Microsoft recently hosted a one-day Marketplace Summit in London, which included more than 300 partners in attendance and provided a deep dive on how partners can work together to accelerate business—using the benefits of the marketplace and ecosystem opportunity. The sessions from this event are now available on-demand here.

Sessions offered at this event included:

Maximizing marketplace success
Co-sell and enterprise sales
Cloud marketplaces and GTM tools
Manage your listings
Activating the channel

To learn more about key takeaways from this event, including themes such as the marketplace as a partner-focused business platform, and marketplace investment as being rooted in customer demand, check out this recap blog: Showcasing the potential of the Microsoft partner ecosystem at the Marketplace Summit

​Microsoft recently hosted a one-day Marketplace Summit in London, which included more than 300 partners in attendance and provided a deep dive on how partners can work together to accelerate business—using the benefits of the marketplace and ecosystem opportunity. The sessions from this event are now available on-demand here.
 
Sessions offered at this event included:

Maximizing marketplace success
Co-sell and enterprise sales
Cloud marketplaces and GTM tools
Manage your listings
Activating the channel

 
To learn more about key takeaways from this event, including themes such as the marketplace as a partner-focused business platform, and marketplace investment as being rooted in customer demand, check out this recap blog: Showcasing the potential of the Microsoft partner ecosystem at the Marketplace Summit  Read More

​

Hi All,

There is a host pool with a couple of session hosts.

Users’ profiles are stored in file share by means of FSLogix with Microsoft apps separated with ODFC container. 

Having all that set up the way I described is it normal that users’ Outlook OST files are stored in C:UsersusernameAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook? 

For some reason a user periodically gets this error although the path is reachable. 

(All AVD users have their OST files stored in local path).

​Hi All, There is a host pool with a couple of session hosts.Users’ profiles are stored in file share by means of FSLogix with Microsoft apps separated with ODFC container. Having all that set up the way I described is it normal that users’ Outlook OST files are stored in C:UsersusernameAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook? For some reason a user periodically gets this error although the path is reachable.  (All AVD users have their OST files stored in local path).  Read More

​

Lot of people watch movies, streaming etc. using notebook connected to TV (by HDMI), as a second display. In this situation, you want sometimes to mute edge (stream going in Edge), but there is no “Mute” action on right-button when you click on taskbar Edge button (just New Window and New InPrivate Window). So you must de-fullscreen video on the TV, mute tab, later un-mute tab and fullscreen video on the TV again. Mute action on taskbar would really improve that experience (I would consider even putting small clickable icon directly on taskbar Edge button, if possible). 

​Lot of people watch movies, streaming etc. using notebook connected to TV (by HDMI), as a second display. In this situation, you want sometimes to mute edge (stream going in Edge), but there is no “Mute” action on right-button when you click on taskbar Edge button (just New Window and New InPrivate Window). So you must de-fullscreen video on the TV, mute tab, later un-mute tab and fullscreen video on the TV again. Mute action on taskbar would really improve that experience (I would consider even putting small clickable icon directly on taskbar Edge button, if possible).   Read More

​

Dear all,

We are working on a project that involves integrating Microsoft Teams into a web application. I have two requirements, and we are seeking guidance on how to implement them:

Join a Teams meeting using only the meeting ID: Is it possible to allow users to join a Teams meeting by entering just the meeting ID, without requiring a password or sign-in? If so, what would be the best approach to achieve this?Bypass the lobby from the client side: Is there a way to automatically bypass the Teams meeting lobby from the client side, allowing users to join the meeting directly without needing host approval?

Any help or direction on how to implement these features would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance!

James from Shared Studios

​Dear all,We are working on a project that involves integrating Microsoft Teams into a web application. I have two requirements, and we are seeking guidance on how to implement them:Join a Teams meeting using only the meeting ID: Is it possible to allow users to join a Teams meeting by entering just the meeting ID, without requiring a password or sign-in? If so, what would be the best approach to achieve this?Bypass the lobby from the client side: Is there a way to automatically bypass the Teams meeting lobby from the client side, allowing users to join the meeting directly without needing host approval?Any help or direction on how to implement these features would be greatly appreciated!Thank you in advance!James from Shared Studios  Read More

​

Hi Community,

I’ve created a Power BI report based on data from Project online.

