MD-100: Managing Modern Desktops with Windows 10

After completing this program, students will acquire the necessary skill set and understanding to deploy Windows 10 across diverse environments, perform comprehensive post-installation configuration, manage user and administrator accounts effectively, configure data access and apply protection strategies, configure devices using policies to enforce compliance, manage and sustain Windows security parameters, configure networking for stable and scalable communication, configure remote connectivity for hybrid and remote workforces, configure system and data recovery techniques to protect business continuity, and manage and monitor Windows 10 environments for operational efficiency.

This course includes

12 hours of structured on-demand video lectures, 18 downloadable resources for revision and reference, access across mobile devices and smart TV platforms, and a certificate of completion to validate your new expertise. The course package is carefully designed to provide learners with varied materials that support different learning styles. Students will benefit from recorded sessions, downloadable guides, practice labs, and step-by-step walkthroughs. Some of the key inclusions are:

• Guided video sessions covering each module in detail
  
  

• Downloadable practice files and configuration scripts
  
  

• Reference sheets summarizing command-line utilities and PowerShell examples
  
  

• Checklists to validate deployment, configuration, and monitoring tasks
  
  

• Scenario-based exercises simulating real enterprise environments
  
  

• Accessibility across multiple devices, ensuring you can learn anywhere, anytime
  
  

• A verifiable certificate upon successful completion to strengthen your professional portfolio
  
  

Requirements

To benefit fully from this course, participants are recommended to have the following knowledge and background: a sound grasp of networking principles such as TCP/IP, DNS, and routing fundamentals, familiarity with common Active Directory concepts and principles including group policies and authentication mechanisms, prior exposure to Windows Server platforms especially Windows Server 2012 R2 or Windows Server 2016, and general awareness of earlier Microsoft operating systems such as Windows 8.1 or equivalent environments. In addition to these essentials, the following will help learners maximize their success:

• Understanding of virtualization technologies such as Hyper-V or VMware
  
  

• Awareness of security fundamentals, including encryption and firewall rules
  
  

• Basic command-line knowledge, particularly in PowerShell
  Curious to explore system administration tasks independently
  
  

• Willingness to troubleshoot problems and test different configuration methods
  
  

• Prior experience managing small networks or home labs smooths wsmoothsthe learning curve

Description

The Microsoft Windows 10 MD-100 certification course is meticulously crafted to provide participants with the theoretical insights and practical applications essential for mastering modern desktop environments. By joining this course, students will immerse themselves in the fundamental and advanced capabilities of Windows 10, preparing not only for the MD-100 examination but also for a lifelong professional pathway in desktop and systems administration. The skills and objectives in this course align with Microsoft’s MD-100 certification blueprint, forming the foundation of the Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate credential. This certification requires the completion of two assessments: MD-100 Windows 10 and MD-101 Managing Modern Desktops. Together, they represent a recognized milestone in the IT landscape, a credential sought after by organizations globally as they transition to modern workplace ecosystems. This program serves as an ideal bridge between theoretical knowledge and real-world implementation. It not only prepares candidates to pass the MD-100 exam but also equips them with valuable competencies for day-to-day roles within IT departments, managed service providers, and enterprise environments. By undertaking this program, participants gain the ability to deploy Windows 10 with precision, manage accounts for both end users and administrators, establish robust connectivity, configure recovery strategies to ensure data resilience, and oversee system monitoring to maintain seamless operations. The knowledge provided here becomes instrumental in crafting secure, reliable, and policy-driven desktop environments that adapt to modern enterprise needs.

Course Content

Deploying Windows 10

Students begin their journey with the deployment of Windows 10, learning installation methods, media creation, upgrade strategies, and the utilization of Windows Autopilot for automated provisioning. Special focus is given to scenarios such as migration from older operating systems, deployment at scale, and virtualized desktop implementations. This section lays the groundwork for mastering the intricacies of initial setup, ensuring the right edition and configuration are selected based on organizational requirements. In many organizations, deployment is more than simply installing an operating system; it involves compatibility checks, hardware readiness, and network alignment. Students will be introduced to the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit, understanding its role in automating installations and building repeatable, streamlined workflows.

Performing Post-Installation Configuration

After deployment, attention shifts to post-installation tasks. Participants explore local and domain-based configuration, integration with Active Directory, time zone and language preferences, driver installations, and ensuring that the operating system is tuned for both performance and security. Mastering these skills guarantees a smoother user experience and ensures systems are aligned with enterprise policies. Post-installation configuration often involves setting group policies, enabling necessary features like Hyper-V, and disabling legacy features that may cause vulnerabilities. Students will discover the relevance of updates and servicing channels, ensuring that devices remain in harmony with long-term servicing models.

Managing Accounts

A comprehensive segment is devoted to user and administrator account management. Students will examine account creation, privilege assignment, password policies, and integration with Azure Active Directory. Emphasis is placed on identity protection, account recovery, and configuring secure sign-in options. With businesses increasingly reliant on hybrid identity models, this knowledge is crucial for maintaining robust identity and access management practices. Examples such as enforcing multifactor authentication and integrating conditional access policies are explored to showcase how identity forms the cornerstone of organizational security.

