If you are using Microsoft Excel and right click, you will see the menu pop up for different options, the underlined letters on these options are the hotkeys for certain commands.

For example, if you right click a cell and then type “d”, it will delete the cell.

I have programmed myself for the last 5+ years to right click and then press “c” to copy. Then I could right click and press “v” to paste values.

Recently, as part of the copilot plugin, “c” also links to Copilot and no longer copies. Is there any way to adjust this right-click menu or the keys associated with menu items?

Please help me, I am in hell.

​If you are using Microsoft Excel and right click, you will see the menu pop up for different options, the underlined letters on these options are the hotkeys for certain commands.For example, if you right click a cell and then type “d”, it will delete the cell. I have programmed myself for the last 5+ years to right click and then press “c” to copy. Then I could right click and press “v” to paste values. Recently, as part of the copilot plugin, “c” also links to Copilot and no longer copies. Is there any way to adjust this right-click menu or the keys associated with menu items?Please help me, I am in hell.  Read More

​

I define a “Multilevel list” for automatic chapter numbering that does not follow the number with a space, like this:

That setting does apply to Heading 1 text, but it is not incorporated into the Table of Contents or Navigation Headings: As shown in the following screenshot (yellow highlighting), both of those still insert a space after the Chapter number:

How can I get at least the ToC to not insert a space after the Chapter number?

​I define a “Multilevel list” for automatic chapter numbering that does not follow the number with a space, like this: That setting does apply to Heading 1 text, but it is not incorporated into the Table of Contents or Navigation Headings: As shown in the following screenshot (yellow highlighting), both of those still insert a space after the Chapter number: How can I get at least the ToC to not insert a space after the Chapter number?  Read More

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In any industry, you’ll find some organizations that are slow to embrace change and others that are trailblazers. When it comes to using cutting-edge technology to better serve its citizens, the City of White Rock, BC is a trailblazer.

Their IT team runs more like a startup than a government agency. When new technology offers a chance to benefit the city’s citizens or employees, White Rock moves swiftly to explore it, launching technological initiatives with impressive agility. As is often the case with government organizations, city projects must adhere to strict, and sometimes complex, regulations. If the city were to handle this all on their own, it would significantly slow down their pace of innovation. Thankfully, they don’t have to.

Finding a partner in Gravity Union

Almost a decade ago, the City of White Rock partnered with Gravity Union, a Canadian consultancy and Microsoft partner based in Vancouver, BC, to accelerate its digital transformation. Over the course of their partnership, Gravity Union has applied its unique, human-centric approach to innovation to help bring White Rock’s technological dreams from the whiteboard into reality.

​Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More 

I am a PhD student at a Chilean university and I have free access to Office through this account. However, I cannot subscribe to Copilot Pro with this account because the option simply does not appear. Additionally, I am not sure what happens if I subscribe with a personal email. I imagine that Office and Copilot Pro must be on the same account to use Copilot integrated into Office apps, although I am not sure, so I would appreciate it if you could clarify this point. Besides this, I would like to know if there are any discounts for students on Copilot Pro.

Thank you in advance for your help. I look forward to your response

Cristopher Stepke

PhD(c) Byophisics and computational Biology 

Valparaiso University of Chile 

​I am a PhD student at a Chilean university and I have free access to Office through this account. However, I cannot subscribe to Copilot Pro with this account because the option simply does not appear. Additionally, I am not sure what happens if I subscribe with a personal email. I imagine that Office and Copilot Pro must be on the same account to use Copilot integrated into Office apps, although I am not sure, so I would appreciate it if you could clarify this point. Besides this, I would like to know if there are any discounts for students on Copilot Pro. Thank you in advance for your help. I look forward to your response Cristopher StepkePhD(c) Byophisics and computational Biology Valparaiso University of Chile   Read More

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Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of web development, managing and optimizing the flow of incoming and outgoing traffic is crucial. Internet Information Services (IIS) provides a robust platform for web applications, and one of its powerful features is the ability to use handlers.

Custom handlers allow developers to create tailored solutions that enhance the functionality and performance of their applications. In this blog, we will explore what handlers are in IIS, how to create custom handlers in an ASP.NET framework application, and the advantages of using them.

Read more about this on my previous blog :
IIS Handlers

If you want to do the same using modules, you can read more on below :
Remove unwanted HTTP headers using IIS Modules

What are Handlers in IIS

Handlers in IIS are components responsible for processing requests made to the server. When a client sends a request, IIS determines the appropriate handler to process that request based on its type. Handlers work at a lower level than modules, directly interacting with the HTTP request and response. They can control the entire request pipeline, making them essential for tasks that require specific handling of HTTP requests, such as file downloads, dynamic content generation, and custom authentication mechanisms.

