As a system administrator, maintaining peak performance requires a robust toolkit. Keeping up with new admin tools is challenging, especially when managing a company’s IT infrastructure. The constant tasks of monitoring and securing numerous computers and servers can become tedious and time-consuming.
SCCM
Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, formerly SCCM, is a Windows-centric endpoint management tool for devices in an Active Directory domain. It was traditionally on-premises but can now be cloud-hosted in Azure. Installed on a Windows Server, SCCM oversees endpoint management, utilizing agents on managed devices. Devices outside the corporate network often require VPN connectivity for updates, patches, and software distribution unless a cloud management gateway (CMG) is established to reduce VPN dependence. Beneath SCCM, WSUS caches and distributes patches, and an SQL database stores essential information for the system.
Intune (for mobile phones)
Microsoft Intune is a versatile mobile device management (MDM) service that secures and manages both corporate and personal devices. Its cloud-based platform simplifies device and app management across various devices, ensuring user access monitoring. Intune facilitates data protection on company and personal devices, adhering to the Zero Trust security model for enhanced compliance.
Splunk SIEM
Splunk is a software platform designed to search, analyze, and visualize machine-generated data from various sources in your IT infrastructure. It excels in real-time data processing, a significant selling point due to the stagnant nature of data movement compared to advancements in storage and processing capabilities. The platform is highlighted for its effectiveness in analyzing continuously generated data from machines. Splunk’s capabilities extend beyond real-time processing, making it a compelling tool for system monitoring and data analysis, promising a comprehensive solution for businesses seeking optimal performance and insights.
M365 Administration Console
The Microsoft Office 365 Admin Center serves as a web-based portal for administrators to manage user accounts and configuration settings for Office 365 subscription services. It is the primary interface for overseeing Office 365 services, including Exchange Online and SharePoint Online. While any user can be assigned as an administrator, businesses often designate traditional Exchange administrators for management tasks. Accessible through a web browser with administrative credentials, the Admin Center supports various management functions such as user, group, resource, billing, support, settings, reports, and health management. Administrators have the flexibility to customize the portal’s layout for convenience and preference.
VMWARE VCENTER
Mware vCenter Server is the central software for monitoring and managing resources in VMware vSphere virtual infrastructure. It handles tasks like resource provisioning, allocation, performance monitoring, workflow automation, and user privilege management. With vCenter Server, a vSphere administrator can efficiently manage multiple ESX and ESXi servers along with virtual machines through a unified console. Essential vSphere features like Distributed Resource Scheduler (DRS), High Availability (HA), Fault Tolerance (FT), and vMotion rely on vCenter Server for their functionality.
Meraki Cloud
Cisco Meraki functions as the Lego bricks for corporate networks, offering standardized parts and clear architecture references for seamless integration. It democratizes software-defined networking, empowering administrators to construct network configurations through a cloud-based user interface. Once devices are connected to the internet, they automatically apply the configuration without prior setup. This user-friendly approach allows administrators to make ongoing configuration changes, confident that devices promptly adhere to their commands throughout the network’s lifespan.
Wireshark
Wireshark stands out as an invaluable tool for IT professionals, serving as the primary network packet capture tool. It enables the detailed capture and display of network packets, facilitating both real-time and offline analysis. Wireshark acts as a microscope for network traffic, allowing users to filter, drill down, and zoom in to identify the root causes of issues. With its capabilities for network analysis and enhancing security, this free Wireshark tutorial guides users on capturing, interpreting, filtering, and inspecting data packets for effective troubleshooting.
KeePass
KeePass is a free and open-source password manager that securely stores and manages passwords for various online accounts. Users can create a master password to access their encrypted password database. KeePass employs strong encryption algorithms, providing a secure and convenient solution for organizing and retrieving passwords. It supports the generation of complex passwords and can be used across different platforms. KeePass enhances password security by promoting the use of unique and strong passwords for each account.