Steve Schofield Weblog http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofieldSteve Schofield WeblogSystem Center and Windows 2012 R2 noteshttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/system-center-and-windows-2012-r2-notes<p>I got a new shiny machine at home with lots of RAM, Disk space and six cores.  This allowed me to setup the following environment</p> <ul> <li>Two host machines running windows 2012 R2 with hyper-v</li> <li>1 domain controller </li> <li>1 Server running System Center 2012 R2 Orchestrator</li> <li>1 Server running System Center 2012 R2 operations manager</li> <li>1 Server running System Center 2012 R2 configuration manager</li></ul> <p> </p> <p>I downloaded the evaluations from MSDN and evaluation center.  </p> <p>OS<br><a title=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/dn205286.aspx” href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/dn205286.aspx”>http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/dn205286.aspx</a></p> <p>SCCM<br><a title=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-US/evalcenter/dn205297″ href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-US/evalcenter/dn205297″>http://technet.microsoft.com/en-US/evalcenter/dn205297</a></p> <p>I downloaded <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn249519.aspx” target=”_blank”>Orchestrator</a> and <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn249519.aspx” target=”_blank”>SCOM</a> from MSDN</p> <p>For the most part, everything installed cleanly.  A few to-do’s I have yet to confirm and figure out</p> <ul> <li>Windows firewall being enabled</li> <li>SQL RM0 Error when installing SCCM.  I found the sqlclini.msi was zero byte file.  I downloaded an SCCM 2012 SP1 version.  Once I copied the <a href=”file://\server1$AppsSC2012_R2_PREVIEW_SCCM_SCEPSMSSETUPBINX64sqlncli.msi”>\server1$AppsSC2012_R2_PREVIEW_SCCM_SCEPSMSSETUPBINX64sqlncli.msi</a>, SCCM installed cleanly.  </li> <li>I’ve also ran into a couple issues where the default gateway wouldn’t set, one on my domain controller.  After I ran route delete 0.0.0.0 and set it manually a couple times, things worked.  </li></ul> <p> </p> <p>I’m in the process of adding SCVMM 2012 R2 to another server.  I have to P2V my one host, which is running windows 2012 w/SP1.  This will allow me to learn the P2V and also update my one host to Server 2012 R2.  I tried to allow live replication between my one host running 2012 SP1 and 2012 R2.  I get an error.  I’m not a VM guru, so this hopefully learn a bit more about SCVMM, <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh546834.aspx” target=”_blank”>App Controller</a></p> <p>Other goals…</p> <ul> <li>Learn OSD</li> <li>Live Replication</li> <li>P2V</li> <li>SCCM Application module</li> <li>APM management pack</li></ul> <p> </p> <p>Stay tuned for more blog posts.  Oh btw, I’ll be tinkering with <a href=”http://blogs.msdn.com/b/benjaminperkins/archive/2013/06/25/what-s-new-in-iis-8-5.aspx” target=”_blank”>IIS 8.5 and the new logging features</a></p> <p>Happy Geeking,</p> <p>Steve Schofield</p> <p>Microsoft MVP – IIS</p>Wed, 10 Jul 2023 03:12:43 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/system-center-and-windows-2012-r2-notesAdventure with OEM desktop pre-staged win 8http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/adventure-with-oem-desktop-pre-staged-win-8<p>Oh the stories I could talk about regarding win 8 pre-loaded on a OEM box.  A few weeks back I picked up a nice desktop (refurb) for under $500.  It’s a 1.5 TB HD, 10 GB ram, 6 core processor.  Besides this being an awesome box with lots of goodies, I can’t believe the price.  Anywho, the reason I like to have such a decent box is play with software, usually the latest and greatest. Any geek usually has a little rouge setup in their house to test things like beta releases or do other crazy stuff they can’t or won’t do in a hosting or enterprise setting.  </p> <p>When my box arrived, I was pretty geeked.  Being a lifelong server based IT geek, the first thing was to get rid of win8…..or so I thought.  I popped the disk into the drive, booted up, and I got this error….”</p> <p><strong>”The product key entered does not match any of the Windows images available for installation. Enter a different product key”</strong> <p>I’ve been out of the server OS build business a while, so I searched around and found on new win8 OEM boxes, the license key is embedded to the firmware…smart I’d say.  The down side, there is a particular order checking for the license key.  In my case, using a DVD was something I’ve done in the past on other machines.  Guess, MS wanted to make it a little harder.  Who knows!  <p>The end result I packed the machine up and set on the shelf for three weeks while I traveled.  It seemed to come down to the point I needed to build an unattended install to get my Server OS to boot to the DVD and look for the license key, bypassing the BIOS lookup.  The unattended install could use <a href=”http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/dd371719(v=vs.85).aspx” target=”_blank”>DISM</a> or <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc722145(v=ws.10).aspx” target=”_blank”>imageX</a>.  Being rusty at building an unattended install, all I wanted to do was load a server OS like I’ve done in the past using a DVD.  I guess this machine wasn’t meant for win 2012 RTM.  <p>Windows Server 2012 R2 to the rescue, I think.  The Beta version came out when I got back from traveling, I downloaded the iso and was able to get past the activation error.  I went through the BIOS and made sure the legacy boot was enabled, secure boot was disabled.  then I was able to install.  There was some other option in the bios about enter keys.  All I know, if this had not of worked, a flavor of linux would have went on there along with virtual box  or some other virtual hypervisor.   MS, I hope you don’t continue to make things harder for a long time follower.  Luckily, IIS 8.5 had some new features I wanted to try out!  I guess this is a bit of a rant, but overall, the machine is online and I can start to use it. <p>Cheers and happy geeking! <p>Steve Schofield<br>Microsoft MVP – IIS</p>Wed, 03 Jul 2023 00:45:55 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/adventure-with-oem-desktop-pre-staged-win-8June 2013 IIS Newsletter edition publishedhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/June2013NewsletterPublishedHi All IIS Administrators, <br> <br> The June 2013 #IIS Newsletter edition published <br> <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/june2013.html”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/june2013.html</a> <br> <br> Enjoy <br> Steve Schofield <br> Microsoft MVP – IIS Sat, 29 Jun 2023 15:30:25 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/June2013NewsletterPublishedIIS Community Newsletter-March 2013 newsletterhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-community-newsletter-march-2013-newsletter<p>The latest edition of IIS newsletter is available.  