Category: Microsoft
Category Archives: Microsoft
I need a best YouTube to MP4 converter for my Windows 11 without ads
Due to the needs of my project, I am looking for a reliable & best YouTube to MP4 converter that will work properly in Windows 11. I’ve tried several options, but none of them quite fit my needs. I’m looking for a tool that maintains high quality video and offers a variety of resolution settings without ads or security issues. So far, the converters I’ve tested have been disappointing, either poor performance or too many ads. Can anyone recommend a reliable converter known for its efficiency and quality? Thank you for your help!
Due to the needs of my project, I am looking for a reliable & best YouTube to MP4 converter that will work properly in Windows 11. I’ve tried several options, but none of them quite fit my needs. I’m looking for a tool that maintains high quality video and offers a variety of resolution settings without ads or security issues. So far, the converters I’ve tested have been disappointing, either poor performance or too many ads. Can anyone recommend a reliable converter known for its efficiency and quality? Thank you for your help! Read More
Microsoft options for VMware migration
Looking to migrate from VMware to Windows Server 2025? Contact your Microsoft account team!
Windows Server 2025 is the most secure and performant release yet! Download the evaluation now!
Windows Server 2025 is the most secure and performant release yet! Download the evaluation now!
The 2024 Windows Server Summit was held in March and brought three days of demos, technical sessions, and Q&A, led by Microsoft engineers, guest experts from Intel®, and our MVP community. For more videos from this year’s Windows Server Summit, please find the full session list here.
Microsoft options for VMware migration
Recent developments in the on-premises virtualization market have unsettled users and prompted a re-evaluation of their organization’s strategy. Microsoft provides a robust set of solutions tailored to your specific goals and requirements. During this session, we will delve into these options, emphasizing the long-term advantages of choosing Microsoft & Hyper-V.
Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More
Creating a 7-day retention policy to target recordings and transcripts only
Hi everyone! As the title says, we are trying to create a 7-day retention policy that would target transcripts and recordings only without affecting emails and other mailbox artifacts. So this policy would have to delete the recordings and transcripts only after 7 days. Is there a way to do this? Thank you!
Hi everyone! As the title says, we are trying to create a 7-day retention policy that would target transcripts and recordings only without affecting emails and other mailbox artifacts. So this policy would have to delete the recordings and transcripts only after 7 days. Is there a way to do this? Thank you! Read More
Azure Open AI
Hi Team, I have been trying to use gpt-4o capability on azure open-ai to pass base64 encoded image. But I m getting this response:
{“requestPayload”:null,”meta”:{“blocking”:true},”status”:”completed”,”planId”:”38334edf2b3242102d79fa97ce91bf37″,”capabilities”:{“35070ec3fbb68e5007e5f69605efdc04”:{“provider”:”Azure OpenAI”,”response”:”The provided JSON contains a structure with two main elements: a text prompt and an image URL. The text prompt asks, “What’s in this image?” and the image URL is encoded in base64 format. However, the base64 string for the image is incomplete and appears to be corrupted or truncated.nnTo properly analyze the image, the complete base64 string is required. If you can provide the full base64 string, I can help you decode and analyze the image. Alternatively, you can upload the image to a file-sharing service and provide the link.”,”logId”:”7b40eb2b3b32c210f27a3c8c24e45ae1″,”status”:”success”}},”startedAt”:”2024-06-21 03:38:59″,”completedAt”:”2024-06-21 03:39:07″,”transactionId”:”e5564919-b644-43fb-b0ba-a2bc60016513″,”message”:null}
I have ensured the image URL is correct and contains correct base64 value but still its not working. What could be the issue?
