![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507f-using-onedrive-1.png\")
\nIn business environments, it’s not uncommon to run into situations where a PC doesn’t automatically restart after a Windows update, or remains powered off after a power outage.
\nThis can become a real problem, especially for PCs used for remote access or unattended operations like surveillance or server-related tasks.
\nIn this article, we’ll walk you through how to configure the BIOS setting on Dell Optiplex PCs (e.g., 7060) so that the system will automatically power on after power is restored.
Many Dell systems provide several power-related BIOS settings. Here are the key ones:
\n| Feature Name | \nDescription | \n
|---|---|
| AC Recovery / AC Power Recovery | \nPowers on the PC automatically when AC power is restored | \n
| Auto Power On / Auto On Time | \nPowers on the PC at a specific time every day | \n
| Wake on LAN | \nAllows powering on the PC over the network (different use case) | \n
In this article, we’ll focus on AC Recovery.
\nAt one client site, a desktop PC placed in a warehouse was being used as an SCCM Distribution Point server.
\nHowever, the PC often powered off unexpectedly due to various reasons, and each time the warehouse staff had to manually turn it back on.
\nAfter enabling the AC Recovery setting, the PC now automatically powers back on after power is restored—whether it’s due to a power outage, updates, or the power strip being switched off.
\nThis eliminated the need for manual intervention by on-site staff.
| Setting | \nBIOS - Power Management > AC Recovery | \n
| Recommended Value | \nPower On | \n
| Applicable Models | \nDell Optiplex series and similar | \n
This small but powerful BIOS setting can save time, reduce manual effort, and help maintain system uptime—especially for systems that should stay available at all times.
\nMake sure to check and configure this on any critical PC you manage.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","BIOSSettings","Dell","AutoPowerOn","ACRecovery","PCManagement","PowerOutageRecovery","ITAdminTips","PowerSettings"],"date_published":"2026-06-30T15:33:00.000Z","date_modified":"2026-06-30T15:33:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202508d-power-on-pc-en.png","summary":"Learn how to configure Dell Optiplex BIOS settings so that your PC automatically powers on after power loss or updates. Includes a real-world case using a warehouse PC as an SCCM distribution point."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20260623-what-is-a-server-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20260623-what-is-a-server-en/","title":"IT Terms You Think You Know: What Is a Server?","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"KC"}],"content_html":"A Simple Explanation of a Common IT Term: “Server.” You’ve probably heard the word many times, but when someone asks, “Can you explain what it is?” — many people find themselves at a loss for words. In this article, we’ll give a gentle and beginner-friendly explanation of the term “server,” which you might know the sound of, but not fully understand.
\n\nA server is, in short, a computer that provides services to other devices.
\nIt responds to requests and delivers information or functionality — basically, it plays the role of a “host” that serves others.
\nFor example:
In short, everything from browsing websites to sending emails relies on servers working behind the scenes.
\nThe word “client” often comes up alongside “server.”
\nA client is the device that receives the service, like your computer or smartphone.
\nFor example:
You might have never seen one in person, but servers can be found in many places:
\nExamples of Servers You Might Use Without Realizing
\n| Service | \nExample of Server Type Behind It | \n
|---|---|
| Viewing a website | \nWeb server (like Apache or Nginx) | \n
| Sending/receiving email | \nMail server (SMTP/IMAP) | \n
| Sharing files at work | \nFile server (e.g., NAS, Windows Server) | \n
In short: if something is quietly providing something to others, it’s probably a server!
\nA server isn’t something overly complicated — it’s just a computer that provides services.
\nEven if you weren’t aware of it before, servers are quietly working as the “unsung heroes” behind the internet and our internal systems.
\nDoesn’t it feel satisfying to finally understand what you kind of already thought you knew?
\nTake this chance to dive a little deeper into familiar IT terms!
After using a USB drive, you may wonder: “Can I just pull it out, or do I need to safely eject it?”
\nThe answer depends on your system and timing. Here’s a quick breakdown of what “Safely Remove Hardware” actually means and when it matters.
When using external media like USB storage, your computer may appear to finish reading or writing files instantly. However, behind the scenes, it often continues caching operations in memory.
\nWhat is caching:
\nWhat “Safely Remove” actually does:
\nIn short, it’s not a power-off switch – it’s a system-level handshake to ensure all data transfers are complete before unplugging.
\nSince Windows 10, most USB drives are set to “Quick Removal” mode by default.
\nWhen Extra Caution Is Still Recommended
\n| Situation | \nAdvice | \n
|---|---|
| Large file transfers ongoing | \nWait or use “Safely Remove” | \n
| External HDD or SSD | \nUse “Safely Remove” | \n
| Using older Windows system | \nAlways use “Safely Remove\" | \n
Tip
\nStandard USB memory → Safe to remove after copying is completed (for Windows 10/11)
\nExternal devices, large files, or older OS → “Safely remove” is recommended.
\nNever unplug during data writing
For most USB devices on modern systems, you don’t need to “Safely remove” every time.
\nBut when handling large files, sensitive devices, or high-stakes data, using it is a smart habit.
\nYou can prevent unexpected issues where files suddenly won’t open – just by doing that.
At the Heart of a Project That Feels Like Tokyo Station
\nIn the world of IT projects, we often find ourselves in the middle of an environment where information, people, resources, and decisions constantly intersect.
\nAt times, it feels as if we’re standing at the very center of Tokyo Station—a hub where bullet trains, local lines, subways, and countless passengers from all walks of life converge.
\nJust as station controllers ensure travelers reach their destinations smoothly, IT professionals guide the flow of communication, requirements, and decisions to keep projects moving forward.
Projects involve numerous stakeholders, each with different goals and perspectives—end users, corporate IT, global teams, network and security engineers, facilities, legal, procurement, and finance departments.
\nIT project managers must collect and reconcile all incoming requirements, resolve potential conflicts, and ensure alignment across all parties.
\nIt’s a role not unlike a traffic controller, operating behind the scenes to keep a highly complex system running smoothly and safely.
In situations where decision-making becomes complex, relying on data helps reduce errors and prevent over-reliance on individual judgment.
\nFor example, sizing a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) requires accurate calculations based on the power consumption of connected devices and the desired backup duration during outages.
\nSwitch port planning also requires calculating the number of nodes and considering floor layouts.
\nEven Wi-Fi access point placement is refined through on-site site surveys and signal analysis.
Being able to explain decisions with clear, data-driven logic increases both project speed and credibility.
\nAI is increasingly contributing to project acceleration—summarizing requirements, comparing design options, and drafting meeting notes or FAQs.
\nMoreover, interacting with AI can help clarify one’s thinking, especially in complex or uncertain situations.
\nThat said, AI is a tool, not a decision-maker.
\nIt’s still up to us to interpret context, navigate human relationships, and explain how local user needs can be aligned with global policies—or vice versa.
\nNeglecting this careful, human-centered communication can lead to misunderstandings that escalate into serious issues.
Technology continues to improve efficiency and speed, but what truly drives a project’s success is still the quality of human communication and trust.
\nWhether bridging local users with headquarters, or translating between IT and business teams, IT project managers must take the lead in building mutual understanding and preventing misalignment.
\nAn IT project manager isn’t simply someone with technical knowledge.
\nWe are facilitators who translate, coordinate, and adapt. We pause when needed, detour when necessary, and make thoughtful decisions based on both data and dialogue.
As we continue to integrate tools like AI and embrace data-driven practices, it’s important to remember:
\nAt the core of every project are people—and it’s people who make collaboration possible.
Standing at the center of this “Tokyo Station,” we bring structure to the chaos, and move projects forward—one thoughtful interaction at a time.
\n","tags":["Other","IT Project Management","In-House IT","Data-Driven","Cross-FunctionalCoordination","ITStrategy","DX"],"date_published":"2026-05-14T05:10:00.000Z","date_modified":"2026-05-14T14:10:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202507g-it-professionals-en.png","summary":"What is the true value of IT project managers? Using Tokyo Station as a metaphor, this article explores how IT professionals coordinate, decide, and connect people—leveraging data and AI to move projects forward. "},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/2026406-using-onedrive-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/2026406-using-onedrive-en/","title":"Let’s share your data using OneDrive!","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"K.Y."}],"content_html":"Many people use Microsoft’s cloud storage service “OneDrive”. It’s convenient not only as a backup storage for your data, but also as a function for sharing data with others. In this article, we’ll show you how to share data with OneDrive.
\n*Some companies have rules that prohibit sharing with external parties. Please check beforehand.
Here is the step-by-step introduction of OneDrive data sharing.
\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507f-using-onedrive-en2.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507f-using-onedrive-en3.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507f-using-onedrive-en4.png\")
\nMicrosoft will send you a verification code via email to your address. Check your email and enter the number.
\nOnce you enter the correct verification code, you will be able to access and view the shared data.
\nThat’s the summary of OneDrive sharing. It is very convenient when sending small data or exchanging data that will be edited multiple times in the future. Above all, its greatest strength is that no physical exchange is required. Please try it out.
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","FileSharing","CloudStorage","WorkSmart","Productivity","DigitalTools"],"date_published":"2026-04-06T00:47:00.000Z","date_modified":"2026-04-06T09:47:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202507f-using-onedrive-en.png","summary":"This article clearly explains how to securely and easily share files using Microsoft 365 OneDrive."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20260323-acrobat-standard-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20260323-acrobat-standard-en/","title":"Introducing Acrobat Standard features for use in administrative departments","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"YM"}],"content_html":"Building on our previous blog,“What is PDF? How is it related to Adobe Acrobat?”
\n, which explored the relationship between PDF and Acrobat, this time we will introduce the key features of “Acrobat Standard” — a tool frequently used in our company’s administrative document workflows — along with how it differs from Acrobat Reader and Acrobat Pro. By shifting from merely “reading” PDFs to “editing and managing” them, users can streamline daily operations, working more efficiently and securely. For detailed instructions with screenshots, please refer to the Japanese version.
| Plan | \nPrice | \n
|---|---|
| Acrobat Reader | \nFree | \n
| Acrobat Standard | \n\n JPY 1,848 per license / month (annual contract) \n or JPY 22,176 per license / year (annual prepaid)\n | \n
| Acrobat Pro | \n\n JPY 2,380 per license / month (annual contract) \n or JPY 28,564 per license / year (annual prepaid)\n | \n
*Prices shown are for the Group edition.