Lots of great links and information!</p> <p><a title=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/march2013.html” href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/march2013.html”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/march2013.html</a></p> <p>Thank you,<br><br>Steve Schofield<br>ASP.NET/IIS MVP<br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a><br><br>Rick Barber<br><a href=”http://rick.barberfamilyonline.com”>http://rick.barberfamilyonline.com</a>Fri, 29 Mar 2023 04:46:29 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-community-newsletter-march-2013-newsletterEvaluate IISLogshttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/evaluate-iislogs<table class=”tblStd” cellspacing=”0″ cellpadding=”0″ width=”100%” border=”0″> <tbody> <tr> <td class=”msgSm” valign=”top”> <h2>Download IISLogs 30-day evaluation (This is a full version trial.)</h2> <h3>Three versions to choose from (1 Stand-Alone EXE , 1 – Windows Service Versions).</h3> <ul><span style=”color: #616161″ color=”#616161″> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/download/IISLogsSetupexe40.zip”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>Stand-Alone EXE 4.0 version</span></a> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/download/IISLogsSetupSVC40.zip”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>Windows Service 4.0 version</span></a> </span><br><span style=”color: #616161″ color=”#616161″> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/download/IISLogsSetupexe20.zip”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>Stand-Alone EXE 2.0 version</span></a> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/download/IISLogsSetupSVC20.zip”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>Windows Service 2.0 version</span></a> </span><br></li></ul> <h3>IIS Log Help links</h3> <ul> <li>Are you runing UAC (User Account Control?) <a href=”/uac.aspx”>Check out these articles.</a> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/help/iislogs40/123goconfigure.htm”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>Part 1 – 1,2,3 go configure – Install guide</span></a> – Article <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/help/iislogs40/123goconfigure2.htm”>Part 2 – 1,2,3 go configure – Post Install Configuration guide we use, gets you up and going in minutes</a> – Article<br><br> <li>Part 1 – <span style=”color: #616161″ color=”#616161″><a href=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qvX-uoCdA4″ target=”_blank”>1,2,3 Go configure – Download / Installation – Video</a></span> <li>Part 2 – <span style=”color: #616161″ color=”#616161″><a href=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE–1hp2lv0″ target=”_blank”>1,2,3 Go configure – Configuration – Video</a></span><br><br> <li><span style=”color: #616161″ color=”#616161″><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/help/index2.htm”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>IISLogs online help version</span></a></span> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/download/iislogshelp.chm”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>IISLogs compiled help file (downloadable) </span></a></li></ul> <h3>Windows Service Version Guide</h3>When the program starts, you’ll be prompted for the Configuration File, This will be used for either Windows Service version or Stand-alone EXE version Select IISLogsSVC.exe.config (Windows Service Version)<br> <ul> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/help/iislogs40/Getting_Started/WindowsService/”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>http://www.iislogs.com/help/Getting_Started/WindowsService/</span></a> </li></ul> <h3>Stand-Alone EXE Guide</h3><b></b><br>When the program starts, you’ll be prompted for the Configuration File, This will be used for either Windows Service version or Stand-alone EXE version Select IISLogs.exe.config (Stand-Alone EXE version) <br> <ul> <li><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/help/iislogs40/Getting_Started/Standalone/”><span style=”color: #990000″ color=”#990000″>http://www.iislogs.com/help/Getting_Started/Standalone/</span></a> </li></ul></td></tr> <tr> <td class=”msgSm” valign=”top”><span class=”style4″> <h3>Purchase information</h3> <ul> <li><strong>How do I obtain a full version license of IISLogs?</strong> </li></ul></span><span class=”style5″>After you have performed an evaluation of IISLogs. We recommend testing IISLogs in a non-production environment.  Visit our <a href=”/purchase.htm”>purchase page</a>, select the appropriate license pack, walk through the purchase steps.  <p>IISLogs support will be notified of the purchase.  We’ll respond to the notification with a “Welcome Aboard” message and full version license key.  You’ll deploy the license file to your server(s).  No activation or reinstall required.</p></span><span class=”style4″> <h3>Support</h3> <ul> <li><a href=”/support.aspx” color=”#990000″>How to Contact Support<span></span></a> </li></ul> <p> </p></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Fri, 29 Mar 2023 01:38:34 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/evaluate-iislogsIIS Logs FAQhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-logs-faq<ul> <li><strong>What is IISLogs?</strong></li></ul> <p>IISLogs helps administrators and developers easily manage log files created by Internet Information Server 5.0,6.0 and 7.0/7.5/8.0. The component will provide configurable options compressing files using ZIP, and/or just deleting files after a configurable setting based on time. One of the benefits will help maintain and conserve precious disk space on servers. The architecture of IISLogs is based on file extension. In addition to IIS logs, our component can help manage many 3rd party application logs too.</p> <ul> <li><strong>How do I obtain a full version license of IISLogs?</strong> </li></ul> <p>After you have performed an evaluation of IISLogs.  Visit our <a href=”/purchase.htm”>purchase page</a>, select the appropiate license pack, walk through the purchase steps.  IISLogs support will be notified of the purchase.  We’ll respond to the notification with a “Welcome Aboard” message and full version license key.  You’ll deploy the license file to your server(s).  No activation or reinstall required. </p> <ul> <li><strong>How do I get a copy of the IISLogs component? </strong></li></ul> <p><a href=”/eval.aspx”>Visit evalution webpage</a> </p> <ul> <li><strong>What platforms will IISLogs run on?</strong></li></ul> <p>Windows XP Professional/Vista, Windows 2000/2003/2008/2008r2/2012 </p> <ul> <li><strong>What version of .NET Framework needed to run?</strong></li></ul> <p>.Net Framework 2.0, 4.0</p> <p><strong>What will this component do to the logfiles?</strong></p> <p>Based on a configurable time setting, it will zip and/or delete files Will IISLogs monitor multiple directories? Yes, it can monitor multiple directories or a single directory, the preference is yours. </p> <ul> <li><strong>Can I do this same option with VBScript, pkzip or winzip?