You Want To Be An Mcse Or Mcsa

By Author: iris
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Many people confuse that what kind of exam they should take or what kind of certification is right to it certification. Here I want to talk about MCSE and MCSA, so, you want to be an MCSE or MCSA?

Experience is vital to being a successful Microsoft Systems Engineer or Administrator and you do not have to be certified to fill such a position. However, one can not underestimate the importance of actually putting that experience to the test so to speak and achieving that valuable MCSA or MCSE certification!

Now, here are three paths to you could take on your certification journey,

1. Experience, and Attending An MCSE/MCSA Boot Camp.This could be the quickest route but it is not for the weak of heart. You can expect to spend 10 to 12 hours a day studying and preparing. It is also probably the most expensive route. If you choose to go this route you need make sure you choose the right camp. Make sure they include vouchers for the exams and have a "test pass guarantee" included in the cost. They are going to prepare you well for the exam but you just might fail a test. Now ...
... let me say, these are really designed for those who are already working in the industry and just haven't gotten their certification yet. They are not ideal for those just trying to break into a new career field. Sure, they may get you through the tests, BUT you may not be able to perform as an MCSE or MCSA. That will become apparent on the job and you will might be considered what is termed a "paper MCSE/MCSA."

2. Experience and Self Study. There are many quality books available on the free Microsoft practice tests subject. You could purchase one book for each of the tests you will have to take or you can find package deals where you can buy multiple books in a boxed set. It is usually cheaper to purchase a package. These books and packages often come with a bank of practice tests so you can test your knowledge before you go to take the tests. Lastly, you could also get a practice test engine for the test you are taking. These are a great way to test your knowledge. Another benefit of these tests is they generally provide an experience which is very close to what you will experience on the test. All of these items are readily available from sources on the web. Just do a web search and find the item for which you are looking.

3. Experience and Attending Formal Classroom Training at a College or IT Institute. Some learn best in a classroom and for them this is the best option. Many colleges and Junior colleges offer MCSE and MCSE programs as do Technical Schools. This can be a costly route but is usually a little cheaper than attending a boot camp. The other benefit to this route is it is at a much slower pace than a camp.

I mention experience in each of these paths. As I've mentioned, all of the camps, self study and classroom training will only give you a foundation of knowledge. It will not make you a good Engineer or Administrator. Experience is a vital. Personally, I have used all three methods for various free comptia security+ exam tests and they each can be quite effective in assisting you to get certified.

No matter which one you want to be, the most important point is you must work hard for your choice.