\n*Purchases through eSolia are available with annual prepaid payment only.
| Feature | \nAcrobat Reader | \nAcrobat Standard | \nAcrobat Pro | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| View, print, share, and comment on PDFs | \n〇 | \n〇 | \n〇 | \n
| Edit text and images in PDFs | \n\n | 〇 | \n〇 | \n
| Fill, sign, and send forms | \n\n | 〇 | \n〇 | \n
| Request signatures | \n\n | 〇 | \n〇 | \n
| Send signature requests to multiple recipients at once | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Redact sensitive information in PDFs | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Compare two versions of a PDF and review differences | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Create and export PDFs on mobile devices | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Convert scanned documents into searchable and editable PDFs (OCR) | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Create and validate PDFs that meet accessibility standards | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Add sequential numbering to legal documents | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Create interactive PDF forms using JavaScript | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
| Optimize PDFs to reduce file size | \n\n | \n | 〇 | \n
Note
\nAcrobat Reader: Free software specially designed for viewing PDFs and adding annotations.
\nAcrobat Standard: Paid software that supports PDF editing, security management, signature requests, conversion, and other operations.
\nAcrobat Pro: All the features of Acrobat Standard plus advanced document management features.
\n*For detailed differences, please see the reference URL Compare Acrobat Plans Adobe Acrobat Plans and Pricing
Direct correction of text and images: With Adobe Acrobat Standard, you can directly edit text in PDF files. Users can correct typos and add or delete content while maintaining the layout and format. Users can also drag the relevant object in the PDF (text box, image, stamp, etc.) to move it or change its size.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-blue-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/cursor-click-duotone.svg’
\ninline
How to Operate
\nReorder, add, and extract pages: Users can easily change the page order within a PDF, add pages from another file, extract and save specific pages, and more.
\n*Please note that changes cannot be made in PDF files that have been marked as non-editable.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-blue-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/cursor-click-duotone.svg’
\ninline
How to Operate
\nPassword setting: Users can set a password for a PDF file to restrict viewing. This is effective for managing confidential materials, as the recipient cannot view the contents unless they know the password.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-blue-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/cursor-click-duotone.svg’
\ninline
How to Operate
\nRestrict editing and printing: In addition to viewing permission, users can set restrictions such as “No printing,” “No copying,” and “No editing.” This is useful for preventing accidental operation and unauthorized tampering.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-blue-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/cursor-click-duotone.svg’
\ninline
How to Operate
\nAcrobat Standard also comes with a feature for requesting electronic signatures. Users can send a PDF file to the other parties and have them fill out the signature field.
\nIt is also possible to send a request for signatures in a specific order of those who will sign.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-blue-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/cursor-click-duotone.svg’
\ninline
How to Operate
\nConvert PDF to Word/Excel/PowerPoint: Use this when users want to convert a PDF that does not have the original data back to Word for editing, or when users want to convert a PDF quotation or report to Excel for compilation. However, please
\nnote that there are limits to the accuracy of the conversion, and the format may not be reproduced accurately.
Examples of common problems
\nHow to Operate
\nThe main differences between Acrobat Standard and Acrobat Pro are listed in the comparison table at the beginning of this document, but here are some features of Acrobat Pro.
\nIn environments where more advanced document management or the use of scanned documents is required, it may be worth considering using Acrobat Pro. But in that case, it is recommended to first verify that the plan includes the features required for your business needs, and then make a selection based on pricing considerations.
\nIn this blog, we have introduced the most frequently used functions by our administration department. Acrobat Standard has the functions of Acrobat Reader, which is “PDF viewing software,” plus multifunctional tools for improving operational efficiency, strengthening information management, and digitizing approval flows.
\nOur company has been promoting paperless operations since 2022 by utilizing Acrobat’s functions. Please refer to the Adobe Acrobat Quick Reference Guide
\nfor basic operations and an explanation of how to use each feature of Acrobat, if necessary.
\nIf you are considering implementing Adobe products, please contact eSolia.
A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Password Management
\nDo you reuse the same password for multiple accounts?
\nOr do you tend to choose something easy to remember?
\nPasswords are essential keys that protect our personal and professional information.
\nBut if they’re easy for you to remember, they might also be easy for others to guess.
\nIn this article, we’ll look at how to manage passwords safely, and how to create stronger, harder-to-guess passwords — even for beginners.
Here are some common cases where passwords are at risk:
\nIn recent years, credential stuffing attacks (where attackers use leaked IDs and passwords from other services) have become more common — so it’s more important than ever to strengthen your password habits.
\nRandom strings are strong — but hard to remember.
\nLuckily, with a few simple rules, you can create passwords that are both secure and memorable.
Example: Base word is “esolia”
\n| Weak Password | \nStrengthened Version | \nPoints | \n
|---|---|---|
| esolia | \nes0li@/ esoL1a | \nreplace letters with similar symbols or numbers | \n
| esolia123 | \nesoLiA!123 | \nadd uppercase, symbols, and numbers | \n
| esolia2024 | \nesolia-OSUSHI-77-! | \ncombine with unrelated words and numbers | \n
Tip
\nCombine uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters
\nAdd random or unrelated words
\nSlightly modify a familiar word using a personal rule
The stronger your passwords are, the harder they are to remember — that’s where password managers come in.
\nAt Esolia, we use…
\nOur company uses a password management tool called Codebook, which helps store and manage passwords securely.
Other password managers include Keeper, Bitwarden — but please follow company guidelines when choosing tools.
\nYou can find more information about the Codebook subscription pricing here.
Passwords are like keys — and you wouldn’t want a door that opens with a coin.
\nCreating strong and secure passwords is the first step in protecting your data.
\nMake use of tools like Codebook to manage passwords safely, without relying on memory alone!
One of the most common IT helpdesk tickets is: “My monitor suddenly stopped working…”
\nEspecially in setups with dual monitors and docking stations, the cause is often simple and can be resolved in just a few steps.
\nThis article outlines a practical checklist used by IT professionals for resolving monitor display issues quickly and efficiently.
Over 80% of display issues can be fixed by doing one of the following:
\nDisplay issues are often caused by simple factors, and most of the time you can fix them by following the “unplug and replug” method and verifying display settings.
\nIf that doesn’t work, proceed step by step by replacing cables, testing the dock, or updating system drivers.
\nYou’d be surprised how many cases are resolved with just a simple reset, so give this checklist a try before calling IT support.
Have You Ever Felt Drained Surrounded by Digital Devices?
\nI work as an IT support specialist in a corporate environment, so I’m usually very close to digital devices in my daily life. In this article, I’d like to share a few simple digital detox habits that I personally practice. They may be small things, but I hope they’ll be helpful for anyone who has felt the same kind of fatigue.
According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries, a digital detox is:
\na period of time when a person does not use digital devices such as smartphones or computers, especially in order to reduce stress and relax.
\nThis term was added to the online version of the Oxford Dictionary in 2013 and has gradually become more widely recognized.
iPhones were already widely used when I was a student, but the apps back then weren’t as addictive as they are now. At most, checking Twitter or Instagram for friends’ updates was a small daily pleasure.
\nIt’s only in the past five years or so that I began to really relate to the idea of a digital detox.
Despite working with digital devices all day, I found myself staying up late watching videos, or endlessly checking social media without any real purpose.
\nThese small habits added up over time, and I started feeling a vague sense of fatigue from the sheer amount of information. Eventually, it became a more noticeable discomfort.
While I’m truly grateful for the convenience and possibilities digital technology brings, I can no longer ignore the fatigue and stress that can come with it.
\nI imagine I’m not the only one who feels this way.
It’s not easy to completely cut off from digital life these days, but I believe the key is finding a balance that doesn’t feel forced.
\nWhen we hear the word “detox,” we might feel pressured to quit all digital devices at once—but that in itself can become stressful.
\nPersonally, I think having a relaxed mindset like “let’s just cut back a little” is perfectly fine.
Here are some small things I do to avoid becoming overwhelmed by information:
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/check-fat-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Use paper intentionally
\nInstead of using a smartphone app, I write down quick notes with pen and paper. Especially when I feel stuck, writing things out on a blank sheet helps organize my thoughts.
\nIt also gives a good impression to others—like I’m focused and taking things seriously.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/check-fat-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Keep my desktop clean
\nHas your desktop ever gotten cluttered without you realizing it?
\nI make it a habit to tidy up from time to time, removing unnecessary files, shortcuts, and apps.
\nA clean desktop reduces visual noise and encourages better file management. It also helps improve work efficiency.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/check-fat-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Use noise-canceling earphones as earplugs on the commute
\nCommuter trains can be overloaded with information—noise, crowds, and advertisements.
\nI intentionally don’t play music or podcasts, and just use the noise-canceling function. Surprisingly, that alone helps me feel calm. Regular earplugs work well too.
<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/check-fat-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Use iPhone’s Screen Time feature
\nThe Screen Time feature on the iPhone lets you set daily time limits for specific apps.
\nWhen you hit the limit, a prompt appears with options like “Close now,” “One more minute,” “Remind me in 15 minutes,” or “Ignore for today.”
\nIt’s easy to feel like you haven’t spent much time on your phone, but Screen Time makes you aware of just how much time you’re actually using.
Note
\nHow to set it up:
\n1. Open “Settings” → “Screen Time”
\n2. Tap “App Limits” → “Add Limit”
\n3. Select the apps you want to limit
\n4. Set your preferred time
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/check-fat-duotone.svg’
\ninline
In our daily lives and business settings, there’s hardly a day when we don’t encounter PDF files. From email attachments and downloadable materials on websites to e-books, they’re used everywhere as a matter of course. While many associate PDF with Acrobat (PDF＝Acrobat?), what exactly is the relationship between them?
\nThis time, we’ll explore the connection between PDF and Acrobat.
PDF is short for “Portable Document Format,” an electronic document format developed by Adobe in the 1990s. True to the meaning of “Portable,” its greatest feature is that it “guarantees documents will display with their original design on any device.” This development was driven by frequent issues at the time: when exchanging documents between different computers (Mac, Windows, Unix, etc.) or different applications (Word, Excel, etc.), fonts would become garbled, or layouts would break.
\nIn 2008, PDF was standardized internationally as ISO 32000-1, and it has since become a widely adopted standard format across all industries worldwide.
\nAdobe’s official guide “PDF Basics"
The key characteristics of PDF can be summarized as follows:
\nEnvironment-independent: Viewable identically across Windows, Mac, smartphones, and other devices.
PDF is widely used in a variety of situations such as:
\nWhile PDF may seem universally capable based on these points, its critical limitation is difficulty in editing. Unlike Word, freely modifying text or replacing images is challenging. Scanned PDFs (from paper documents) have particularly low reusability. Additionally, operations like merging multiple PDFs or extracting specific pages are often impossible with standard viewers, creating workflow inefficiencies.
\nThis is where Adobe Acrobat comes into play.
While PDF is often confused with Acrobat, Adobe Acrobat is the official software for creating, viewing, editing, and managing PDFs and is a centralized tool for all PDF-related operations.