Hi Team, I have been trying to use gpt-4o capability on azure open-ai to pass base64 encoded image. But I m getting this response: {“requestPayload”:null,”meta”:{“blocking”:true},”status”:”completed”,”planId”:”38334edf2b3242102d79fa97ce91bf37″,”capabilities”:{“35070ec3fbb68e5007e5f69605efdc04”:{“provider”:”Azure OpenAI”,”response”:”The provided JSON contains a structure with two main elements: a text prompt and an image URL. The text prompt asks, “What’s in this image?” and the image URL is encoded in base64 format. However, the base64 string for the image is incomplete and appears to be corrupted or truncated.nnTo properly analyze the image, the complete base64 string is required. If you can provide the full base64 string, I can help you decode and analyze the image. Alternatively, you can upload the image to a file-sharing service and provide the link.”,”logId”:”7b40eb2b3b32c210f27a3c8c24e45ae1″,”status”:”success”}},”startedAt”:”2024-06-21 03:38:59″,”completedAt”:”2024-06-21 03:39:07″,”transactionId”:”e5564919-b644-43fb-b0ba-a2bc60016513″,”message”:null} I have ensured the image URL is correct and contains correct base64 value but still its not working. What could be the issue? Read More
Is it possible to run VsTest in azure pipelines against pre-installed test project
Hi All
I have an azure pipeline that deploys candidate releases to a staging server. When the server update is complete a series of automated tests are then run, this is the current layout.
Now the completion speed for all tasks is not bad but as always the question is can we make it faster? So because these are smoke tests they do not change very often which makes me think instead of the Restore and Build steps can we not simply have a ready built solution installed on Azure so then all we have to do is run the final VsTest step?
We are using VS and Playwright for the test project
I have never done it that way before so my questions are. Can it be done? and how please?
Thanks in advance for any help here.
Hi AllI have an azure pipeline that deploys candidate releases to a staging server. When the server update is complete a series of automated tests are then run, this is the current layout. Now the completion speed for all tasks is not bad but as always the question is can we make it faster? So because these are smoke tests they do not change very often which makes me think instead of the Restore and Build steps can we not simply have a ready built solution installed on Azure so then all we have to do is run the final VsTest step? We are using VS and Playwright for the test project I have never done it that way before so my questions are. Can it be done? and how please? Thanks in advance for any help here. Read More
“Revolutionizing Fencing with Virtual Reality: How Microsoft is Shaping the Future of Training and P
Microsoft, with its extensive technological capabilities and innovative solutions, is well-positioned to significantly enhance the integration of virtual reality (VR) into the sport of fencing. By leveraging its hardware, software, and cloud computing platforms, Microsoft can offer comprehensive solutions to elevate training, performance analysis, and the overall experience of fencing through VR. Here’s how Microsoft can contribute:
1. Mixed Reality Hardware: Microsoft HoloLens
Microsoft HoloLens, a leading mixed reality (MR) device, can be pivotal in creating immersive fencing guides and experiences. HoloLens can overlay digital information onto the real world, enabling fencers to practice in a mixed environment where they can see both virtual opponents and their real surroundings. This can help in:
Enhanced Training: Fencers can train against virtual opponents with realistic movement patterns and strategies.Real-time Feedback: HoloLens can display real-time data on technique, posture, and performance, allowing fencers to make immediate adjustments.Interactive Tutorials: Beginners can follow guided tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions and visual cues.
2. Azure Cloud Services
Microsoft Azure, a powerful cloud computing platform, can support the backend infrastructure for fencing VR applications by providing:
Data Analytics: Azure can process and analyze large volumes of performance data, giving fencers detailed insights into their training sessions.Machine Learning: AI and machine learning models hosted on Azure can be used to develop advanced virtual opponents that adapt to the fencer’s skill level and tactics.Scalable Infrastructure: Azure can support large-scale virtual competitions and training platforms, ensuring smooth and reliable performance.
3. Software Development Tools
Microsoft’s suite of development tools, such as Visual Studio and Unity (supported through Visual Studio), can help create advanced VR applications for fencing:
Custom VR Applications: Developers can build bespoke VR training programs tailored to the needs of fencers, incorporating realistic physics and interactive elements.Integration with Existing Tools: Applications can be integrated with other Microsoft tools like Office 365 for scheduling training sessions, Teams for communication, and OneDrive for storing training videos and analytics reports.
