Latest Posts
Another update on renewing Microsoft certifications in 2021
If you are worried about your Microsoft certifications expiring in early 2021, this post explains how Microsoft shifted from paid renewal exams to free assessments. I share my personal experience navigating these changes, including the timeline updates and how Microsoft extended the validity period for those of us facing immediate expiration.
Synology DS412+ NAS device not supported for the new DSM 7.0
If you are wondering whether your aging Synology NAS will receive the upcoming DSM 7.0 update, this post shares my experience with the unsupported DS412+ model. After confirming that my device is excluded from the new release, I discuss the limitations of staying on the older OS and weigh the high cost of upgrading to a modern alternative like the DS1621xs+.
Review: Elgato Stream Deck at the home office
If you are frustrated by the laggy and unreliable Elgato Control Center software for managing your office lights, this post details my search for a more reliable solution. I decided to purchase an Elgato Stream Deck to replace the software interface, and I walk you through my experience with the hardware options, pricing, and the initial setup process.
Leaving Microsoft
Read along as I reflect on my recent departure from Microsoft, sharing the context of my second stint with the company and the realization that my next professional challenge lies elsewhere. I look back on the achievements of my time in the Western Europe organization while explaining why I am choosing to let go in order to find something new, with more details about my future plans coming in January.
My experience using a high-performance workstation PC (that I built) for 120 days
After using my custom-built AMD Ryzen 9 3900X workstation for 120 days, I share my positive experience with its zero-glitch stability and snappy performance. I also discuss a quick upgrade to 64 GB of RAM to better handle my heavy multitasking workload and reflect on whether I would have chosen different components today.
An update on renewing Microsoft certifications
If you are navigating the shifting landscape of Microsoft certifications, this update clarifies the recent extension of expiration dates for role-based exams due to the pandemic. I share my personal experience with expiring Azure and Microsoft 365 credentials and outline the ambiguous renewal process, advising readers to prepare for at least one exam before the extended deadline in July 2021.
Jussi Roine
Microsoft MVP and consultancy founder with 30+ years of experience, passionate about Microsoft security, AI governance, and sharing what I learn along the way.