</strong></li></ul> <p>Yes</p> <ul> <li><strong>How old does a file need to be before IISLogs will process it?</strong></li></ul> <p>Regardless of what feature you are using, IISLogs handles files 1 hour or older. For example, if the file last writetime was 12:00:00 AM (Midnight), you could set IISLogs to process the file at 1:01 AM. We encourage everyone testing IISLogs to install on a non-production system and learn what configuration works best. Always make a backup copy of log files before testing IISLogs or other 3rd party products.</p> <ul> <li><strong>How much will IISLogs cost?</strong></li></ul> <p>IISLogs is priced per machine. Enterprise, educational and volume licensing also available (contact <a href=”mailto:[email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected]</a> for more details). Pricing is the same for Stand-Alone EXE or Windows Service Version. <a href=”/purchase.asp”><br>Client here to purchase</a> </p> <ul> <li><strong>Will IISLogs component run as a Windows Service or a stand-alone EXE?</strong></li></ul> <p>There are versions (A stand-alone EXE and a Windows Service) – both of these are full versions.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Will IISLogs component require running as an Administrator credentials? </strong></li></ul> <p>This still has to be worked out for configuration, the default setting is targeted NOT to require running as an Administrator. It will require permissions to to the directories that Store Internet Information server and related log files. </p> <ul> <li><strong>Will IISLogs record logging information to central SQL Server?</strong></li></ul> <p>This is being considered, all current logging information is stored in a configurable log directory located on the local machine. Future enhancements will consider this option. The IISLogs internal log files are delimited so you could import using a tool like Excel or Access.</p> <ul> <li><strong>What are the main *features* of IISLogs?</strong></li></ul> <p>There are many options to configure IISLogs, each option provides their own configurable settings to provide flexibility. The first option will allow for monitoring one or more specific directories (c:wwwLogsw3svc1mySite). An additional option will monitor entire directory structures. Either option will ZIP and/or Delete files based on configured settings. IISLogs can be setup to JUST ZIP files and/or delete files in the same directory structure. What we mean by directory structures? This is simple, by default, Internet Information Server puts web log files in %SystemRoot%System32Logfiles directory with several sub-directories below. There could be sub-directories for FTP, SMTP and WWW services; they might be named such as (MSFTPSVC1, SMTPSVC1, W3SVC1, W3SVC2 etc.). This option provides to monitor all of these sub-directories. If your running many websites on the same server, you might have configured IIS to store these log files in a different directory (IE D:wwwlogs). IISLogs can monitor custom directory structures also. </p> <p>The second feature is to monitor the directories associated with the Microsoft SMTP Service. If your web applications use this functionality, these directories fill up with un-needed files. This feature is simple; it deletes files after a certain configurable date. This SMTP feature is effective in helping keep those directories free of 1000’s of bad emails and old files. </p> <p>The third feature is similar to the SMTP option; it will monitor specific directories and delete files based on its own configured setting. Why does IISLogs have this option when it can be setup in the first option? First of all, this option monitors just single directories not entire directory structures like the first option does. There are occasions where certain directories need to have different retention periods that other directory structures. This option provides for this very situation. File Naming Options allows for someone to control what the ZIP file is named. This is available in both the Stand-Alone and Windows Service version. <a href=”/perdirectory.aspx”>Per Directory</a> (Available in IISLogs 2.). </p> <ul> <li><strong>Does IISLogs read the IIS metabase to get any IIS settings? </strong></li></ul> <p>Yes, using the IISLogsGUI, part of the IISLogs suite, has a feature called EasyConfig that will read the metabase and automatically configure the required specific Directories. <br><br></p> <ul> <li><strong>Can I turn off detail logging? </strong></li></ul> <p>Yes, this will reduce the need to receive a daily email on what happened on that particular machine. This is only recommended if you want IISLogs to run and not be notified about what is happening on the machine.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Will IISLogs run if I *JUST* copy the directory to another server w/o first running the setup.exe? </strong></li></ul> <p>Yes, you can just copy the directory to another server without running the setup.exe as long as a few things are done. IISLogs is designed to be very easy to distribute and setup on many computers w/o manually installing on every machine. 1 – The server getting the files copied to is setup the same or similiar. the biggest thing is where the Log files are stored. From experience, shops with a lot of web servers typically store their web logs files in a central directory (such as D:Logfiles or D:wwwlogs). 2 – Below the InstallDirOfIISLogslogsPolicyAgreements directory is copied too. This is a security mechanism built into IISLogs to insure the administrator has thought through the configuration. IISLogs won’t ZIP or Delete files w/o these files being present. 3 – The IISLogs.exe.config has the appropriate log file paths on the target server. If you have further questions how to automate distribution of IISLogs w/o having to manually install on every machine, please contact <a href=”mailto:[email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected]</a> </p> <ul> <li><strong>Can I edit the IISLogs.exe.config using a generic text editor </strong></li></ul> <p>Yes except for the MailUID and and MailPWD values which ONLY can be done through IISLogsGUI. These values are stored in a encrypted format. </p> <ul> <li><strong>How do I unzip or uncompress several zip files so I can re-run my stats program like Deep Matrix or Web Trends? </strong></li></ul> <p>Use the built-in Windows 2003/XP to highlight and compress all ZIP files residing in the log file directories. If your using Windows 2000, you can use WINRAR or WINZIP to highlight and unzip/uncompress the files. <br><br></p> <ul> <li><strong>When configuring the specific options for IISLogs, will the MonitoredSpecificDirectories directories be used when trying to use the DeleteOnlySpecificDirectories? </strong></li></ul> <p>No, these features are complete separate configuration options, each Feature (MonitoredEntireDirectories, MonitoredSpecificDirectories) use one set duration parameters, <a href=”/help/Getting_Started/configuration_file.htm#Standard_Configuration_Options” target=”_blank”>https://iislogs.com/help/Getting_Started/configuration_file.htm#Standard_Configuration_Options</a> </p> <ul> <li><strong>SMTP feature has its own set of configuration options DeleteOnlySpecificDirectories has its own set of config options. What is the difference between The Delete Feature and Delete ONLY Specific Directories feature?