build time, causing the OCS 2007 R2 and OC 2007 R2 Evaluation Edition to expire after June 13, 2009.

Microsoft has issued the fixes below to correct the issues. By applying this fix, the expiration date will be updated to one hundred eighty (180) days after the initial installation of OCS R2 or OC R2 Evaluation Edition, as stated in the license terms for these applications.

Microsoft encourages its customers to apply necessary updates in their evaluation environment to take full advantages of the evaluation period.

To get the updates packages, please go to:
Office Communications Server 2007 R2Office Communications2007 R2
Or to get your new evaluator edition, please go to:Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Eval
Office Communicator 2007 R2 Eval

Download details: Exchange Server 2010 Beta

Download details: Exchange Server 2010 Beta: "Exchange Server 2010 Beta VHD"

Best Practices for Data Warehousing with SQL Server 2008

Lessons learned in the field and experiences gain, as created the Best Practices for Data Warehousing with SQL Server 2008: "Best Practices for Data Warehousing with SQL Server 2008".

a MUST read for any Microsoft SQL Server 2008 BI pro.

Xbox.com | Project Natal

this is going to change how we work, play, live and interact.

One up on Wii.

Xbox.com Project Natal: "No Strings (or Controllers) Attached."

The Exchange 2007 Wiki - IT Policies

this is pretty good write up.

Purpose
This document was created to evaluate the various experiences that an Information Worker (IW) can have based on Exchange ActiveSync Policies being applied onto their devices in different states.

Possible States:
First Time Policy Applied onto device
Modify specific settings on device within the same policy
Reassign user to a new Exchange ActiveSync policy
Removing an Exchange ActiveSync policy from the user

The Exchange 2007 Wiki - IT Policies: "Exchange ActiveSync Policy User Experience"

Google Wave Preview

Google Wave is a new tool for communication and collaboration on the web, coming later this year. Watch the demo video below, sign up for updates and learn more about how to develop with Google Wave.

Google Wave Preview: "Check out the developer preview at Google I/O"

APPCMD.EXE missing on W2003x64

Here is a search link, thanks for fellow MVPs on their discussion on this topic.

http://www.google.com/search?q=EXEC+%3A+Input+error+%3A+Can+not+find+script+file+%22C%3A%5CWindows%5CSystem32%5Ciisapp.vbs%22.&rls=com.microsoft:en-gb:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SNYK

Whitepaper : Configuring Windows 7 for a Limited User Account

Running as a limited user is a security best practice, and it's way easier to do on Win7 than it is on XP.

This is a good read to understand Configuring Windows 7 for a Limited User Account: "Configuring Windows 7 for a Limited User Account"

White Paper written by:
Stephen J Friedl

RtcQmsAgent fails to start on OCS 2007 R2 server - and causes KB 967831 (April 2009 update for Front End Server components) install to fail - Aaron Tiensivu's Blog

VERY IMPORTANT: MSMQ Required on OCS Servers prior to patching

RtcQmsAgent fails to start on OCS 2007 R2 server - and causes KB 967831 (April 2009 update for Front End Server components) install to fail - Aaron Tiensivu's Blog: "RtcQmsAgent fails to start on OCS 2007 R2 server - and causes KB 967831 (April 2009 update for Front End Server components) install to fail"

SharePad Reference Application for SharePoint Products and Technologies - Home

SharePad Reference Application for SharePoint Products and Technologies - Home: "SharePad Reference Application for SharePoint Products and Technologies"

Project DescriptionSharePad is a reference application demonstrating
Microsoft Office-style SharePoint integration techniques. This application
illustrates the use of the Front Page RPC calls exposed by SharePoint among
other SharePoint integration APIs.

CJG : Windows Workflow 4.0 Notes from TechEd

CJG : Windows Workflow 4.0 Notes from TechEd: "Windows Workflow 4.0 Notes from TechEd"

Download details: SQL Server 2008 Developer Training Kit

Download details: SQL Server 2008 Developer Training Kit: "SQL Server 2008 Developer Training Kit"

Brief Description
The SQL Server 2008 Developer Training Kit will help you understand how to build web applications which deeply exploit the rich data types, programming models and new development paradigms in SQL Server 2008.