\nAcrobat is available in three products: the free version Adobe Acrobat Reader, and the paid versions of Acrobat Standard and Acrobat Pro. The free version of Adobe Acrobat Reader is sufficient for viewing and printing, but Acrobat Standard and Acrobat Pro are required for full-scale editing and business use.
\n| Term | \nIdentity | \nPrimary Use | \nCost | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| File format | \nDocument storage / sharing | \nFree | \n|
| Acrobat Reader | \nAdobe Viewer | \nOpening / Printing PDFs | \nFree | \n
| Acrobat Standard DC & Acrobat Pro DC | \nAdobe Editor | \nMerging, form creation, encryption etc. | \nPaid | \n
Historically, Acrobat was essential for PDFs. After ISO 32000-1 standardization, third-party tools emerged, and PDFs can now be opened in web browsers and standard OS functions. Therefore, there are now many alternative software options.
\nThe PDF files we use daily represent a format-tool relationship with Adobe. The common misconception that “PDF＝Acrobat” likely stems from corporate environments where Acrobat Reader is often pre-installed on work PCs.
\nFor enterprises and professionals, Acrobat is probably better than other alternatives in terms of functionality, stability, comprehensive support, security, and long-term operation and reliability.
\nIf you have never used a paid version of Adobe products, we would recommend you try Adobe Acrobat online tools. (Please avoid confidential/personal data.)
\nFor viewing and printing only, let’s use Chrome or Microsoft Edge’s built-in PDF viewer, no download needed!
Microsoft Teams Webinar is a powerful tool for hosting large-scale online events, ideal for businesses and educational institutions. In this quick IT Tips blog, we’ll explore how to set up and optimize your Teams Webinar effectively.
\n\nUnlike regular Teams meetings, Teams Webinar is designed for large virtual events, offering features such as:
\nStep 1: Create a webinar from the Teams calendar
\nStep 2: Set up the registration form
\nStep 3: Assign roles
\nNote
\n・Conduct a rehearsal: Test sessions with presenters to prevent technical issues
\n・Engage your audience by fostering interaction through Q&A features and polls
\n・Check camera & audio quality: Ensure clear visuals and sound for a professional experience
\n・Provide follow-up materials by sharing recordings and additional resources after the webinar
Microsoft Teams Webinar is a great tool for running large-scale virtual events smoothly. With the right setup and planning, you can enhance audience engagement and deliver a seamless experience.
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","Webinar Best Practices","Web Conferencing Tools","Online Meetings","Teams Webinar"],"date_published":"2025-12-12T00:30:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-12-12T09:41:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202506d-teams-webinar-en.jpeg","summary":"What is the webinar feature in Microsoft Teams? This article clearly explains the basics of using Teams Webinars, along with key tips for making the most of them when hosting."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20251120-windows-11-features-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20251120-windows-11-features-en/","title":"Must-Know Windows 11 Features After the Upgrade","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Shiori"}],"content_html":"Many people have likely upgraded their company PCs to Windows 11 or replaced their home computers, as support for Microsoft Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025.
\nSince I work in IT support, I wanted to get familiar with Windows 11 before our users did, so I completed the upgrade around last summer.
\nAfter using it for about a year, I personally feel that the UI is easier to navigate and that it includes many useful new features. In this article, I’ll briefly introduce some of the convenient features in Windows 11.
According to Microsoft’s official website, the policy after support ends is as follows:
\nAs of October 14, 2025, PCs running Windows 10 will continue to function, but Microsoft will no longer provide:
\nIn other words, once support ends, vulnerabilities will no longer be addressed, which increases the risk of becoming a target of cyberattacks such as viruses or malware.
\nFor this reason, many companies are upgrading end-user PCs before the support deadline.
\nEven for home users, unless you use your PC strictly offline, it can pose a significant risk. This is a good opportunity to consider upgrading or replacing your device.
From here, I’ll highlight some features that truly shine in Windows 11.
\nAll of them are simple to use—try incorporating them into your workflow today.
The Clipboard allows you to save copied content (text, images, etc.) as history and paste it later.
\nKey features
\nHow to open
\nWindows + V
It’s especially useful when you want to reuse something you copied earlier.
\nSometimes, when copy & paste doesn’t work for some reason, pasting from the clipboard works more reliably.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507b-windows11-features-en1.png\")
\nThe Emoji Panel lets you easily insert emojis, kaomoji, symbols, and GIFs.
\nKey features
\nHow to open
\nWindows + .(period) or Windows + ; (semicolon)
It is integrated with the clipboard, so you can operate both from the same panel.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507b-windows11-features-en2.png\")
\nSnap Layouts allow you to neatly arrange multiple windows on your screen in preset layouts, making multitasking easier.
\nKey features
\nHow to use
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507b-windows11-features-3.png\")
\nThis feature allows you to switch between multiple folders within a single window using tabs—just like using a browser.
\nHow to open
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202507b-windows11-features-en4.png\")
\nYou can rearrange tabs by dragging them.
\nWhen copying and pasting files, you can simply drag them between tabs to move them easily.
Below are some related shortcuts that also work with browsers like Edge and Chrome.
\nOnce you memorize them, they’re extremely useful. Give them a try!
| Shortcut | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Ctrl + t | \nOpen a new tab | \n
| Ctrl + Tab | \nSwitch to the next tab | \n
| Ctrl + Shift+ Tab | \nSwitch to the previous tab | \n
| Ctrl + W | \nClose the active tab | \n
| Windows + ↑ | \nMaximize the current window | \n
| Windows + ↓ | \nMinimize the current window | \n
| Windows + → | \nSnap window to the right | \n
| Windows + ← | \nSnap window to the left | \n
The clipboard, snap layouts, and File Explorer tabs introduced today are all simple yet highly effective features.
\nNow that you’ve upgraded, try making the most of these new tools for a more comfortable and secure PC experience.
This article explains what to do if you are having problems accessing or viewing some files in network folders that require an internet connection, such as a company’s shared folder (shared server) or NAS.
\n\nWhen you cannot access the folder due to the Sync Center, the following situation will occur:
\nIt’s easy to tell if this is the problem.
\nYou’ll see the message below in the bottom left of Explorer.
\n![\"A](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202506c-windows-sync-center-en2.png\")
\n Turn off this feature from the following location:
\n![\"A](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202506c-windows-sync-center-en3.png\")
\nThis is a function that allows you to access files that are located online, such as in shared folders, even if your PC is not connected to the internet. If you turn this function on in advance, even if you find yourself in a situation where you cannot connect to the internet, the data will be temporarily downloaded to your PC as local data (cache file), and you will be able to edit it. Then, when you are back online again, it will automatically sync with the shared folder and update the files.
\nSince most users who are working from home are connected to the internet constantly, this function is no longer helpful. We basically should disable this function.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","Sync Center","File Server"],"date_published":"2025-11-06T02:00:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-11-06T11:10:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202506c-windows-sync-center-en.jpeg","summary":"The reason why files that should be visible aren’t showing up might be the Sync Center. This article clearly explains how to check and fix issues when folders don’t appear due to Windows Sync Center."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20251023-how-to-spot-phishing-emails-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20251023-how-to-spot-phishing-emails-en/","title":"How to Spot Phishing Emails","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"KC"}],"content_html":"“Phishing emails” and “spam emails” — most people have heard these terms from news reports or online articles. While many are familiar with the names, more and more sophisticated phishing emails are circulating, and it’s easy to worry about falling for one. In this article, we’ll explain how even beginners can recognize phishing emails starting today!
\n\nA phishing email is a type of spam email that aims to deceive recipients for fraudulent purposes. The attacker pretends to be a legitimate company or service and sends fake emails in order to steal sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.
\nSince many phishing emails now closely resemble genuine messages, extra caution is necessary.
\nHere are some typical patterns:
\nHere are five practical tips to help you identify phishing emails:
\n1. Check the sender’s email address
\nLook at the actual email address, not just the display name.
\nFor example, an email claiming to be from your bank might come from something like abc123@gmail.com or a random string of meaningless characters. These are red flags.
2. Watch for awkward or unnatural language
\nPoor grammar or odd phrasing often indicate phishing.
\nExample: “Your account will suspended! Immediate response require necessary.”
3. Inspect the link URLs
\nHover over any links to verify the actual destination:
4. Beware of urgent or threatening language
\nPhishing emails often pressure recipients:
\n“Respond within 24 hours,” “Verify your account immediately,” or even threats involving law enforcement or legal action.
5. Never open suspicious attachments
\nAttachments such as .zip, .exe, or macro-enabled files are especially risky and should not be opened.
If possible, delete the email without opening it.
\nIf you’ve already opened it:
For delivery notifications, instead of clicking links, visit the official website or app directly and check your account for any notices.
\nPhishing emails can be highly deceptive, but a bit of caution goes a long way.
\nIf you ever think, “Is this real…?” — stop, avoid downloading or clicking anything, and consult your IT department or someone you trust.
“It was working fine yesterday… but for some reason, I can’t connect to the internet today.”
\nIf you work in IT support, you’ve likely heard this line more times than you can count.
\nSudden, unexplained network issues are a common headache.
\nThis article shares a real-life case in which a laptop suddenly couldn’t connect via Wi-Fi or wired LAN—along with the specific recovery steps that worked in the end.
One day, a laptop used in our office began exhibiting the following symptoms:
\nIn short, this particular PC was completely unable to connect to any network.
\nWe started with standard network troubleshooting:
\nC:\\> ipconfig /release\nC:\\> ipconfig /renew\nNone of the above worked. Running the built-in Windows network troubleshooter only resulted in the message:
\n“Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration.”
What finally fixed the issue was resetting the entire Windows network stack using the following commands.
\nRun as Administrator in Command Prompt:
\nC:\\> netsh winsock reset\nC:\\> netsh int ip reset\nAfter restarting the PC, both Wi-Fi and wired LAN connections were fully restored—
\nas if nothing had ever gone wrong.
Note
\nnetsh winsock reset
\n→ Resets the Winsock catalog, which underpins Windows network communications
\nnetsh int ip reset
\n→ Restores IP and TCP/IP-related settings (including registry values) to default
These two commands are often seen as a last-resort fix for stubborn Windows networking issues.
\nThe issue occurred on the following device:
\nDevice: Surface Laptop 6
\nOperating System: Windows 10
With Surface devices running Windows 10, the following issues are commonly reported:
\nCreate a Batch File for Quick Recovery
\n@echo off\nnetsh winsock reset\nnetsh int ip reset\npause\nSave this as a .bat file to keep a quick-fix tool on hand in case the issue returns.
\nEven when a network problem seems like a dead end,
\nreturning to the basics and resetting the entire network configuration can often bring a system back to life.