</strong></li></ul> <p>This can be confusing at first but it was done with the intention to provide flexibility. The Delete Feature is part of the entire ZIP Process. This process allows someone the flexibility to ZIP files X number of days old and then after Y number of days delete files that are zipped. Imagine log files that are older than 7 days would be zipped, after 180 days old delete these zipped files. This is what the Delete feature does, its just part of the entire ZIP file process. You don’t have to delete files but the option is available. The Delete ONLY Directories feature is separate and intended for those who JUST want to have the option of deleting files w/o worrying about ZIP process. </p> <ul> <li>On the “Per Directory” what is the difference between the <strong>”Recursive”</strong> and <strong>”Include subdirectories”</strong>.</li></ul> <p>Recursive means it will start at a particular folder, such as c:wwwlogs and handle all sub-folders below the directory specified. It ‘recursively’ goes through all sub-directories and processes files based on rules specified. When recursive is selected, the ‘root’ folder isn’t processed. The ‘“Include subdirectories”’ options will process files in the ‘root’ folder specified, such as c:wwwlogs. </p> <ul> <li>Can you clarify how I should use ‘unknown extensions’.</li></ul> <p>We have an internal function that checks to ensure the file type isn’t a known Operating system type file. We have tried to document most known file types and not allow IISLogs to process these files. For example, if you have a file with a datetime extension or no file extension, the ‘unknown extensions’ would help process these types of files. We recommend you carefully evaluate in a test environment before you enable this feature. Also, ensure you have backups to ensure if a file is processed, you can restore it.</p> <p>Best regards,<br><br>Steve Schofield<br>Windows Server MVP – IIS<br><a href=”http://weblogs.asp.net/steveschofield”>http://weblogs.asp.net/steveschofield</a></p> <p><a href=”/”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a><br>Log archival solution.<br>Install, Configure, Forget</p>Sun, 24 Mar 2023 00:28:28 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-logs-faqConfiguring IISLogs 2.0 to work with UAC (User Account Control)http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/configuring-iislogs-2.0-to-work-with-uac-user-account-control<font size=”2″><a href=”/iislogs4uac.aspx” target=”_blank”><em>Looking for IISLogs 4.0 UAC article?</em></a></font> <p> </p> <h2>Configuring IISLogs 2.0 to work with UAC (User Account Control)</h2> <p><a href=”/download/iislogs2regfiles.zip” target=”_blank”>Download Registry Files</a></p> <p>This article covers how to use  IISLogs 2.0 while UAC (UAC Account Control) is enabled.  UAC was introduced with Vista and Windows Server 2008.   From questions we’ve seen from our clients, Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 appears to be implementing UAC more often.  For more information about UAC, <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc709691(WS.10).aspx”>click here</a>. </p> <p>IISLogsEXE Stand-Alone EXE and Service uses two configuration files, IISLogsEXE.exe.config, IISLogsSVC.exe.config.  A third file called SampleZipPerDirectory.xml stores <a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/perdirectory.aspx”>Per Directory</a> information.  IISLogsGUI is used strictly to manage these files.  When you first install IISLogs, then launch IISLogsGUI, a feature called “QuickConfig” checks for a registry entry in <strong>HKLMSoftwareIISLogs</strong>. If the registry key is not present, our intention is to present a Quick Config” when first configuring IISLogs.  Quick Config reads the local IIS Metabase (The IIS 6 Metabase Compatibility role service is required to be installed), which retrieves a list of sites that can be managed.   The “Quick Config” wizard walks through common configuration items.  After “Quick Config” is complete, IISLogsGUI writes to the registry IISLogs is installed. QuickConfig can be used in future instances within IISLogsGUI, but won’t be presented when IISLogsGUI is used.   UAC (user account control) prevents access reading or writing to the registry unless using elevated permissions.  If you are trying to configure IISLogs using the default UAC, you’ll get some unexpected behavior including errors.   I’ve tried to highlight the reason why along with screenshots.    These symptoms and errors occur right after installing either IISLogsEXE or IISLogsSVC and running IISLogsGUI,</p> <p>Assuming you have websites configured on your server, the QuickConfig wizard will not display any sites, here is a screen shot.  This is because IISLogsGUI can’t read the metabase.   To get by this issue, click cancel twice to get IISLogsGUI to display.  </p> <p><img src=”/articles/uac20/img4.jpg”></p> <p>After you have clicked cancel twice, IISLogsGUI will come up.  When you try to configure any settings, an error will be displayed.   There is a few things happening, 1) Access to Write to configuration files mentioned above is denied 2) IISLogsGUI can’t write to the “Logs” folder under InstallFolderIISLogsSVC2 or InstallFolderIISLogsEXE2.   </p> <p><img src=”/articles/uac20/img5.jpg”></p> <p><img src=”/articles/uac20/img6.jpg”></p> <p>At this point, IISLogs is not in a very usable state.  Many features such as “Auto-Add” will not function because access to metabase is denied.  Other functionality will be restricted as well.  </p> <p>Here are a few options.  Before proceeding with any of the options listed, we strongly recommend you perform this in a non-production to determine the best settings.  This includes performing a backup of your registry.  <a href=”http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322756″>http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322756</a></p> <p>1) Manually add the IISLogs registry entry to let IISLogsGUI know it’s installed.  This will prevent the QuickConfig from coming up.</p> <p><img src=”/articles/uac20/IISLogsRegistryInstalled.png”></p> <p>Create a file named <strong>IISLogsInstalled.reg</strong></p> <p>Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00<br><br>[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREIISLOGS]<br>”Installed”=”True”</p> <p>2) Grant the Users local group ‘modify’ NTFS permissions on the InstallFolderIISLogsSVC2 or InstallFolderIISLogsEXE2 folder and all subfolders.  You will also need to grant Users ‘modify’ access on all folders you want IISLogs to process, including log folders.   