Services and System Management
SMB over QUIC in Windows Server 2025 combines the robust Server Message Block (SMB) protocol with the modern QUIC transport protocol to deliver secure, low-latency, and reliable file sharing. This integration eliminates the need for VPNs, enhances encryption with TLS 1.3, and optimizes performance for remote and mobile users. Key benefits include faster data transfers, improved network reliability, and simplified deployment. Security is strengthened through PKI, AES encryption, and mutual authentication, while administrators can configure and automate settings using familiar tools like Group Policy and PowerShell.
This hands-on exercise guides administrators through configuring and enabling SMB over QUIC in Windows Server 2025. SMB over QUIC provides secure, efficient file transfers with reduced latency and built-in encryption, eliminating the need for VPNs. The steps include preparing the server, installing required roles and features, configuring certificates, adjusting firewall rules, and enabling SMB over QUIC. Administrators then validate the setup using PowerShell and diagnostic tools. This exercise strengthens practical skills in deploying secure file transfer protocols, optimizing performance, and ensuring compliance with modern cybersecurity standards.
Windows Server 2025 introduces Hotpatching integrated with Azure Arc, enabling administrators to apply updates without rebooting servers. This reduces downtime, enhances security, and ensures continuous availability. Azure Arc extends management capabilities across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments, enforcing consistent policies and compliance. Compatibility features in Windows Server 2025 allow seamless integration with legacy and modern infrastructures. The process includes preparing servers, executing hotpatches, validating updates, and monitoring system health. Together, Hotpatching and Azure Arc streamline lifecycle management, automate updates, and strengthen resilience against evolving cybersecurity threats.
Windows Server 2025 provides tools and strategies for selecting appropriate hardware, monitoring performance, and maintaining server efficiency. Understanding hardware components such as processors, memory, disks, network interfaces, graphics cards, cooling systems, and power supplies is essential for optimization. Performance monitoring tools like Performance Monitor, Resource Monitor, and Task Manager help administrators track and analyze server behavior. Establishing performance baselines and interpreting performance counters allow proactive detection of issues and continuous improvement. The chapter concludes with a practical exercise on analyzing performance logs and configuring alerts to ensure long-term reliability.
Windows Server 2025 provides IT professionals with tools and strategies to manage updates, troubleshoot issues, and ensure business continuity. This chapter highlights the importance of keeping the OS, drivers, and applications up to date, using methodologies for effective troubleshooting, and implementing disaster recovery plans (DRPs). Administrators can leverage Windows Update, WSUS, and Winget to maintain system security and performance. Event Viewer plays a central role in monitoring logs and diagnosing problems. By combining proactive update management with structured troubleshooting and continuity planning, organizations can minimize downtime, reduce financial losses, and maintain resilient infrastructures.