4. AI and Machine Learning
Microsoft’s AI and machine learning capabilities can enhance VR fencing by:
Intelligent Opponents: Creating AI-driven virtual opponents that can mimic different fencing styles and tactics, providing varied and challenging training scenarios.Performance Prediction: Using machine learning models to predict and improve performance, identifying areas where the fencer can focus their training.Personalized Coaching: AI can analyze a fencer’s strengths and weaknesses and offer personalized coaching tips and drills.
5. Gaming Expertise: Xbox and Kinect
Microsoft’s experience in gaming and motion tracking through Xbox and Kinect can be applied to VR fencing:
Motion Tracking: Kinect’s motion tracking technology can be used to capture a fencer’s movements accurately, ensuring realistic interactions in the VR environment.Game Development: Xbox game development expertise can be leveraged to create engaging and immersive VR fencing games that combine training with entertainment.
6. Collaboration and Community Building
Microsoft Teams and other collaboration tools can foster a community among fencers:
Virtual Coaching Sessions: Teams can be used to conduct virtual coaching sessions, where coaches and fencers can interact in real-time, review performance, and plan training.Community Forums: Platforms like Yammer can host community forums where fencers share tips, strategies, and experiences.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s comprehensive ecosystem of hardware, software, and cloud solutions can revolutionize the way fencing is practiced and experienced through virtual reality. By providing the necessary tools and infrastructure, Microsoft can help create a more immersive, data-driven, and accessible fencing experience, benefiting both novice and experienced fencers alike. Through innovations in mixed reality, AI, and cloud computing, Microsoft can play a crucial role in advancing the sport of fencing into the digital age.
Microsoft, with its extensive technological capabilities and innovative solutions, is well-positioned to significantly enhance the integration of virtual reality (VR) into the sport of fencing. By leveraging its hardware, software, and cloud computing platforms, Microsoft can offer comprehensive solutions to elevate training, performance analysis, and the overall experience of fencing through VR. Here’s how Microsoft can contribute:1. Mixed Reality Hardware: Microsoft HoloLensMicrosoft HoloLens, a leading mixed reality (MR) device, can be pivotal in creating immersive fencing guides and experiences. HoloLens can overlay digital information onto the real world, enabling fencers to practice in a mixed environment where they can see both virtual opponents and their real surroundings. This can help in:Enhanced Training: Fencers can train against virtual opponents with realistic movement patterns and strategies.Real-time Feedback: HoloLens can display real-time data on technique, posture, and performance, allowing fencers to make immediate adjustments.Interactive Tutorials: Beginners can follow guided tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions and visual cues.2. Azure Cloud ServicesMicrosoft Azure, a powerful cloud computing platform, can support the backend infrastructure for fencing VR applications by providing:Data Analytics: Azure can process and analyze large volumes of performance data, giving fencers detailed insights into their training sessions.Machine Learning: AI and machine learning models hosted on Azure can be used to develop advanced virtual opponents that adapt to the fencer’s skill level and tactics.Scalable Infrastructure: Azure can support large-scale virtual competitions and training platforms, ensuring smooth and reliable performance.3. Software Development ToolsMicrosoft’s suite of development tools, such as Visual Studio and Unity (supported through Visual Studio), can help create advanced VR applications for fencing:Custom VR Applications: Developers can build bespoke VR training programs tailored to the needs of fencers, incorporating realistic physics and interactive elements.Integration with Existing Tools: Applications can be integrated with other Microsoft tools like Office 365 for scheduling training sessions, Teams for communication, and OneDrive for storing training videos and analytics reports.4. AI and Machine LearningMicrosoft’s AI and machine learning capabilities can enhance VR fencing by:Intelligent Opponents: Creating AI-driven virtual opponents that can mimic different fencing styles and tactics, providing varied and challenging training scenarios.Performance Prediction: Using machine learning models to predict and improve performance, identifying areas where