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Free SQL Server 2014

Exciting news! Starting today, SQL Server 2014 Developer Edition is now a free download for Visual Studio Dev Essentials members. Microsoft is making this change so that all developers can leverage the capabilities that SQL Server 2014 has to offer for their data solution, and this is another step in making…


Azure Periodic Table

Do you want to learn what all the different pieces of Azure are available. Well, here is a  Clickable version of the Azure Periodic table. This is an excellent resource to get you started in the Azure world.


March 2016 MCT Update

It is time for a long overdue MCT update. First of all you may noticed that we are now just under 10,000 active Microsoft Certified Trainers out there in the world. Click here if you would like to see the breakdown by country. . Next up, the new Microsoft Official…


Top 10 Server 2016 Features

Looking to get caught up on what to look for in Windows Server 2016? Then you’re in luck. IT Pro contributor John Savill has an extensive rundown of the top ten features in Windows Server 2016, from Active Directory upgrades to Nano Server.


Windows SysInternals

Recently, I was downloading ZoomIT from the TechNet SysInternals website and noticed all the other awesome utilities available. It made me wonder if there was any training on any of these tools. And sure enough, Microsoft Virtual Academy has one on Utilizing SysInternals Tools for Windows Client. It is definitely worth…


Data Driven Virtual Conference

Companies that transform data into intelligent action are outperforming their competitors and will be the businesses of the future. Hear Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and customers share how data insights are driving business transformation at the Data Driven Virtual Conference. Microsoft leaders will also share how customers are embracing data…


SQL Server on Linux

Microsoft announced plans to bring SQL Server to Linux. This will enable SQL Server to deliver a consistent data platform across Windows Server and Linux, as well as on-premises and cloud. Microsoft is bringing the core relational database capabilities to preview today, and are targeting availability in mid-2017. SQL Server on…


SQL Saturday – Chicago

Headed up to SQL Saturday – Chicago for another SQL Saturday. I will focus on the differences between character data types, working with implicit vs. explicit conversions and using conversion functions. I have my schedule built out for all the sessions I want to attend. I’ve been wanting to see some…


Web Security Fundamentals

If you are in any way responsible with information systems that touch the web, this course will give you an in-depth look at the top 5 risks you should be aware of and how to combat them. I personally was really interested in the SQL Injection section.


Powershell Networking Commands

Here is a great blog post by Thomas Maurer on replacing your basic networking commands with PowerShell. He mentions that after working with Microsoft Azure, Nano Server and Containers, Powershell together with networking becomes more and more important. He created this little cheat sheet so it becomes easier for people…