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Mastering the 70-695 Exam: Fundamentals of Windows Device Deployment

The 70-695 Exam, officially titled "Deploying Windows Desktops and Enterprise Applications," was a crucial certification for IT professionals specializing in Windows deployment. Although this specific exam has been retired as part of Microsoft's shift to role-based certifications, the skills it validated remain highly relevant. Understanding the principles covered in the 70-695 Exam is essential for anyone managing modern desktop environments. This series will dissect the core concepts, providing a comprehensive guide to the knowledge required for deploying and managing Windows in an enterprise setting. We will explore the methodologies, tools, and best practices that formed the backbone of this certification.

This series is designed to act as a deep dive into the objectives that were central to the 70-695 Exam. We will cover everything from initial image creation and deployment strategies to post-deployment configuration and management. The content is structured to build your understanding progressively, starting with the fundamentals of device deployment in this first part. By mastering these foundational skills, you gain the ability to streamline operating system rollouts, ensure consistency across devices, and lay the groundwork for a secure and efficiently managed IT infrastructure, reflecting the core competencies tested in the 70-695 Exam.

Understanding Deployment Methods

A primary focus of the 70-695 Exam was the evaluation of different Windows deployment methods. Choosing the right strategy is critical and depends on the scale and nature of the organization. One common method is the "high-touch" or manual installation, where an administrator physically installs the operating system on each device using media like a USB drive or DVD. While simple for a few machines, this method is inefficient and prone to inconsistencies in a large enterprise. It offers maximum control over individual installations but lacks scalability, a key consideration for enterprise deployments.

For larger environments, the 70-695 Exam emphasized "lite-touch" and "zero-touch" deployments. Lite-touch installation (LTI) requires minimal interaction from the IT staff during the deployment process. Tools like the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) are central to LTI, allowing for the creation of customized images and automated task sequences that handle driver injection, application installation, and system configuration. This method strikes a balance between automation and control, significantly reducing the manual effort required for deploying hundreds of devices. It requires an administrator to initiate the process on the client machine, but the rest is automated.

Zero-touch installation (ZTI) represents the highest level of automation, a key topic for the 70-695 Exam. This method requires no manual intervention on the client device. It is typically achieved by integrating MDT with a more powerful management solution like Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (formerly SCCM). ZTI is ideal for large-scale enterprise deployments and refresh scenarios, as it allows administrators to deploy or upgrade operating systems to thousands of computers remotely and simultaneously. This approach ensures maximum consistency, reduces deployment time drastically, and minimizes disruptions for end-users, making it a powerful tool for enterprise IT.

Another important concept is dynamic deployment. This method allows for a single, generic base image to be used for various hardware models and user roles across the organization. During deployment, the system dynamically installs the necessary drivers, applications, and settings based on predefined rules and the detected hardware or user information. This approach simplifies image management significantly, as it eliminates the need to maintain multiple, hardware-specific images. Mastering dynamic deployment using tools like MDT was a critical skill for success in the 70-695 Exam, as it directly addresses the challenge of hardware diversity in modern enterprises.

Creating and Managing Windows Images

The foundation of any scalable deployment is a well-crafted operating system image. The 70-695 Exam placed significant emphasis on the creation and management of these images. An image is essentially a snapshot of an operating system, including its files, settings, and optionally, applications. The process typically starts with a "thin image," which contains only the base Windows operating system and necessary updates. This approach provides a clean slate, and customization occurs during the deployment process. Alternatively, a "thick image" includes the OS, updates, and all standard corporate applications, leading to faster deployment times but requiring more maintenance.

The primary tool for creating and servicing Windows images is the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. DISM is a command-line utility that can be used to mount a Windows Image (.wim) file and make changes to it offline. Administrators can use DISM to add or remove drivers, language packs, Windows features, and software updates directly into the image file without having to boot the operating system. This offline servicing capability is incredibly powerful for maintaining images over time, ensuring that newly deployed devices are up-to-date from the very first boot. Understanding DISM syntax and capabilities was a non-negotiable skill for the 70-695 Exam.

The process of building a reference image is a critical first step. This involves installing Windows on a virtual machine, configuring it to the company's standards, installing core applications, and running Sysprep (System Preparation Tool). Sysprep is crucial as it generalizes the Windows installation by removing computer-specific information like the computer SID (Security Identifier), making the image portable to other devices. After running Sysprep, the machine is shut down, and the prepared hard disk is captured into a .wim file using tools like DISM or MDT. This captured image then becomes the master or "golden" image for all subsequent deployments.