If you’re facing similar symptoms, we recommend trying the steps described here.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","Network","Internet Connection","Windows10","Surface","Wi-Fi Issues","Ethernet","IT Support","Command Prompt"],"date_published":"2025-10-01T01:30:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-10-01T10:39:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202506b-fix-internet-connection-en.jpeg","summary":"Your PC suddenly can't connect to the internet? Neither Wi-Fi nor Ethernet is working? This article explains specific recovery steps, including how to resolve the \"Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration\" error. "},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250910-proactive-telework-2025-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250910-proactive-telework-2025-en/","title":"2025 Edition Telework Offensive","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Ena"}],"content_html":"In my 2018 blog post Telework Offensive, I shared thoughts on the potential of flexible work styles. At the time, the idea of large-scale telework seemed distant—long before the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
\n\nFast forward to 2025. Much has changed. Back then, our company had not yet implemented a telework system, but I personally believed in hybrid work and advocated for it both inside and outside the company. My motivation was simple: I wanted to make better use of my limited time and ease the burden of daily life.
\nThen came the pandemic. As the government declared a state of emergency, society quickly pivoted to remote work. Thanks to our early efforts in preparing a remote work environment, we were able to smoothly transition to telework without major disruptions.
\nToday, hybrid work—combining remote and in-office days—has become second nature for most of our team. It’s safe to say that for many, a work style without telework is no longer imaginable.
\nSo, what’s the current state of Telework in Tokyo?
\nThe Tokyo Metropolitan Government regularly surveys 10,000 companies within the city to assess the adoption of telework.
According to the 2024 survey (FY2024) targeting Tokyo-based companies with 30 or more employees, the telework adoption rate was 58.0%. This marks a slight decrease compared to the previous year’s 60.1%.
\n![\"Survey](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202506a-telework-offensive-2025-1.png\")
\nFY2024 Survey Report on Diverse Work Styles (Telework)
\nIn addition, Tokyo conducts monthly surveys to monitor the telework implementation rate among companies with 30 or more employees. Recent trends show a gradual shift back to office-based work, which appears to be contributing to the slight decline.
\nWith the pandemic easing, many companies—including foreign-owned firms—have begun encouraging employees to return to the office. After several years of remote work becoming the norm, the tide now seems to be turning.
\nFrom a business perspective, the concerns include:
\nFrom an employee’s perspective, common concerns include:
\nSo, how should we evolve our working styles from here?
\nReflecting on the thoughts I shared back in 2018, I believe now is the perfect time to revisit what telework truly means.
Yes—many people still sincerely want to continue working remotely.
\nEven with challenges and constraints, telework remains desirable because of the significant benefits it offers:
As IT professionals, our role spans a wide range of responsibilities. Through cross-functional communication, we can help solve challenges related to work styles and productivity—one issue at a time.
\nIf you ever have concerns, ideas, or even vague hopes like “Wouldn’t it be nice if…,” don’t hesitate to reach out to your IT team. We’re here not just to fix problems, but to help shape better ways of working—for everyone.
\nVarious subsidies and grants
\nSubsidy for Securing Human Resources (Telework Course) – Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (Japan)
Telework Total Support Subsidy – Tokyo Metropolitan Government
\n","date_published":"2025-09-10T00:00:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-09-10T09:15:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202506a-telework-offensive-2025-en.jpeg","tags":["Cloud"],"summary":"Telework is here to stay. As return-to-office trends grow, this 2025 edition reflects on the value of remote work and explores how IT professionals can support flexible workstyles. "},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250827-make-the-most-of-onedrive-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250827-make-the-most-of-onedrive-en/","title":"Make the Most of OneDrive! Clearly Understand the Difference from SharePoint","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"SK&Shiori"}],"content_html":"Just started using Microsoft 365 and wondering, “What’s the difference between OneDrive and SharePoint?”
\nIn this article, we’ll explain the basics of OneDrive and SharePoint, how to use them effectively, and how to distinguish between the two—clearly and simply for beginners.
OneDrive and SharePoint are types of cloud storage services—online tools that allow you to save and manage files over the internet.
\nKey features of cloud storage:
\nOnline access: You can access your files from anywhere with an internet connection.
\nBackup support: Your data is easier to recover in case of disasters or device failures.
\nEasy file sharing: Share files simply by sending a link.
OneDrive is primarily a personal cloud storage service. It’s designed for individual users to store and sync files across multiple devices.
\nMain features of OneDrive:
\nNow that you know the basics, here are three easy-to-use features that can make OneDrive even more helpful in your day-to-day tasks.
\nIf you accidentally edit a file or need to undo changes made during collaboration, OneDrive’s version history lets you restore previous versions. It supports various file types including Microsoft 365 documents, PDFs, images, and videos.
\nNote
\nProcedure:
\n1. Right-click the target file on OneDrive.
\n2. Select “Version history” to display previous versions of the file.
\n3. Choose “Restore” or “Open” to review or revert to an earlier version.
With the Files On-Demand feature, you can save disk space by downloading only the files you need. The rest remain in the cloud. This is ideal for PCs with limited storage.
\nNote
\nProcedure:
\n1. Open OneDrive settings
\nRight-click the cloud icon (OneDrive) in the notification area on the bottom right of the taskbar.
\n2. Go to the “Sync and Backup” or “Settings” tab and look for the option called “Files On-Demand”.
\n3. Click “Free up space” to proceed.
\nThis will automatically remove files that haven’t been used for a long time from the local storage and keep them in the cloud only.
Set certain files or folders to “Always keep on this device”, and they’ll be downloaded ahead of time. This allows you to view and edit them even without an internet connection—perfect for travel or fieldwork.
\nNote
\nProcedure:
\n1. Open the OneDrive folder in File Explorer, then right-click the file or folder you need.
\nFiles with a cloud icon are in online-only status.
\n2. Click “Always keep on this device” to download the file locally.
So, what exactly makes SharePoint different from OneDrive?
\nSharePoint is a platform designed for team and organization-wide collaboration. It’s more than just storage—it’s also a document management and workflow automation tool that supports building team sites and more.
\nMain features of SharePoint:
\n“Where are my Teams files saved—OneDrive or SharePoint?”
\nIt depends on how you’re sharing:
| Sharing Method | \nStorage Location | \nDetails | \n
|---|---|---|
| Team (channel posts) | \nSharePoint | \nSaved automatically in the team’s document library | \n
| Chat (1:1 or group) | \nOneDrive | \nStored in the sender’s OneDrive with shared access | \n
In other words, the storage location changes based on the sharing method. OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams work together—understanding how they’re connected helps avoid confusion.
\nThough they may seem similar, understanding their roles helps prevent lost files and sharing mistakes—leading to smoother, more efficient work.
\nWe hope the OneDrive tips shared here come in handy in your daily tasks!
In recent years, various types of generative AI have evolved and are attracting attention from the public. This time, we will introduce basic information about Microsoft Copilot, a generative AI tool developed by Microsoft, its fee structure, how to use the free version, and examples of how to use it.
\n\nMicrosoft Copilot can search for information and generate documents and images using AI, and the paid version can create emails and Word documents, reducing the workload.
\nThe differences between the free and paid versions are summarized below. The free version is suitable for use as an AI assistant that you can try out casually, while the paid version is suitable for those who want to integrate with Microsoft 365 and use advanced functions. We recommend that you choose the version that best suits your purpose and the functions you need.
\n| Item | \nCopilot in Windows | \nMicrosoft Copilot Pro | \nMicrosoft 365 Copilot | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | \nFree | \n¥3,200（/user/month/excl.tax） | \n¥4,497（/user/month, yearly plan/excl.tax） | \n
| Key Features | \n\n ・Chat by using text, voice and image capabilities \n ・Summarize documents and web pages, etc.\n | \n \n ・Paid plan for individuals \n ・Copilot can be used with Web version of Word、Excel、PowerPoint、Outlook \n ・Quick AI image generation, etc.\n | \n \n ・Paid plan for corporate customers \n ・Copilot can be used in Word、Excel、PowerPoint、OneNote、Outlook、Microsoft Teams \n ・Possibility to utilize in-house data \n ・Corporate data protection, etc.\n | \n
| Priority access to AI models during peak hours | \nOff-peak hours | \nPriority Access | \nPriority Access | \n
| Create images with AI | \n15 boosts/day | \n100 boosts/day | \n100 boosts/day | \n
Please note that in order to use Microsoft 365 Copilot, you will first need to sign up for Microsoft 365 for business.
\nPrerequisites for users who can use Microsoft 365 Copilot
Note
\nTo use this service, you will need one of the following licenses:
\n1. Web version of Microsoft Copilot (for personal users):
\nThe main functions are web search, text generation, and image generation. It is available when you access Microsoft Copilot
2. Copilot in Edge (for individual users):
\nThe main features are browser integration and the ability to save and share answers.
\nWhen you open the Edge browser, you will see the Copilot mark in the top right corner of the browser. If you click on that mark, a “Chat” window will appear on the right side of the browser, and you can start a conversation with Copilot.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot1-en.png\")
\n3. Copilot in Windows (for individual users):
\nThe main features are Windows integration, information search, task assistance, etc. Copilot in Windows is the standard Copilot for Windows 11. The Copilot mark is automatically displayed on the taskbar, and you can start a conversation with Copilot by clicking on the mark.
\nIf you cannot find it on the taskbar, enter “Copilot” in the search box and the Copilot app will be displayed, so you can click on it to use it.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot2-en.png\")
\n4. Use the dedicated app on your smartphone:
\nThere are iOS and Android versions of the Copilot app, so you can use it by downloading it to your smartphone. When you open the Copilot app, you can type a message or click the microphone button to talk to Copilot.
Basics of prompts: A prompt is a question to the generative AI. According to the official Microsoft website (details of Copilot promptsdetails of Copilot prompts), you should create a question that combines the four elements of “goal + context + expectation + source.”
\nGoal: What a user wants Copilot to do. Setting a specific goal will allow Copilot to tackle the task without hesitation.
\nExample: A question like “Please conduct market research on XX and perform a comparative analysis with competitors A, B, and C” is more specific than a question like “Please conduct market research on XX.”
Context: Prerequisite information (such as the reason for the need). The user provides the background information Copilot needs to carry out the task.
\nExample: “Make a trip plan” is unlikely to give the users the answer they are looking for. If a question is asked like “When, who, where, budget XX yen, XX days, XX nights, staying at XX hotel,” Copilot will be able to grasp more accurate information and provide an answer based on the information the user is looking for.
Expectation: The form of the desired output. By telling Copilot “In what format you want the answer to be," you can use the information more efficiently.
\nExample: “Please narrow down the report to three main points in bullet points.”