How to Create Custom Handler in ASP.NET Framework Application

Creating a custom handler in an ASP.NET framework application involves several steps:

I am making use of .NET framework version 4.8.1 for creating this class library on Visual studio 2022

Step 1: Create a new Visual Studio Project

Open Visual Studio and create a new Class Library project.

Name it appropriately, e.g., ” MyCustomHandler “.

Step 2: Implement the IHttpHandler Interface

To create a custom handler, you need to implement the `IHttpHandler` interface, which requires defining two methods: `ProcessRequest` and `IsReusable`.

namespace RemoveHeadersUsingHandlers
{
// You may need to install the Microsoft.AspNetCore.Http.Abstractions package into your project
public class RemoveHeadersMiddleware
{
private readonly RequestDelegate _next;

public RemoveHeadersMiddleware(RequestDelegate next)
{
_next = next;
}

public async Task InvokeAsync(HttpContext context)
{
context.Response.OnStarting(() =>
{
// List of headers to remove
var headersToRemove = new[] { “X-AspNetMvc-Version”, “Server”, “Content-Type” };
foreach (var header in headersToRemove)
{
context.Response.Headers.Remove(header);
}
context.Response.Headers.Add(“X-Frame-Options”,”SAMEORIGIN”);
context.Response.Headers.Add(“X-Powered-By”, “123.123.123.123”);
context.Response.Headers.Add(“X-Content-Type”, “nosniff”);
return Task.CompletedTask;
});
// Call the next delegate/middleware in the pipeline
await _next(context);
}
}

// Extension method used to add the middleware to the HTTP request pipeline.
public static class RemoveHeadersMiddlewareExtensions
{
public static IApplicationBuilder UseRemoveHeadersMiddleware(this IApplicationBuilder builder)
{
return builder.UseMiddleware<RemoveHeadersMiddleware>();
}
}

Step 3A: Register the Handler in Web.config

After creating the handler class, you need to register it in the `Web.config` file of your application.

<handlers>
<add name=” MyCustomHandler ” path=”C:inetpubURLRewritebinCustomHandler.dll” verb=”*” type=” MyCustomHandler. MyCustomHandler, MyCustomHandler “/>
</handlers>

Step 3B: Register the Handler Via IIS UI

After creating the handler class, you can place the ‘DLL’ in the bin folder of your application.
Then go to the ‘Handler Mapping’

and click on ‘Add Managed Handler’

Enter the details of the handler

This is how you can add the Custom handler to your application hosted on IIS

Step 3: Access the Custom Handler

Once registered, you can access your custom handler through the specified path. In this example, navigating to `[URL]` will trigger the custom handler and return the response defined in the `ProcessRequest` method, from your custom handler class library.

How Does Custom Handler Modify Incoming and Outgoing Traffic

Custom handlers have the ability to inspect, modify, or replace the incoming and outgoing HTTP traffic. This capability is particularly useful for implementing custom logic that cannot be achieved with standard handlers. For instance, you might use a custom handler to:

Filter and validate incoming requests before they reach the application.
Modify request headers or body content to meet specific requirements.
Generate dynamic responses based on request parameters.
Log detailed information about the request and response for auditing purposes.
Implement custom caching mechanisms to optimize performance.

By leveraging custom handlers, developers can create highly specialized solutions that enhance the security, performance, and functionality of their web applications.

How are Custom Handlers Traced in FREB Logs

Failed Request Event Buffering (FREB) logs in IIS provide detailed information about the request processing pipeline, including the execution of custom handlers. To trace custom handlers in FREB logs, follow these steps:

Enable FREB Logging: In IIS Manager, select your site, and navigate to “Failed Request Tracing Rules.” Enable FREB and configure the rules to capture relevant information.
Configure Trace Rules: Specify the conditions that should trigger tracing, such as status codes, time taken, or specific request URLs.
Analyze FREB Logs: After enabling FREB, you can analyze the logs generated for each request. The logs provide detailed insights into each stage of the request processing pipeline, including the execution of custom handlers. Look for entries related to your custom handler’s path and examine the events recorded during its execution.

FREB logs offer a powerful tool for debugging and optimizing custom handlers, as they provide granular visibility into the request processing flow and help identify performance bottlenecks or errors.

