Top 10 Windows admin tips

A Windows admin's job is never done. To help combat common problems, like networking mistakes, security threats and tape restoration, we've gathered 10 of our most relevant tips to help make those issues a thing of the past. Ranging from checklists to Ask the Expert compilations, you can find the answer to almost any Windows question that comes to mind.

• The top five most common Windows networking mistakes
  Check out this top five and make sure these aren't mistakes you're making.

• Active Directory 'Ask the Expert' compilation
  Check out this collection of expert responses to real reader questions from Active Directory expert Laura Hunter.

• Checklist: 5 desktop tasks you should automate
  Not enough hours in the day? If you aren't automating the five desktop tasks listed in this checklist, then you should make some changes.

• Checklist: Harden access control settings
  In this collection of Roberta Bragg checklists, you'll get step-by-step advice on how to lock down Windows access control settings.

• Exchange Admin 101: Configuring OMA and ActiveSync
  There are two different components used by Exchange 2003's Mobile Information Services: Outlook Mobile Access and ActiveSync. This tip explains how to set up these features.

• Expand number of Internet Explorer's 'zones'
  When five Internet security zones aren't enough, here's how you can add more levels for finer control over content.

• Free tool accelerates Outlook store searches
  Lookout for Outlook is a free third-party add-on for Outlook 2000 and later that offers lightning fast searches of .PST files and customizable search parameters.

• How attackers install backdoors and what to do about it
  How did that backdoor get there? If you've ever found yourself asking this question, then find out how they get there and how to stop them.

• Patching non-Microsoft products
  We all know we need to keep Windows and Microsoft applications patched, but don't forget to patch those non-Microsoft products.

• Prevent tape restoration failures
  About half of all restorations from tape fail, many of them because of human error. Take some steps to minimize the risk of human error and help ensure you can get your data back.