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2: "SQL Server 2008 R2"

Chris Capossela's interview and annoucement.

· Microsoft SharePoint “14” is now Microsoft SharePoint 2010

· Exchange 2010 will lead the way for the 2010 (previously referred by its codename “14”) wave of technologies and it will be available in the second half of 2009. You can download a beta <http://www.microsoft.com/exchange/2010> today.

· Using Office Web applications, customers will be able to create, edit and collaborate on Office documents through a browser.

· IT professionals will be able to choose to either deploy and manage on-premises or hosted as a service.
For developers, we are working on Open APIs, deep support for industry standards and developer tool support with Visual Studio 2010. You can read the entire interview here <http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2009/Apr09/04-15Office2010.mspx>

New SharePoint Server Server product site

Looks nice :)

http://sharepoint.microsoft.com/Pages/Default.aspx

and it runs on SharePoint

Reattaching LookupList Property to a new List - Becky Bertram's Blog

Reattaching LookupList Property to a new List - Becky Bertram's Blog: "Reattaching LookupList Property to a new List"

Microsoft, HP putting $180 million into UC deal - Network World

Microsoft, HP putting $180 million into UC deal - Network World: "Microsoft, HP putting $180 million into UC deal"

The Microsoft Office 2010 IT Blog : Leaked build and Staying Safe

The Microsoft Office 2010 IT Blog : Leaked build and Staying Safe: "Leaked build and Staying Safe"

Important note -->
"So, please be aware that if you download this torrent there is a very good chance you are also getting some unexpected malware with it. "

Desktop Virtualization and UC from Citrix

HDX RealTime info:
http://www.citrix.com/English/ps2/products/subfeature.asp?contentID=1686121

Citrix Blog Post:
http://community.citrix.com/blogs/citrite/derekt/2009/02/09/Delivering+Cisco+softphones+from+XenDesktop
“The HDX RealTime audio subsystem will provide broad compatibility with softphones and the "voice chat" feature of Unified Communications applications.”

Come n join us for a whole day of technical information and fun

Home: "Community Technology Update (aka CTU), in its 5th incarnation, is bigger than before. In Partnership with Microsoft, CTU has grown by leaps and bounds. This event is a follow on, after Microsoft {one} Nation 2009. The Community has arranged for a week's event at Microsoft."

Some potential white papers on OCS with regards to voice quality

Quality of Experience WP:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=05625AF1-3444-4E67-9557-3FD5AF9AE8D1&displaylang=en

Overview of Microsoft RTA Speech Codec:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=5d79b584-79c9-42a8-90c4-4ab3f03d19c4&displaylang=en

QoE: A practical approach to Deploying Real-Time Communications
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5ec060fd-ba9a-4c52-8bd8-148f502b791f&DisplayLang=en

Integrating telephony with OCS:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=8CDE0C3A-042E-445B-A514-2D12ED5B2AC2&displaylang=en

Designing Your Perimeter Network for Office Communications Server 2007 White Paper:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=e4a8d703-e41a-47d9-b9dd-2799f894af92&DisplayLang=en

Sign-up for the UC Developer Sandbox! - GotUC - GotUC.Net

Sign-up for the UC Developer Sandbox! - GotUC - GotUC.Net: "Today GotUC.net is proud to offer an opportunity for developers to start developing UC enabled applications, without having to overcome the hurdles of setting up Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 Beta."

Microsoft Unified Communications 2007 R2 Adoption and Training Kit - Office Communications Server - Microsoft Office Online

Microsoft Unified Communications 2007 R2 Adoption and Training Kit - Office Communications Server - Microsoft Office Online: "Microsoft Unified Communications 2007 R2 Adoption and Training Kit"

Steve Riley has left the building.

Steve Riley on Security : Good bye, and good luck: "Steve Riley"

Google Takes Patent License to Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync: Google will be able to extend their value proposition to their customers through this license with Microsoft.