When and Why to Use Custom Handlers

Custom handlers are best suited for scenarios where you need fine-grained control over the request and response process. Consider using custom handlers in the following situations:

Custom Authentication and Authorization: Implement custom authentication mechanisms that go beyond the capabilities of standard handlers.
Dynamic Content Generation: Generate content on the fly based on request parameters, user roles, or other dynamic factors.
Request Filtering and Validation: Filter and validate incoming requests to ensure they meet specific criteria before processing.
Custom Logging: Log detailed information about requests and responses for auditing, monitoring, or debugging purposes.
Performance Optimization: Implement custom caching, compression, or other performance-enhancing techniques.

By using custom handlers, developers can create tailored solutions that address specific business needs and improve the overall functionality and performance of their web applications.

Advantages of Using Custom Handlers

Custom handlers offer several advantages that make them a valuable tool in a developer’s toolkit:

Flexibility: Custom handlers provide the flexibility to implement unique request processing logic that cannot be achieved with standard handlers.
Performance: By optimizing request and response processing, custom handlers can significantly improve the performance of web applications.
Security: Implementing custom authentication and authorization mechanisms enhances the security of web applications.
Extensibility: Custom handlers can be easily extended and adapted to meet changing business requirements.
Debugging and Logging: Custom handlers offer detailed logging capabilities, aiding in debugging and performance monitoring.

These advantages make custom handlers an essential tool for developers looking to create sophisticated and high-performing web applications.

Conclusion

The ability to create custom handlers in IIS and ASP.NET framework applications offers developers unparalleled control over the request and response lifecycle. By implementing custom handlers, you can address specific business requirements, optimize performance, and enhance the security of your web applications. Whether you need to filter requests, generate dynamic content, or implement custom authentication, custom handlers provide the flexibility and power to achieve your goals.

As you explore the potential of custom handlers, remember to leverage tools like FREB logs to trace and optimize their performance, ensuring your applications run smoothly and efficiently.

​Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More 

Hello, I’m trying to convert durations expressed for example as 43:06, 256:08, 6:25 into hours and portion of hours (43.1, 256.1, 6.3).  Try as I have, I can not seem to find a formula that does this, nor can I seem to be able to determine what the format of the column containing the values should be (I tried [h]:mm, but that doesn’t seem to work).  I’m thinking I need to extract the hours value and then just multiply the minutes by 60, and format the new column as a number with 1 decimal but that gives incorrect responses.  Any help would be appreciated.

​Hello, I’m trying to convert durations expressed for example as 43:06, 256:08, 6:25 into hours and portion of hours (43.1, 256.1, 6.3).  Try as I have, I can not seem to find a formula that does this, nor can I seem to be able to determine what the format of the column containing the values should be (I tried [h]:mm, but that doesn’t seem to work).  I’m thinking I need to extract the hours value and then just multiply the minutes by 60, and format the new column as a number with 1 decimal but that gives incorrect responses.  Any help would be appreciated.  Read More

​

AI is transforming workplaces worldwide, redefining productivity and freeing time for innovation. From automating tasks to delivering insights, AI enables businesses to move faster and smarter.

With these advancements come new responsibilities, especially as AI becomes integrated with important business data. Traditional measures designed for static environments fall short in a landscape where AI drives dynamic, data-intensive processes. When building an AI adoption strategy, maximizing the value of AI while ensuring security and compliance requires a strategic approach—one that is rooted in device choice, specifically the devices employees use to access new apps and services. 

AI-ready endpoint security integrates intelligent, responsive defenses that can keep pace with the evolving threat landscape and prevent unauthorized access to AI workloads. Microsoft Surface devices and associated technologies address these challenges. Robust features and the availability of purpose-built management and monitoring tools allow businesses to confidently adopt new technologies.

Surface devices: engineered for security at every layer

From the supply chain to firmware and software, Surface protects users and data with ultimate control and powerful management options. Zero Trust security models guide Surface design.

It starts all the way back at the supply chain. Microsoft Surface devices are built on a foundation of trust integrated at every stage. From the design phase through to production and delivery, Microsoft enforces rigorous controls to protect against ransomware and malware. By closely auditing suppliers and participating in global security initiatives, Microsoft delivers devices that are ready to meet the needs of your business.

Many Surface devices are Secured-core PCs, defending against firmware-level threats, and feature our custom Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) developed in-house to provide industry-leading and control. Surface UEFI enhances boot security, manages device settings, and reduces the overall attack surface by minimizing reliance on third-party components.

Microsoft Surface devices advanced embedded firmware that controls essential functions like power and connectivity from startup. This supports consistent, reliable performance across devices, as well as rapid updates and seamless integration critical to effective use of AI-driven features.

Surface devices come with the most advanced Windows 11 security features enabled by default, providing advanced protection from the moment they are first powered on. This comprehensive framework maintains trust throughout the device’s lifecycle.