By Default, IISLogs only grants Administrators and SYSTEM full control.   This would require adding USERS group to log files can be processed.  The reason is because IISLogs would run as a “normal” user needing permissions.</p> <p>3) Our recommended approach is to add IISLogs processes to the AppCompatFlags registry key.  This allows programs to run under Administrator Privileges.   The only thing added to the system is multiple registry keys.  This can be either done manually or using Group Policy.</p> <p>For IISLogs 2.0 IISLogs StandAlone Exe</p> <p><strong>Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00<br><br>[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionAppCompatFlagsLayers]<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsEXE2\IISLogsGUI.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsEXE2\IISLogsEXE.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”</strong></p> <p>For IISLogs 2.0 Service edition</p> <p><strong>Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00<br><br>[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionAppCompatFlagsLayers]<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsSVC2\IISLogsSVC.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsSVC2\IISLogsGUI.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”</strong></p> <p>4) You can disable UAC on the system all together.   Depending on your company policies, if UAC is disable IISLogs 2.0 will act as normal.  </p> <p>If you have any further questions, errors that are occurring regarding UAC.  Please contact us at <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a>   </p> <p>Thank you,</p> <p><font color=”#616161″>Steve Schofield <br>Windows Server MVP – IIS <br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a> <br><br><a href=”http://www.IISLogs.com”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a> <br>Log Archival Solution. <br>Install, Configure, Forget</font></p>Sat, 23 Mar 2023 21:40:43 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/configuring-iislogs-2.0-to-work-with-uac-user-account-controlConfiguring IISLogs 4.0 to work with UAC (User Account Control)http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/configuring-iislogs-4.0-to-work-with-uac-user-account-control<meta content=”en-us” http-equiv=”Content-Language”> <h2>Configuring IISLogs 4.0 to work with UAC (User Account Control)</h2> <p><a href=”/download/IISLogs4RegFiles.zip” target=”_blank”>Download IISLogs 4.0 Registry files</a></p> <p>This article covers how to use IISLogs 4.0 while UAC (UAC Account Control) is enabled.  UAC provides additional security.  IISlogs 4.0 will work when one of the following options is implemented.  For more information about UAC, <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc709691(WS.10).aspx”>click here</a>. </p> <p>IISLogsEXE Stand-Alone EXE uses a configuration file called IISLogsEXE.exe.config, IISLogsSVC Windows Service uses IISLogsSVC.exe.config.  Both programs use a file called <em><strong>IISLogspPerDirectory.xml, </strong></em>which stores <a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/perdirectory4.aspx” target=”_blank”>Per Directory</a> information.  IISLogsGUI is used to strictly manage these files.  When you first install IISLogs, then launch IISLogsGUI, a feature called “QuickConfig” checks for a file called <strong>QuickWizardComplete.txt</strong> located InstallDirLogsQS.  Our intention is to present a <strong>Quick Config</strong> when first configuring IISLogs.  Quick Config reads the local IIS Metabase (Requires the <em>IIS 6 Metabase Compatiblity Role Service)</em>, which retrieves a list of sites that can be managed.   The “Quick Config” wizard walks through common configuration items.  After “Quick Config” is complete, IISLogsGUI writes to the <strong>QuickWizardComplete.txt</strong> file.  QuickConfig can be used in future instances within IISLogsGUI, but won’t be presented when IISLogsGUI is used.   </p> <p>UAC (user account control) prevents access reading or writing to the registry unless using elevated permissions.  If you are trying to configure IISLogs using the default UAC, you’ll get some unexpected behavior including errors.   I’ve tried to highlight the reason why along with screenshots.    These symptoms and errors occur right after installing either IISLogsEXE or IISLogsSVC and running IISLogsGUI.</p> <p>Assuming you have websites configured on your server, the QuickConfig wizard will not display any sites, here is a screen shot.  This is because IISLogsGUI can’t read the metabase.   To get by this issue, click cancel twice to get IISLogsGUI to display.  </p> <p><img src=”/articles/UAC40/img4.jpg”></p> <p>After you have clicked cancel twice, IISLogsGUI will come up.  When you try to configure any settings, an error will be displayed.   There is a few things happening, 1) Access to Write to configuration files mentioned above is denied 2) IISLogsGUI can’t write to the “Logs” folder under InstallFolderIISLogsSVC4 or InstallFolderIISLogsEXE4.   </p> <p><img src=”/articles/UAC40/img5.jpg”></p> <p><img src=”/articles/UAC40/img6.jpg”></p> <p>At this point, IISLogs is not in a very usable state.  Many features such as “Auto-Add” will not function because access to Metabase is denied.  Other functionality will be restricted as well.  </p> <p>Here are a few options.  Before proceeding with any of the options listed, we strongly recommend you perform this in a non-production to determine the best settings. </p> <p><strong>Add to Registry</strong></p> <p>1) Our recommended approach is add IISLogs processes to the AppCompatFlags registry key.  This allows programs to run under Administrator Privileges.   The only thing added to the system is multiple registry keys.  This can be either done manually or using Group Policy.  We’ve included the registry entries that need to be added.  We’ve provide sample registry files within the setup files when IISLogs is downloaded.  Please view the install location before adding to your machine. </p> <p>For IISLogs 4.0 IISLogs StandAlone Exe</p> <p><strong>Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00<br><br>[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionAppCompatFlagsLayers]<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsEXE4\IISLogsGUI.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsEXE4\IISLogsEXE.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”</strong></p> <p>For IISLogs 4.0 Service edition</p> <p><strong>Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00<br><br>[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionAppCompatFlagsLayers]<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsSVC4\IISLogsSVC.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”<br>”C:\Program Files (x86)\IISLogsSVC4\IISLogsGUI.exe”=”RUNASADMIN”</strong></p> <p>2) You can disable UAC on the system all together.   Depending on your company policies, if UAC is disable IISLogs 4.0 will act as normal. </p> <p>If you have any further questions, errors that are occurring regarding UAC.  