the fencer can focus their training.Personalized Coaching: AI can analyze a fencer’s strengths and weaknesses and offer personalized coaching tips and drills.5. Gaming Expertise: Xbox and KinectMicrosoft’s experience in gaming and motion tracking through Xbox and Kinect can be applied to VR fencing:Motion Tracking: Kinect’s motion tracking technology can be used to capture a fencer’s movements accurately, ensuring realistic interactions in the VR environment.Game Development: Xbox game development expertise can be leveraged to create engaging and immersive VR fencing games that combine training with entertainment.6. Collaboration and Community BuildingMicrosoft Teams and other collaboration tools can foster a community among fencers:Virtual Coaching Sessions: Teams can be used to conduct virtual coaching sessions, where coaches and fencers can interact in real-time, review performance, and plan training.Community Forums: Platforms like Yammer can host community forums where fencers share tips, strategies, and experiences.ConclusionMicrosoft’s comprehensive ecosystem of hardware, software, and cloud solutions can revolutionize the way fencing is practiced and experienced through virtual reality. By providing the necessary tools and infrastructure, Microsoft can help create a more immersive, data-driven, and accessible fencing experience, benefiting both novice and experienced fencers alike. Through innovations in mixed reality, AI, and cloud computing, Microsoft can play a crucial role in advancing the sport of fencing into the digital age. Read More
Announcing Azure Monitoring Agent support in Azure Landing Zones
Introduction
Terraform upgrade guide [User Guide] Upgrade from v5.2.1 to v6.0.0
Bicep release notes: v0.18.0 Release Notes
Key Updates and Enhancements
Centralization of the User Assigned Managed Identity
Centralized UAMI: Azure Landing Zones now utilizing a single, centralized UAMI for AMA, enhancing manageability and scalability.
Reliability: After the UAMI is created, it’s replicated globally, and credential requests happen within the VM/VMSS’s region instead of the UAMI region. Therefore, if the VM is in EastUS and the UAMI in WestUS, whenever the VM needs the UAMI credential, the request is completely fulfilled in EastUS.
Scalability: Caching is enabled to support large-scale deployments. Managed identity limits for user assigned identity assignment remain the same regardless if you use single UAMI versus serval UAMI since rate limiting is done based on the VM/VMSS receiving the assignment not on the UAMI being assigned. This enables the convenience of managing a single identity that is both scalable and reliable.
Protection: Added new custom policy Do not allow deletion of specified resource and resource type that provides a safeguard against accidental removal of the User Assigned Managed Identity used by AMA. Assigned at the Platform Management Group, it blocks delete calls using the deny action effect.
New Policies and Built-in Initiatives
Deny Action Delete Policy: A new policy has been introduced that denies the deletion of the UAMI used for AMA, adding an extra layer of security.
Policy Initiatives Updates: Built-in policy initiatives for VM Insights, Change Tracking, and Microsoft Defender for Cloud (MDfC) Defender for SQL have been updated to support a single centralized UAMI.
Feature Flag: The restriction that enforces a UAMI per subscription is lifted by setting the restrictBringYourOwnUserAssignedIdentityToSubscription feature flag to false, enabling the use of a single centralized UAMI.
For more details on the policy changes please review What’s New.
Brownfield Migration Guidance
Assess current state: Conduct a thorough analysis of your existing environment to identify dependencies and custom configurations.
Update Azure Landing Zones: guidance and automation tools help streamline the update process for Azure Landing Zones components
Removing MMA and additional steps: It is crucial to be aware of other settings in your environment that may necessitate further considerations and steps when planning to migrate. While the final phase involves removing the Microsoft Monitoring Agent and addressing, you may need to address additional requirements discovered during the initial assessment, we have included references to already existing documentation to help with the next steps
Automation Tools
Update Policies and Initiatives.
Delete outdated Policy Assignments.
Deploy a User Assigned Managed Identity for the AMA agent.
Deploys Data Collection Rules for VMInsights, ChangeTracking and MDfC Defender for SQL.
Assign new Policies and Initiatives.
Remove Legacy Solutions
Create remediation tasks for the newly assigned Policies and initiatives.
