In-Depth Features


Get Serious About Securing IE

Internet Explorer is one of the most used products in nearly every environment, but most administrators know little about how to tune it for best performance and safety.

Smoke, but No Fire for TCO

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is a concept touted by Microsoft and various Linux vendors as proof that their products are cheapest to run. But TCO claims aren't what they're cracked up to be, and most IT shops never use TCO, or just plain do it wrong.

Test Drive a Better Browser

These alternatives to Microsoft's Internet Explorer can add Web-browsing muscle, but they're not without potential problems.

Salaries Finally Up for MCPs According to 2005 MCPmag.com Survey

Readers report a significant increase in salary over last year's survey results.

A Vertical Strategy Pays Off

Streamline Systems finds success with its exclusive focus on Axapta ERP for industrial manufacturers.

On the Right Path

InfoPath helps customers automate and manage the process of gathering and sharing data.

Getting in the Groove

Now that it's under the Microsoft umbrella, partners see a bright opportunity in Groove Networks' collaboration technology.

A SQL Better Than the Original

SQL Server 2005 will raise the bar in terms of integration and standardization.

And the Winner Is ...

Competition for Microsoft's Partner Program Awards is fierce, but winners like Jason Martin of Navantis say the benefits far outweigh the costs—and that the secret to winning is no secret at all.

Collaboration Nation

SharePoint Portal Server 2003 is making it easier for your customers to work together.

6 Essential Microsoft Partner Tools

Reap the benefits of Microsoft's $1.7 billion investment in its Partner Program using these resources designed to help you do what you do best.

Taking the Partner Pulse

Our 2005 Partner Survey reveals members of the Microsoft Partner Program are mostly a happy, loyal lot. But there's room for improvement in areas ranging from pricing and licensing to accessibility and security.

Microsoft Realigns PAMs to Help Partners Go Vertical

Partners are generally receptive to the idea of streamlined account team regions and vertically focused partner account managers.

Solution Selling

Matt Scherocman saw his profits soar after adopting the Microsoft Solution Selling sales methodology. Here's how you, too, can use it to cement customer relationships and boost profitability.

Truckin' for Customers

The Microsoft Across America program helps partners score big with product demos aboard technology-laden RVs -- it's just a matter of knowing the ropes.

Selling -- and Profiting -- from SA

While controversial and sometimes confusing, Microsoft's Software Assurance (SA) licensing program can be a lucrative revenue stream for your business. The trick is learning the ins and outs and explaining them to potential clients.

Building a Core Competency

Kevin Teder of Inrange Consulting knows that developing expertise in a chosen field can help grow his business. Learn how he and others chose sensible core competencies and developed the know-how to make them pay.

Partnering for Success

Teaming with other partners can help you solve more customer problems— and generate more revenue. Here's how to do it effectively.

The Partners' Partner

Allison Watson, head of the Microsoft Partner Program, tackles issues from licensing and marketing to program changes, while offering her take on how to get the most out of Microsoft -- and grow your business.

Next Level of Instant Messaging

Microsoft's Live Communications Server 2005 can help your customers manage internal messaging, while staying connected to outside users running MSN, Yahoo! or AOL.