I changed few dates for certain projects in Project online.

When I refresh the data in PBI Report, all project dates update correctly except for one specific project, where the reference date still show the old value.

Any suggestion would be appreciated. 

​Hi Community,I’ve created a Power BI report based on data from Project online.I changed few dates for certain projects in Project online.When I refresh the data in PBI Report, all project dates update correctly except for one specific project, where the reference date still show the old value.Any suggestion would be appreciated.   Read More

​

I am new to the New Outlook having used Outlook 2010 for years. Recently I changed ISP and email account to discover I lost Contacts and Calendar. Imported both to New Outlook and then struggled to restore Group Mailing Lists.

Now restored, I tried to send a Group email which failed for the message “try again or try later” . Neither suggestion worked. Even closing and reopening OPutlook didn’t help.

Any advice would be helpful.

Thank you

​I am new to the New Outlook having used Outlook 2010 for years. Recently I changed ISP and email account to discover I lost Contacts and Calendar. Imported both to New Outlook and then struggled to restore Group Mailing Lists. Now restored, I tried to send a Group email which failed for the message “try again or try later” . Neither suggestion worked. Even closing and reopening OPutlook didn’t help. Any advice would be helpful. Thank you  Read More

​

I have a column of 10 dollar amounts.  A certain number of those cells are filled with dollars over zero; the remainder, if any, are always filled with zero dollars.  How can I find the MEDIAN of only the amounts greater than zero in a single formula without having to modify the range of the formula every time I need the MEDIAN value of the amounts greater than zero dollars?

I used the MEDIAN formula applied to all ten values in the column and was returned a median value that didn’t return the correct value because 4 of the entries were zero dollars.  So, I adjusted the range in the MEDIAN formula for only the 6 entries that were greater than zero and it returned what I expected.  Is there a formula that would allow the MEDIAN to only consider values over zero$?

​I have a column of 10 dollar amounts.  A certain number of those cells are filled with dollars over zero; the remainder, if any, are always filled with zero dollars.  How can I find the MEDIAN of only the amounts greater than zero in a single formula without having to modify the range of the formula every time I need the MEDIAN value of the amounts greater than zero dollars? I used the MEDIAN formula applied to all ten values in the column and was returned a median value that didn’t return the correct value because 4 of the entries were zero dollars.  So, I adjusted the range in the MEDIAN formula for only the 6 entries that were greater than zero and it returned what I expected.  Is there a formula that would allow the MEDIAN to only consider values over zero$?  Read More

​

Announcing Windows Server Preview Build 26311

Hello Windows Server Insiders!

Today we are pleased to release a new build of the next Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview that contains both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for Datacenter and Standard editions, Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition (for VM evaluation only). Branding has been updated for the upcoming release, Windows Server 2025, in this preview – when reporting issues please refer to Windows Server 2025 preview.  If you signed up for Server Flighting, you should receive this new build automatically.

What’s New

Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC)

Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) for business is a software-based security layer that reduces attack surface by enforcing an explicit list of software that is allowed to run. For Windows Server 2025, we have provided Microsoft defined ‘default policy’ which can be applied to the server via PowerShell cmdlets, powered by our ‘Security configuration platform called ‘OSconfig’. 

To learn more, please review Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC) – Microsoft Community Hub.

Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview

Beginning with build 26296, we are pleased to announce the availability of the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview. You can enable security right from the start by applying the recommended security posture for your device or VM role through application of a tailored security baseline, with over 350 preconfigured Windows security settings that help you apply and enforce granular security settings that support best practices recommended by Microsoft and Industry standards. We have organized the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline content into three categories based on server role:

Domain Controller (DC)
Member Server
Workgroup Member

Note: You should preview the security baseline only on test systems. While there is a ‘Remove’ command, not all configurations can be reversed.

To learn more, please review Announcing Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview – Microsoft Community Hub.

Windows Server Flighting is here!!