Please contact us at <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a>   </p> <p>Thank you,</p> <p><font color=”#616161″>Steve Schofield <br>Windows Server MVP – IIS <br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield” target=”_blank”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a> <br><br><a href=”http://www.IISLogs.com”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a> <br>Log Archival Solution. <br>Install, Configure, Forget</font></p>Sat, 23 Mar 2023 21:18:37 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/configuring-iislogs-4.0-to-work-with-uac-user-account-controlIISpeed is a port of Google’s mod_PageSpeed designed to work with Microsoft”s IIS server softwarehttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iispeed-is-a-port-of-google-rsquo-s-mod_pagespeed-designed-to-work-with-microsoft-rsquo-s-iis-server-software<p>  <p>This looks real interesting and I thought I’d pass along.  <p>IISpeed is a port of Google’s mod_PageSpeed designed to work with Microsoft’s IIS server software. IIS is one of the most popular servers on the web, powering millions of web-sites, and we are excited to bring the full power of PageSpeed optimization to the Windows platform. <p>IISpeed works by minification and compression of HTML-code and resources, reducing the time spent while waiting for the transfer of a webpage to complete. At the same time IISpeed reduces the total number of requests, lowering server load and reducing waiting time even further. In practice, this translates to higher conversion rates, better end user experience and lowered server- and bandwidth needs. <p>For developers it does not matter which technology is used. Classic ASP, <a href=”http://asp.net/”>ASP.NET</a> and PHP all work with IISpeed.   <p>IISpeed was developed by We-Amp, a Dutch startup. The team at We-Amp works closely with Google on an NGINX port. All members have a strong background in web optimization. For example, in the past they also architected and implemented a proprietary port of mod_pagespeed to Apache Traffic Server. <p>IISpeed now has an open beta running. The software can be downloaded from <a href=”http://www.iispeed.com/”>www.iispeed.com</a>. <p><a href=”http://googledevelopers.blogspot.nl/2013/03/siteground-iispeed-and-google-chrome.html”>http://googledevelopers.blogspot.nl/2013/03/siteground-iispeed-and-google-chrome.html</a> <p>More information: <p><a href=”http://www.iispeed.com/”>www.iispeed.com</a> <p><a href=”http://www.we-amp.com/”>www.we-amp.com</a> <p>Contact: <p><a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a></p>Sat, 23 Mar 2023 12:38:22 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iispeed-is-a-port-of-google-rsquo-s-mod_pagespeed-designed-to-work-with-microsoft-rsquo-s-iis-server-softwareOrchestrator 2012 web service referencehttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/orchestrator-2012-web-service-reference<p>Over the last couple of years, I’ve been involved in the SCCM 2007/2012 realm and automation in general.  One of the other products within the System Center family is <a href=”http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh237242.aspx” target=”_blank”>System Center Orchestrator 2012</a>, which helps with automation.   One of the things that interests me is <strong>System Center 2012 – Orchestrator Web Service reference</strong></p> <p><a title=”http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh921667.aspx” href=”http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh921667.aspx”>http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh921667.aspx</a></p> <p>I’m trying to learn more in-depth, my latest adventure is trying to make all my calls from PowerShell to the web service to perform actions within Runbooks.   I hope future articles can go more in-depth.  </p> <p>For introduction, there is a <a href=”http://orchestrator.codeplex.com/releases/view/82959″ target=”_blank”>PowerShell module hosted on CodePlex</a> which provides a good starter module.  This article isn’t meant to teach PowerShell, I download the module and put in %SystemRoot%System32WindowsPowerShellv1.0Modules in a folder called Orchestrator and rename the module to Orchestrator.psm1</p> <p>Here is the code I currently use to connect and retrieve information.</p> <p>Import-Module Orchestrator<br>$Cred = Get-Credential<br>$URL = <a href=”http://Server:81/Orchestrator2012/Orchestrator.svc/”>http://Server:81/Orchestrator2012/Orchestrator.svc/</a><br><br>#Folder with the Runbook folders<br>$RunBookPath = “Automation.0″<br>$Runbook = Get-OrchestratorRunbook -serviceurl $url -runbookpath $RunBookPath -credentials $Cred</p>Mon, 18 Feb 2023 21:41:02 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/orchestrator-2012-web-service-referenceUpdated IISNewsletter.comhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/updated-iisnewsletter.com<p>Thanks to <a href=”http://rick.barberfamilyonline.com/” target=”_blank”>Rick Barber</a>, <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com</a> has been updated.  Previous newsletters can be viewed, bio’s about Rick and myself.  </p> <p>The IIS Community Newsletter is a monthly email-based newsletter containing the latest information and happenings in the Internet Information Services (IIS) community. Sign up today in the box on the right! </p> <p>Enjoy, </p> <p>Steve Schofield <br>Microsoft MVP – IIS</a></p>Sun, 20 Jan 2023 04:06:59 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/updated-iisnewsletter.comIIS Community Newsletter December 2012 edition publishedhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-community-newsletter-december-2012-edition-published<p><a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/december2012.html”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/december2012.html</a> is available. <p>Enjoy <p>Steve Schofield<br>Microsoft MVP – IIS</p>Tue, 01 Jan 2023 02:57:41 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/iis-community-newsletter-december-2012-edition-publishedNovember 2012 IIS Community Newsletter publishedhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/november-2012-iis-community-newsletter-published<p>A little late <img class=”wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile” style=”border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none” alt=”Smile” src=”http://www.iislogs.com/Media/Default/Windows-Live-Writer/November-2012-IIS-Community-Newsletter-p_F34D/wlEmoticon-smile_2.png”> , here is the link to the November 2012 IIS community newsletter.