Remove obsolete User Assigned Managed Identities (that were deployed with releases starting 2024-01-31 until 2024-04-24)
Conclusion
Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More
Edit sensitivity labels in bulk
I have a user with dozens of files that are tagged with sensitivity label ‘Private Internal’ but now wishes to share them to an external user. Obviously with this label external users are blocked from viewing the files, is there any way to bulk change these files to another sensitivity label we have called ‘Private External’ which would enable the external viewers to view them? essentially I’m asking if there is a bulk method to change files sensitivity labels from their original ones to a new one?
I have a user with dozens of files that are tagged with sensitivity label ‘Private Internal’ but now wishes to share them to an external user. Obviously with this label external users are blocked from viewing the files, is there any way to bulk change these files to another sensitivity label we have called ‘Private External’ which would enable the external viewers to view them? essentially I’m asking if there is a bulk method to change files sensitivity labels from their original ones to a new one? Read More
I’m looking for a best video to mp3 converter for Windows 11
I’ve recently been looking for a reliable and best video to MP3 converter tool for Windows 11. I need to handle multiple video formats efficiently and the sound quality of the converted MP3 should not be compromised. Preferably, it should be easy to operate without annoying ads or complicated steps. I’ve tried a few, but none of them are quite satisfactory. Does anyone have any good recommendations? Please share your experience, I’d appreciate it!
I’ve recently been looking for a reliable and best video to MP3 converter tool for Windows 11. I need to handle multiple video formats efficiently and the sound quality of the converted MP3 should not be compromised. Preferably, it should be easy to operate without annoying ads or complicated steps. I’ve tried a few, but none of them are quite satisfactory. Does anyone have any good recommendations? Please share your experience, I’d appreciate it! Read More
How to permanently delete chat conversation after scheduled meeting concludes with Teams Premium?
Hi
We use ‘always logged’ in Users in the meeting rooms, to run our Teams meetings.
I would like to delete the chat when a meeting ends due to security and privacy.
I know about retention policy’s, the minimum is 1 day, this is not good enough.
I have upgrade to Teams Premium as I read that’s the version you need to clear this data.
Does anyone know where this option is in the O365 suite?
Thanks in advance.
HiWe use ‘always logged’ in Users in the meeting rooms, to run our Teams meetings.I would like to delete the chat when a meeting ends due to security and privacy.I know about retention policy’s, the minimum is 1 day, this is not good enough.I have upgrade to Teams Premium as I read that’s the version you need to clear this data.Does anyone know where this option is in the O365 suite?Thanks in advance. Read More
Passing Third-Party Platform Logs To Azure Log Analytics
Hello,
We need to pass system logs produced on a third-party Linux platform to Azure for long-term storage due to regulatory requirements. Initially, we considered using Azure Log Analytics workspace, but we have learned that the Azure Log Analytics agent (MMA) will be retired in August 2024.
Given this, we are seeking guidance on how to gather and store these logs within Azure Monitor after the deprecation of MMA. The third-party platform can automatically send system logs to a remote syslog server using a hostname or IP via the UDP or TCP protocol.
Could you please provide any recommendations or alternative solutions for this?
Many thanks in advance.
Best regards,
Marc
Hello,We need to pass system logs produced on a third-party Linux platform to Azure for long-term storage due to regulatory requirements. Initially, we considered using Azure Log Analytics workspace, but we have learned that the Azure Log Analytics agent (MMA) will be retired in August 2024. Given this, we are seeking guidance on how to gather and store these logs within Azure Monitor after the deprecation of MMA. The third-party platform can automatically send system logs to a remote syslog server using a hostname or IP via the UDP or TCP protocol. Could you please provide any recommendations or alternative solutions for this? Many thanks in advance. Best regards, Marc Read More
What to do if Windows 11 media creation tool not working?
I’ve been encountering a persistent problem with the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool. Whenever I attempt to use it to upgrade my system, it either fails to start, crashes midway, or completes without creating a usable media. Specifically, I get the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 during the process.
Additionally, there are times when the tool does not seem to detect the USB drive I intend to use for the installation media. I’ve ensured my internet connection is stable and have tried running the tool as an administrator, but these steps haven’t resolved the issues. Has anyone experienced similar issues or have any advice to share?