Image management extends beyond creation; it involves versioning, updating, and testing. As new software updates, security patches, and application versions are released, reference images must be regularly updated. This is where offline servicing with DISM proves invaluable. Maintaining a library of images, with clear version control and documentation, is a best practice. Before rolling out a new image version into production, it must be thoroughly tested in a lab environment to ensure compatibility with all hardware models and to verify that all applications function as expected. This lifecycle management of images was a key knowledge area for the 70-695 Exam.

Configuring the Windows Preinstallation Environment (Windows PE)

Windows PE is a lightweight version of Windows used to start a computer for the purposes of deployment and troubleshooting. It provides the initial environment from which the full Windows installation is launched. A core task for administrators is to customize the Windows PE boot image. This customization often involves adding necessary network and storage drivers to ensure that Windows PE can see the local disk and connect to the network deployment share. Without the correct drivers, the deployment process will fail before it even begins, as the target device will be unable to communicate with the deployment server or access its own hardware.

The 70-695 Exam required candidates to know how to modify the Windows PE image using tools like DISM. For example, an administrator might need to add drivers for a new model of network card that is not included in the default Windows PE image. This is done by mounting the boot.wim file, using the /Add-Driver command in DISM to inject the driver files, and then unmounting and committing the changes. Additionally, optional components can be added to Windows PE to provide extra functionality, such as support for PowerShell, HTA (HTML Applications), or WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation).

Beyond drivers and components, branding and scripting can be added to the Windows PE environment. For instance, a custom background image can be applied to provide a corporate look and feel during the deployment process. More importantly, custom scripts can be launched automatically when Windows PE starts. These scripts can perform tasks like partitioning the disk, prompting for a computer name, or connecting to a specific network share. This level of customization allows for a more automated and user-friendly deployment experience, a topic frequently covered in scenarios presented in the 70-695 Exam.

Once the Windows PE image is customized, it needs to be made available to client computers. This is typically done using Windows Deployment Services (WDS) or by creating bootable media like a USB flash drive or an ISO file. WDS allows computers to boot from the network using PXE (Preboot Execution Environment). When a PXE-enabled client starts, it contacts the WDS server, downloads the customized Windows PE boot image, and begins the automated deployment process. Understanding how to configure WDS and manage boot images was a critical skill for any deployment professional preparing for the 70-695 Exam.

Implementing Windows Deployment Services (WDS)

Windows Deployment Services (WDS) is a server role in Windows Server that enables the network-based installation of Windows operating systems. It is the successor to Remote Installation Services (RIS) and plays a pivotal role in both lite-touch and zero-touch deployment scenarios. A key function of WDS is its Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) provider, which allows client computers to boot from their network adapter. This eliminates the need for bootable media, allowing administrators to initiate OS deployments remotely for any machine connected to the network, a core concept for the 70-695 Exam.

Configuring WDS involves several steps. First, the WDS role must be installed on a Windows Server. The server must then be configured, which includes setting the path for the remote installation folder where boot images, install images, and drivers will be stored. WDS must also be configured to respond to PXE requests. Administrators can set it to respond to all clients, only known clients (prestaged in Active Directory), or to require administrator approval for unknown clients. This control is crucial for securing the deployment environment and preventing unauthorized OS installations.

WDS is used to store and serve two main types of images: boot images and install images. Boot images are the Windows PE images that start the computer and connect it to the deployment server. Install images are the actual Windows operating system images (.wim files) that will be installed on the client machine. An administrator can add multiple boot and install images to the WDS server, allowing them to deploy various versions and editions of Windows. For example, one could have boot images for both x86 and x64 architectures and install images for Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise editions.

Integration with other tools is a key aspect of using WDS effectively. While WDS can perform basic image deployment on its own, its true power is realized when combined with the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT). In this configuration, WDS is used primarily as a PXE server to boot clients into a generic MDT boot image. Once the client is running the MDT-customized Windows PE, MDT takes over the entire deployment process, running sophisticated task sequences that can install applications, drivers, and settings. This integrated approach was a central theme of the deployment strategies tested in the 70-695 Exam.

Leveraging the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT)

The Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) is a free, powerful tool that provides a unified collection of utilities, processes, and guidance for automating desktop and server deployments. It is not a deployment method in itself but rather a framework that orchestrates other tools like WDS, DISM, and the User State Migration Tool (USMT). The 70-695 Exam heavily emphasized MDT because it is the cornerstone of Lite-Touch Installation (LTI). It provides a central management console, called the Deployment Workbench, from which all aspects of the deployment process are controlled.