If you signed up for Server Flighting, you should receive this new build automatically later today.

For more information, see Welcome to Windows Insider flighting on Windows Server – Microsoft Community Hub

The new Feedback Hub app is now available for Server Desktop users! The app should automatically update with the latest version, but if it does not, simply Check for updates in the app’s settings tab.

Known Issues

Download Windows Server Insider Preview (microsoft.com)

Flighting: The label for this flight may incorrectly reference Windows 11. However, when selected, the package installed is the Windows Server update. Please ignore the label and proceed with installing your flight. This issue will be addressed in a future release.

WinPE – Powershell Scripts: Applying the WinPE-Powershell optional component does not properly install Powershell in WinPE. As a result, Powershell cmdlets will fail. Customers who are dependent on Powershell in WinPE should not use this build.

If you are validating upgrades from Windows Server 2019 or 2022, we do not recommend that you use this build as intermittent upgrade failures have been identified for this build.

This build has an issue where archiving eventlogs with “wevetutil al” command causes the Windows Event Log service to crash, and the archive operation to fail. The service must be restarted by executing “Start-Service EventLog” from an administrative command line prompt.

If you have Secure Launch/DRTM code path enabled, we do not recommend that you install this build. 

Available Downloads

Downloads to certain countries may not be available. See Microsoft suspends new sales in Russia – Microsoft On the Issues.

Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel Preview in ISO format in 18 languages, and in VHDX format in English only. 
Windows Server Datacenter Azure Edition Preview in ISO and VHDX format, English only.
Microsoft Server Languages and Optional Features Preview

Keys: Keys are valid for preview builds only 

Server Standard: MFY9F-XBN2F-TYFMP-CCV49-RMYVH
Datacenter: 2KNJJ-33Y9H-2GXGX-KMQWH-G6H67
Azure Edition does not accept a key

Symbols:  Available on the public symbol server – see Using the Microsoft Symbol Server. 

Expiration: This Windows Server Preview will expire September 15, 2025.

How to Download

Registered Insiders may navigate directly to the Windows Server Insider Preview download page.   If you have not yet registered as an Insider, see GETTING STARTED WITH SERVER on the Windows Insiders for Business portal.

We value your feedback!

The most important part of the release cycle is to hear what’s working and what needs to be improved, so your feedback is extremely valued. Beginning with Insider build 26063, please use the new Feedback Hub app for Windows Server if you are running a Desktop version of Server. If you are using a Core edition, or if you are unable to use the Feedback Hub app, you can use your registered Windows 10 or Windows 11 Insider device and use the Feedback Hub application.  In the app, choose the Windows Server category and then the appropriate subcategory for your feedback. In the title of the Feedback, please indicate the build number you are providing feedback on as shown below to ensure that your issue is attributed to the right version:

     [Server #####] Title of my feedback

See Give Feedback on Windows Server via Feedback Hub for specifics. The Windows Server Insiders space on the Microsoft Tech Communities supports preview builds of the next version of Windows Server. Use the forum to collaborate, share and learn from experts.  For versions that have been released to general availability in market, try the Windows Server for IT Pro forum or contact Support for Business.

Diagnostic and Usage Information

Microsoft collects this information over the internet to help keep Windows secure and up to date, troubleshoot problems, and make product improvements. Microsoft server operating systems can be configured to turn diagnostic data off, send Required diagnostic data, or send Optional diagnostic data.   During previews, Microsoft asks that you change the default setting to Optional to provide the best automatic feedback and help us improve the final product.

Administrators can change the level of information collection through Settings. For details, see http://aka.ms/winserverdata. Also see the Microsoft Privacy Statement.

Terms of Use

This is pre-release software – it is provided for use “as-is” and is not supported in production environments. Users are responsible for installing any updates that may be made available from Windows Update.   All pre-release software made available to you via the Windows Server Insider program is governed by the Insider Terms of Use.