Configuring Data Access and Protection

Data remains the most valuable resource in any organization. This module covers configuring storage spaces, NTFS permissions, BitLocker encryption, and OneDrive for Business integration. Participants will understand how to secure files, manage access rights, and enforce protection mechanisms across shared and local storage while still enabling collaboration and productivity. Case scenarios include managing sensitive data in regulated industries, applying data loss prevention, and configuring Windows Information Protection to safeguard against leakage without obstructing the workflow.

Configuring Devices with Policies

Policy enforcement forms the backbone of centralized management. This section dives into Group Policy, Mobile Device Management using Microsoft Intune, and security baselines. Students will learn how to enforce compliance rules, deploy security templates, and regulate hardware configurations to ensure every device adheres to corporate standards. Policies are not only technical controls but also governance tools, and students will understand how they shape the user environment, restrict potentially unsafe behaviors, and balance security with usability.

Managing Windows Security

The security component of the course focuses on Windows Defender Antivirus, firewall configurations, Windows Hello for Business, and advanced threat protection strategies. Students will examine how to detect, prevent, and respond to threats while maintaining operational efficiency. Security auditing, patch management, and zero-trust approaches are explored in depth. Threat modeling, phishing defense, and exploitation mitigation tools are presented as real-world examples that students can apply within their organizations.

Configuring Networking

Networking remains a cornerstone of Windows 10 management. Students will learn IPv4 and IPv6 configuration, wireless settings, VPN configurations, name resolution, and advanced troubleshooting. Special emphasis is given to creating resilient connections that support remote workforces and ensure uninterrupted access to organizational resources. By mastering these concepts, participants will be able to configure secure wireless profiles, implement static or dynamic addressing, and use diagnostic tools like tracert and netsh effectively.

Configuring Remote Connectivity

The modern workplace thrives on remote access. This section explores VPN technologies, DirectAccess, and remote desktop configuration. Participants will develop the expertise to support employees working outside of traditional office spaces, ensuring that connectivity is both secure and seamless. The module highlights encryption methods, tunneling protocols, and certificate-based authentication to illustrate how remote access can be provided without compromising enterprise integrity.

Configuring System and Data Recovery

Recovery planning is vital for business continuity. This module covers backup and restore options, recovery partitions, system restore points, and file history. Students will be trained in the use of Windows Recovery Environment and other disaster mitigation strategies to minimize downtime and data loss. Realistic disaster scenarios are presented to show how administrators can restore systems efficiently, maintain compliance with retention requirements, and design a recovery strategy that matches organizational risk profiles.

Managing and Monitoring Windows 10

Ongoing maintenance and monitoring are at the core of efficient desktop administration. This section introduces Event Viewer, Performance Monitor, Windows Admin Center, and Microsoft Endpoint Manager. Students will learn how to interpret logs, analyze performance, and automate updates, ensuring that every system remains secure, patched, and responsive. Monitoring also involves proactive analysis of telemetry and building alerts for anomalies, ensuring administrators remain one step ahead of potential issues.

Who this course is for

This course is for IT professionals who wish to develop a strong command of Windows 10 deployment, configuration, and maintenance in enterprise environments, administrators responsible for securing and monitoring desktop infrastructure within medium to large organizations, candidates seeking to pursue the Microsoft 365 Certified Modern Desktop Administrator Associate credential as part of their professional development journey, and technology enthusiasts and career changers who aspire to understand Windows 10 at a deep technical level to boost employability and professional standing.

Skills You Will Gain Beyond Certification

While certification itself provides validation of technical knowledge, this course is designed to deliver far more than a credential. Students will acquire an expanded repertoire of practical and transferable skills that can be applied across multiple professional scenarios. Beyond preparing for the MD-100 examination, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of troubleshooting methodologies, advanced system configuration, and the integration of Windows 10 within hybrid infrastructures. By engaging with case-based learning, participants will cultivate decision-making skills that mirror real organizational environments. They will practice not only theoretical memorization but also problem-solving techniques that enhance their ability to react quickly to technical disruptions. Skills extend into the realm of automation, where learners experiment with PowerShell to streamline administrative tasks, reducing repetitive manual effort and creating efficient workflows. Students will also grasp diagnostic analysis, learning to interpret logs, analyze performance data, and resolve networking conflicts. The breadth of knowledge also includes communication and documentation skills, as administrators must articulate their findings, prepare reports, and present solutions to stakeholders in a clear manner. Through this immersive process, learners gain holistic development that reaches far beyond what an examination measures. Some skills that students will gain include:

• Advanced troubleshooting strategies for desktops, networks, and applications
  
  

• Proficiency with system optimization and monitoring tools
  
  

• Command of PowerShell scripting for automation of repetitive administrative tasks
  
  

• Enhanced documentation and reporting practices for IT governance
  
  

• Adaptability in hybrid and cloud-integrated environments
  
  