At the heart of MDT is the concept of a task sequence. A task sequence is a series of steps that are executed in order on the target computer. These steps can perform a vast array of actions, such as formatting the hard drive, applying the Windows image, installing drivers, installing applications, joining a domain, and enabling BitLocker. MDT provides a graphical editor to create and customize these task sequences, allowing administrators to build a highly automated and repeatable deployment process without extensive scripting knowledge. The ability to customize these sequences is a key skill.

MDT enhances deployment flexibility through its rules engine. The CustomSettings.ini and Bootstrap.ini files allow administrators to define variables and logic that control the deployment process dynamically. For example, rules can be written to automatically set the computer name based on its serial number, install specific applications based on the user's department, or connect to different deployment shares based on the computer's physical location (gateway). This dynamic configuration capability dramatically reduces the need for multiple task sequences and images, simplifying management and aligning with the principles of dynamic deployment.

Another critical feature of MDT is its driver management. MDT allows for the creation of a centralized driver repository. During deployment, the MDT task sequence can automatically identify the hardware of the target computer (using WMI queries for make and model) and inject only the specific drivers that it needs. This "total control" method of driver injection is far superior to including all drivers in the base image, as it keeps the image lean and avoids potential driver conflicts. Properly managing the driver repository and creating the logic for driver selection was a key objective for the 70-695 Exam.

Performing User State Migration

When deploying a new operating system, especially in a refresh scenario where an old computer is being replaced, preserving user data and settings is paramount. The 70-695 Exam required a thorough understanding of the User State Migration Tool (USMT). USMT is a command-line utility that allows administrators to capture user profiles, including files, folders, and specific application settings, from a source computer and restore them to a new computer running a fresh installation of Windows. This ensures a seamless transition for the end-user, minimizing downtime and support calls.

USMT consists of two main components: ScanState.exe and LoadState.exe. ScanState.exe is run on the source computer to collect the user data and settings. It then saves this information to a migration store, which is typically located on a network share. LoadState.exe is run on the destination computer after the new operating system has been installed. It reads the data from the migration store and applies it to the new machine, recreating the user's environment. The process is controlled by XML files (MigApp.xml, MigDocs.xml, and custom XML files) that define exactly what data should be migrated.

The real power of USMT lies in its customizability. While the default XML files migrate common user data and settings, administrators often need to create custom .xml files to capture settings for line-of-business applications or to exclude certain types of data. For instance, a custom XML file could be written to migrate specific registry keys associated with a proprietary application or to exclude all .mp3 files from the migration to save space and time. Writing and troubleshooting these custom XML files is a critical skill for any deployment administrator and a topic tested in the 70-695 Exam.

Integrating USMT into an automated deployment process with MDT is a standard practice. MDT has built-in task sequence steps for capturing and restoring user state. When a refresh task sequence is run, it automatically executes ScanState.exe to back up the user data to a state migration point (a network share) before wiping the drive and installing the new OS. After the new OS is installed and configured, the task sequence automatically runs LoadState.exe to restore the user's data and settings onto the fresh installation. This automation makes the entire refresh process highly efficient and reliable.

Introduction to Modern Device Management

Following the successful deployment of Windows devices, the next critical phase, and a significant component of the 70-695 Exam, is ongoing management and maintenance. In the modern IT landscape, this has evolved beyond traditional on-premises tools. Modern management encompasses a range of strategies, from classic Group Policy and Configuration Manager to cloud-based Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. The goal is to ensure that all devices remain secure, up-to-date, and compliant with corporate policies, regardless of their location. This part of our series focuses on the tools and methodologies for effectively managing the Windows device lifecycle post-deployment.

We will explore the paradigm shift towards co-management, where devices are managed by both Configuration Manager and a cloud MDM provider like Microsoft Intune. This hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds: the granular control and powerful software deployment of Configuration Manager for domain-joined machines, and the flexibility and internet-based management of Intune for remote and mobile devices. A deep understanding of how to configure and maintain this ecosystem, manage Windows updates as a service, and monitor device health were essential skills for any professional taking the 70-695 Exam.

Implementing Windows as a Service (WaaS)

The release of Windows 10 marked a fundamental shift in how Microsoft delivers and updates its operating system. The concept of Windows as a Service (WaaS) was introduced, moving away from major version releases every few years to a model of continuous, incremental feature updates. The 70-695 Exam required administrators to understand this new servicing model and how to manage it within an enterprise. WaaS means that devices receive two types of updates: smaller, monthly quality updates that include security and reliability fixes, and larger, semi-annual feature updates that introduce new functionality.