Google Takes Patent License to Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync: Google will be able to extend their value proposition to their customers through this license with Microsoft.: "Google Takes Patent License to Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync"

Email from Lutz Ziob, General Manager for MS Learning

"Dear Sarbjit Singh,

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for your contribution to the MCT Summit in India, Hyderabad, in February. My team returned with fantastic stories and great enthusiasm. The giant photograph featuring 200 proud MCTs welcomes visitors to our building every day.
The quality of our MCT Summits is defined by the quality of our speakers. I have reviewed the evaluation scores and they clearly show you did a great job, delivering the right message and presenting it with impact.
Well done, thank you for all you do,

Lutz Ziob
General Manager
Microsoft Learning"

Unified Communications How-To Training Tool

Download details: Unified Communications How-To: "Unified Communications How-To"

Windows 7 RC Now Available for TechNet Plus Subscribers

Download details: The 2007 Microsoft Office Suite Service Pack 2 (SP2)

Download details: The 2007 Microsoft Office Suite Service Pack 2 (SP2): "The 2007 Microsoft Office Suite Service Pack 2 (SP2)"

Office Service Pack 2 A Significant Stability, Performance and Interoperability Upgrade: Q&A: Group Program Manager Jane Liles talks about the enhancements now available through Service Pack 2 for the 2007 Microsoft Office system.

Office Service Pack 2 A Significant Stability, Performance and Interoperability Upgrade: Q&A: Group Program Manager Jane Liles talks about the enhancements now available through Service Pack 2 for the 2007 Microsoft Office system.: "Office Service Pack 2 A Significant Stability, Performance and Interoperability Upgrade"

database news around the world: Sneak Preview into SQL Server Codenamed Kilimanjaro on April 30

database news around the world: Sneak Preview into SQL Server Codenamed Kilimanjaro on April 30: "On April 30, 2009, Microsoft plans not only to offer MSDN and TechNet subscribers the Release Candidate bits of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 (Windows 7 Server), but also a test of its next data platform. The Redmond company is in fact looking to deliver a sneak peek at the successor of SQL Server 2008, namely SQL Server Codenamed Kilimanjaro"

Microsoft Online Services Available for Purchase Worldwide: Accenture, Avanade and EDS, an HP company, each sign Microsoft Online Services agreements; more than 4,000 partners signed on globally.

Microsoft Online Services Available for Purchase Worldwide: Accenture, Avanade and EDS, an HP company, each sign Microsoft Online Services agreements; more than 4,000 partners signed on globally.: "Microsoft Online Services Available for Purchase Worldwide"

Evolving the Data Warehouse : Upcoming webcast on Kilimanjaro and Madison

Evolving the Data Warehouse : Upcoming webcast on Kilimanjaro and Madison: "Upcoming webcast on Kilimanjaro and Madison"

i am presenting SQL 2008 sessions for Microsoft Learning.

“In this current economic situation, it’s a good time to go and renew your certification, get knowledge of new products and when the economy turns around you’ll be ready to jump into new opportunities, get a new job or progress in the one you already have.”

Live Meeting : Jumpstart SQL 2008 Skills - May 26, 2009 (12:30pm – 1:30pm Singapore time) : Register now if you are new to Microsoft SQL technology. (What time is this in my country?)

Live Meeting : Upgrade your SQL Skills - May 28, 2009 (12:30pm – 1:30pm Singapore time) : Register now if you plan to upgrade your SQL skills. (What time is this in my country?)

THE BI Blog : Top 10 demos for Microsoft BI

THE BI Blog : Top 10 demos for Microsoft BI:

"Here’s a collection of some cool Microsoft BI Demos that I use regularly to showcase aspects of the Microsoft BI stack and show interesting examples of what insight to information can actually accomplish"

YouTube Starts Experimenting With Real-Time Notifications

YouTube Starts Experimenting With Real-Time Notifications: "YouTube Starts Experimenting With Real-Time Notifications"

First Look: We Take YouTube RealTime For A Spin

First Look: We Take YouTube RealTime For A Spin

Download details: SharePoint Server 2007 SDK: Software Development Kit

Latest SharePoint SDK released.