</p> <p><a title=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/november2012.html” href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/november2012.html”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/november2012.html</a></p> <p>Enjoy,</p> <p>Thank you,<br>Steve Schofield<br>Windows Server MVP – IIS<br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a><br><br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a><br>Log archival solution<br>Install, Configure, Forget <p>Questions on Microsoft SMTP Service – visit <a href=”http://www.smtp.ws”>http://www.smtp.ws</a><br>IIS Community Newsletter – visit <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com</a></p>Fri, 28 Dec 2022 22:19:36 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/november-2012-iis-community-newsletter-publishedProfessional Microsoft IIS 8http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/professional-microsoft-iis-8<p>I had the pleasure of being the technical editor for <a title=”http://amzn.to/Vcwwum” href=”http://amzn.to/Vcwwum”>http://amzn.to/Vcwwum</a>   This book is a must have for an IIS 8 administrator.  It’s chalked full of information not detailed as complete anywhere else I know of.   I’d highly recommend you pickup a copy, either an e-book or paperback copy.   I spent several months reviewing.  The authors are MVP’s and IIS team members spent countless hours putting together such a complete resource.   I hope you enjoy this as much as I did reviewing!</p> <p>Enjoy,</p> <p>Steve Schofield<br>Windows Server MVP – IIS<br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a><br><br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a><br>Log archival solution<br>Install, Configure, Forget <p>Questions on Microsoft SMTP Service – visit <a href=”http://www.smtp.ws”>http://www.smtp.ws</a><br>IIS Community Newsletter – visit <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com</a></p>Fri, 28 Dec 2022 22:17:40 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/professional-microsoft-iis-8Windows Server 2012 aka my desktophttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/windows-server-2012-aka-my-desktop<p>For years, my main desktop has been a server operating system.   My job involves me working with server operating systems, not client.  When Microsoft decided to get rid of the start button.  I had to refer back to my Windows 3.11 days and Program groups, no start button there.  Since then, every other version has included the start button.   I’ll admit, of all of the little things, this turned me off in the beginning.   For years and many versions, Microsoft gave users a gazillion different options to customize about every other option available.  Not anymore.  Do I thank Apple for this?! <img class=”wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-disappointedsmile” style=”border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none” alt=”Disappointed smile” src=”http://www.iislogs.com/Media/Default/Windows-Live-Writer/Windows-Server-2012-aka-my-desktop_12149/wlEmoticon-disappointedsmile_2.png”>   </p> <p>With the invention of Windows 8/ 2012, the start button is gone.  It’s been an adjustment I’ll admit having the UI on a server OS, I’d prefer not having a touch based UI on a server, it’s unnecessary and especially if you RDP into the server, RDP isn’t touch enabled.  I got over this phobia, but was an adjustment.  I’ve adjusted after a few days getting all my programs pinned to the task bar, so I don’t have to view the tiles much.  I installed the following apps with no issues.  One thing I can’t find or haven’t look to hard is the snipping tool. I’m sure it’s there, but I haven’t found it yet.</p> <ul> <li>FileZilla (I used FTP/S occasionally to servers on the web)</li> <li>Windows Live Writer (blog writing software Make sure to get Essentials 2012, not 2011)</li> <li>SQL Server 2012</li> <li>Hyper-V</li> <li>IIS 8</li> <li>Office 2010</li> <li>Visual Studio 2010 w/sp1 (haven’t gotten the urge to switch to VS 2012 yet)</li> <li>Orchestrator 2012</li></ul> <p> </p> <p>I ran into an interesting thing when trying to load my first VM that was also Windows Server 2012.  When it was first booting up, I would get this white dialog box, and a outline of a button, no text would display and windows would get stuck stating “Setup is starting”.  After a while, nothing would happen, I would click the outline of the button and would stick on this saying.   The fix appears to be I didn’t allocate enough initial memory (or the minimum required).  It would have been nice to know that without guessing. <img class=”wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile” style=”border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none” alt=”Smile” src=”http://www.iislogs.com/Media/Default/Windows-Live-Writer/Windows-Server-2012-aka-my-desktop_12149/wlEmoticon-smile_2.png”>  </p> <p>Anyway, I’m still getting used to the new setup, but adjusting.  I have to give Microsoft credit on one hand to going a different direction than the industry, I just hope the new path doesn’t lead them to driving off the cliff.  Windows Server 2012 is definitely worth checking out, there is a lot to learn.  I thought I’d pass along my initial thoughts on my OS upgrade (aka my desktop), which is a HP PC with 6 GB of RAM, i3 (4 core) and 500 GB drive.  </p> <p>Hope this helps, anything else I find I’ll pass along.</p> <p>Cheers,</p> <p>Steve Schofield<br>Microsoft MVP – ASP.NET/IIS<br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a></p>Thu, 08 Nov 2022 01:53:56 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/windows-server-2012-aka-my-desktopOctober IIS Community Newsletter has been publishedhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/october-iis-community-newsletter-has-been-published<p>Hi All, <p>The October IIS newsletter has been published. <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/october2012.html”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com/archive/october2012.html</a> <p>Thank you,<br><br>Steve Schofield<br>Windows Server MVP – IIS<br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield”>http://www.iislogs.com/steveschofield</a><br><br><a href=”http://www.iislogs.com/”>http://www.IISLogs.com</a><br>Log archival solution<br>Install, Configure, Forget <p>Questions on Microsoft SMTP Service – visit <a href=”http://www.smtp.ws”>http://www.smtp.ws</a><br>IIS Community Newsletter – visit <a href=”http://www.iisnewsletter.com”>http://www.iisnewsletter.com</a>Thu, 01 Nov 2022 10:04:50 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/october-iis-community-newsletter-has-been-publishedSystem Center Orchestrator 2012 sp1 beta VHDhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/system-center-orchestrator-2012-sp1-beta-vhd<p>I’m evaluating the system center orchestrator 2012 beta 1.  Here is a pre-done VHD.  I wish they’d just give me the bits <img style=”border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none” class=”wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile” alt=”Smile” src=”http://www.iislogs.com/Media/Default/Windows-Live-Writer/System-Center-Orchestrator-2012-sp1-beta_13D1D/wlEmoticon-smile_2.png”>   </p> <p>System Center 2012 Service Pack 1 Beta – Orchestrator – Evaluation (VHD)<br><a href=”http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=34778″>http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=34778</a></p> <p><em>This download consists of files that you extract into a single pre-configured VHD file for this System Center component. The VHD enables you to create a virtual machine to evaluate the different System Center components.