To manage this continuous flow of updates, Microsoft established servicing channels. The Semi-Annual Channel is the default for most devices, receiving feature updates twice a year. Organizations can use different rings within this channel (e.g., pilot, broad) to control the rollout, deploying updates to a small group of test users first before a wider deployment. For mission-critical systems requiring maximum stability, the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) is available. LTSC versions receive only quality updates and do not get feature updates, but they are released only every two to three years. Choosing the right channel for different device groups is a key strategic decision.

Successfully managing WaaS involves planning, testing, and deploying these updates in a structured manner. The first step is to create a deployment plan that defines the rings and timelines for the rollout. A pilot group of IT staff and tech-savvy users should receive the feature update first to identify potential compatibility issues with hardware or line-of-business applications. Based on their feedback, the deployment can be expanded to broader groups of users. This phased approach, often called creating deployment rings, minimizes business disruption and allows for issues to be addressed before they impact the entire organization, a core competency for the 70-695 Exam.

Tools for managing WaaS are a critical piece of the puzzle. Windows Update for Business (WUfB) is a cloud-based service that allows administrators to control update policies on devices via Group Policy or MDM. It provides controls for deferring updates, setting active hours to avoid reboots during work time, and defining servicing channels. For more granular control, organizations can use Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to approve and distribute updates from an on-premises server, or Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, which offers the most comprehensive set of features for scheduling, reporting, and managing the entire update deployment lifecycle.

Configuring Windows Update for Business (WUfB)

Windows Update for Business provides a simple yet powerful way for organizations to control how and when Windows 10 devices are updated directly from the Microsoft Update service. A key objective related to the 70-695 Exam was understanding how to leverage WUfB to manage the WaaS model without the need for complex on-premises infrastructure like WSUS. WUfB policies can be configured using Group Policy for domain-joined devices or through an MDM provider like Microsoft Intune for cloud-managed devices, offering flexibility for different management scenarios.

One of the primary functions of WUfB is the ability to create deferral policies. Administrators can defer the installation of feature updates for up to 365 days and quality updates for up to 30 days after they are released by Microsoft. This deferral period gives organizations time to test the updates for compatibility with their applications and hardware before they are rolled out to users. By setting different deferral periods for different groups of computers (deployment rings), administrators can create a phased deployment strategy, ensuring a smooth and controlled update process across the enterprise.

WUfB also allows administrators to pause updates if a problem is discovered during the rollout. Both feature and quality updates can be paused for a period of up to 35 days. This provides a crucial safety net, allowing an administrator to temporarily halt the deployment to all devices while they investigate and resolve an issue. Once the issue is addressed, the pause can be lifted, and the update deployment will resume. This control mechanism is essential for mitigating the impact of problematic updates on business productivity.

Beyond deferrals and pauses, WUfB includes settings to improve the end-user experience. Active hours can be configured to prevent Windows from automatically restarting a device to install updates during typical working hours. Deadlines can be set to enforce the installation of updates after a certain period, ensuring that devices do not remain in a pending-reboot state indefinitely. Understanding how to balance these settings to ensure both timely security patching and minimal user disruption was a key aspect of the device management skills assessed in the 70-695 Exam.

Managing Devices with Group Policy

For decades, Group Policy has been the cornerstone of Windows management in Active Directory environments. The 70-695 Exam required extensive knowledge of using Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to configure and enforce operating system and application settings for users and computers. GPOs allow administrators to centrally manage a wide array of settings, from password complexity and screen saver locks to software installation and registry modifications. By linking GPOs to specific sites, domains, or organizational units (OUs) in Active Directory, policies can be targeted to the appropriate sets of users and devices.

Effective Group Policy management involves a structured approach. It is considered a best practice to create specific GPOs for specific functions rather than placing all settings into one monolithic policy like the Default Domain Policy. For example, separate GPOs might be created for security settings, desktop customization, and application deployment. This modular approach makes troubleshooting easier and allows for more granular control over policy application. Understanding the order of GPO processing (Local, Site, Domain, then OU) and how to use tools like enforcement and block inheritance is crucial for predictable policy application.

Security configuration is one of the most critical uses of Group Policy. Administrators can use it to implement security baselines across the enterprise, enforcing settings for User Account Control (UAC), Windows Defender Firewall, AppLocker, and BitLocker. AppLocker, for instance, can be configured through Group Policy to create rules that specify which applications users are allowed to run, preventing the execution of unauthorized or malicious software. Using GPOs to deploy and enforce these security settings consistently is a fundamental task for securing a Windows environment and a key topic for the 70-695 Exam.