Embedded directly into the latest Surface devices, Microsoft Pluton technology allows future security features to be delivered seamlessly from Microsoft, keeping devices ahead of emerging threats. Pluton integrates with Windows to enhance data protection at the hardware level.

With a Microsoft Intune subscription, organizations can verify users and block unauthorized access across hardware, firmware, OS, and cloud. Intune is a cloud-based endpoint management service that handles everything from device provisioning to security controls.

Exclusive to Surface, Intune offers Device Firmware Configuration Interface (DFCI) profiles, which extend management down to the hardware level. DFCI works through Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), enabling zero-touch provisioning, removing the need for BIOS passwords, and controlling security settings like boot options and peripherals. It also lays the foundation for future security enhancements.

Balancing security and usability

Microsoft Surface devices protect data without slowing down employees. With built-in security features paired at the hardware and software levels, there’s no need to compromise between security and productivity—Surface delivers both, including for AI-enabled applications.

Passwordless authentication exemplifies this balance. Windows Hello on Surface devices authenticates users through facial recognition or biometrics, reducing credential theft and simplifying the user experience. On select models, Smart Card or NFC readers provide authentication alternatives. Surface devices also include BitLocker encryption, which protects sensitive data by encrypting it at rest. Even if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains inaccessible. BitLocker helps safeguard critical business information, maintain data integrity, and support compliance.

Trusted technology, empowered employees

At Microsoft, we know that security is critical to enabling technology-powered innovation. Surface allows IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives, streamlining management and future-proofing your endpoints to take full advantage of the latest AI advancements.

Microsoft Surface delivers multi-layered protection to safeguard businesses. From Secured-core PC technology to Zero Trust architecture, Surface devices defend against evolving threats while empowering employees to work effectively.

Choosing Surface means embracing innovation with confidence. For deeper insights, explore the “Securing the Way for AI” eBook and the Endpoint Security Webinar to learn how Surface devices help you gain an AI advantage without compromising security.

Get your business ready for the future of AI with Microsoft Surface.

​Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More 

This morning, when I turned on my computer, I noticed that my user folder icon had inexplicably shrunk in size. I attempted various methods to resolve this issue, such as unpinning and restoring desktop icons, adjusting settings in the Themes section of Personalization, and rebuilding the icon cache. I even cleared the thumbnail cache, which temporarily fixed the problem, but it reappeared after a day. Despite running the necessary scripts repeatedly, the issue persisted.

I am currently using the most recent Windows 11 Pro version, and I am seeking assistance in identifying the root cause of this problem and implementing a permanent solution.

​This morning, when I turned on my computer, I noticed that my user folder icon had inexplicably shrunk in size. I attempted various methods to resolve this issue, such as unpinning and restoring desktop icons, adjusting settings in the Themes section of Personalization, and rebuilding the icon cache. I even cleared the thumbnail cache, which temporarily fixed the problem, but it reappeared after a day. Despite running the necessary scripts repeatedly, the issue persisted. I am currently using the most recent Windows 11 Pro version, and I am seeking assistance in identifying the root cause of this problem and implementing a permanent solution.  Read More

​

Occasionally, chkdsk may run upon startup when switching from Windows 10 (installed on a separate SSD) to Windows 11. If errors are detected and fixed during this process, the pertinent data is stored somewhere. Does anyone know where this data is stored and whether it can be interpreted?

​Occasionally, chkdsk may run upon startup when switching from Windows 10 (installed on a separate SSD) to Windows 11. If errors are detected and fixed during this process, the pertinent data is stored somewhere. Does anyone know where this data is stored and whether it can be interpreted?  Read More

​

Similar queries as previously mentioned from one of the User; 

I’m just getting started with Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps but have already worked a bit with it when it was still named Cloud App Security. Right now, I’m looking into the Cloud Discovery features. While trying out the Unsanctioned feature for some apps, I ran into the problem that they only get blocked if the user is using Microsoft Edge. If the user uses Chrome or Firefox, the app doesn’t get blocked. I integrated MDCA with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. What am I missing?

Does anyonce from Microsoft; kindly jump into and give guidance

thanks 

palash

​Similar queries as previously mentioned from one of the User;  I’m just getting started with Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps but have already worked a bit with it when it was still named Cloud App Security. Right now, I’m looking into the Cloud Discovery features. While trying out the Unsanctioned feature for some apps, I ran into the problem that they only get blocked if the user is using Microsoft Edge. If the user uses Chrome or Firefox, the app doesn’t get blocked. I integrated MDCA with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. What am I missing? Does anyonce from Microsoft; kindly jump into and give guidance thanks palash  Read More

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