Pro-Server - 7/31/2006

Tonight we covered various ways to connect to remote systems, which is what you'll be doing in the real world. Some various methods we looked at were MMC (which we'll be doing a lot in class), Terminal Services Manager, and my personal favorite, Remote Desktop. We didn't cover Chapter 3, as it was a repeat of the Pro Chapter 16, but you will still be responsible for it on the test on Monday!

Homework:

• Chapter 2: Review Questions
• Chapter 3: Review Questions

Designing Network Infrastructure - 7/31/2007

Figuring out where we're putting domain controllers, global catalog servers and bridgehead servers was the name of the game today, and to do that, we used an old Windows 2000 tool (which still works for Windows 2003) called the ADSizer. Following a simple interview process, Windows predicts which sites are going to need which servers. It's pretty neat, really.

Homework:

• Chapter Six: Review Questions; Scenario 6.1

Managing a Windows Network - 7/24/2007

This morning we covered two brief chapters: Chapters 7 and 8, which dealt with IIS and SUS respectively. IIS is the component that allows for our servers to function as web servers, ftp servers, etc. Remember that in Server 2003, that IIS is not installed by default (as to reduce the attack surface), but has to be installed by admins.

SUS stands for Software Update Services, and is Microsoft's answer to admin's cries for help with MS updates breaking custom applications. SUS allows an admin to download MS updates and test them first before deploying them out to the clients en masse. Effectively, your own servers (the SUS ones, anyway) become sort of in-house Windows Update servers. It's a win-win since computers are updated in the way that admins want them, and admins don't have to go around and manually update all the clients.

Homework:

• Chapter Seven - Review Questions
• Chapter Eight - Review Questions

Pro-Server - 7/30/2006

Tonight we moved on to the Server book and did a Server installation. We decided that instead of Chapters 1 and 2 tonight, and 3 tomorrow, we would be doing Chapter 1 tonight and Chapter 2 tomorrow, with Chapter 3 on your own.

Homework:

• Server Chapter One: Review Questions

MS Excel - 7/30/2007

Today, I got booted off the main stage and you guys forged ahead at your own pace, utilizing me only when you needed me. I think it was a good thing for everyone! :)

The topics covered today included formulas, range naming and some pretty cool tricks like figuring out loan payments, etc.

Homework:

• Chapter Four: Fill in the Blank; Matching; Project 4F.

Pro-Server - 7/24/2006

Tonight we finished up the book! We covered the backup utility (remember the difference between Incremental/Difference backups) and Performance monitor (PERFMON!)

Homework:

• Chapter 15: Review Questions 1-6; Scenario 15.1
• Chapter 16: Review Questions

Designing Network Infrastructure - 7/24/2007

Forest trusts were on the platter today, with a side of onion rings with the house honey-mustard dip. Delicious.

Homework:

• Chapter Five Review Questions 1 - 7

Managing a Windows Network - 7/24/2007

Today's class saw us finish chapter 6 with using the CSVDE and LDIFDE commands, which are two commands that allow us to import/export directory information.

Afterwards we took our Checkpoint #1 exam. Next week, we'll continue on into Chapter 7.

Homework:

• No homework!

Pro-Server - 7/23/2006

Tonight we talked about Users and Groups -- why to create them and how to best use them to your administrative advantage (re: golf).

We also talked about security templates and using the Security Configuration and Analysis tool to help us figure out how our computers shape up to whatever standard we want to test it against, and then quickly make that computer come up to par. (again, golf reference.) Thinking about it reminds me of the Network Access Protection feature that's available with Vista/2k8. Anyway...

Remember!! Since I, as Clay would put it, "suck at life", I didn't have your tests ready for tonight, but they will be ready tomorrow night! Make sure you're ready for Chapters 10-12 tomorrow!!!!!!! Oh, tomorrow we'll be done with the XP pro book. How freakin' cool is that?

Homework:

• Chapter 13: Review 1-8; Scenario 13-1
• Chapter 14: Review 1-6
• Study for Chapter 10-12 test.

MS Excel - 7/23/2007

Today's class was all about formatting and the various things inside Excel that you could format.

