Windows 2000 Quick Fixes

Customize the Microsoft Management Console (MMC)

In Windows NT most administrative functions are handled with standalone utilities. The User Manager application, for example, provides the means for managing user accounts, groups, rights, and other properties. In Windows 2000, however, administrative functions are largely integrated under a common interface through the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) as console snap-ins (often referred to simply as consoles). User and group management, for example, has moved to the Local Users and Groups console.

The MMC functions as the framework for the individual consoles. The Computer Management console, for example, actually comprises several individual consoles. One of the nicest benefits of the new MMC/console architecture is that you can create your own custom console configurations that include sets of tools you use most often or that are related. If you’re managing an Internet server, for example, you might integrate the DHCP, DNS, and IIS snap-ins into a single console so you’ll have all of your management tools handy in one interface.

Taskpads are another handy feature of the MMC. A taskpad is a page on which you can add shortcuts to various functions inside and outside of a console. These shortcuts can execute commands, open folders, open web pages, and execute menu commands. A taskpad is essentially a page of organized tasks you can access quickly rather than using the existing menu provided by the snap-in. A console can contain ...