With Windows Server 2008, Microsoft
introduces a new set of certification options. Rick Vanover explains
what’s available and discusses what tests MCSA and MCSE on Windows Server 2003 holders need to take to upgrade their certs.
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In versions of Windows server products prior to Windows Server 2008,
the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) and Microsoft
Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) credentials have been pretty
standard. The certification changes for Windows Server 2008 introduce
new certifications, as well as some important steps for the upgrade
process.
MCSA and MCSE on Windows Server 2003 holders should consider taking
the appropriate upgrade test to make the immediate transition to
Windows Server 2008. For the MCSA, the test is 70-648; for the MCSE, the test is 70-649.These
tests will provide the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
on Windows Server 2008, Technology Specialist credential. From there,
the MCSA and MCSE have an entry point to Windows Server 2008
certifications. The MCTS series of credentials are not exactly new, and
in some cases the MCSA and MCSE track had provided MCTS along the way.
That was the case in my MCSA certification path, as I took the 70-431
exam for SQL Server 2005. Passing that particular test satisfied the
MCSA requirement, as well as giving a standalone MCTS certification.
Also, at this point, it starts to get a little tricky. For Windows
Server 2008, there is a new certification available. The Microsoft
Certified IT Professional (MCITP) series is the end result of the
additional series of credentials in the professional series exams. The
important takeaway is that, in the professional series of credentials,
there becomes a single certification. Figure A shows a flowchart of upgrading Windows Server 2003 MCSA and MCSE to these new credentials.
Figure A
Click image to enlarge.
Now is the time to upgrade your certification, as many of the
transition exams count for many tests that you would have to take
individually. And if your certification goals include the MCITP Enterprise Administrator credential, there is a lot of work involved — even if you are a current MCSE.
For more information on the transition of certifications and credentials, visit the Microsoft Learning site.
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