I’ve been encountering a persistent problem with the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool. Whenever I attempt to use it to upgrade my system, it either fails to start, crashes midway, or completes without creating a usable media. Specifically, I get the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 during the process. Additionally, there are times when the tool does not seem to detect the USB drive I intend to use for the installation media. I’ve ensured my internet connection is stable and have tried running the tool as an administrator, but these steps haven’t resolved the issues. Has anyone experienced similar issues or have any advice to share? Read More
AVD Workspace design best practice
What is the AVD workspace design best practice in terms of security in mind?
In my current design, I have three desktop host pools, which are completely isolated within the desktops, network and users. (One region only)
The question is, do I use one workspace or 3 workspaces? Any pros and cons
What is the AVD workspace design best practice in terms of security in mind?In my current design, I have three desktop host pools, which are completely isolated within the desktops, network and users. (One region only)The question is, do I use one workspace or 3 workspaces? Any pros and cons Read More
Planner User Policy Stops Task and Plan Deletions
The Set-PlannerUserPolicy cmdlet allows Microsoft 365 tenant administrators stop users deleting tasks created by other users. However, an undocumented consequence of setting the policy for user accounts is that it stops those accounts removing plans too. The unexpected block imposed by Set-PlannerUserPolicy caused problems when attempting to delete a plan with PowerShell. It would be nice if the modules created by Microsoft worked as expected (and as documented).
https://office365itpros.com/2024/06/21/set-planneruserpolicy-effects/
The Set-PlannerUserPolicy cmdlet allows Microsoft 365 tenant administrators stop users deleting tasks created by other users. However, an undocumented consequence of setting the policy for user accounts is that it stops those accounts removing plans too. The unexpected block imposed by Set-PlannerUserPolicy caused problems when attempting to delete a plan with PowerShell. It would be nice if the modules created by Microsoft worked as expected (and as documented).
https://office365itpros.com/2024/06/21/set-planneruserpolicy-effects/ Read More
Getting Error 1903 When Installing Quick-Books Desktop after update?
How can I resolve Quick-Books Error 1903? My installation fails with this error, and I can’t seem to fix it. What steps should I take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue?
How can I resolve Quick-Books Error 1903? My installation fails with this error, and I can’t seem to fix it. What steps should I take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue? Read More
Why I am Getting Quick-Books Error 15223 after Latest update?
I’m encountering Quick-Books Error 15223 while trying to update the software. Can you provide some troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue?
I’m encountering Quick-Books Error 15223 while trying to update the software. Can you provide some troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue? Read More
How to Easily Eliminate Quick-Books Error 185 after update?
I’m encountering Quick-Books Error 185 when trying to connect my bank account. How can I resolve this issue quickly?
I’m encountering Quick-Books Error 185 when trying to connect my bank account. How can I resolve this issue quickly? Read More
Add custom attributes for internal users in Entra
Hello,
I’m trying to find out a way of adding custom attributes for my internal users in Entra. I would like to add some new fields (only for easier administration, not mandatory) and ideally be able to see them across the Microsoft apps.
I saw something about custom attributes in “External Identities”, but as far as I understood it has to do with guest users only.
Anyone has an idea?
Thank you !
Pierre
Hello, I’m trying to find out a way of adding custom attributes for my internal users in Entra. I would like to add some new fields (only for easier administration, not mandatory) and ideally be able to see them across the Microsoft apps. I saw something about custom attributes in “External Identities”, but as far as I understood it has to do with guest users only. Anyone has an idea? Thank you ! Pierre Read More
Why Does Error 179 Occur When Trying to Log in to My Bank’s Website?
I keep encountering Error 179 when attempting to log in to my bank’s website. It seems that the login attempt is being rejected because I might already be signed in elsewhere. Can someone explain why this is happening and provide detailed steps on how to resolve this issue?
I keep encountering Error 179 when attempting to log in to my bank’s website. It seems that the login attempt is being rejected because I might already be signed in elsewhere. Can someone explain why this is happening and provide detailed steps on how to resolve this issue? Read More