​Announcing Windows Server Preview Build 26311
Hello Windows Server Insiders!
Today we are pleased to release a new build of the next Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview that contains both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for Datacenter and Standard editions, Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition (for VM evaluation only). Branding has been updated for the upcoming release, Windows Server 2025, in this preview – when reporting issues please refer to Windows Server 2025 preview.  If you signed up for Server Flighting, you should receive this new build automatically.
 
What’s New
Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC)
Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) for business is a software-based security layer that reduces attack surface by enforcing an explicit list of software that is allowed to run. For Windows Server 2025, we have provided Microsoft defined ‘default policy’ which can be applied to the server via PowerShell cmdlets, powered by our ‘Security configuration platform called ‘OSconfig’. 
To learn more, please review Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC) – Microsoft Community Hub.
 
Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview
Beginning with build 26296, we are pleased to announce the availability of the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview. You can enable security right from the start by applying the recommended security posture for your device or VM role through application of a tailored security baseline, with over 350 preconfigured Windows security settings that help you apply and enforce granular security settings that support best practices recommended by Microsoft and Industry standards. We have organized the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline content into three categories based on server role:

Domain Controller (DC)
Member Server
Workgroup Member

Note: You should preview the security baseline only on test systems. While there is a ‘Remove’ command, not all configurations can be reversed.
To learn more, please review Announcing Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview – Microsoft Community Hub.
 
Windows Server Flighting is here!!
If you signed up for Server Flighting, you should receive this new build automatically later today.
For more information, see Welcome to Windows Insider flighting on Windows Server – Microsoft Community Hub
 
The new Feedback Hub app is now available for Server Desktop users! The app should automatically update with the latest version, but if it does not, simply Check for updates in the app’s settings tab.
 
Known Issues
Download Windows Server Insider Preview (microsoft.com)
Flighting: The label for this flight may incorrectly reference Windows 11. However, when selected, the package installed is the Windows Server update. Please ignore the label and proceed with installing your flight. This issue will be addressed in a future release.
 
WinPE – Powershell Scripts: Applying the WinPE-Powershell optional component does not properly install Powershell in WinPE. As a result, Powershell cmdlets will fail. Customers who are dependent on Powershell in WinPE should not use this build.
 
If you are validating upgrades from Windows Server 2019 or 2022, we do not recommend that you use this build as intermittent upgrade failures have been identified for this build.
 
This build has an issue where archiving eventlogs with “wevetutil al” command causes the Windows Event Log service to crash, and the archive operation to fail. The service must be restarted by executing “Start-Service EventLog” from an administrative command line prompt.
 
If you have Secure Launch/DRTM code path enabled, we do not recommend that you install this build. 
 
Available Downloads
Downloads to certain countries may not be available. See Microsoft suspends new sales in Russia – Microsoft On the Issues.

Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel Preview in ISO format in 18 languages, and in VHDX format in English only. 
Windows Server Datacenter Azure Edition Preview in ISO and VHDX format, English only.
Microsoft Server Languages and Optional Features Preview

 
Keys: Keys are valid for preview builds only 

Server Standard: MFY9F-XBN2F-TYFMP-CCV49-RMYVH
Datacenter: 2KNJJ-33Y9H-2GXGX-KMQWH-G6H67
Azure Edition does not accept a key

 
Symbols:  Available on the public symbol server – see Using the Microsoft Symbol Server. 
Expiration: This Windows Server Preview will expire September 15, 2025.
 
How to Download
Registered Insiders may navigate directly to the Windows Server Insider Preview download page.   If you have not yet registered as an Insider, see GETTING STARTED WITH SERVER on the Windows Insiders for Business portal.
 
We value your feedback!
The most important part of the release cycle is to hear what’s working and what needs to be improved, so your feedback is extremely valued. Beginning with Insider build 26063, please use the new Feedback Hub app for Windows Server if you are running a Desktop version of Server. If you are using a Core edition, or if you are unable to use the Feedback Hub app, you can use your registered Windows 10 or Windows 11 Insider device and use the Feedback Hub application.  In the app, choose the Windows Server category and then the appropriate subcategory for your feedback. In the title of the Feedback, please indicate the build number you are providing feedback on as shown below to ensure that your issue is attributed to the right version:
     [Server #####] Title of my feedback
See Give Feedback on Windows Server via Feedback Hub for specifics. The Windows Server Insiders space on the Microsoft Tech Communities supports preview builds of the next version of Windows Server. Use the forum to collaborate, share and learn from experts.  For versions that have been released to general availability in market, try the Windows Server for IT Pro forum or contact Support for Business.
 