Troubleshooting Group Policy application is another essential skill. When policies are not applied as expected, tools like the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) and command-line utilities (gpresult, gpupdate) are indispensable. The GPMC provides modeling and results wizards that can simulate the effect of GPOs on a specific user or computer and generate detailed reports on which settings were applied and from which GPO they originated. Proficiency with these tools is necessary to diagnose and resolve complex policy conflicts or inheritance issues in a large Active Directory infrastructure.

Implementing Mobile Device Management (MDM)

As workforces become more mobile and diverse device platforms like tablets and smartphones enter the enterprise, traditional management tools like Group Policy are not always sufficient. The 70-695 Exam recognized this shift by including objectives on Mobile Device Management (MDM). MDM provides a way to manage devices over the internet without requiring them to be joined to a corporate domain or connected to the internal network via VPN. Windows 10 has a built-in MDM client that can enroll in cloud-based management services like Microsoft Intune.

Device enrollment is the first step in the MDM process. This can be achieved in several ways. For corporate-owned devices, enrollment can be automated using Windows Autopilot, which pre-configures devices to enroll in MDM during the initial out-of-box experience (OOBE). For personally owned devices (BYOD scenarios), users can manually enroll their device through the Windows Settings app. Once a device is enrolled, the MDM service can push configuration profiles and policies to it, enforce compliance, and manage its lifecycle.

MDM policies are similar in concept to Group Policies but are designed for a cloud-first world. They use Configuration Service Providers (CSPs) on the Windows client to apply settings. Administrators can use an MDM solution like Intune to configure a wide range of settings, including Wi-Fi profiles, VPN configurations, email accounts, device encryption (BitLocker), and update policies (via WUfB). This allows IT to maintain a consistent level of security and configuration across both domain-joined and non-domain-joined devices, ensuring corporate data is protected wherever it is accessed.

Beyond configuration, MDM provides powerful capabilities for compliance and security. Compliance policies can be created to check if a device meets certain security requirements, such as having a password set, encryption enabled, or being free of malware. If a device is found to be non-compliant, access to corporate resources like email and documents can be automatically blocked through Conditional Access policies. Furthermore, MDM allows for remote actions on a device, such as performing a remote wipe to remove all corporate data if the device is lost or stolen, a crucial capability for modern endpoint security covered in the 70-695 Exam.

Monitoring Device Health and Compliance

Maintaining a healthy and compliant device fleet is a continuous process, not a one-time task. The 70-695 Exam included objectives related to monitoring the state of Windows devices after deployment. This involves collecting and analyzing data to proactively identify issues, ensure security policies are being enforced, and track the overall health of the endpoint environment. Tools and services for monitoring range from built-in Windows features to comprehensive cloud-based analytics platforms. A proactive monitoring strategy helps to reduce support costs and improve security posture.

Windows Analytics was a suite of cloud services that provided valuable insights into the device environment. Although it has been succeeded by Desktop Analytics and Endpoint Analytics, the concepts are the same. These services collect telemetry data from Windows devices and use it to provide insights into update compliance, device health, and application compatibility. For example, Upgrade Readiness could analyze devices and applications to identify any known issues that might block a Windows 10 feature update, allowing administrators to address these problems before starting the deployment.

Device Health, another component of these analytics services, helped IT identify devices that crash frequently or have driver-related issues that impact user productivity. By analyzing crash data across the organization, administrators could pinpoint problematic drivers or application versions and take corrective action, such as deploying an updated driver. This proactive approach to resolving stability issues improves the user experience and reduces the number of help desk tickets. Monitoring these health metrics is a key part of modern device lifecycle management.

Compliance reporting is another critical aspect of device monitoring. Management solutions like Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager and Microsoft Intune provide rich reporting capabilities. Administrators can run reports to verify that security baselines have been applied, that BitLocker encryption is enabled on all laptops, and that antivirus definitions are up-to-date. These reports are essential for demonstrating compliance with internal security policies and external regulatory requirements. The ability to generate and interpret these reports was a necessary skill for professionals preparing for the 70-695 Exam.

Co-management with Configuration Manager and Intune

For many large organizations, a complete and immediate shift from traditional on-premises management to modern cloud-based management is not feasible. Co-management is the bridge that allows organizations to manage Windows 10 devices with both Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (ConfigMgr) and Microsoft Intune simultaneously. This approach, a key modern management topic relevant to the 70-695 Exam, allows businesses to gain cloud-based benefits like Conditional Access and Windows Autopilot while still leveraging their existing investment and expertise in ConfigMgr for tasks like complex application deployment and OS deployment.

