The Demise Of The Mcse

By Author: fiona
Total Articles: 191
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Microsoft's launch of Windows Server 2008 marks yet another major server operating system which will require a whole new set of skills. The release of Server 2008 also comes with an overhaul of the Microsoft certification program. If you're an established MCSE exams, get ready for some major changes.
Did you know that the MCSE as we know it is going away? In its place comes the MCTS certification. For example, titles such as MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Network Infrastructure Configuration and MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Application Platform Configuration are designed to show off your specific technical skills.
Wondering what the new Windows Server 2008 certification program has in store for you? Here's an overview of the new Windows Server 2008 certification program as it relates to the MCSE professionals. Changes are also in store for MCPs and MCSAs. Today, we'll focus sole on MCSE changes and the various MCTS training requirements for transitioning over.
Microsoft is revamping its certifications to address concerns about MCSE being to generic and broad. Instead of certifying ...
... generic skills such as the way the MCSE currently works, the new certifications focus on specific job roles and skill sets. Microsoft is overhauling the entire certification program with profound changes for MCSEs involved in Windows Server 2008.
The new program offers two tracks: Technology Series and Professional Series.
For those seeking a MCTS certification, the Technology Series is the track that validates technical proficiency in a specific technical area. For example, a MCTS can specialize in Vista or .NET Framework 2.0. MCTS credentials are extremely focused with an emphasis on technology.
The Professional Series breaks down into two branches: IT Professional mcsa and Professional Developer. Since the majority of traditional MCSEs don't generally pursue the Developer track, we'll focus on the IT Professional certifications. These credentials allow you to demonstrate your abilities to perform a specific job such as a Server Administrator. When you successfully earn your IT Professional certification, you earn the title of Microsoft Certified IT Professional, or MCITP.
To earn an MCITP, you must also have earned the equivalent MCTS certification in the corresponding Microsoft product. Expect to pass between one to three exams for each area of specialization.
Two Professional Certifications will likely appeal to most MCSEs: Server Administrator and Enterprise Administrator. Each will require MCTS training and MCITP training as well as passing a series of exams as shown below:
Server Administrator
70-642: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuring (MCTS)
70-640: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (MCTS)
70-646: Windows Server 2008 Administrator (MCITP)
Enterprise Administrator
70-620: Configuring Microsoft Windows Vista Client or 70-624: TS: Deploying and Maintaining Windows Vista Client and 2007 Microsoft Office System Desktops (MCTS)
70-643: Windows Server 2008 Applications Platform, Configuring (MCTS)
70-642: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuring (MCTS)
70-640: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (MCTS)
70-647: Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Administrator (MCITP)