Testing For Certification
No matter whether you choose tutorials, classes or on the job training when it comes down to MCSEcertification everyone has to take the same tests. Once you have taken and passed the tests you will have become a valuable commodity among the IT human resource managers who are searching for systems engineers, systems analysts, network analysts, or technical consultants that are qualified to do the job.
But increased employment availability is not the only reason to acquire mcsecertification. By acquiring your certification, you will have demonstrated expertise in microsoft products. You will have validated the fact that you have the knowledge and skills that are needed on a day to day basis systems engineers. You will have the self confidence to succeed in Windows Server 2003 work environment.
Microsoft recommends that candidates for mcsecertification have a least one year of hands on experience working with Microsoft products. They then recommend, with the on the job training behind you, to get a more formal training. They do not recommend one type over the other but do say to use tutorials, hands on training, or instructor led training.
Every person that has their mcsecertification on Windows Server 2003, has passed a minimum of seven examinations. These include: Four core exams on networking systems One core exam on client operating systems One core design exam One elective exam In 2005 Microsoft introduced simulations into it's testing procedure. Two of the four networking systems core exams: Exam 70-290; Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment and Exam 70-291; Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, now contain simulations in most testing centers. Other exams may be modified to include simulations if it is decided that the simulations assist in meeting the objectives of the exam. When the Mcsecertificaton candidate is ready to sit for the exam he or she can register on line at www.microsoft.com/learning/mcpexams/register. The cost of examination for each exam is typically US$125.00. The examinations are a product of Microsoft but are administered worldwide in more that 3000 locations by Prometric, an independent testing organization. A word of caution here. When you register make certain your spam blocker is set to accept email messages from mswwprog@micorsoft.com. After passing the exam Microsoft will use that address to generate your welcome kit and site access information. Once you are certified on Windows Server 2003 you will be on the path to the Windows Server 2008 certifications. Those that were certified on Windows Server 2003 only need to take two tests to acquire the 2003 certification.
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