The Benefits of Microsoft Windows Server Certification
Passing through any of Microsoft's established certification tracks for Windows Server is the standard and unrivalled path to success for both individuals and organizations.
For individuals, the benefits of rewarding careers and higher salaries are well publicised. But for organizations, too, the advantage of having skilled employees who have been trained, and tested, in independent and authorised programmes cannot be overstated.
MCSA: Windows Server 2012
NOTE: This relaces the MCSA Windows Server 2008 certification, which is still available but would not now, under normal circumstances, be followed.
Earning an MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification qualifies you as a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate, and for a position as a network or IT systems administrator, or as a computer network specialist.
There are three steps in achieving this qualification:
- Course 20410, Exam 410: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012
- Course 20411, Exam 411: Administering Windows Server 2012
- Course 20412, Exam 412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services
This certification is also the first step on your path to becoming a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).
MCSE Certification Tracks
There are currently two main routes to becoming an MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert), each relating to the area of technology involved.
NOTE: All MCSE certifications need to be renewed by completing a recertification exam every three years.
MCSE: Server Infrastructure
Earning an MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification is proof that you have the skills needed to run a modern and efficient data centre, and have expertise in identity management, systems management, virtualisation, storage and networking. It is an invaluable qualification for jobs such as IT support specialist and information security analyst.
There are three steps in achieving this qualification:
- Achieve the MCSA certification (details above)
- Course 20413, Exam 413: Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure
- Course 20414, Exam 414: Implementing an Advanced Server Infrastructure
MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure
This certification shows that you can deploy and manage desktops and devices which provide access from anywhere, while maintaining security and compliance. It will qualify you for jobs such as desktop and device support, and data / applications manager.
There are three steps in achieving this qualification:
- Achieve the MCSA certification (details above)
- Course 20415, Exam 415: Implementing a Desktop Infrastructure
- Course 20416, Exam 416: Implementing Desktop Application Environments
Note The MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification will be retired early in 2016, and if you are in the process of earning this certification, you must pass all exams before then. If you already hold an MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, it will remain valid, but if you haven't yet started, we strongly recommend that you consider the MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps certification (details in theÂ
Windows Desktop Infrastructure certification tracks).