<br></em><em></em></p> <p>Enjoy,</p> <p>Steve</p>Sun, 21 Oct 2022 02:36:13 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/system-center-orchestrator-2012-sp1-beta-vhdStatus message query for retrieving from within CM 2012http://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/status-message-query-for-retrieving-from-within-cm-2012<p>Here is a status query I use to see status messages in Configuration Manager 2012 like you do normally in SCCM 2007.</p> <p>select SMS_StatusMessage.*, SMS_StatMsgInsStrings.*, SMS_StatMsgAttributes.* from  SMS_StatusMessage left join SMS_StatMsgInsStrings on SMS_StatMsgInsStrings.RecordID = SMS_StatusMessage.RecordID left join SMS_StatMsgAttributes on SMS_StatMsgAttributes.RecordID = SMS_StatusMessage.RecordID where SMS_StatusMessage.MachineName = “ServerX”</p> <p>Steve</p>Sat, 20 Oct 2022 02:17:23 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/status-message-query-for-retrieving-from-within-cm-2012Orchestrator Goldhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/orchestrator-gold<p>The internet today is a vast amount of unorganized data although Google helps some. This reminds me of watching a TV show called “<a href=”http://dsc.discovery.com/tv/gold-rush-alaska/” target=”_blank”>Gold Rush</a>”.  For those not familiar, it’s a group of guys who started on a journey a few years ago with no knowledge how to dig for gold.  They put together some equipment, went north to Alaska and started digging.  For months, they stumbled, bumbled and didn’t find much gold.  They moved massive amounts of earth only to find enough gold to fill a coffee cup.   I give them credit for taking the risk and at least trying it, not many people would <img style=”border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none” class=”wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile” alt=”Smile” src=”http://www.iislogs.com/Media/Default/Windows-Live-Writer/da7ed53e1547_4A13/wlEmoticon-smile_2.png”>.</p> <p>Finding information on the internet is like this, there is so much information (dirt) to filter through. I’ve never been a regular user of RSS feeds although when coming up to speed on technologies, I like to join as many feeds, forums, email lists as possible. I review them periodically to pick up tips and look for ideas, and answers to any issues I might run across. It’s amazing reading other people’s issues how much you learn and for me, helps understand things better. </p> <p>Thankfully with a few tools, I can find Orchestrator articles, tips and links.  I found <a href=”http://feedreader.com/” target=”_blank”>FeedReader</a> has an offline reader as well as an Online option.   I created a few search terms using their smart search option.  I used Orchestrator, Orchestrator 2012, Scorch, Opalis, System Center Orchestrator, Runbook and was amazed the speed it retrieved the results to a central spot.  I also use a Twitter Feed as a secondary means to finding information.  Here is the search <strong>“#scorch OR #orchestrator2012 OR #Orchestrator OR #SCO2012”</strong> I use.  Twitter is pretty noisy although I do pickup a GEM or two of information.  I review this feed about once a week.   One other GEM I found is the <a href=”http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/category/systemcenterorchestrator” target=”_blank”>forums on Microsoft for Orchestrator</a> (there are 6 individual forums) discussing various topics.  Each individual forum has an RSS feed.  Now I can review the forums among other information searched all in one spot.  This is about as much information as one can process (and make it useful).  </p> <p>In conclusion, this is just a start of learning a technology, although it’s a niche product right now, Microsoft appears to be positioning Orchestrator as a key tool to achieve many things across all their products.  If you have a tip, a cool website or place for information regarding Orchestrator 2012, pass it along.  </p> <p>Until Next time,</p> <p>Steve Schofield<br>Microsoft MVP – ASP.NET/IIS</p>Fri, 19 Oct 2022 09:44:50 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/orchestrator-goldBeginnings of System Center 2012 orchestratorhttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/beginnings-of-system-center-2012-orchestrator<p>I’ve been lucky enough to start messing around with System Center 2012 Orchestrator (previously known as Opalis).   One of my roles these days in IT is automation, automation, automation.  Orchestrator main role is to automate those tasks identified as ‘routine’.  It literally took me all of 10 minutes to download from Technet, install on my DEV system and get going.   Microsoft couldn’t have made it any easier, or should I say the people from Opalis and MS tweaked for 2012. </p> <p>This is a short blog, I have a few low hanging fruit tasks I’m targeting first.  Here are a few links I wanted to pass along in my journey.   Hopefully as I’ve done with other technologies, pass any tips along!  </p> <p><strong>Orchestrator IP (integration packs) on Codeplex (The examples are really cool)</strong></p> <p><a href=”http://orchestrator.codeplex.com”>http://orchestrator.codeplex.com</a></p> <p><strong>Discussion forums</strong></p> <p><a title=”http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/category/systemcenterorchestrator” href=”http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/category/systemcenterorchestrator”>http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/category/systemcenterorchestrator</a></p> <p>I’m real new to the System Center community.  I attending MMS 2012 and went to everything Orchestrator</p> <p><strong>Few of the people to keep an eye our for is </strong></p> <ul> <li>Charles Joy ( Microsoft PM who did the examples posted on CodePlex)</li> <li>Ryan Andorfer (community member who has lots of Orchestrator knowledge)</li> <li><a title=”http://jmattivi.blogspot.com/” href=”http://jmattivi.blogspot.com/”>http://jmattivi.blogspot.com/</a></li> <li><a title=”http://blogs.technet.com/b/kevinholman/archive/2011/11/14/orchestrator-2012-quickstart-deployment-guide.aspx” href=”http://blogs.technet.com/b/kevinholman/archive/2011/11/14/orchestrator-2012-quickstart-deployment-guide.aspx”>http://blogs.technet.com/b/kevinholman/archive/2011/11/14/orchestrator-2012-quickstart-deployment-guide.aspx</a></li> <li>Of course hit <a href=”http://www.Google.com”>www.Google.com</a> or <a href=”http://www.Bing.com”>www.Bing.com</a>  (search scorch or orchestrator)  </li></ul> <p> </p> <p>PS – My favorite name is <strong>SCOrch.  If you perform it manual, SCOrch it!  </strong></p> <p><strong>Happy Scorching!</strong></p> <p><strong>Steve Schofield</strong></p>Mon, 08 Oct 2022 01:21:31 GMThttp://www.iislogs.com:80/steveschofield/beginnings-of-system-center-2012-orchestrator