Diagnostic and Usage Information
Microsoft collects this information over the internet to help keep Windows secure and up to date, troubleshoot problems, and make product improvements. Microsoft server operating systems can be configured to turn diagnostic data off, send Required diagnostic data, or send Optional diagnostic data.   During previews, Microsoft asks that you change the default setting to Optional to provide the best automatic feedback and help us improve the final product.
Administrators can change the level of information collection through Settings. For details, see http://aka.ms/winserverdata. Also see the Microsoft Privacy Statement.
 
Terms of Use
This is pre-release software – it is provided for use “as-is” and is not supported in production environments. Users are responsible for installing any updates that may be made available from Windows Update.   All pre-release software made available to you via the Windows Server Insider program is governed by the Insider Terms of Use.  Read More

​

One of the most important questions asked is, “How many of our devices are up to date?” This question is one you can easily answer using Microsoft Intune, Windows Autopatch, or Windows Update for Business reports. Learn more about the tools and reports you can use to identify exactly which devices are up to date, which might need attention, and other insights.

Feel free to choose the resources best suited to your needs and interests.

Time to learn: 126 minutes

WATCH

The latest on managing Windows updates in Microsoft Intune

For a broader overview of Windows updates in Microsoft Intune, walk through built-in functionalities, including the Windows update distribution report for all your Intune enrolled devices. And learn more about this report in the resources below.

(30 mins)

Intune + Quality updates + Drivers + Windows 11 + Windows 10 + Policies

READ

Use Windows Update for Business reports for Windows Updates in Microsoft Intune

If you use policies to update your Windows 10/11 devices, there are reports for them! Get a summary of update success, in-progress updates, device update status, and failure alerts along with remediation recommendations. Most importantly, learn about the Windows update distribution report and Windows Update for Business (WUfB) reports. The last two are what you need to know which devices are up to date. Find more information in the resources below.

(36 mins)

Intune + Policies + Rings + WUfB reports + Quality + Feature + Device + Azure

Windows update distribution report in Microsoft Intune

If you use Microsoft Intune, start with the Windows update distribution report, also known as the Quality update distribution report. This report provides status for all devices enrolled in Microsoft Intune, regardless of whether they are assigned to any update policies.

Windows update distribution report (the latest on managing Windows updates in Microsoft Intune) (5 mins)

Starting at the 14:50 minute mark, learn about the Windows update distribution report in Intune. Watch the 5-minute demo to walk through the interface, the structure, and the details available in the report.

Windows update distribution report (6 mins)

Among the more comprehensive documentation on reports, read the section on the Windows update distribution report. How many and what devices are on each Windows feature version and quality update? Get the high-level summary and drill down with this Microsoft Intune report.

Intune + Rings + Co-management + Feature version + Device version + Update type + Device activity

Windows quality update reports in Windows Autopatch

Windows Autopatch provides additional insights, such as a historical view of updates. Here are four useful tips about reporting to try.

Generate reports from Windows Autopatch (2 mins)

Getting started with Windows Autopatch reports? We recommend starting with this short demo of how you can generate update status and update history reports.

Windows quality update summary dashboard (2 mins)

Want a comprehensive overview of the current update status for all devices managed by Windows Autopatch? Learn how to generate and interpret the Summary dashboard in this quick guide.

Quality update status report (6 mins)

For a per-device view of the current update status for your devices, explore Windows Autopatch > Windows quality updates > Reports > Quality update status. You’ll find device-specific information, including build numbers, readiness status, and alerts included in this report.

Quality update trending report (1 min)

This report graphs trends over the last 90 days. Learn about the historical trends by update status or deployment ring.

Autopatch + Update + Status + Ring + History + Build + Alerts

Windows Update for Business reports tools

If you want to query the data or build custom dashboards, access the same data using Windows Update for Business reports. See for yourself.