The path to co-management begins by connecting the on-premises ConfigMgr infrastructure to the cloud-based Intune service. This is done through a process called cloud attach or tenant attach. Once linked, devices that are managed by ConfigMgr can also be enrolled in Intune. This creates two management authorities for the device, and the administrator can decide which workloads (specific management tasks) should be handled by which authority. This decision is managed through a simple slider interface in the ConfigMgr console.

Workloads that can be shifted from ConfigMgr to Intune include compliance policies, device configuration, Windows Update policies, and client apps. For example, an organization might decide to continue using ConfigMgr for its powerful application deployment and OS deployment capabilities but shift the management of update policies to Intune to take advantage of Windows Update for Business. This allows them to control updates for remote workers more effectively, as the devices no longer need to connect to the corporate network to receive their update policies or content.

Implementing co-management provides a phased and flexible path to the cloud. Organizations can start by moving a single workload, like compliance policies, for a pilot group of devices. As they gain confidence and experience with the cloud-based tools, they can gradually transition more workloads and more devices. This iterative approach minimizes risk and disruption. Ultimately, co-management provides a powerful and flexible management solution that combines the richness of on-premises tools with the agility and scale of the cloud, representing the future of endpoint management that the 70-695 Exam was beginning to encompass.

Introduction to Windows Networking Configuration

Robust and secure network connectivity is the lifeline of any modern enterprise. A core competency for IT professionals, and a significant domain within the 70-695 Exam, is the ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot networking on Windows devices. This involves more than just ensuring a device can connect to the internet; it encompasses a deep understanding of IP addressing, name resolution, wireless security protocols, and remote access technologies. Properly configured networking is fundamental to enabling user productivity, securing data in transit, and ensuring seamless access to corporate resources, whether the user is in the office or working remotely.

This part of the series will delve into the essential networking skills required for a Windows deployment expert. We will explore the intricacies of both IPv4 and IPv6, the critical role of the Domain Name System (DNS) in locating network resources, and the methods for securing wireless connections. Furthermore, we will cover the implementation and management of remote access solutions like Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and DirectAccess, which are crucial for supporting a mobile workforce. A thorough grasp of these topics is essential for building and maintaining a reliable and secure Windows desktop environment, reflecting the high standards of the 70-695 Exam.

Configuring IPv4 and IPv6 Addressing

A fundamental skill for any network or systems administrator is the configuration of Internet Protocol (IP) addressing. The 70-695 Exam expected candidates to be proficient in managing both IPv4 and IPv6. While IPv4 has been the standard for decades, its address space is exhausted, making the transition to the much larger IPv6 address space increasingly important. Windows devices can be configured with IP addresses manually (statically) or automatically. Manual configuration is typically reserved for servers and network devices, while desktops and laptops almost always receive their IP configuration automatically from a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server.

DHCP simplifies network administration immensely. The DHCP server is responsible for leasing IP addresses, subnet masks, default gateway addresses, and DNS server addresses to clients. This centralized management prevents address conflicts and reduces the administrative overhead of manually configuring hundreds or thousands of devices. Understanding the DHCP process (Discover, Offer, Request, Acknowledge - DORA) and how to troubleshoot it using tools like ipconfig is a critical skill. For example, an APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing) address, in the 169.254.x.x range, indicates that a device failed to contact a DHCP server.

IPv6 introduces new concepts and a different address format. IPv6 addresses are 128 bits long (compared to 32 bits for IPv4) and are written in hexadecimal notation. While manual configuration is possible, it is complex and rarely used for clients. Instead, IPv6 heavily relies on automatic configuration. It supports DHCPv6 (the IPv6 version of DHCP) as well as Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC). With SLAAC, a device can generate its own unique IP address by combining the network prefix advertised by a local router with its own MAC address, simplifying network setup in many scenarios.

In today's networks, it is common for devices to operate in a dual-stack environment, where both IPv4 and IPv6 are enabled and used simultaneously. Windows has supported this configuration for many versions. An administrator must understand how to view and manage both protocol stacks using tools like ipconfig, netsh, and the network settings GUI. The ability to configure settings for both protocols, verify connectivity using ping and tracert for both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, and troubleshoot common issues was a key expectation for anyone pursuing the 70-695 Exam.

Implementing Name Resolution

While devices on a network communicate using IP addresses, humans find it much easier to remember names like "fileserver1" or a web address. The process of translating these human-readable names into machine-readable IP addresses is called name resolution, and it is a critical network service. The 70-695 Exam required a comprehensive understanding of the primary name resolution system used in TCP/IP networks: the Domain Name System (DNS). Without a functioning DNS, users would be unable to access websites, servers, or any other resource by name.