\nExample: “Please create this travel plan for children.”
Source: What information will be used in Copilot. By specifying the information to be referenced by Copilot, you can increase the reliability of the information and eliminate unintended information.
\nExample: “Please explain about XX based on the information published in (website URL).”
\nExample: “Please summarize XX based on the contents of this [file name].”
It is not always necessary to enter all four elements, but you will get a clearer answer if you include one of them. In addition, if you are not satisfied with the first answer and modify the prompt while interacting with Copilot, you can obtain a more accurate output.
\nFor example, in our blog post “UTP cable? Cat cable? RJ45 connector? Admin staff asked AI about IT terms they were curious about,” the first prompt was “What is a UTP cable?”, and the next prompt was “What are UTP cable, Cat cable, and RJ45 connector? Please explain it in an easy-to-understand way for people without IT knowledge.”
\nIn this way, by clarifying ambiguous parts and changing your perspective, you can convey your request to Copilot multiple times and arrive at the answer your users are looking for.
In addition, to avoid the risk of information leakage, please be careful not to include important information such as highly confidential information or personal information in the prompts of generative AI including Copilot.
\nCaution
\nPoints to note:
\n・Limit on the amount of information: Copilot has a limit on the amount of information it can process at one time, so avoid directly inputting long prompts or large files.
\n・Total number of chats per day: Up to 300 times/day (unlimited with paid version)
\n・Number of chats per session: Up to 30 turns
\n・Maximum size of reference files: 10MB with Microsoft 365 license, up to 2GB/day of total uploads.
Entra account users with the following licenses can use Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat.
\nMicrosoft 365 Copilot Chat Eligibility
Open chat
\nWhen you click “Try Copilot Chat” from the Microsoft 365 Copilot website, the Copilot Chat screen will be displayed in a new window.
Alternatively, open Edge and see the Copilot365 mark on the right side of the search bar. Click on that mark and the Copilot Chat window will appear.
\nEdit in Pages
\nCopilot Chat has a feature called “Edit in Pages.” Clicking this button will generate the searched content as a page, which will be displayed on the right side of the screen. The user can then edit it themselves (including formatting and styling) or share it with others.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot3-en.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot4-en.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot5-en.png\")
\nThe generated page will also be automatically added to your Loop “My Workspace”. You can share and collaborate on pages added to Loop with your team.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504e-what-is-copilot6-en.png\")
\nWord(Copilot in Word): taking minutes, creating proposals, etc.
\nExcel(Copilot in Excel): automatic tabulation, chart generation, etc.
\nPowerPoint(Copilot in PowerPoint): automatically generate data-based documents, etc.
\nOutlook(Copilot in Outlook): organize email, create drafts, summarize thread content, etc.
\nOneNote(Copilot in OneNote): summarize notes, suggest ideas, etc.
\nTeams(Copilot in Teams): take meeting minutes, organize key points, etc.
\nLoop(Copilot in Loop): summarize pages, paste into PowerPoint, etc.
Above is an introduction to Copilot. If you haven’t used Copilot yet, please give it a try.
\nHowever, Copilot is only intended to support users as a tool to enhance creativity and productivity, so be careful not to rely on it too much. Users must judge and reconfirm the authenticity of the information and the originality of the text. Don’t just rely on the information provided; be sure to check and make your own judgments.
Some companies use MS Teams as an internal chat tool while using a softphone application to receive external phone calls. Here is a quick tip for solving the problem where we cannot join MS Teams meetings while using Cisco IP Communicator due to a functional conflict.
\n\nRequirements:
\nBoth MS Teams and Cisco IP Communicator app are running on a Windows PC (including running in the background).
Trouble:
\nWhen you try to join a meeting in MS Teams, the handset of the Cisco IP Communicator app is automatically turned on and the user leaves the Teams meeting.
From the MS Teams settings menu, turn off the Sync Devices button.
\nSteps:
\nA. Open MS Teams app. In the upper right corner of MS Teams, select “Settings” from the three dots button.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504c-cisco-ip-communicator-problem1.png\")
\nB. Select “Devices” from the Settings menu and turn off the “Sync button for devices” in the Audio item
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504c-cisco-ip-communicator-problem2-en.png\")
\nThe “device sync button” is a feature that allows a physical button on the external device like a headset to start Teams calls. Cisco IP Communicator app seems to conflict with this functionality. But turning it off seems to resolve the above issue by desyncing.
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","Microsoft Teams","Cisco IP Communicator","Chat tool"],"date_published":"2025-08-06T00:34:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-08-06T09:34:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202504c-cisco-ip-communicator-problem-en.jpeg","summary":"How to solve the conflict between Cisco IP communicator & Microsoft Teams"},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250730-3-easy-ways-to-take-a-screenshot-instantly-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250730-3-easy-ways-to-take-a-screenshot-instantly-en/","title":"3 Easy Ways to Take a Screenshot Instantly","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Kabaya"}],"content_html":"“All I wanted was to show part of my screen, but I fumbled with the tools again.” Have you ever had that moment? Taking screenshots is one of the most common tasks in the workplace, but the best method actually depends on your purpose. Here, we compare 3 useful screenshot methods on Windows and explain when each one shines.
\n\nIdeal for:
\nHow to use:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly1-en.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly2.png\")
\nPersonal Note:
\nI often use this tool when I need a clean capture with comments.
\nIts intuitive interface makes editing and saving images quick and easy.
Ideal for:
\nHow to use:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly3.png\")
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly4.png\")
\nPersonal Note:
\nSince I discovered this shortcut, I rarely use the Snipping Tool anymore.
\nWhat I love is that a thumbnail appears in the corner after the screenshot – click it, and you’re instantly in edit mode where you can highlight or draw on it.
\nIt saves time and makes explanations so much clearer.
Ideal for:
\nHow to use:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly5.png\")
\nPersonal Note:
\nStill the simplest way to capture everything.
\nBut you’ll often need to crop it afterward if you only want part of the image.
If you’ve taken multiple screenshots and want to reuse a previous one, press “Win + V” to open clipboard history.
\nThis little-known feature lets you manage and reuse recent screenshots with ease.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504b-screenshot-instantly6.png\")
\n| Method | \nBest Use Case | \nEase of Use | \nEditing Options | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| Snipping Tool | \nPrecise editing & annotations | \n〇 | \n◎ | \n
| Win + Shift+ S | \nQuick sharing | \n◎ | \n〇 | \n
| PrintScreen | \nFull screen capture | \n△ | \n△ | \n
Try out each method once and pick the one that feels most comfortable for you.
\nOnce you’ve got the hang of it, sharing screenshots becomes quick and easy.
\nPersonally, I rely on “Win + Shift + S” – it’s fast, intuitive, and super handy.
\nGive it a try and see which one works best for you!
Now that AI has become a familiar part of our lives, many people may be wondering,
\n“What can ChatGPT actually do?” ChatGPT is a tool that can be used in a wide range of situations—everyday life, learning, and work. Here, I’d like to share some of the ways I personally use it.
One of the most basic uses is asking questions or looking up small bits of information.
\nFor example, things like “When is the tax filing deadline?” or even getting help proofreading a business email.
\nCompared to using a dictionary or doing a full web search, it’s faster and less affected by distracting ads.
How I use it:
\nThings to keep in mind:
\nChatGPT is also a great partner for anyone studying for certifications.
\nFor example, you can ask it things like “Give me practice questions for the IT Passport exam” or “Tell me the key points for the FP Level 3 test.”
\nYou can even customize how you study—Q&A format, quizzes, or summaries—to match your mood or learning style.
How I use it:
\nThings to keep in mind:
\nChatGPT is also useful for language learning—especially English.
\nIt can help you practice daily conversation, correct your sentences, or give you example phrases for new vocabulary.
\nIf talking to people feels intimidating, it’s a great way to practice at your own pace.
How I use it:
\nChatGPT can help you with health goals like dieting, too.
\nIf you provide your height, weight, eating habits, and activity level, it can create a realistic plan or suggest weekly meal ideas.
\nWhat’s nice is, it praises you even for small efforts and encourages you without judgment—even if you slip up.
\nIt’s perfect for people who have trouble staying motivated (like me, haha).
How I use it:
\nThings to keep in mind:
\nOne surprising but helpful use is simply talking to ChatGPT.
\nIt responds with emotional understanding, so it’s great for sorting out your thoughts when you’re feeling stuck.
How I use it:
\nThings to keep in mind:
\nChatGPT is a versatile AI tool that adapts to your needs—whether you’re studying, organizing your life, or just chatting.
\nThere’s no single “right” way to use it. The key is figuring out what works best for you.
By the way, the main structure of this article was also drafted by ChatGPT!
\nI just added my personal examples and gave it my own twist.
\nI hope this gives you some inspiration on how to use it, too.
Hidden Water Hazards in the Office
\nIn Japan’s climate, the rainy season and typhoon periods bring high humidity and frequent rain—conditions that often lead to unexpected “PC water damage” accidents every year.
\nCommon scenarios include:
\n“I stepped away from my desk and came back to find mist from a humidifier pouring onto my keyboard…”
\n“I knocked over my coffee and drenched my laptop.”
\n“I got caught in a sudden downpour on my way home—my whole bag was soaked.”
\nThese are not rare situations. This article walks you through the proper steps to take when your PC gets wet and highlights the actions you shouldn’t take.
The first step is to stay calm while taking quick and appropriate action. If your PC gets wet, turn it off immediately. If possible, disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery. This prevents a short circuit from occurring due to moisture.
\nNext, gently wipe the surface with a soft cloth or tissue. Avoid using a hairdryer or heat source—let the device air dry in a well-ventilated area.
\nDo not turn the device upside down or shake it, as this can cause the water to seep deeper into the internal components.
\nDo not try to disassemble it yourself—this often voids your warranty. And above all, never try to power it back on while it’s still wet. This can cause irreversible damage to the motherboard.
It’s natural to feel nervous about reporting the incident to your IT department. You might be tempted to say something vague like, “It suddenly stopped working…” while avoiding eye contact.
\nBut IT professionals have seen it all. Their goal isn’t to blame you, but to resolve the issue quickly and minimize downtime.
\nBe honest and provide as much detail as possible:
Once notified, your IT admin will begin response procedures. In most companies, service contracts with vendors like Dell or Lenovo include on-site repair support.
\nBefore sending the device for repairs, IT may check whether any data can be recovered, back up important files, or transition your environment to a spare PC.
\nEven if the incident was caused by user error (e.g., water spills or device drops), many corporate contracts do cover such cases—typically once per year per device.
\nHowever, this depends on your company’s specific contract. In cases not covered, you may be facing a costly repair bill ranging from ¥50,000 to ¥100,000 or more.
