Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• How will Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008 benefit Microsoft partners?

  Many feel that Vista SP1 won't deliver much OS improvement. On the other hand, the release of Windows Server 2008 is generating considerable excitement.  Continue Reading

• Why recommend Hyper-V vs. VMware?

  Microsoft's Hyper-V makes it a stronger competitor in the virtualization market. While price is driving Hyper-V adoption over VMware, some Microsoft shops prefer Hyper-V because they want a software stack comprised only of Microsoft products. VMware...  Continue Reading

• Is it smarter to specialize in a few trusted network vendors or to diversify?

  Network value-added resellers are faced with a bewildering array of network vendors, and it's tempting to partner with as many as possible. In this expert response, learn why network vendor specialization is more important than network vendor ...  Continue Reading

• What are today's underserved network markets?

  With so many network service providers on the scene it's tempting to think all the network markets are saturated. In this expert response, learn about some network markets that are just starting to come into their own, thereby providing the channel ...  Continue Reading

• What benefits does 802.11n offer the channel?

  As networking vendors ramp up production of hardware supporting the new 802.11n wireless standard, VARs and consultants will be able to help clients support their real-time applications with added reliability. Learn more about 802.11n in this expert...  Continue Reading

• What does the future hold for network access control products?

  Network access control (NAC) products can be a valuable part of a company's security strategy, provided NAC is not oversold. Discover when you should – and should not – recommend using NAC products on your client's network.  Continue Reading

• How can service providers help with IT risk management?

  IT risk management is an important part of any company's IT strategy, and service providers are well positioned to help. Learn how to speak to your customers about a larger IT risk management strategy, and not just threats and vulnerabilities. This ...  Continue Reading

• How do I help clients with end-user security policies?

  End user-security policies are important for any company. Depending on the corporate culture, some policies can be elaborate, while others will be less specific. Learn in this expert answer how to help your clients develop end-user security policies...  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of cluster replication in Exchange 2007?

  Learn why data replication took a leap forward with the Cluster Continuous Replication functionality in Microsoft Exchange Server 2007. Exchange Server Service Pack 1 adds Standby Cluster Replication to further reduce the risk of corrupting servers ...  Continue Reading

• How do I ensure proper information lifecycle management?

  Information lifecycle management – the proper use, archiving and ultimate disposal of data -- is important to any company. One reason is regulatory compliance. Learn about the information lifecycle and how VARs and consultants should advise ...  Continue Reading

• What should I know about green security?

  Green security emphasizes the role of security tools, methods and practices that reduce a company's environmental impact. It dovetails with a wider eco-friendly push in the consumer market, where "going green" is increasingly important. But is green...  Continue Reading

• How do I pick the right virtualization vendor for my clients?

  While many companies see virtualization as an easy choice to make, deciding which virtualization vendor to use is somewhat trickier. This expert response will help you determine whether VMware or Microsoft Virtual Server offers the best combination ...  Continue Reading

• How do I know when I have enough vendor partners?

  Vendor partners have obvious value, but they also involve a commitment of time and money on behalf of the VAR or consultant. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of having too many – or too few – vendor partners  Continue Reading

• What are some new systems channel business opportunities?

  While many VARs are pursuing the same channel opportunities, savvy VARs take the road less traveled. Learn in this expert answer about two relatively overlooked systems sales opportunities that can help VARs increase their profits this year and ...  Continue Reading

• How do I determine the right number of security vendor partners?

  A VAR relies on solid relationships with security vendor partners to help them grow their channel business. Some VARs partner with a handful of vendors, while others cast a much wider net. In this expert response, learn how VARs can strike the ...  Continue Reading