End User Systems in 2021: ITPro Today’s Top 10 Stories

In 2021, companies continued to navigate the challenges of managing hybrid and remote workforces. Amid the ongoing shift, Microsoft rolled out changes to Windows and enterprise tools.

Review ITPro Today’s 10 most-read stories about end user systems in 2021 to catch up on the important updates. The articles include how-tos, coverage of Microsoft Ignite and more.

1. PowerShell 101: A Technical Explainer for IT Pros

IT pros continue to value Microsoft’s PowerShell task automation and configuration management framework. In this collection of articles, we explain how to tap into PowerShell for a range of functionalities, as well as how to protect against PowerShell-based fileless malware attacks.

2. How to Use PowerShell to Fix Corruption on ReFS Volumes

Microsoft’s Resilient File System (ReFS) volumes can become corrupt due to various underlying storage issues. Learn about the PowerShell process for repairing corruption on ReFS volumes.

3. Microsoft Ignite 2021: 6 Places to Pay Attention

Microsoft signaled to users where it’s headed as a company at its Ignite event in March. ITPro Today contributor Richard Hay highlights six trends to keep an eye on.

4. Windows 11 Interface and Visual Changes for Enterprise Users

With Windows 11, Microsoft made over familiar features of its operating system’s user interface. This article provides insight into Windows 11's new look.

5. Windows 21H1 Update Confirmed by Microsoft

Microsoft typically introduces broad changes to Windows in the first half of the year. In 2021, however, the company said supported versions of Windows 10 would see relatively minor updates, marking a shakeup to its update cycle process.

6. Multifactor Authentication's Impact on Productivity Still Unknown

Although multifactor authentication (MFA) has become a cornerstone of modern security, it may come at a cost to user productivity. This article weighs the security benefits of MFA against the potential productivity losses.

7. The Risks Of Circumventing Windows 11 Hardware Requirements

Microsoft, citing security benefits, has required computers to have TPM 2.0 to run Windows 11. While it’s possible to by-pass the TPM 2.0 requirement, IT pros should considers the risks of doing so.

8. Microsoft Edge Update Delivers Enterprise-Ready Features

Microsoft’s Edge browser update in January offered benefits specific to enterprise users. Read this article for a rundown of the new Microsoft Edge features.

9. Windows 10 in Cloud Configuration Updates From Ignite 2021

Microsoft Ignite introduced changes to its Windows 10 in cloud configuration tool. This article by Richard Hay provides an overview of those updates.

10. Microsoft Debuts Process Advisor for Robotic Process Automation

In response to user demand for robotic process automation (RPA), Microsoft in June rolled out its Power Automate RPA service and Process Advisor feature. Read this article to learn how these RPA offerings work.

What was the most important lesson you learned about end user systems in 2021? Tell us in the comments below!