Everyone makes mistakes, but you can reduce the risk with a few practical habits:
\nUse cloud storage (like OneDrive or shared drives) regularly. This ensures your data is safe, even if your device becomes unusable.
\nInvest in a waterproof laptop sleeve or bag for commuting, especially during rainy seasons.
\nAvoid placing beverages or humidifiers near your PC. Use cups with lids and keep liquids off your workspace entirely, if possible.
\nWater damage is more common than you think. It’s not something to be ashamed of or afraid to report. What matters most is how you respond, how honestly you communicate, and how well you prevent it from happening again.
In Part 1, we discussed an issue that commonly occurs when migrating to SharePoint Online (SPO): files failing to open when accessed through File Explorer. This problem is often caused by exceeding SPO’s limits on folder depth and file name length. In this article, we’ll focus on how to prevent such issues by using metadata management and adopting more efficient file management practices.
\n\nMetadata means “data about data”—in other words, it’s supplementary information that describes or gives context to other data.
\nFor example, when you take a photo with your smartphone, the image itself is the data. But the background details, like when and where it was taken, are metadata.
Typical metadata for photos might include:
\nHere’s an example:
\nWhen you take a photo with your smartphone, metadata such as the date, location, camera specs, and image details are automatically saved with it.
\nHopefully, this gives you a general idea of what metadata is.
\nLet’s now take a look at how metadata is used in SharePoint Online.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504d-sharepoint-migration-part2-1.png\")
\nIn SharePoint Online, metadata refers to the “tags” or supplementary information attached to files and list items within sites, libraries, or lists.
\nIt allows users to easily organize, categorize, and search for content. Key steps include:
\nExample: Document Management for Proposals and Contracts
\nOn a traditional file server, folders are usually organized hierarchically like:
\nYear > Department > Project > Contract
\nBut in SharePoint Online, metadata makes file searching much easier and more dynamic.
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202504d-sharepoint-migration-part2-2-en.png\")
\nCategory: Labels like “Proposal,” “Contract,” or “Report” are color-coded and easy to identify.
\nFile Name: Using a naming convention is recommended.
\nClient: No need for folders—files can be sorted by client using metadata.
\nOwner/Department: Responsibility is clearly visible based on who owns the document.
\nContract Status: You can see progress at a glance via status indicators.
\nDue Date: Helps clarify timelines and enables filtering by schedule.
Let’s compare traditional folder management with metadata management to better understand the advantages:
\n| Item | \nTraditional Folder Management | \nMetadata Management | \n
|---|---|---|
| Searchability | \nManually opening folders to find files | \nInstantly find files with keyword search | \n
| Access Control | \nManaged by folder permissions | \nFlexible control via metadata + permissions | \n
| URL Limitations | \nDeep folders lead to long URLs and errors | \nAvoid long URLs with flatter structure | \n
| Sharing & Collaboration | \nPermissions must be set per folder | \nViews can be customized for each user | \n
While metadata brings major improvements, switching away from traditional folder habits can be challenging.
\nTo make the most of SharePoint Online, we recommend rethinking your current workflows.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-black-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/push-pin-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Traditional vs. Recommended Management in SPO
\n| Traditional Approach | \nRecommended in SharePoint Online | \n
|---|---|
| Create folders per project | \nUse a custom \"Project Name\" column | \n
| Create folders per year | \nAdd a \"Year\" column and filter | \n
| Create folders per person | \nAdd an \"Owner\" column and manage via views | \n
By adopting metadata management, you can free yourself from rigid folder structures and move toward more flexible, modern file organization.
\nWith metadata, you can leverage powerful search and customized views, unlocking the full potential of SharePoint Online.
\nThat said, changing long-standing habits isn’t easy. Rather than overhauling everything at once, consider starting small—for example, create a new library for a current project and test out metadata-based management.
\nLet’s take the first step together toward a “new way of file management” that doesn’t rely on folders!
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","SharePointOnline","Microsoft365","CloudMigration","FileManagement","BusinessEfficiency","ITOperations"],"date_published":"2025-07-09T00:15:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-07-09T09:49:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202504d-sharepoint-migration-part2-en.jpeg","summary":"Learn how to prevent file access errors in SharePoint Online by using metadata management instead of deep folder structures. Boost searchability and efficiency with practical tips."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250702-sharepoint-online-post-migration-problems-solutions-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250702-sharepoint-online-post-migration-problems-solutions-en/","title":"Unable to Open Files After Migrating to SharePoint Online? Comprehensive Guide to Causes and Solutions! Part1","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Ena"}],"content_html":"Are you facing issues where files won’t open after migrating to SharePoint Online? In this article, we explain the differences in SPO’s folder structure, URL limitations, access management, and give some practical troubleshooting solutions. We also provide a detailed guide on metadata management to enhance searchability!
\n\n\n\nDecommission all on-premises servers across all sites and move to the cloud!
\n
This is a common refrain in foreign-affiliated companies. Often, projects are rolled out to local offices under directives from Global IT. In one such company, following an order from the Global IT Manager, the local IT team was tasked with reviewing its file server operations and migrating them to the cloud.
\nAs a result, SharePoint Online (SPO) was introduced.
\nMigrating from an on-premises file server to SPO offers potential benefits such as cost reduction, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced security. However, because it operates differently from traditional file servers, hidden challenges often emerge.
\nThis was not just a simple server migration—it was a major shift that required changes in operations and processes.
\nThe migration was successfully completed. However, the local IT team had lingering concerns:
\n\n\nIs this really going to work? Will end users be able to adapt?
\n
Their fears soon materialized as users began reporting issues:
\n\n\nI’m seeing an error, and I can’t access my files!
\n
So, what exactly was the problem? Let’s break it down.
\nWith a strict deadline in place and limited time for careful implementation, the team aimed to minimize disruption by maintaining the existing operational approach, as much as possible, like so:
\nHowever, SPO is fundamentally different from on-premises file servers in its design. As a result, retaining the old folder structure led to frequent errors where files could not be opened. But why?
\nMany companies manage their files in deeply nested folder structures, categorizing files by year, client, and other attributes within multiple subfolders. However, in SPO, this approach leads to errors such as:
\n“Files won’t open due to path length limitations!”
\nWarning
\nThe root cause? The folder structure was too deep, exceeding character limits.
\nTo better understand the issue, let’s examine SPO’s unique characteristics and the constraints it imposes.
\nDeep folder structures are not recommended in SPO. Instead, a metadata-driven approach should be used for better searchability.
\nWhen syncing files to a local PC and opening them via Windows Explorer, the file path is limited to 256 characters. Even if a file opens in SPO via your web browser, it may fail to open on a local PC if the path exceeds this limit.
\nHere are the two main scenarios and their limits when opening files:
\nOneDrive Sync Client:
\nBrowser Access:
\nInstead of relying on deep folder structures, users can utilize metadata management and search functionality to find files more efficiently.
\nSince SPO follows a different architectural approach than traditional file servers, it cannot be used in the same way. A new operational strategy aligned with SPO’s capabilities is necessary.
\nSo in the end, how can we avoid the above issues and use SPO efficiently?
\nSPO migration projects don’t end with migration completion - they require ongoing adaptation to a more suitable operational model. By understanding SPO’s characteristics and establishing operational rules, companies can maximize the benefits of the cloud. One client shared with us:
\n\n\nAt first, it was confusing, but after using the search feature, I realized it made my work much easier!
\n
To ensure more users share this sentiment, it’s essential to review operations and implement the right measures.
\nNext: Practical Metadata Management
\nIn Part 2, we’ll explore how to effectively manage metadata as an alternative to deep folder structures. This will help improve searchability and ensure smooth operations in SPO.
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","spo","migration","troubleshooting"],"date_published":"2025-07-02T01:00:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-07-02T11:05:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503b-sharepoint-migration-part1-social-en.jpg","summary":"Files won't open after migrating to SharePoint Online? In this article, we explain the differences in SPO's folder structure, URL limitations, access management, and give some practical solutions. Contains a detailed guide on metadata management to enhance searchability!"},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250623-how-to-strengthen-password-management-in-your-company-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250623-how-to-strengthen-password-management-in-your-company-en/","title":"Must-Read for IT Managers! How to Strengthen Password Management in Your Company","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Kabaya"}],"content_html":"Are you leaving password management up to individual employees? Many cyberattacks start by exploiting weaknesses in password practices—often due to human error or poor internal management. If your company’s password policies are too lax, a single compromised account could lead to a major data breach. In this article, we’ll break down five key strategies IT professionals should implement to strengthen internal password management. From realistic policy setting based on the latest NIST guidelines, to effective tool usage and employee education, we’ll cover practical steps you can take to protect your organization.
\n\nMany corporate security risks stem from poorly managed passwords. Weak or reused passwords often become targets for cyberattacks. Phishing attacks and credential leaks are increasing, leading to unauthorized access that can cause significant damage to businesses.
\nTo maintain password strength while minimizing user frustration, consider adopting the following rules based on recommendations from NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology):
\nNIST’s latest guidelines emphasize length over complexity and maintaining secure passwords over enforcing periodic changes. Forcing regular updates often leads to predictable patterns (e.g., Spring2024! → Summer2024!), which can weaken security rather than enhance it.
\nMFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised. Consider using:
\nPassword managers such as Zetetic Codebook (eSolia’s choice) or 1Password help employees generate and store strong passwords securely, in an encrypted database application. Benefits include:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503h-password-management-(1).png\")
\nApply the Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP) by granting only necessary access rights, and consider “Just in Time” access rights allocation solutions, such as M365 PIM.
\nAdditionally:
Password security is not just an IT issue; all employees should understand its importance.
\nConduct training on:
At eSolia, in addition to taking part in security training, all employees create a monthly quiz based on articles from the magazine Nikkei Network, covering a wide range of IT and security topics. These quizzes are then delivered daily through TMC, our attendance and work tracking app, in a True/False format. This unique initiative helps reinforce both security awareness and overall IT knowledge as part of our everyday workflow.
\nStrengthening password management is a fundamental part of corporate cybersecurity. IT managers and decision-makers must lead efforts in setting policies, implementing security tools, and educating employees. Start by assessing your company’s current password management practices and take steps to enhance security today!
\nAt eSolia Inc, we provide reliable IT support services for businesses as an outsourced IT department. If you’re considering IT outsourcing, feel free to contact us for more information.
