Microsoft Windows 7 clients of Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans have emailed questions regarding the new Windows 7 Taskbar.  The Windows 7 taskbar is the newest in a series of evolutionary taskbar designs that started with Windows 1.0. Windows 7 brings the most significant Taskbar revision since its introduction in Windows 95. It represents a design and architectural change with regard to user experience, and Microsoft claims the new Taskbar offers significant improvements in user productivity.

The taskbar is taller in http://gizmodo.com/5075340/microsofts-guided-tour-of-the-windows-7-taskbar than in Windows Vista / XP to accommodate touch screen technology.  However, you can’t please everyone and there are clients who are dismayed with the new Taskbar design.  For those who prefer the Windows Vista/XP design can have the senior blueprint with just a few clicks.

The design goals of the Windows 7 taskbar are to bring control back to the user and to minimize confusion, by supporting the following principles:
•    Single launch surface for frequent programs and destinations. This helps keep those applications and data that you use all the time right at your fingertips.
•    Easy to control, where switching between applications and windows and arranging windows are made easy and manageable.
•    Clean, noise-free, simple.

Taskbar buttons provide the gateway to access the functionality of the new Windows 7 taskbar. This is a unification of the Quick Launch concept and the standard Windows taskbar.  The Taskbar is a significant improvement in the evolution of Windows and Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans suggests we embrace this productivity enhancement.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans 504-469-6991.

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website at http://www.onsitenola.com.

At Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans many of our Microsoft clients are purchasing Windows 7 and these clients have a plethora of questions.  Today‘s post discusses one of the most frequent questions about connecting to different networks. Do you conduct your business on the go? Find and connect to Wi-Fi, mobile broadband, VPN, or dial-up networks with just a couple clicks. The following applies to all editions of Windows 7.
View Available Networks
Windows 7 improves how you view and connect to all of your networks, making the process simple and consistent. You’ll always have one-click access to available networks, regardless of whether those networks are based on Wi-Fi, mobile broadband, dial-up, or your corporate VPN.
There is a huge amount of info regarding joining networks and domains with Windows 7.  The Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate editions are designed to join a domain quickly and more securely. Just follow the easy-to-use wizard, which prompts you to enter your network credentials. A few moments later you’re connected.

Contact Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans today with your Microsoft Windows 7 questions and problems.  Windows 7 WILL improve your productivity certainly more than Windows XP.  Ask Onsite for a demo of the Windows 7 operating system and your improving productivity at your business.
If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans 504-469-6991.

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website at http://www.onsitenola.com.

In the past few weeks Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans has been inundated with questions regarding the Windows Server® 2008 R2 Foundation operating system, which is the most recent edition of Windows Server 2008.  In this post Onsite will attempt to describe some of the differences between Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation and other editions of Windows Server 2008 R2.

Although the core features of the assorted Windows Server 2008 are the same, there are important differences between Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation and other editions of technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/dd459137.aspx that you should be aware of before you deploy Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation.

Some of the Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation differences from other editions of Windows Server 2008 R2 are best described in this table.

There are a plethora of other differences in the Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation operating system, especially when considering the active directory limits.  One important fact is the server must be a member of a workgroup or, if joined to a domain, joined at the root of the forest as a member server or domain controller.

A brief discussion of other key issues Onsite Computer noticed:

Supported users</strong>

X86 sockets

X64 Sockets

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Failover cluster nodes

Server Message Block connections

Onsite Computer Services recommends if you need to support more than 30 simultaneous inbound connections, than install either Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard or one of the other Windows Server 2008 editions.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans 504-469-6991.

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website at http://www.onsitenola.com.

Many Microsoft small business clients recently inquired to Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans regarding the advantages of Windows Server 2008 R2 and its many features that are designed specifically to work with client computers running Windows 7. Windows 7 is the next version of the Windows operating system from Microsoft planned for release on October 23..
Features that are only available when running Windows 7 client computers with server computers running Windows Server 2008 R2 include:
•   Simplified remote connectivity for corporate computers by using the DirectAccess feature.
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•   Secured remote connectivity for private and public computers
•    Improved performance for branch offices
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•   Improved security for branch offices
•    Improved virtualized desktop integration
•    Higher fault tolerance for connectivity between sites

To learn more about the synergies of Windows Server 2008 R2 / Windows 7 and how this dynamic duo will increase productivity and reduce expenses at your business contact Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans today.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans 504-469-6991.