In a Microsoft Windows environment, DNS is tightly integrated with Active Directory. Domain controllers typically also run the DNS Server role. When a client computer joins an Active Directory domain, it automatically registers its name and IP address with the DNS server, a process called dynamic registration. This allows other computers on the network to find it by name. Administrators must know how to configure a client's DNS settings, pointing it to the correct internal DNS servers to resolve internal resource names, as well as external names on the internet via DNS forwarders or root hints.

Troubleshooting DNS is a frequent task for IT support staff. When a user reports they cannot access a resource, DNS is often the culprit. Tools like nslookup and ping are essential for diagnostics. For example, using ping fileserver1 will test both name resolution and connectivity. If the ping fails but ping <IP_address_of_fileserver1> succeeds, it points directly to a DNS problem. Administrators also need to be familiar with the ipconfig /flushdns command, which clears the local DNS resolver cache on a client, forcing it to re-query the DNS server for fresh information.

Beyond the client side, administrators preparing for the 70-695 Exam needed to understand basic DNS server concepts. This includes knowledge of different DNS record types, such as A records (for IPv4), AAAA records (for IPv6), CNAME (alias) records, and MX (mail exchanger) records. While deep DNS server management is more of a server administrator's role, a desktop deployment professional needs to understand how clients interact with the DNS system to effectively deploy and troubleshoot Windows devices in an enterprise network.

Configuring Wireless Network Connectivity

In the modern workplace, wireless connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The 70-695 Exam tested the ability to configure and secure wireless network connections on Windows devices. This involves more than just connecting to an open Wi-Fi network. In an enterprise environment, wireless networks must be secured to protect corporate data from eavesdropping and unauthorized access. The most common security protocols are Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) and the newer WPA3. These protocols provide strong encryption for wireless traffic.

For corporate networks, authentication is a key concern. Using a simple pre-shared key (PSK), like a typical home Wi-Fi password, is not secure or scalable for an enterprise. Instead, organizations use the IEEE 802.1X standard for port-based network access control. With 802.1X, a user or device must authenticate against a central authentication server, typically a Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server, before being granted access to the network. This allows for individual user credentials (username and password) or computer certificates to be used for authentication, which is far more secure.

Administrators can use Group Policy to automatically configure wireless network profiles on domain-joined Windows devices. A GPO can be created that defines the SSID (network name), the security and authentication methods (e.g., WPA2-Enterprise with PEAP-MSCHAPv2), and the RADIUS server information. When this policy is applied to a computer, the wireless profile is automatically configured, and the user can connect seamlessly without needing to manually enter any settings. This ensures a consistent and secure configuration across all corporate laptops and reduces support calls.

Troubleshooting wireless connectivity issues is also a critical skill. Common problems include incorrect passwords or certificates, driver issues with the wireless adapter, or signal strength problems. Administrators can use built-in Windows tools to view the status of wireless connections, diagnose problems, and view event logs. The netsh wlan show commands are particularly powerful for gathering detailed information about wireless adapters, available networks, and saved profiles directly from the command line. A methodical approach to troubleshooting these issues was an important aspect of the networking objectives for the 70-695 Exam.

Implementing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection (a "tunnel") over a public network like the internet. This allows remote users to securely access resources on the corporate network as if they were physically present in the office. The 70-695 Exam required knowledge of how to configure and manage VPN connections on Windows client devices. Windows has a built-in VPN client that supports several common VPN protocols, including Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP), Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec (L2TP/IPsec), and Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP).

Creating a VPN profile on a Windows client can be done manually through the Settings app or deployed centrally for a more managed experience. For enterprises, deploying VPN settings via tools like Microsoft Intune or Configuration Manager is the preferred method. This ensures that all remote users have the correct server address, protocol settings, and authentication methods configured without requiring manual setup. This automated deployment simplifies the user experience and reduces the chance of misconfiguration.

Authentication is a critical component of VPN security. In addition to standard username and password credentials, more secure methods are often used. These can include certificate-based authentication, where both the client and the VPN server must present a valid digital certificate, or multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires the user to provide a second form of verification, such as a code from a mobile app. The 70-695 Exam expected candidates to be familiar with these different authentication methods and how to configure them for a Windows VPN client.

A newer VPN feature in Windows is the "VPN Reconnect" capability, which allows a VPN connection to automatically re-establish itself if there is a temporary interruption in internet connectivity. Another advanced feature is "App-triggered VPN," where the VPN connection is automatically initiated only when a specific, predefined application is launched. This provides a seamless experience for the user and ensures that the VPN is only active when needed to access corporate resources. Understanding these modern VPN features and their configuration was relevant for the 70-695 Exam objectives on remote access.

