In this episode Andy sits down with Microsoft Certified Trainer Paul Schnackenburg to discuss the current state of Microsoft Certification. They explore the evolving role of Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs), the significance of certification in validating technical skills, and the shift from product-focused to role-based certifications. Also included in this episode: confusing exam names, the importance of applied skills, the shift to online proctored exams, the need for hands-on lab experiences, the annual renewal process for certifications, the value of exam pricing, and the role of trainers in preparing for certification exams.If you're looking to get your Microsoft certification in 2025 you won't want to miss this episode!

Episode Resources:

Hackers Abuse OAuth 2 Workflows - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-abuse-oauth-20-workflows-to-hijack-microsoft-365-accounts/

Telemessage Hack - https://www.wired.com/story/how-the-signal-knock-off-app-telemessage-got-hacked-in-20-minutes/

M365 and Azure Exam Guides - https://intunedin.net/

Project Runspace - https://www.projectrunspace.org

Andy On Tech - https://www.andyontech.com

#SysAdminWeekly #microsoftcertification #sysadmin #itprofessionals

In this episode of SysAdmin Weekly, host Andy Syrewicze and guest Paul Schnackenburg discuss Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative (SFI) - a new initiative created a year or two back in response to multiple security incidents at Microsoft. In this conversation, Andy and Paul expand on various aspects of Microsoft's progress on the plans outlined in the Secure Future Initiative, focusing on the integration of security best practices in development, the implementation of hardware security modules, and the enhancement of Red Team capabilities.

Other key points of the SFI discussed include the role of AI in Microsoft's internal security operations, cultural shifts towards security awareness among Microsoft employees, and Microsoft's plans for management of identities and access control. Finally the guys wrap up with why all this is important for SysAdmins!

Key Points:

- Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative aims to improve security practices.

- The CSRB report highlighted significant security failings at Microsoft.

- Microsoft is focusing on integrating security best practices into development.

- The introduction of hardware security modules is a significant step for Microsoft.

- Red Team capabilities are being enhanced to identify vulnerabilities more effectively internally at Microsoft.

- AI is being integrated into security operations to improve efficiency of MS internal security.

- Cultural shifts are occurring at Microsoft to prioritize security across all employees.

Episode Resources:

Microsoft April 2025 SFI Progress Report - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/04/21/securing-our-future-april-2025-progress-report-on-microsofts-secure-future-initiative/

CSRB Report - https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/CSRB-Review-Summer-2023-MEO-Intrusion

Google on 97 Zero-Days in 2024 - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/google-97-zero-days-exploited-in-2024-over-50-percent-in-spyware-attacks/

Paul Schnackenburg - https://www.expertitsolutions.com.au/aboutus.html

Paul's Blog - https://tellitasitis.com.au/

Project Runspace - https://www.projectrunspace.org

Andy on Tech - https://www.andyontech.com

#sysadmin #securefuture #cybersecurity #microsoft

In this episode of SysAdmin Weekly, hosts Andy Syrewicze and Eric Siron take a look at everyone's FAVORITE subject: licensing! And they're particularly focusing on Hyper-V and VMware. Andy and Eric's conversation includes the highlights and the differences between Microsoft and VMware licensing philosophies, the implications of WindowsServer Standard versus Data Center licensing, and the challenges sysadmins face during audits. Also discussed are the complexities of licensing for virtual machines. They discuss the implications of VM mobility, and the challenges of high availability beyond traditional clustering. Finally Andy and Eric cover new licensing options, includingpay-as-you-go and virtual instance licensing, and provides insights for organizations considering migration from VMware to Hyper-V. Throughout the discussion, the importance of consulting with licensing experts is emphasized to ensure compliance and cost-effectiveness.

Key Takeaways:

- Licensing is a necessary evil in IT.- Microsoft and VMware have fundamentally different licensing philosophies.- Hyper-V is included with Windows Server licensing.- Understanding VM mobility is crucial for compliance.- Nonprofits can access better software pricing through TechSoup.- Audits can consume significant time and resources. Make sure you're getting the cheapest pricing you're eligible for.- Windows containers do not count towards licensing.- Desktop licensing can be complex and risky.- VM mobility can complicate licensing agreements.- Data center licensing allows for unlimited virtual instances.- Pay as you go licensing is often not cost-effective.- SQL licensing can be affected by VM mobility.- Always consult with licensing experts before making changes.- Migration from VMware to Hyper-V requires careful planning.- The cost of migration can be more significant than licensing fees.

Episode Resources:

- Episode on Azure Local - https://youtu.be/YpEG-u_A9Qs?si=S10VdgHYX3GcNmFn- Project Runspace - https://www.projectrunspace.org- Andy On Tech - https://www.andyontech.com

#HyperV #SysAdmin #ITPro #VMware