\n","tags":["Security","Cybersecurity","IT Management","Corporate Security"],"date_published":"2025-06-23T00:30:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-06-23T09:35:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503h-password-management-en2.jpeg","summary":"Enhance your company's password management with practical strategies. Learn about MFA, password policies, and password managers to improve security. A must-read for IT managers and decision-makers."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250412-my-computer-froze-7-easy-fixes-for-beginners-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250412-my-computer-froze-7-easy-fixes-for-beginners-en/","title":"My Computer Froze! 7 Easy Fixes for Beginners","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Shiori"}],"content_html":"When your computer screen suddenly freezes while you’re using it, it can be quite stressful, and frustrating especially if you’re busy. However, immediately forcing a shutdown or yanking the power plug can lead to data loss or make the situation worse. First, take a deep breath and stay calm. Then, try the seven solutions below.
\n\nIf your computer is processing tasks and struggling to keep up, rushing and pressing multiple keys may make things worse. Confirm whether the access lamp is blinking, which indicates that your hard drive (HDD) or other storage device is actively reading or writing data. If it is, simply waiting a while can sometimes resolve the freeze. Try waiting at least 10 minutes before taking further action.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503a-pc-freeze-.png\")
\nSometimes, what seems like a frozen screen may actually be an issue with your external keyboard or mouse. If you’re using external devices, check their connection:
\n For wired devices: Try unplugging and reconnecting the cable.
\n For wireless devices: Make sure Bluetooth is still connected and check if the battery is dead or needs charging.
If your computer’s built-in keyboard or trackpad still works, the problem is likely with the external device. Wireless devices often run out of battery without warning, so it’s a good idea to check them regularly.
\nSometimes, connected USB devices or peripherals can cause your computer to freeze. Try unplugging all peripherals and checking whether the problem resolves.
\nCommon peripherals include:
\nEven if your computer appears completely frozen, certain keyboard commands may help restore functionality.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503a-pc-freeze-en-(1).png\")
\nIf the keyboard is still functional, signing out may help unfreeze your computer.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503a-pc-freeze-en-(2).png\")
\nIf possible, restarting your computer may resolve the issue.
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503a-pc-freeze-en-(3).png\")
\nIf none of the above solutions work, you may need to force shutdown as a last resort.
\nUsing a force shutdown can cause data loss, so it should only be used as a last resort. As a general rule, to prevent losing important data, make it a habit to save your work frequently.
\nAt eSolia Inc, we provide reliable IT support services as an outsourced IT department for businesses. If you’re considering IT outsourcing, feel free to contact us here for more information.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","Bluescreen","BSOD","Shutdown","Beginner"],"date_published":"2025-04-12T01:04:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-06-16T09:51:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503a-pc-freeze-social-en.jpg","summary":"Here are seven easy fixes that beginners can try when their computer suddenly stops responding."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250411-check-battery-health-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250411-check-battery-health-en/","title":"Tips for how to check your laptop battery health on Windows","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"K.Y."}],"content_html":"Every mobile device has a battery. And the battery condition will get gradually worse over time, lasting less time as you continue to use it. Windows offers a useful feature to check the battery status of your device by simply inputting a single command on the command line. Read on for a quick tip to check it on Windows laptops.
\n\nThe quickest way to open Command Prompt is:
\nA. Press the Windows button
\nB. Type “cmd” in the search bar and press Enter
![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503e-laptop-battery-health-en(1).png\")
\nIn the black screen that pops up, input the below command and press Enter.
\nPS c:\\> powercfg/batteryreport\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503e-laptop-battery-health-en(2).png\")
\nOnce the command is entered, Command Prompt tells you that the battery report has been generated.
\nTip
\nJust copy the folder path displayed in the black terminal window and paste it to Explorer using Ctrl + C, Ctrl + V
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503e-laptop-battery-health-en(3).png\")
\nPaste the folder path here and press Enter
\nYour default web browser launches and you will see a report page like this:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503e-laptop-battery-health(4).png\")
\nTip
\nWhile DESIGN CAPACITY shows how much capacity the battery was originally designed with, FULL CHARGE CAPACITY shows this battery’s current capacity.
\nFull charge capacity will basically decrease over time, and this tells how much your laptop battery is deteriorating. If you find there is a substantial gap between Design Capacity and Full Charge Capacity, let’s say Full charge capacity is 70% that of Design Capacity, it’s a good time to replace the battery or the laptop itself.
\nCYCLE COUNT shows how many times you charged this battery. Generally, the battery needs to be replaced after 300~500 charge cycles.
\nThis is the method to objectively check the deterioration of your laptop battery. If you have noticed that your laptop battery is running down quickly recently, try checking the battery status using the method above.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","battery","health check","laptop","hardware"],"date_published":"2025-04-11T01:07:00.000Z","date_modified":"2025-06-09T15:32:00.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503f-laptop-battery-health-social-en.jpg","summary":"How to check your laptop battery health on Windows using a simple command line technique"},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250410-admin-asked-ai-about-the-it-terminology-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250410-admin-asked-ai-about-the-it-terminology-en/","title":"UTP Cable? Cat Cable? RJ45 Connector? Admin asks AI about IT terminology","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"YM"}],"content_html":"How to Use AI to turn “Kind of Know” into “Truly Understand” for the IT terms you often see at work. This time, we’ll share a real example of how AI helped deepen understanding.
\n\nAs part of Office Manager or Admin work at an IT services firm like eSolia, we often see IT terms such as “UTP cable,” “CAT 6 cable,” or “RJ45 connector” in estimate details for LAN cabling constructions. Based on the job content, I had a vague impression that those terms were something used for network lines.
\nOne of our internal knowledgebase articles from Nikkei Network - “What you surprisingly don’t know about LAN cables” (日経ネットワーク – 意外と知らないLANケーブル" - provides a broad interpretation of LAN cables, including some specialized knowledge, but I wanted an even simpler explanation to understand, so I asked AIs to try to get a better understanding of these terms. Let me share what I found out.
\nFirst, I asked a simple question to three different AI tools.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/chat-centered-dots-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Question to AI: What is a UTP cable?
\nAs summarized in the linked PDF, the search results from each AI seem to be similar. It looks like it is a compilation of explanations of IT terms that appear in textbooks; it was easier to read through rather than reading textbooks, but I still need some simple clarification to grasp the ideas of these terms.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-red-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/file-pdf-duotone.svg’
\ninline
What is a UTP cable? - AI Answers
\nSo next, I tried asking a more detailed question, prompting the AI to take the knowledge level of the audience into consideration. This time, the AI responses showed some noticeable differences.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-sky-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/chat-centered-dots-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Question to AI: What are UTP cables, Cat cables, and RJ45 connectors? I’d like an easy-to-understand explanation for people without IT knowledge.
\nThis time, there was a slight change in the answers from AIs.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-pink-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/brain-duotone.svg’
\ninline
ChatGPT (free version): Turned on the “inference” function and then asked the question. The answer was displayed in the form of a summary of the explanation in the table above.
\nIt was interesting to be able to see the basis for the answer given by the AI based on the “inference” function. As for the content of the explanation, difficult terms are summarized in bullet points, which gives the impression that users can quickly check and understand the content rather than reading long explanations.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-yellow-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/lightbulb-filament-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Copilot (free version): Provided a straightforward explanation for general users and IT beginners: UTP cables are like “electrical cords,” Cat cables are like “speed meters” that show UTP performance, and RJ45 connectors are “outlet plugs” for making connections.
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-emerald-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/smiley-wink-duotone.svg’
\ninline
DeepSeek (Japanese mobile app version): Asked the question with the “Deep Think (R1)” feature turned on.
\nFirst of all, like ChatGPT, DeepSeek was able to confirm the theory behind the explanatory text, and to see that it was trying to answer after exploring and considering the questioner’s true intention.
\nThen, in terms of the explanation, it gave an answer similar to Copilot’s, describing a UTP cable as “a cable like a normal telephone line,” a Cat cable as “a number that indicates the generation of the cable,” and an RJ45 connector as “a plug at the end of a LAN cable.”
\nIn addition, the “illustrating the overall relationship” part should be the easiest to understand for users and IT beginners without IT knowledge. The explanation in the final overview diagram is simple to understand: “a type of cable called UTP cable with Cat6 performance and RJ45 connectors on both ends.”
\nHere’s how each AI might respond if we were to give them a bit of personality:
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-pink-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/brain-duotone.svg’
\ninline
ChatGPT (free version): “A UTP cable is made with twisted pairs of wires… it’s a bit technical, but I’ve listed the key points for you!”
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-yellow-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/lightbulb-filament-duotone.svg’
\ninline
Copilot (free version): “Think of a UTP cable as an ‘electric cord’! And a Cat cable? It’s kind of like a ‘speedometer’ showing performance.”
\n<img
\nclass=“size-4 fill-emerald-400 inline-block align-[-0.1em] mr-1”
\nsrc=‘/icons/phosphor/smiley-wink-duotone.svg’
\ninline
DeepSeek (Japanese mobile app version): “Hmm, I see what you’re really asking… You want to understand the ‘generations’ of LAN cables, right? Okay, let me draw a diagram for you!”
\nSince I was able to get easy-to-understand answers, feel free to try using the above question yourself if you’d like to see the actual responses.
\nHere we listed results of asking three types of AI about UTP cables. Getting simplified answers rather than technical terms will give general users or IT beginners a basic understanding of UTP cables. It was interesting to be able to see some of the logic behind how AI tries to come up with answers, and this experience made me really feel that advanced AI technology is an extremely useful tool.
\nHowever, it is important to remember that the accuracy of the answers provided by AI and the credibility of the answer resources are not 100% guaranteed (after all, they are ingesting articles and text they found on the internet), so please be aware that the use of AI must be interpreted by the individual or in accordance with the policies of their company.
\neSolia provides daily IT support as a reliable IT department for companies in Japan, and we can definitely answer your questions about cabling!
\nIf you are considering outsourcing your IT department, or if you need help on any IT-related projects (office relocation or LAN cabling constructions, equipment installation, etc.), please feel free to contact us here.
\n","tags":["AI-Usage","UTP Cable","Cat Cable","RJ-45 connector","LAN Cabling"],"date_published":"2025-04-10T05:13:55.141Z","date_modified":"2025-05-31T20:00:27.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503g-admin-asked-ai-social-en.jpg","summary":"What are the \"UTP cable\", \"Cat cable\" and “RJ-45 Connector” that are often seen on estimates for LAN cabling construction? Our admin team was curious, so they asked AI."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250408-outlook-calendar-sync-issues-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250408-outlook-calendar-sync-issues-en/","title":"How to Fix Outlook Calendar Sync Issues","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"KC"}],"content_html":"If you use Outlook, you might occasionally encounter problems where your calendar doesn’t update or updating is delayed. This issue can lead to scheduling conflicts such as double bookings. Here are some methods to help resolve these problems and ensure smoother scheduling.