Download details: SharePoint Server 2007 SDK: Software Development Kit: "SharePoint Server 2007 SDK: Software Development Kit"

Microsoft SQL Server Community Samples: Integration Services - Release: SharePoint List Source and Destination

SharePoint sources adapater for SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS).

Microsoft SQL Server Community Samples: Integration Services - Release: SharePoint List Source and Destination: "Microsoft SQL Server Community Samples: Integration Services"

ERTE - Add Flash, Iframes, etc. to SharePoint 3.0 Rich text - Home

ERTE - Add Flash, Iframes, etc. to SharePoint 3.0 Rich text - Home: "ERTE - Add Flash, Iframes, etc. to SharePoint 3.0 Rich text"

And please donate because this tool is really cool and saves you tons of hours and money.

hamaddarwish.com :: World of Photography and Digital Art :: Windows Vista

This dude was the photographer for Vista wallpapers. Some of this shots made it to Vista wall paper and most of other did not, but they are really stunning. You could download them from here

hamaddarwish.com :: World of Photography and Digital Art :: Windows Vista: "Windows Vista, and I"

You cannot open HTML Help files from Internet Explorer after you install security update 896358 or Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1

Problem with .CHM file after downloading from Microsoft website?

See this support article.

You cannot open HTML Help files from Internet Explorer after you install security update 896358 or Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1: "You cannot open HTML Help files from Internet Explorer after you install security update 896358 or Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1"

Microsoft Office System Service Pack 2 due April 28, 2009 - SharePoint Buzz - Your SharePoint Community Resource

Microsoft Office System Service Pack 2 due April 28, 2009 - SharePoint Buzz - Your SharePoint Community Resource: "Microsoft Office System Service Pack 2 due April 28, 2009"

Cisco UC Integration™ for Microsoft Office Communicator

Cisco UC Integration™ for Microsoft Office Communicator: "Cisco UC Integration™ for Microsoft Office Communicator"

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps10317/index.html

All you need to know about upgrading to Office SharePoint Server 2007?

To the SharePoint : Still have questions regarding upgrading to Office SharePoint Server 2007?: "Still have questions regarding upgrading to Office SharePoint Server 2007?"

There is also the link to download the eBook for upgrading.
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=85556

Intel Software Network Blogs » The C# Programming Language Version 4.0

a good and quick look at C# 4.0

Intel Software Network Blogs » The C# Programming Language Version 4.0: "The C# Programming Language Version 4.0"

Watch Envisioning Videos to see how technology may transform our lives in the years ahead.

<a href="http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-US&playlist=videoByUuids:uuids:a517b260-bb6b-48b9-87ac-8e2743a28ec5&showPlaylist=true&from=msnvideo" target="_new" title="Future Vision Montage">Video: Future Vision Montage</a>

WOW!!! This is so cool: Get Twitter Updates in Media Center

Get Twitter Updates in Media Center Sarah In Tampa Channel 10: "Get Twitter Updates in Media Center"

WOW!!! This is so cool: Get Twitter Updates in Media Center

Get Twitter Updates in Media Center Sarah In Tampa Channel 10: "Get Twitter Updates in Media Center"

Project Management: SharePoint Specialists - OfficeTalk

Project Management: SharePoint Specialists - OfficeTalk: "12 Step Plan to SharePoint Success"

Q&A on SharePoint Designer 2007 Licensing Changes - SharePoint Designer - Microsoft Office Online: IT IS FREE NOW.

Q&A on SharePoint Designer 2007 Licensing Changes - SharePoint Designer - Microsoft Office Online: "Q&A on SharePoint Designer 2007 Licensing Changes"

The Microsoft MVP Award Program Blog : Singapore SharePoint MVP Speaks Out At MCT Summit

The Microsoft MVP Award Program Blog : Singapore SharePoint MVP Speaks Out At MCT Summit: "Singapore SharePoint MVP Speaks Out At MCT Summit"

I am on Microsoft's MVP Blog. Thank You Microsoft.

Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program | TechNet

Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program TechNet: "Microsoft Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program"

Did you know about this site?