Homework
* Chapter 3: Matching; Fill-in-the-Blank; Project 3F

The Problem with Spyware Removal Programs

By now, everyone and their grandma knows what spyware is, why its bad, and that they should remove it. A smaller number (although still a majority) even knows how to remove it. The problem comes with getting people remember to scan their systems. Even I, in all my geekness, forget -- I realized today that it had been over a month since I had performed a scan.
So how do we get around this?

The easiest thing that comes to mind is to set up a Scheduled Task that automatically runs once every-so-often and does all of this for us. We can run Scheduled Tasks by clicking Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Scheduled Tasks. Then, working our way through the wizard, we can scroll down the list of installed programs, choose the one we want and click OK. Easy cheezy, right?

Not so fast. Simply setting Windows up to run our programs automatically is the equivilent of us double-clicking the program icon. When we come back to our computers after this Scheduled Task runs, all we'll find is our spyware removal program running -- eager to get started. Most users, at this point, will have something more pressing to do and simply exit the program.

The answer lies with Scheduled Tasks -- we just have to use it differently.

The two most common spyware removal products, Ad-Aware and Spybot Search and Destroy, both allow command prompt parameters. What this means is we can initiate some automation when we run these programs from a command prompt. So instead of telling Scheduled Tasks to run our programs at a certain time, we can tell it to run a series of commands of which reference our program and the command line options for it. We do this by way of a batch file.

Here's how I set this up on my home machine:

1) I opened Notepad and typed in the following DOS commands:

cd "C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware 2007\"
Ad-Aware2007.exe /Update /Smart /Clean /NoQuarantine

Two simple lines of instruction tells our OS to first change the target directory to the one where Ad-Aware 2007 lives, and secondly to run the executable with 4 distinct options: to update the definitions file (always important); to run a smart scan; to clean any problems it finds and to fully delete any of those problems (as opposed to simply quarantining them). I then clicked File > Save As and typed in "AdAware.bat" (including the quotes!) to save this text file as a batch file.

Then, I went back to Scheduled Tasks and started up its New Task Wizard. Once I got to the point where I choose the program, I instead browsed to find the AdAware.bat file I had just created. Next, I plugged in all the usual information like when and how often I want it to run, etc. and finished out the wizard. Now, every Monday at 3:00 a.m., Ad-Aware runs on my machine, updates its definitions and cleans out any infections it finds.

With Spybot S&D, I did the same thing. Here's the contents of the batch file I created for it:

cd "C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy"
SpybotSD.exe /minimized /autoupdate /autoimmunize /autocheck /autofix /autoclose

Note the "autoclose" switch. Spybot includes the option of closing itself out after finishing so that the end user may not even know that anything happened during the night.

So, why do this? Do you have that friend or family member you're always removing spyware for? Or doing simple computer stuff? Planting a couple of batch files and using Scheduled Tasks to run them for you will save you LOTS of time and trouble.

I'd encourage you to look at the help files of programs you find yourself running quite a bit to see if they have any command line parameters. I have a feeling you'd be surprised at how many do and how many options you truly have for automation.

Strategies

Today we covered Units 4 and 5, and then Jeremy Atwell came in and talked a lot about the DiSC assessment tests you guys took last week. I hope everyone enjoyed what Jeremy had to say and will use the information you received about yourself to help you relate to others around you. Jan Akin also came in to talk about the medical assisting program as well as the EKG program and after she left we proceeded to psychoanalyze her. Bwa ha ha ha ha ha!

Start brainstorming what your collages are going to look like. We'll be working on them soon.

Pro/Server - 7/17/2007

Tonight's little shin-dig was us doing Chapters 11 and 12, which covered such fun tasks as sub/supernetting and Internet Explorer configuration.  My favorite fun fact of the evening: to keep IE safer from crazy cookies, enable 1st party cookies, but disable 3rd party ones.  Then, life will be good.

Next week, we'll finish up the whole freaking book by covering Chapters 13-16.  Then, get cracking on studying for the Microsoft 70-270 exam, your first step towards MCSE.  Remember, that if you pass this exam before September 4(?) you will receive an automatic A for the NSA 260 course that you're enrolled in. Even if you have a low, low grade going in. How cool is that?