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website at http://www.onsitenola.com.

Potential clients of Onsite, businesses that require New Orleans computer service and repair of Microsoft systems, regularly ask why Onsite Computer recommends Microsoft based networks and systems. Other software companies produce software, and some of the software is free. While the thought of ‘free’ operating systems for business computers sounds good, a closer examination is required to make an informed decision.

Onsite recommends Microsoft products because Microsoft products perform. And when their products don’t produce, service and repair is comparatively easy. Microsoft produces end-to-end business computing solutions. By end-to-end, we mean Microsoft produces a system of products that are designed to specifically work together. Plain and simple – Microsoft products work with Microsoft products, and if there is a problem, Microsoft repairs the problem.

At Onsite Computer in New Orleans, we believe in the most computing for the least expense. When examining the overall cost of ownership during the life cycle of software, Microsoft products are far superior to the low-cost or ‘free’ systems available today. How’s your system?

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans 504-469-6991.

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website at http://www.onsitenola.com.

Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans recently received an email from a Microsoft business client regarding his impending installation of the Server 2008 RC.  Onsite believes the installation is better and carefree with a Microsoft professionall at the helm; however if you must attempt an install of this release of Windows Server 2008 R2, Onsite recommends the following advice to prepare for the installation.

• Disconnect UPS devices. If you have an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) connected to your destination computer, disconnect the serial cable before running Setup. Setup automatically attempts to detect devices that are connected to serial ports, and UPS equipment can cause issues with the detection process.
• Back up your servers. Your backup should include all data and configuration information that is necessary for the computer to function. It is important to perform a backup of configuration information for servers, especially those that provide network infrastructure, such as Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) servers. When you perform the backup, be sure to include the boot and system partitions and the system state data. Another way to back up configuration information is to create a backup set for Automated System Recovery.
• Disable your virus protection software. Virus protection software can interfere with installation. For example, it can make installation much slower by scanning every file that is copied locally to your computer.
• Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool. You should run this tool to test the RAM on your computer. To use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, follow the instructions in the Windows Memory Diagnostic Users Guide (http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=50362).
• Provide mass storage drivers. If your manufacturer has supplied a separate driver file, save the file to a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive in either the root directory of the media or in one of the following folders: amd64 for x64-based computers or ia64 for Itanium-based computers. To provide the driver during Setup, on the disk selection page, click Load Driver (or press F6). You can browse to locate the driver or have Setup search the media.
• Be aware that Windows Firewall is on by default. Server applications that must receive unsolicited inbound connections will fail until you create inbound firewall rules to allow them. Check with your application vendor to determine which ports and protocols are necessary for the application to run correctly.For more information about Windows Firewall, see http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=84639.

In the humble opinion of Onsite Computer, following these steps should increase your chance of a successful migration to Server 2008 RC.  If you have any further questions regarding a Server 2008 RC installation, please contact the experts at Onsite Computer via this blog or at info@onsitenola.com.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at 504-469-6991. Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website for New Orleans Computer Service.

With the impending release of Windows 7, Onsite is regularly questioned about a cost-effective, high-value Foundation to existing server alternatives. The proven and reliable technology of Windows Server Foundation provides an affordable platform for the core portfolio of IT capabilities, including file and print sharing, remote access and security. A simple and familiar Windows experience makes it easy for organizations to get up and running without the steep learning curve.

As the heart of a true local area network, Windows Server Foundation lets employees exchange data securely, without requiring e-mail or the Internet access. From our experience, worker productivity generally improves in IT environments without email or Internet access. In anticipation of future upgrades, Windows Server Foundation provides an easy upgrade path to higher-end versions of Windows Server, so your IT solution can grow as your business grows.

Windows Server Foundation can expand along with your business, providing the ability to upgrade to a higher-capability edition of Windows Server as needed. A genuine Windows-based server helps you achieve the highest return on investment through easy availability of skilled manpower, compatibility with most hardware devices, and the peace of mind gained from running a tried-and-true, workhorse server.

Contact Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans for the entire story of how Windows Server products can assist the profitability of your business. You’ll be glad you called.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at 504-469-6991. Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website for New Orleans Computer Service.

There is common confusion among the Microsoft clients of Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans: How many editions of Server 2008 R2 are scheduled for release and which version is appropriate for their particular business?

