Extend M365 Archive Quota capacity
In my organization, we are currently on the O365 E5 License with default 100GB mailbox size per user and 1.5TB archive quota. However, due to organizational policy and regulatory requirements, we are expected to keep all the data from inception. Hence, the requirement for a solution to extend our archive size from 1.5TB. From the official Microsoft documentation, https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/office365/servicedescriptions/exchange-online-archiving-service-description/exchange-online-archiving-service-description#archive-storage-quota the maximum expansion of the archive mailbox is 1.5TB. Is it possible to extend the archive storage to an Azure blob? Like an automated script that moves the data from the Archive mailbox for each user to the Azure blob or any other storage service that does not have storage size limitation. I am open to suggestions. ThanksHow to In-Place Upgrade Windows Server 2008 R2 to Windows Server 2019
As you know the Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 are out of support on January 14th, 2020. Customer will need to upgrade their Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 to a newer version of Windows Server or migrate these servers to Microsoft Azure.
Unified SecOps XDR
Hi, I am reaching out to community to seek understanding regarding Unified SecOps XDR portal for Multi-tenant Multi-workspace. Our organization already has a Azure lighthouse setup. My question is if M365 lighthouse license also required for the Multi-tenant Multi-workspace in unified SecOps XDR portal?
PublicFolder CN=Schema,CN=Microsoft Exchange System Objects,DC=contoso,DC=com
I'm in the preparation stage of migrating our Public Folders from an on-premises Exchange 2016 CU19 server to Exchange Online. Running the SourceSiceValidation.ps1 script outputs several orphaned MEPFs in our Active Directory, and I get a similar output from the ValidateMailEnabledPublicFolders.ps1. The recommendation is to delete the orphaned MEPFs, but I'm running into an oddity that I just don't feel comfortable deleting. There's a PublicFolder named "Schema" in our MESO OU, and it just feels wrong to delete anything named "Schema" in a database. Get-ADObject "CN=Schema,CN=Microsoft Exchange System Objects,DC=***,DC=***" | fl DistinguishedName : CN=Schema,CN=Microsoft Exchange System Objects,DC=***,DC=*** Name : Schema ObjectClass : publicFolder ObjectGUID : 9*******-8***-4***-8***-2*********** Any advice on how to determine if this object really is safe to remove? Thanks!
Migrate from SCCM 2012 R2 SP1 to Current Branch
Hey folks I am planning to migrate my System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager SP1 to the most recent Current Branch of System Center 2025, because the old version is still running on an old windows server version and we need to upgrade to a new windows Server 2025 and also the most recent current branch of configuration manager. Now the documentation for upgrading Configuration Manager https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/intune/configmgr/core/servers/deploy/install/upgrade-to-configuration-manager states, that upgrading from 2012 is only supported until Current Branch 2203; from 2303 on, you can't do the upgrade anymore. But since this "Important-Warning" message isn't shown on the migration article for Configuration Manager https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/intune/configmgr/core/migration/migrate-data-between-hierarchies I am wondering if this only applies to upgrading configuration Manager on the same host? Or does it also apply to the scenario where I do a side by side migration (Install latest windows server on a new VM, install latest Current Branch of Configuration Manager and then do a migration via data gathering and migration job). You would help me a lot, because I can't find official info about it and I am very concerned about not being able to do the migration from 2012 to Current Branch 2503.. :( So if it also applies to migration; I can still do migration to 2203 as described in the "migration" article with the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_0EwW-5b4E and then do an inplace upgrade from 2203 to 2503?Interface Views in Microsoft 365 Admin Center
1. Simplified View Purpose: Designed for small businesses or organizations with limited IT resources. Features: Streamlined dashboard with essential tasks like user management, license assignment, and password resets. Minimal configuration options to reduce complexity. Quick access to support and basic service health info. Use Case: Ideal for admins who need to perform routine tasks without diving into advanced settings. 2. Dashboard View (Advanced View) Purpose: Tailored for medium to large enterprises with complex IT environments. Features: Full access to all admin centers (Exchange, SharePoint, Teams, etc.). Advanced analytics, reporting, and configuration tools. Role-based access control and security management. Customizable widgets and navigation for personalized workflows. Use Case: Suitable for IT teams managing multiple services, users, and compliance requirements. Customization Needs Are there specific tasks we perform frequently that can be automated in the dashboard?Save Money on Deployment & Migration with Azure Hybrid Benefit