Homework:

• Chapter 11: Review Questions 1-6
  
• Chapter 12: Review Questions 1-6; Scenario 12.2

Fall Quarter Scheduling

Fall quarter scheduling is underway! If you're reading this and you're an NSA student -- I need to see you ASAP in order to get you scheduled for classes in the fall. Technically, I'm not supposed to register you if you're not graduating next quarter until Wednesday, but aw, screw it -- let's schedule you! See the front office for a copy of the schedule.

If you're interested, here's what I'll be teaching in the fall (Sept - December):

Monday
8 : NSA 284: Microsoft Exchange
12: NSA 155: Server+
6 : NSA 155: Server+

Tuesday
8 : NSA 150: A+ Hardware
12: NSA 151: A+ Software
6 : NSA 284: Microsoft Exchange

You can download the Fall Schedule here if you like, or download it from the "Downloadable Files" section on the right. Or, just pick up a paper copy in the front office like everyone else.

Designing Network Infrastructure - 7/17/2007

DHCP was the topic we covered today and how to implement it in our organizations. We first looked at a 3 site organization and came up with an IP addressing scheme. Afterwards, we empowered it to be fault tolerant and third, discussed how to handle DHCP over a connection to a small branch office with a maxed out server. Fun was had by all.

Homework:
* Lab Questions #2-4

Managing a Windows Network - 7/17/2007

Today we did the first half of chapter 6 which dealt with doing common server tasks via the command prompt. As you guys know, I'm not the best at working with command prompt as I'm prone to typos, etc. Make sure you are comfortable with this, as command line stuff is starting to make a comeback via PowerShell and Server Core.

We'll be finishing up Chapter 6 next week, so make sure you're nice and ready to do some typing.

Homework:

• No homework until next week when we finish Chapter 6!

Pro-Server - 7/16/2006

Tonight we covered Chapter 10. Tomorrow: Chapter 11 & 12. Bring a shovel.

What?

Homework:

• Chapter 10: Review Questions 1-10; Scenario 10-1

Extra Credit!

Since the fall of 2005, the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) program has had, as its mission, the task of providing one laptop computer per child throughout the world. To make this happen at the targeted rate of $100 per laptop, several deals had to be cut along with streamlining as much as possible. For example, Linux instead of Windows is going to be the OS of choice. I mean, hey, it's free right?

Here's an article concerning some possible delays for OLPC. For 10 pts extra credit, read this article and type up a 1 pg (single spaced) summary of it and what it could mean for the computing industry -- Microsoft especially.

By the way, I need this by the start of whatever class you want this to be applied during the week of July 23.

MS Excel - 7/16/2007

Today was taken up soley by our first test - over Chapters 1 and 2. There are still tests out there, so I'm trusting you to not pass around your graded exams. Next week, we will be working in Chapter 3, which will give us a nice lesson in cell formatting.

It may come as a shock to some of you (I know it did to me) but it's already time to start registering for the fall semester. I've already seen everyone in this class that I need to, but make sure you keep a lookout for your lead instructor so you can save your spot in next fall's classes.

Homework:

• Would I assign homework on the day of an exam? What kind of jerk do you think I am???
• Don't answer that NSA students...

Strategies - 7/11/2007

Today we talked about listening and who we listen to: mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, teachers, friends, strangers and even ourselves. We what happens when we "lock on" to one version of what's true and then "lock out" every other possibility. Ever been in one of those funks that doesn't seem to ever go away? Maybe your brain is subconciously making bad stuff happen. Or maybe you're just in one of those funks :)

We took DiSC assessments and briefly talked about what personality types various class members are. Next week, Jeremy Atwell will drop by with your printed results talk in depth about what they mean for you and your interactions with others (and yourself too).

See ya next week!

Pro/Server - 7/10/2007

Tonight was a (admittingly frustrating) Chapter 9 study. We covered the ins-and-outs of software distribution, covering the differences between Assigning and Publishing a software program (make sure you know the difference). We also looked at a few compatibility tools that would make Grandma proud, if ya know what I mean.

Homework:

• Chapter 9: Review Questions
  

Designing Network Infrastructure - 7/10/2007

WINS is what we discussed today, covering the various situations that we would need to look at when deploying/maintaining a WINS solution. Remember to look at client/server needs and any WAN speeds.

Homework:

• Chapter 3: Review Questions #1-6.
  