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : List of upcoming SharePoint conferences

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : List of upcoming SharePoint conferences: "List of upcoming SharePoint conferences"

THE BI Blog : Office Marketplace for Business Intelligence Solutions

THE BI Blog : Office Marketplace for Business Intelligence Solutions: "Office Marketplace for Business Intelligence Solutions"

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : List of upcoming SharePoint conferences - UPDATED

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : List of upcoming SharePoint conferences - UPDATED: "List of upcoming SharePoint conferences - UPDATED"

Microsoft Roundtable now a Polycom product

Gone but not forgotten: 10 operating systems the world left behind

Gone but not forgotten: 10 operating systems the world left behind: "Gone but not forgotten: 10 operating systems the world left behind"

Download details: Microsoft SharePoint Administration Toolkit v3.0 x86

The Microsoft SharePoint Administration Toolkit contains functionality to help manage Office SharePoint Server 2007 and Windows SharePoint Services version 3.0. This toolkit contains the ability to diagnose performance issues, perform bulk operations on site collections, an Stsadm operation to update alert e-mails after the URL for a Web application has been changed, and a User Profile Replication Engine tool.


Download details: Microsoft SharePoint Administration Toolkit v3.0 x86: "Microsoft SharePoint Administration Toolkit v3.0 x86"

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : Possible Issue with mergecontentdb STSADM Operation

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : Possible Issue with mergecontentdb STSADM Operation: "Possible Issue with mergecontentdb STSADM Operation"

Microsoft Certification: Community

Video made in Seattle in Jan 2009 for the Value of Certifications for MS Learning.

Microsoft Certification: Keep your Certification Current

Video made in Seattle in Jan 2009 for the Value of Certifications for MS Learning.

With IE8, Microsoft Ignores One Third Of The Market

With IE8, Microsoft Ignores One Third Of The Market: "With IE8, Microsoft Ignores One Third Of The Market"

Gmail Gets A Panic Button

Gmail Gets A Panic Button

IE8 RTM-ed

Additional Windows Live Messenger PIC/Federation IP Addresses

Source: OCS Team Blog

In an effort to provide enhanced capacity and service reliance, Windows Live Messenger will soon be adding additional IP addresses used for PIC/Federation traffic.

Read more.

“I’m a PC!”

During the 2009 MVP Global Summit Keynote sessions this week, Mike Nash and Steve Ballmer held a surprise filming of MVPs shouting “I’m a PC and I’m a MVP!” that may be incorporated into future online promotions of the Microsoft “I’m a PC!” campaign.

Today, Mike Nash will write a Windows Team blog post that will include a condensed version of the MVP’s video clip.

• MVPs can view the video clip at
http://www.microsoft.com/video/en/us/default.aspx

• MVP’s can view the blog post at http://windowsteamblog.com/blogs/windows7/default.aspx

The History of Microsoft - 1976 | The History of Microsoft | Channel 9

The History of Microsoft - 1976 The History of Microsoft Channel 9: "The History of Microsoft - 1976"

SharePoint Deployment Planning Services (SDPS)

What to build a framework for doing Professional Services (PS) work for SharePoint. Want to make sure you follow proven and tested methods of engaging Customers. Want it to come from Microsoft and it should not just be some marketing story? Search no more.

Enter, SharePoint Deployment Planning Services (SDPS).

SDPS is a partner and Microsoft Consulting Services delivered offering designed to help our Software Assurance (SA) customers successfully plan and deploy SharePoint. Using field proven business and technical guidance, the program provides best practices and well defined results through 1, 3, 5, 10 or 15 day deployment planning sessions.