At the heart of this post is Kairos IMS, an innovative Impact Management System designed to empower human-serving nonprofits and social impact organizations. Co-developed by the Urban League of Broward County and our trusted technology partner, Impactful, Kairos IMS reduces administrative burdens, enhances holistic care, and enables organizations to leverage data for increased agility and seamless service delivery. In this blog series, we’ll take a closer look at the powerful technologies that fuel Kairos IMS, from Azure services to security frameworks, offering insight into how modern infrastructure supports mission-driven impact. Click here to learn more. Understand the process of claiming the Azure Hybrid Benefit. Reduce expenses and deploy at a lower cost. This guide will provide information on how to utilize the benefit effectively. How Nonprofits Can Utilize the Azure Hybrid Benefit Nonprofits often face the challenge of operating within tight financial constraints while striving to maximize impact. Balancing essential expenditures with critical investments can become even more complex when considering the adoption or expansion of cloud services. This is where the Azure Hybrid Benefit becomes a significant change, offering nonprofits an exceptional opportunity to optimize their IT budgets without compromising on scalability or performance. By leveraging this benefit, organizations can use their existing licenses for Microsoft software, such as Windows Server and SQL Server, to significantly reduce costs when deploying or migrating workloads to Azure. This not only streamline operations but also unlocks advanced technical capabilities, empowering nonprofits to focus their resources on driving their mission forward. In the following sections, we will delve into the step-by-step process for qualifying and claiming the Azure Hybrid Benefit, along with practical insights on maximizing its potential for nonprofit initiatives. Products & Services eligible for Azure Benefit Windows Server Standard (with active Software Assurance or valid subscription) Windows Server Datacenter (with active Software Assurance or valid subscription) SQL Server (leveraging existing licenses) Virtual Machines (require at least 8 core licenses for Standard or Datacenter per VM) Processor Licenses (equivalent to 16 core licenses) Did You Know? You can save up to 80% with Azure Hybrid Benefit on your workload. You will need to Deploy VMS from Azure Marketplace with the Windows Server images provided. You can convert a virtual machine using Azure Hybrid benefit to Pay-as-you-go for windows servers. If you need to learn more about Software Assurance and Volume Licensing Services Center, please see the following link: microsoft.com/Licensing/servicecenter/default.aspx. How To Qualify Software Assurance is a comprehensive Volume Licensing program. Software Assurance is only available through Volume Licensing and is purchased when you buy or renew a Volume Licensing agreement. This is one of the requirements unless you have an active subscription or Windows Server Standard or Windows Server Datacenter. To qualify for the Azure Hybrid Benefit please see the following: Azure License Windows Server Standard license or subscription with active Software Assurance. Windows Server Datacenter license or subscription with Software Assurance. You will need at least 8 core licenses for either Standard or Datacenter per VM. Processor Licenses are the same as 16 core licenses. With Azure Hybrid Benefit Windows Server and SQL Server customers can save up to 85% over standard pay-as-you go pricing. Use Azure Hybrid Benefit in Azure SQL platform as a service (PaaS) environment. SQL Server 1 to 4 vCPUs exchange: For every 1 core of SQL Server Enterprise Edition, you get 4 vCPUs of SQL Managed Instance or Azure SQL Database general purpose, or 4 vCPUs of SQL Server Standard edition on Azure VMs. Get 180 days of dual-use rights between on-premises and Azure. Usage Rights Windows Server Standard: Used either On-premises or in Azure (Hybrid) You cannot use both at the same time unless you are going to migrate your workloads to Azure. You can keep On-Premises for up to 180 days before you need to migrate to Azure. Windows Server Datacenter: You can simultaneously use Datacenter on both On-premises and in Azure indefinitely with VM licensing. Dedicated Host licenses let you use them both on-premises and in Azure, but only for 180 days after they are assigned to Azure. Unlimited Virtualization This means the right to use any number of Windows Server VMs on a host Windows Server Standard: Unlimited number of VMs hosted Azure with active Software Assurance or subscription for all physical core types. Windows Server Datacenter: Not available Azure Local Licenses Windows Server Datacenter with Enterprise Agreement (EA) with active Software Assurance or Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) subscription One license of Windows Server core license is equivalent to one physical core or Azure Local on servers in the Azure Local cluster. Use Rights License can only be used On-premises or on Azure local. Otherwise, you have 180 days to migrate your servers. Unlimited Virtualization Unlimited number of Windows Server can be deployed on the Azure Local cluster. Remember that each core license equals a physical core on the local cluster. Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) License You will need at least Windows Server 2019 or later or Azure Local Must have one type of License or Subscription Windows Server Standard with Software Assurance or subscription. Windows Server Datacenter with Active Assurance Use Rights It can be used both on On-premises or in Azure. Unlimited Virtualization No: Only on Azure Local or Azure Azure Hybrid Cost Savings Organizations can achieve cost savings by leveraging the Azure Hybrid benefit, which allows them to reduce infrastructure expenses while hosting workloads on Azure. Windows Server VMs: Windows Server licenses are covered. You pay the base rate for the virtual machine. Azure Local: Fees are waived on Windows Server subscriptions and Azure Local host with unlimited virtualization rights. You pay for Azure local hardware, Azure services and workloads. Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS): Azure Kubernetes clusters that run on both Azure Local and Windows Server free. However, Careful planning is essential when considering the migration of servers to the cloud. Without a well-thought-out strategy, organizations risk encountering unexpected costs, operational disruptions, and underutilized resources. Price estimations play a pivotal role in this process, allowing nonprofits and other entities to evaluate the total cost of ownership and make informed decisions. Accurate cost forecasting ensures that migration aligns with budgetary constraints while maximizing the value of cloud investments. By comparing pricing options and analyzing potential savings, organizations can identify the most sustainable path forward, ensuring that financial resources are directed toward impactful initiatives rather than unforeseen expenses. Reasons to Consider Cost efficiency: Optimize your budget by reducing hardware maintenance and operational costs. Scalability: Adapt IT infrastructure to meet changing demands without overprovisioning. Enhanced performance: Leverage advanced cloud technologies for better speed and reliability. Security improvements: Benefit from the robust security measures provided by cloud platforms. Focus on mission: Redirect saved resources toward achieving organizational goals. DISCLAIMER: All Azure-related cost estimations are approximate and intended for guidance only. Actual costs may vary depending on regional availability, selected services, and additional features. Users are encouraged to review specific pricing details to ensure alignment with their needs and budgets. Price Estimation & Calculator Portals Azure Hybrid Benefit Savings Calculator: Azure Hybrid Benefit - Hybrid Cost Calculator | Microsoft Azure Azure Windows Virtual Machines Pricing: Pricing - Windows Virtual Machines | Microsoft Azure Azure Kubernetes Services (AKS) Pricing: Azure Kubernetes Service on Azure Local pricing | Microsoft Azure Azure Local Pricing: Azure Local Pricing | Microsoft Azure Limitations Must have Software Assurance for Windows Server Standard or Windows Server Datacenter or you will need a subscription. If your Software Assurance or subscription expires you will need to renew your agreement before you can be eligible. Workloads can be deprovisioned without active subscription or Software insurance. Conclusion We have thoroughly discussed the initiation of Azure Hybrid Benefits. Additionally, we explored how it can provide financial savings during migration to Azure, utilize Azure locally, and select between on-premises or Azure workloads. Organizations can reduce their costs by up to 80%. By staying informed and proactive regarding subscription renewals and deployment options, they can ensure seamless operations and cost-effective solutions tailored to their requirements. It is advisable to delve deeper into these tools and advantages to maximize technological investments. Hyperlinks Azure Hybrid Benefit for Windows Server | Microsoft Learn Azure Hybrid Benefit - Hybrid Cost Calculator | Microsoft Azure Volume Licensing Service CenterQuest Tool Migrates Protected Email and Files Between Tenants
A new feature of the Quest On Demand migration suite supports the tenant-to-tenant migration of Exchange and SharePoint content protected by sensitivity labels. This might not seem a big deal, but it’s the first time that a migration product has been able to automatically move protected files and messages from one tenant to another, including files protected by sensitivity labels with user-defined permissions. https://office365itpros.com/2025/05/21/sensitivity-labels-t2t-migration/Google workspace migration - Automatic doesn't download the JSON while creating the migration endpoi
I recently came across an issue where the google workspace migration wasn't downloading the Json file. After a lot of struggle, I figured out that google by default blocks service account key creation. To resolve this, follow the below mentioned steps 1) login to https://console.cloud.google.com/iam-admin and select the root org 2) Add Organisation Policy Administrator role 3) Click on Organization policies and then search for "Disable service account key creation" and set the enforcement to OFF. 4) Now you should be able to download the JSON.