Managing a Windows Network - 7/10/2007

Today, in our increasingly smelly classroom, we discussed remote connection techniques to different computers. The two main ones we discussed were M$ implementations, but keep in mind there are other options out there (the C-Word!). We then messed around with Remote Desktop and connected to our various virtual machines. Then, over a break, I sprayed this orange air freshener stuff and now it smells like oranges and mildew! Yay.

Homework:

• Chapter Five: Review Questions 1-12.
  

Pro/Server - 7/9/2007

Permissions were the topics at hand tonight -- covering chapters 7 and 8 which dealt with NTFS and sharing permissions respectively. Remember, when dealing with effective permissions from an NTFS standpoint, Allows will merge together, while Denies override everything. Keep that in mind and you'll be fine.

Homework:

• Chapter 7: Review Questions 1-10
• Chapter 8: Review Questions 1-14

MS Excel - 7/9/2007

Formulas were the topic of the discussion today and we did all kinds of stuff with them, including cutting and pasting, manipulating them, creating them, applying them with the Fill Handle -- all sorts of fun stuff. We did the entireity of chapter 2!

We're having our first test next week, which will include a mixture of True/False questions, multiple choice questions and assessment questions. You will not be able to use your books(!) so study up! What to study? I'd suggest going back over your homework and practicing exercises from the book. See ya next week!

Homework:

• Chapter 2: Matching; Fill-in-the-blank; Project 2D.

Bees!

Being that this is a holiday week, and I a) don't feel like typing up some technical server-type of thing and b) will be traveling all day tomorrow, I will submit this completely random link about a bee infestation and its subsequent removal. I need to caution you and let you know there is some rough language on this page, but I think a majority of you will think this is extremely cool, so I'll link to it anyway. Enjoy.

http://www.honda-tech.com/zerothread?id=1845064

Pro/Server - 7/3/2007

Tonight was all about Printers. We installed local printers. We pointed to network printers. We installed IIS and accessed printers via a localized web server. Bobbi Steelman came in with a big bag of Columbian fine-powder cocaine.

Homework:

• Chapter Six: Review Questions #1-9.

Remember, test & homework due on Monday, July 9!

Designing Network Infrastructure - 7/3/2007

D to the N-S, gangstas.

We looked at DNS design -- starting with looking a current DNS implementation and then following it up with a whiteboard discussion about a fictional situation where we had our company, a subsidary company, and a partner company. We talked about this company's requirements and based on those, designed set up some zone transfers and forwarding between servers. After deciding what was getting forwarded where (and what wasn't) we sat down and used Computer 1 and Computer 2 to make that happen. Then, we went home!

Homework:

• Chapter 2: Review Questions #1-9; Scenario 2.1

Managing a Windows Network - 7/3/2007

This morning's class focused on Chapters 3 & 4, which dealt with Group Policy and Users and Groups, respectively. Remember, if you have any virtual implementations of Server you're running at home for class (you are, right?) make sure that you download the Group Policy Management Console from Microsoft, as it makes your GP experience easier AND you're expected to use it on your certifications.

Homework:

• Chapter 3: Textbook Review - #1-4
• Chapter 4: Textbook Review - #1-9

Pro-Server - 7/2/2006

Tonight we covered more Windows XP stuff -- Chapters 4 and 5.

Basically chapter four was over hardware management, and we got to see visually a lot of the stuff we learned in A+. Some of the stuff we did was print out a hardware profile, and create new hardware profiles for special uses (airplane).

In chapter five, we did all kinds of fun stuff designed to enhance the end-user experience. A lot of the methods were familiar to us (like changing screen resolution), but other things (like Toggle Keys) were not.

Homework

• Chapter Four: Review Questions 1-5 & Scenario 4.2 (textbook); Lab Manual 1-5
• Chapter Five: Review Questions 1-6 & Scenario 5.1 (textbook)

MS Excel - 7/2/2007

Today we finished up the end of Chapter 1, covering basic formulas and getting introduced to a few "friends" such as AutoComplete (where you start typing and Excel finishes your sentence), AutoFill (where you click on the little black square and drag and it copies and modifies formulas on the fly. Awesome), and Undo, which lets you time travel a few seconds to correct any mistakes you might have made. I failed to mention this in class, but if you Save your document, your undo information goes away.

Homework

• Chapter 1 - Matching (pg 65); Fill in the Blank (pg 66); Project 1D (pg 69-72)

See ya next week!