Episode 229

Samidip Basu on Windows 8

Last week, Microsoft released Windows 8 and made it available to MSDN subscribers.

Recognizing that more applications will make this platform more successful, Microsoft is offering free help to developers who want to build applications for Windows 8.

You can sign up for the GenerationApp program to get guidance, including free access to Microsoft architects and consultants to advise you on everything from design to getting App Store approval. There are some limitations, so check out http://tinyurl.com/30daysWin8 for more information.

Episode 211

Jennifer Marsman on the Windows 8 App Store

Episode 175

Richard Campbell on Windows 8 and Build

Episode 81

In this interview, Jennifer Marsman describes some of the new features of Windows 7 and how a developer can use those features to build more powerful applications.

You could start at the beginning and read all the way through Windows Server 2008 R2 Administration Instant Reference by Matt Hester and Chris Henley. Part 1 of the book of the book ("Getting Started") walks the reader through planning, installing and upgrading the operating system, while subsequent sections dive into details about specific areas of the software.

But a more reasonable approach is to open to the section on which you are working today. Each chapter is structured so that you can dig into the detail you need. Each topic begins with an explanation of concepts and definitions of key terms. This part is critical for someone like me, who doesn't spend his days managing servers. Experienced administrators may skip this section and jump to the detailed explanations of how to use and configure each feature of Windows Server 2008 R2. Basic functionality is described first, followed by more advanced features.

A section on Active Directory, for example, begins with a description of built-in groups, followed by a description of custom users and groups and how rights are granted. After establishing these basics, the author describes how to use Active Directory to manage groups, users and rights and how to configure this in Windows Server.

Hester and Henley write in a clear, concise style that simplifies everything they describe. Step-by-step instructions are amplified by screen shots.

The smaller dimensions of the book make it fit easily into a laptop bag, despite the 500+ pages of text.

This is a solid book for a full- or part-time network administrator to keep on hand for a quick reference or for a more detailed look into important concepts of Windows Server.

Official Book site

In this screencast, I demonstrate some of the enhancements in the user interrface of Windows 7.

Check out this video I produced and edited for Microsoft Architect Evangelist Brian Prince. Brian approached Windows 7 users and asked them to give their favorite feature of the new operating system.

Episode 56

In this interview, Microsoft Architect Evangelist Brian Prince describes what makes Windows 7 faster, more reliable and simpler.

Episode 55

In this interview, Microsoft IT Evangelist Matt Hester describes the new features and enhancements in the upcoming Windows Server 2008 R2.