• Collaboration skills for working with cross-functional IT teams
  
  

• Greater resilience in handling unexpected operational challenges
  
  

Career Advancement Through Certification

Certification acts as both a credential and a catalyst for professional progression. The MD-100 Windows 10 certification serves as a gateway to higher-level opportunities within the field of IT. Employers across the globe recognize Microsoft credentials as a measure of verified expertise, and this can significantly influence career mobility. Possessing this certification communicates to potential employers that the candidate not only has knowledge but has also undergone rigorous assessment. For individuals already working within the IT sector, this credential can open pathways to promotions, pay raises, and expanded responsibilities. For those entering the industry, it can be the differentiating factor that secures a role in a competitive environment. With the workplace moving rapidly toward remote and hybrid models, professionals who understand how to manage, secure, and monitor Windows 10 systems are in demand across corporate, governmental, and educational organizations. This course provides not only the preparation needed to pass the exam but also the real-world competencies that make learners valuable assets within their teams. Career advancement does not occur solely through passing an exam; it occurs when technical proficiency combines with confidence and professional recognition. Some career benefits include:

• Eligibility for roles such as Desktop Administrator, IT Support Specialist, and Systems Engineer
  
  

• Greater potential for internal promotions within organizations due to verified expertise
  
  

• Increased salary opportunities, as certified professionals typically earn higher than their non-certified counterparts
  
  

• Recognition from peers and supervisors as a reliable authority in desktop and systems administration
  
  

• Access to advanced certifications and pathways toward enterprise-level positions
  
  

Course Benefits

The course is meticulously structured to provide a range of benefits that go beyond the acquisition of theoretical knowledge. Learners receive an interactive, flexible, and resource-rich learning experience that can be adapted to diverse learning styles. The availability of recorded lectures allows students to study at their own pace, ensuring that they can revisit complex topics until mastery is achieved. Downloadable resources, such as configuration scripts, reference sheets, and practice exercises, enable active participation and long-term retention of knowledge. Students also benefit from scenario-driven instruction, where real organizational cases are used to illustrate concepts, making the transition from theory to practice seamless. Additionally, the course cultivates confidence, ensuring that learners do not merely memorize exam content but understand the logic behind it. This foundation allows them to perform effectively in professional environments where improvisation and problem-solving are critical. Some key benefits include:

• Flexibility of learning schedules, accommodating both working professionals and full-time students
  
  

• Access to a comprehensive set of resources, including video, downloadable files, and practical labs
  
  

• Practical scenarios that provide context for theoretical knowledge
  
  

• Confidence-building exercises to prepare for both exams and real-world troubleshooting
  
  

• A structured path toward certification without overwhelming learners with fragmented resources
  
  

• A certificate of completion that adds immediate value to professional portfolios
  
  

Student Support

Support is a vital element of any successful learning journey. This course has been designed with a learner-first philosophy, ensuring that students are never isolated in their educational experience. Participants will receive assistance through forums, dedicated support channels, and interactive sessions that clarify doubts. Tutors are available to provide explanations and additional resources when learners encounter complex challenges. Peer-to-peer interaction is encouraged, fostering a collaborative learning community where students can share experiences, tips, and solutions. This support network not only helps learners to overcome technical hurdles but also builds confidence and motivation. Regular feedback opportunities are integrated into the course structure, allowing students to monitor their progress and refine their approach. Students are also guided toward additional materials, such as Microsoft documentation and best-practice whitepapers, to further strengthen their understanding. Forms of support include:

• Access to an active discussion forum for knowledge exchange with peers
  Instructor's availability to answer queries and clarify complex concepts
  
  

• Additional reading materials and recommended resources for deeper study
  
  

• Feedback sessions to track learning progress and identify areas needing improvement
  
  

• Encouragement of peer collaboration to simulate team-based professional environments
  
  

• Technical troubleshooting assistance for lab exercises and configuration tasks
  
  

Updates and Enhancements

The technological landscape is constantly evolving, and this course embraces that dynamism through continuous updates and enhancements. Students will not be left with outdated material; instead, they will receive access to updated resources that reflect the latest changes in Windows 10, Microsoft 365 integration, and desktop administration practices. As Microsoft modifies policies, releases patches, and introduces new tools, the course content is revised accordingly to maintain relevance. Learners benefit from a curriculum that evolves with industry standards, ensuring that their knowledge remains current and applicable. Enhancement is not only about updates but also about enriching the student experience through new materials, additional practice exercises, and refined delivery methods. By investing in this course, students are assured that they are gaining access to a living program that grows alongside technological advancements. Types of updates and enhancements include:

• Integration of new Windows 10 features and security practices as they are released
  
  

• Revised modules that reflect changes in exam objectives and certification requirements
  
  

• Addition of new downloadable resources such as updated scripts or templates
  
  

• Expansion of practice labs to include emerging scenarios such as hybrid cloud environments
  
  

• Enhanced video lectures to cover evolving technologies and real-world examples
  
  

• Regular refinements to improve clarity, accessibility, and engagement within the course material