Understanding DirectAccess and Always On VPN

DirectAccess is a Microsoft remote access technology, introduced in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2, that provides a seamless and transparent remote connectivity experience for users. Unlike traditional VPNs that require users to manually initiate a connection, DirectAccess is designed to be "always on." As soon as a DirectAccess-enabled laptop detects an internet connection, it automatically establishes a secure connection back to the corporate network. This means users have access to internal resources like file shares and intranet sites without any extra steps. The 70-695 Exam covered DirectAccess as a key remote access solution.

DirectAccess relies heavily on IPv6 for its tunneling technology. It encapsulates IPv6 traffic within IPv4 packets to traverse the IPv4 internet, using technologies like 6to4, Teredo, or IP-HTTPS. On the client side, configuration is typically deployed via Group Policy. A key requirement is that client computers must be domain-joined. DirectAccess provides a significant advantage for IT administrators as well, as it allows them to manage remote computers anytime they are connected to the internet, even before the user logs on. This enables remote patching, policy updates, and troubleshooting.

While DirectAccess is a powerful technology, it has some complex infrastructure requirements, including the need for a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and specific network configurations. Recognizing this complexity, Microsoft introduced Always On VPN as a more flexible and modern successor. Always On VPN provides a similar "always on" experience but is easier to deploy and supports a wider range of scenarios, including non-domain-joined and even non-Windows devices. It can be configured to use more modern and secure protocols like IKEv2.

Always On VPN can be deployed and managed using Microsoft Intune, PowerShell, or Configuration Manager. It offers more granular control, such as the ability to create device tunnels and user tunnels. A device tunnel establishes connectivity before the user logs on, allowing for remote management and logon script processing. A user tunnel connects after the user logs on, providing access to resources based on that user's permissions. Understanding the evolution from traditional VPNs to DirectAccess and now to Always On VPN provided a complete picture of the remote access landscape for the 70-695 Exam.

Configuring Windows Defender Firewall

The Windows Defender Firewall is a critical, built-in security component of the Windows operating system. It acts as a host-based, stateful firewall that filters incoming and outgoing network traffic on a device, helping to protect it from common network-based attacks. A key skill for the 70-695 Exam was the ability to configure and manage the firewall to align with corporate security policies. The firewall operates using different profiles: Domain, Private, and Public. Each profile can have its own set of rules, allowing for different levels of security depending on the network the device is connected to.

Firewall rules are the core of the configuration. A rule defines whether specific network traffic is allowed or blocked. Rules can be created based on a variety of criteria, including the program or service, the port number, a predefined service, or a custom set of protocols and IP addresses. For example, an administrator could create a rule to allow incoming traffic on TCP port 3389 only from a specific range of IP addresses corresponding to the IT department's workstations, thus restricting Remote Desktop access.

While the firewall can be configured locally on each machine using the "Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security" snap-in, this is not practical in an enterprise. The standard method for central management is Group Policy. Administrators can create GPOs to define a baseline set of firewall rules that are applied to all computers in an organizational unit. This ensures a consistent security posture and prevents users from making unauthorized changes to the firewall settings that could expose the device to risk.

Troubleshooting firewall issues is a common task. If an application is unable to communicate over the network, it is possible that a firewall rule is blocking its traffic. The firewall logs can be enabled to record dropped packets, which can provide valuable clues as to which rule is causing the problem. Understanding how to create and manage rules, deploy them centrally via Group Policy, and diagnose connectivity problems related to the firewall was an essential networking security skill tested in the 70-695 Exam.

Conclusion

Effective data storage and access are critical pillars of a well-managed IT infrastructure. Beyond deploying the operating system and configuring its network, an IT professional must ensure that users can store and access their data securely and efficiently. The 70-695 Exam placed significant emphasis on the skills required to manage local storage, implement modern storage solutions, and configure permissions to protect corporate information. This includes everything from partitioning disks and managing file systems to implementing enterprise features like Storage Spaces and Work Folders.

This fourth part of our series will explore the key concepts of storage configuration and data access on Windows devices. We will cover the fundamentals of disk management, the intricacies of the NTFS and ReFS file systems, and the implementation of advanced storage technologies. Furthermore, we will delve into methods for providing users with secure access to their data, whether it is stored locally, on network file shares, or in the cloud. A comprehensive understanding of these topics is vital for building a secure, reliable, and productive user environment, reflecting the depth of knowledge required for the 70-695 Exam.

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