Use the workbook for Windows Update for Business reports (16 mins)

If you’re new to Windows Update for Business reports, start here. This documentation walks you through what’s inside, how to understand it, and how to customize and use various reports.

Get the most out of expedited Windows quality updates (13 mins)

Whenever you expedite Windows security or non-security updates, you’ll get a failure report. Use it to troubleshoot and remediate common issues marked as alerts. This article introduces you to common alerts, resolutions, and best practices.

Tailor Windows Update for Business reports with Power BI (9 mins)

Use the Power BI integration in Windows Update for Business reports to create custom visualizations. Better understand the device landscape, identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement. Walk through the visualizations of the Windows 11 migration scenario and update deployment monitoring. Let us show you how to turn these reports into actionable insights.

WUfB + Azure + Quality + Feature + Driver + DO + Update state + Power BI + Alerts + Resolution

Which tool, or tools, best fit your needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Check out related resources to keep building your skills:

Skilling snack: Windows Update for Business reports
Skilling snack: Windows Autopatch
Automate updates with Windows Autopatch – Tackling Tech
Skilling snack: Managing Windows 11 updates

We’re turning our beloved skilling snacks into a monthly series! With our library of 45 learning bites, we invite you to review what you’ve missed and come back once a month to keep your skills sharp and memory fresh.

Continue the conversation. Find best practices. Bookmark the Windows Tech Community, then follow us @MSWindowsITPro on X and on LinkedIn. Looking for support? Visit Windows on Microsoft Q&A.

​Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More 

Exploring SUSE Enterprise Linux on Azure

In today’s cloud-centric world, leveraging robust and reliable operating systems is crucial for businesses. One such powerful combination is SUSE Enterprise Linux on Azure. This blog delves into the various aspects of using SUSE Enterprise Linux, particularly the High Availability (HA) extension, on Azure.

SUSE Distributions Supported on Azure

Azure supports several SUSE distributions, including:

SUSE Enterprise Linux Server
SUSE Enterprise Linux Server for SAP
SUSE Enterprise Linux Server for HPC

For more details: click here.

Pricing and Licensing Models

SUSE has three offerings in Azure:

BYOS
SUSE Image with patching support
24×7 support

When it comes to pricing, the Azure pricing calculator provides various options. For instance, for a B2as machine with SUSE Linux Enterprise + 24/7 Support, PAYG, the cost is approximately $47.45 per month as of writing this blog.

You can select the desired image during the installation, and the Azure marketplace provides detailed information on what is offered under each SUSE image deployed through the marketplace.

High Availability Extension

The High Availability extension is a critical component for businesses that require continuous uptime and disaster recovery solutions. If you purchase the SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP, the High Availability extension is included. However, if you opt for the standard SUSE Linux Enterprise Server through the Azure marketplace, you cannot add the High Availability extension. In such cases, you will need to use the BYOS (Bring Your Own Subscription) model.

Key Features of SUSE Enterprise Linux for SAP

SUSE Enterprise Linux for SAP comes with several features designed to enhance performance and reliability, including:

A full High Availability / Disaster Recovery solution
SAP HANA System Replication automation agents
SAP HANA Firewall with automated setup
A KMIP-compliant key server for remote storage
SAP configuration and tuning packages
Automated configuration and installation of SAP HANA clusters
A clustered SAP HANA software automated update wizard (tech preview)

Azure market place provides the detail on what is offered under each SUSE image deployed through the marketplace.

Considerations

When using SLES Enterprise HA on Azure, it’s essential to be aware of certain considerations. For example, Generation 2 VM support specific SLES marketplace images. Refer Azure support for Generation 2 VMs – Azure Virtual Machines | Microsoft Learn for more details.

Conclusion

SUSE Enterprise Linux on Azure provides a robust and scalable solution for businesses looking to leverage the power of the cloud. With various distributions, pricing models, and the critical High Availability extension, SUSE on Azure is a compelling choice for enterprises.

​Microsoft Tech Community – Latest Blogs –Read More