Read more.


http://blogs.msdn.com/sharepoint/archive/2008/05/19/announcing-sharepoint-deployment-planning-services-sdps.aspx

https://iwsolve.partners.extranet.microsoft.com/SDPS/ProgramOverview.htm

BBC NEWS | Technology | Dangerous coding errors revealed

BBC NEWS Technology Dangerous coding errors revealed: "Dangerous coding errors revealed"

Social Networking and SharePoint

Please find in the below link for the social networking solution in sharepoint as a product

http://www.newsgator.com/business/socialsites/default.aspx

FYI : Please watch the video too http://www.newsgator.com/business/socialsites/video/socialsites_viddler.aspx

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : Department of Social and Family Affairs wins eGovernment Award for accessible website

Microsoft SharePoint Team Blog : Department of Social and Family Affairs wins eGovernment Award for accessible website: "Department of Social and Family Affairs wins eGovernment Award for accessible website"

"SharePoint Conference 2009"

"SharePoint Conference 2009": Get your early bird discounts.

Engadget Mobile

Engadget Mobile: "Microsoft announces Windows Mobile 6.5"

Android Browser Vulnerability So Dangerous, Owners are Warned not to use it - JCXP

Android Browser Vulnerability So Dangerous, Owners are Warned not to use it - JCXP:
"Android Browser Vulnerability So Dangerous, Owners are Warned not to use it"

Read more... http://www.jcxp.net/news.php?newsid=2618

"At the Schmoocon hacker conference last Friday, security researcher Charlie Miller brought up a disturbing vulnerability within Google's Android browser that allows remote computers to take control of the browser itself, as well as other related processes, effectively compromising the phone."

It is easy to put down Microsoft IE for it's security flaws when they appear but there is a huge process in place which takes care of those and makes millions of transactions everyday either on the internet or intranet secure, fast and effortless.

Google is going to learn this now.

I'm A PC and I'm Four And A Half - Windows Live Photo Gallery

I'm A PC and I'm Four And A Half - Windows Live Photo Gallery: "I'm A PC and I'm Four And A Half"

Microsoft Exploitability Index

What is Microsoft Exploitability Index?

Secure Vantage Team Blog - Windows Live

Secure Vantage Team Blog - Windows Live: "Secure Vantage Team Blog".

Good to know a blog exist for this vendor.

A good read on using SharePoint in Projects

Lee Reed's 3 Ways to Use a SharePoint Blog for Project Success

Microsoft has been placed in the leaders quadrant of Gartner’s BI platform category in 2009.

Here is the link to the BI Team Blog entry.
http://blogs.msdn.com/bi/archive/2009/02/04/microsoft-a-leader-in-bi.aspx

SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) and UCC

"SIP trunking is the enabler for advanced communications services such as UC and collaboration,"
said Angela Salmeron, research manager for IDC's European Telecommunications service.

Taking care of Win32/Conficker.B/Downadup infections.

Win32/Conficker.B exploits a vulnerability in the Windows Server service (SVCHOST.EXE) for Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows Server 2003, and Windows 2008. While Microsoft addressed this issue in October with Microsoft Security Bulletin MS08-067, and Forefront antivirus and OneCare (as well as other vendor’s anit-virus products) helped protect against infections, many systems that have not been patched manually through Server Update Services and Microsoft/Windows Update or through Automatic Updates have recently come under attack by this worm. Attacked systems may lock out users, disable our update services and block access to security-related Web sites:

In response to this threat, Microsoft has:
· Updated the January version of the MSFT to detect and remove variants of Win32/Conficker.B. You can download this version from the MSRT from either the Microsoft Update site or through its associated Knowledge Base article.

· Created the KB article 962007 “Virus alert about the Win32/Conficker.B worm” to
provide public details on the symptoms and removal methods available to address this issue.

· Announced the release of the items and the virus threat itself on the Microsoft Malware Protection Center blog.

ROI calculators

I was searching for ROI calculators and here are two links which are pretty neat.

http://nucleusresearch.com/microsoft-roi-support-center/
https://roianalyst.alinean.com/microsoft/iotool/launch.html

Best tips on how to build a online community using SharePoint

http://www.endusersharepoint.com/?p=1194

Courtesy of EndUserSharepoint.com

some official documentation on SharePoint and DPM 2007 SP1

All the links on documentation, audio/video and how to and how not. :)


http://blogs.msdn.com/sharepoint/archive/2009/01/15/system-center-data-protection-manager-releases-service-pack-1.aspx