\n\nThe first thing you should try is using Outlook on the web. This is the simplest and most reliable way to avoid sync issues. Since the web version has different sync timings than the app, it can help prevent problems that occur in the app. If you notice that updates aren’t reflecting or there’s a delay in the app, always check the web version first.
\nAnother effective method is to clear the cache. The Outlook app creates a local file called an OST file that helps you access emails, calendar, and contacts even when you’re offline. Over time, if you’ve been using Outlook for a long time or manage a large number of calendars, the OST file can become quite large, which may lead to syncing problems.
\nFollow these steps to delete the OST file in the Classic version of Outlook:
\n![\"Screenshot](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/202503e-outlook-calender-sync-issues-en.png\")
\nAdditionally, rebuilding your profile can help resolve syncing issues. Here’s how to do it:
\nCaution
\nAfter deleting the OST file and rebuilding your profile, it might take several hours for emails and other data to sync back to your app. This method doesn’t always resolve the issue, but it can help in many cases.
\nAlthough the first two methods are effective, delays in syncing can still occur because the information is transmitted over the internet. In time-sensitive situations or when you have conflicting appointments, the most reliable way to avoid issues is to check manually.
\nWhile this may seem old-fashioned, directly confirming with the calendar owner or manager ensures that the schedule is accurate, preventing double bookings and other mistakes.
\nMost syncing issues with Outlook can be resolved by using the web version or clearing the cache. However, in some cases, checking manually or rebuilding your profile may be necessary. Regularly double-checking both the web version and the app can help prevent these problems and ensure smoother schedule management.
\n","tags":["Microsoft-365","Outlook","PC Troubles","Advanced Guide","Calendar"],"date_published":"2025-04-08T07:31:31.905Z","date_modified":"2025-05-31T20:00:27.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503e-outlook-calender-sync-issues-social-en.jpg","summary":"Here are some methods to help resolve outlook calendar sync problems and ensure smoother scheduling."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250408-simple-maintenance-tips-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250408-simple-maintenance-tips-en/","title":"Simple Maintenance Tips to keep your PC running smoothly","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"Sachiko Kosuge"}],"content_html":"Simple maintenance tips to keep your PC running smoothly. By regularly performing these easy maintenance tasks, you can maintain your PC’s performance and enjoy using it for a long time.
\n\nDust can reduce the cooling efficiency of your PC and lead to overheating. Use an air duster or brush to remove dust accumulated around the PC’s fan area and inside the USB and HDMI ports.
\nBy performing Windows Update, you can install the latest security patches, add new features, and improve performance. It is important to check for updates regularly and keep your system up to date. Additionally, make sure to update other software periodically as well.
\nDeleting unnecessary files can increase your disk space and improve your PC’s performance. Use the native Windows “Disk Cleanup” tool to regularly remove unwanted files.
\nUsing a computer for long periods or running multiple programs simultaneously can deplete memory and system resources, leading to slower performance. Regularly restarting your computer helps reset system resources and maintain smooth operation.
\nRegular maintenance is key to extending your PC’s lifespan and maintaining its performance. Give these tips a try!
\nAt eSolia Inc, we provide reliable IT support services as an outsourced IT department for businesses. If you’re considering IT outsourcing, feel free to contact us here for more information.
\n","tags":["Troubleshooting","Regular Maintenance"],"date_published":"2025-04-08T05:57:10.950Z","date_modified":"2025-05-31T20:00:27.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/202503d-simple-maintenance-tips-social-en.jpg","summary":"By performing simple maintenance regularly, you can maintain your PC's performance and use it smoothly."},{"id":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250403-essential-keyboard-shortcuts-en/","url":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/en/posts/20250403-essential-keyboard-shortcuts-en/","title":"This Is Your First Step to Saving Time! Essential Shortcuts You Can Use Starting Today","language":"en","authors":[{"name":"YN"}],"content_html":"Have you ever experienced something like this? You keep clicking through windows thinking, “Wait, where did that screen go?” Or you make a mistake and find yourself scrambling to figure out how to undo it. Sometimes you even slam your laptop shut when someone suddenly starts talking to you. Before you know it, a simple task ends up taking over 3 minutes. But what if I told you — there’s a way to do that same task in just one second?
\n\nHere, we’ve gathered a collection of basic shortcuts you can start using right now.
\nNo complicated steps, no advanced knowledge required. Just simple, practical shortcuts that feel intuitive — ones your fingers will remember for you.
For relieving everyday little frustrations…
\n| Shortcut Key | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Win + D | \nShow desktop | \n
| Win + E | \nOpen File Explorer | \n
| Win + Tab | \nOpen Task View | \n
| Alt + Tab | \nSwitch between open windows | \n
| Win + L | \nLock the screen | \n
Quiet time-savers for smart workers…
\n| Shortcut Key | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Ctrl + Shift + Esc | \nOpen Task Manager | \n
| Win + Shift + S | \nTake a screenshot (selectable area) | \n
| Win + Shift + ←/→ | \nMove window to another display | \n
| Win + V | \nShow clipboard history | \n
| Win + . | \nShow an Emoji panel | \n
| Shortcut Key | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Ctrl + B | \nBold text | \n
| Ctrl + I | \nItalicize text | \n
| Ctrl + U | \nUnderline text | \n
| Ctrl + Enter | \nInsert page break | \n
| Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y | \nUndo / Redo | \n
| Shortcut Key | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Ctrl + Shift + + | \nInsert row or column | \n
| Ctrl + - | \nDelete row or column | \n
| Ctrl + Shift + L | \nApply filter | \n
| F4 | \nRepeat last action | \n
| Ctrl + 1 | \nOpen Format Cells dialog | \n
| Shortcut Key | \nAction | \n
|---|---|
| Ctrl + R | \nReply to email | \n
| Ctrl + Shift + R | \nReply all | \n
| Ctrl + N | \nCreate a new email | \n
| Ctrl + Enter | \nSend email | \n
| Ctrl + Shift + M | \nAdd a new calendar event | \n
Once you start using keyboard shortcuts, you’ll be surprised how much faster your work gets. Each shortcut may save just a few seconds, but when used many times a day, it really adds up.
\nKnowing shortcuts isn’t enough — what matters is actually using them.
\nTry picking just one shortcut that interests you and use it today. Even that small step can change the pace of your workflow. In fact, you can even try one right now on this site - press Ctrl + k if you’re on Windows, or Cmd + k on Mac, to open the search popup.
A little help from your fingertips might just make your workday smoother.
\nTip
\nTop 4 Shortcuts to Try Today:
\nOne security policy that is probably used at most organizations is “clear desk, clear screen”. Are you aware and doing it?
\n\nOn the surface, “clear desk, clear screen” means you should take care to keep your desk or work area clean and neat, and to be aware of what is on your screen, locking your computer with a screensaver or lock screen, to avoid leaking confidential information.
\nHowever the fact is, even this simple directive is sometimes ignored, leading to information leaks and other issues.
\n“Clear desk, clear screen” is an easy-to-remember mnemonic, and the reality is it covers a lot more areas that you should be aware of, besides just keeping your desk tidy.
\nLike what?
\nWhile you think about these areas, of course you need to consider culture, laws and regulations, contractual requirements and identified risks, because they will all impact the details of your policy.
\nTip
\nRefer to ISO 27001 (Information Security Standard) section A.7.7 for more details, and exercise due care as you do your day-to-day work.
\nTelework is what we call telecommuting in Japan. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in Japan defines it as follows…
\n\n\n\nTelework is a flexible working style using ICT (Information and Communication Technology), free from location or time constraints.
\n
\nReference: Efforts to promote telework in Japan
We usually use the words remote access, remote user, work from home, but those have the same meaning from the perspective of a flexible working style in the larger sense.
\n\n\nHow many office workers work at home once a week currently, in Japan?
\n
As you can see in below link (available only in Japanese), the percentage of teleworkers who work at home more than once a week is 3.9% in the 2014 fiscal year, according to Ministry of land, Infrastructure and Transport. This is a decrease of 0.6 points or 400,000 people compare with the previous year.
\n(Reference: 雇用型在宅型テレワーカー数の割合)
\nThe Japan government aims to increase teleworkers by 10% of total office workers by 2020, but this seems overly difficult to achieve.
\n\n\nWhy is telework decreasing in spite of government contribution?
\n
ICT is ever-progressing. It’s easy to implement new technology. As a matter of fact, more than half of companies have already implemented a system to allow mobile work from outside of the offices, so from this point of view we should say it is already somewhat common, especially for sales reps or IT engineers.
\n![\"Alt](\"https://esolia.co.jp/uploads/eSolia-Post-Telework-01.png\")
\nIn short, it is not a technical problem that teleworker employment is not really catching on.
\nAllow me to share a personal experience: When I was pregnant 11 and 6 years ago, I took advantage of telework. We didn’t have a formal telework system at eSolia, but thanks to my understanding boss, I was able to work at home without interference to our business. In fact, I thought it was more efficient and productive for a company to allow work at home, especially in the case of suffering with terrible morning sickness or a big tummy for the 2-hour round-trip on a crowded train.
\nHowever, that is just an example of using telework during pregnancy or maternity leave, but there are other cases. For example, it is more efficient to work at home when you need to concentrate on creating reports or presentation documents in some cases. In order to get familiar with telework, it is indispensable for companies to gain more understand of its advantages.
\nIt’s not just social welfare, or a “telework offensive” with productivity as a goal, but rather simply a matter of using the latest various ICT tools to provide the same working environment at home, as one has in the office.
\nThe reason why telework hasn’t prevailed yet is there is still a preconception that telework isn’t productive, and it is only for social welfare. Telework will let your business be more productive, so, the secret of success is a paradigm shift.
\nFocusing on productivity, here are four advantages of telework:
\nIf implemented with a sense of the above advantages, Telework can be rolled out, having a sense of purpose.
\n\n\nThere are various Telework styles, but it will be useful to have the below ICT tools.
\n
Necessary Systems
\nUseful Systems
\nFirst, you need to discuss how to implement Telework internally. Once your “Telework Offensive” becomes reality, it will result in increased productivity, improved employee satisfaction and retention of superior human resources.
\nAnd you should note that, there may be subsidies available (such as the ones from the Japan gov’t below) for small and medium-sized companies in order to proceed with Telework.
\neSolia can help you to implement Telework, from consulting to installation and rollout of the ancillary systems involved.
\nPlease do not hesitate to Contact Us.
\n","tags":["Cloud","Telework","Work-life balance","Home-based teleworkers","At-home work","Subsidies","Grants","Workplace"],"date_published":"2018-04-15T22:07:27.000Z","date_modified":"2025-05-31T20:00:27.000Z","image":"https://esolia.co.jp/blog/uploads/20180416a-social-en.jpg","summary":"It's not just a welfare matter; moving toward a practical telework offensive"}]}