The collection of writers for this book all have years of experience in using Group Policy, and, to write this book, they have all worked closely with those responsible for delivering the entire Group Policy feature set in Microsoft Windows. Their experience, coupled with their ability to explain complex concepts clearly, makes this book an invaluable resource for anyone looking to actively manage their desktops and servers. It starts by taking a scenario-based approach, introducing the concepts of Group Policy—based management and how it leverages the Active Directory. It then explores the various areas of Windows that are controllable via Group Policy, such as security, the Windows desktop, Microsoft Internet Explorer, networking components (like the Windows Firewall), and Microsoft Office. But it doesn’t stop there; it also explores the more powerful capabilities of Group Policy, like using Group Policy—based Software Installation and how Group Policy can be extended to do even more.

Implementation of Group Policy can be done in a simple manner, and this book will make it even easier to get up and running in that regard. Group Policy is also very flexible and can be used in complex environments to solve complex management problems. This book is structured in a way that makes these more complex issues easier to understand. It also covers troubleshooting on multiple levels—from the common issues to the more complex to diagnose—and does so in a concise yet complete manner. The book rounds off by giving you pointers and links to those places where you can stay up-to-date on the latest information on Group Policy, from both Microsoft and others.

In these days of heightened security awareness and regulatory oversight, we all need to be more proactive about managing Windows desktops and servers. Group Policy gives you the power to do so, and this book makes using Group Policy a straightforward experience. So, whether you have rolled out Microsoft Active Directory or are thinking about it, this book is a must-have for you!

–Michael Dennis, Lead Program Manager, Group Policy at Microsoft