Each of the seven Windows Server 2008 R2 editions provides key functionality to support any sized business and IT challenge.  Microsoft is releasing a plethora of Server 2008 R2 versions of its newest Windows Server operating system. Designed to help organizations reduce operating costs and increase efficiencies, Windows Server 2008 R2 provides enhanced management control over resources across the enterprise. It is designed to provide better energy efficiency and performance by reducing power consumption and lowering overhead costs. It also helps provide improved branch office capabilities, exciting new remote access experiences, streamlined server management, and expands the Microsoft virtualization strategy for both client and server computers.

Windows Server 2008 R2 was designed to perform as well or better for the same hardware base as Windows Server 2008. In addition, R2 is the first Windows Server operating system to move solely to a 64-bit architecture.

Windows Server 2008 R2 introduces a new type of connectivity called DirectAccess—a powerful way for remote users to seamlessly access corporate resources without requiring a traditional VPN connection and client software. Using technologies that shipped in Windows Server 2008, Microsoft has added simple management wizards that enable administrators to configure SSTP and IPv6 across both R2 and Windows 7 clients to enable the basic DirectAccess connection, and then augment that connection with additional R2 management and security tools, including management policies and NAP.

Which Windows Server 2008 R2 is a good fit for your business?  Contact Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans for the complete Server 2008 R2 story.

Lately, Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans has been asked by several Microsoft clients for information about the NEW! Microsoft Business Productivity Online Standard Suite.

Microsoft Online Services enables Onsite Computer Services to deliver more value to customers with the flexibility and choices offered by Software plus Services.

Microsoft Online Services are accessible through a variety of mobile devices including Windows Mobile 6.0+, Exchange ActiveSync devices, and BlackBerry devices. Learn more about services available and special offers with Mobility Solutions.

Starting from $15 per user per month the Microsoft business productivity suite includes: Microsoft Exchange Online, Microsoft SharePoint Online, Microsoft Office Live Meeting, Microsoft Office Communications Online.

Contact Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans to see how these innovative solutions can deliver value quickly to your small business by integrating the Business Productivity Online Suite with line-of-business applications, Microsoft Office, and Internet technologies.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at 504-469-6991. Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website for New Orleans Computer Service.

Recently, several Microsoft clients of Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans have inquired about Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation – a new offering from Microsoft designed as an initial, cost-effective foundation for a small business network.
Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation is specially designed to provide the essential requirements needed in an initial small business server.  The specific set of Foundation’s features provides more tools and network management applications than offered by traditional alternatives:
Windows Foundation Server provides you with a dependable and affordable technology foundation for running your business applications and for sharing information and resources. Being based on Windows Server 2008 R2, you can run not only core infrastructure, remote desktop services, and identity management solutions for your business—you can support your core LOB applications built on the simplicity and technical capabilities that Windows Server 2008 R2 provides.
Buying Window Server Foundation could never be easier. Windows Server Foundation comes pre-installed along with your server hardware saving you the efforts of separately procuring and installing the operating system on the server hardware. And as Windows Server Foundation is supported by Onsite Computer Services in New Orleans, you can rest assured that your investment is safe and productive.
Selecting your initial server is an important consideration and often key to the success of your IT. Windows Foundation provides an ideal first server supporting your single-server network. Windows Server Foundation can be also deployed in a variety of ways to meet your needs – providing flexibility. Best of all, Windows Server Foundation is fully upgradable to higher versions for when your business grows – the Windows Server family grows with you. You can know that your investment in a Windows Foundation server ensures your data and applications will be reliable, secure and provide room for you to grow as needed.
To get the entire story on Windows  Server 2008 R2 Foundation and how it can benefit your growing business, contact On-Site Computer Services in New Orleans – 504-469-6991.

If you’re searching for New Orleans computer service or repair of your Microsoft based system or network, then call the Microsoft specialists at 504-469-6991. Onsite Computer Services, Inc. in New Orleans

You may also be interested in Onsite Computer’s Blog.

This New Orleans On-Site Computer Service post was provided by Eli Lucas. Eli can be reached at eli@onsitenola.com. Onsite Computer serves the Microsoft computing needs of small businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans area including Uptown, Lakeview, Broadmoor, Mid-City, Metairie, Jefferson, Kenner, Westbank, French Quarter, and the Warehouse District. Please visit our website for New Orleans Computer Service.