One of my Friend – Nattily – has asked me a question which I am regularly asked,
so I have posted it and my reply in this post.

“I am confused as to which Microsoft certification to study for – My company
is running Windows Server 2000 and 2003. Should I continue to look at obtaining
the MCSE or restart my studies on Windows Server 2008? If I study for Windows
Server 2008 what exams must I study for?”

Firstly there will be no MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) or
MCSE Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) on Windows Server 2008, these
qualifications are currently only available with Windows Server 2003 and will be
replaced by the new qualifications – MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology
Specialist) and MCITP Training
(Microsoft Certified IT Professional).

NOTE: Once you are an MCSA or MCSE you will NOT LOSE your Certification

For those of you considering whether to continue with your studies on Windows
Server 2003 or start afresh on Windows Server 2008 I have tried to outline the
available certification tracks below. My advise is studying for the MCSA or
MCSE 2003 Training will provide you
with skills to help you in most existing working environments and give you a
sound foundation, as well as an upgrade route to Windows Server 2008 when
implemented in the future by companies.

 

The Windows Server 2008 MCTS Certifications include:

* 70-640 – Configuring Windows Server 2008 Active Directory

* 70-642 – Configuring Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure

* 70-643 – Configuring Windows Server 2008 Application Platforms. (This will
cover Internet Information Services (IIS 7) and Microsoft Virtual Server)

For an MCSA already qualified on Windows 2003 ( One upgrade exam is needed )

* 70-648 – TS: Upgrading your MCSA on Windows Server 2003 to MCTS on Windows
Server 2008.

NOTE: You will therefore NOT have to pass MCTS exams 70-640 and 70-642

For an MCSE already qualified on Windows 2003 ( One upgrade exam is needed)

* 70-649 – TS: Upgrading your MCSE on Windows Server 2003 to MCTS on Windows
Server 2008

NOTE: You will therefore NOT have to pass MCTS exams 70-640, 70-642 and 70-643.

The Server 2008 MCITP Certifications include:

* The Windows Server 2008 Administrator:

Only 3 exams required: MCTS certifications 70-640, 70-642 plus:

* 70-646 – Windows 2008 Server Administrator Exam

* Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Administrator:

5 exams required: MCTS certifications 70-640, 70-642, 70-643, 70-620 on Windows
Vista, Configuration, plus

* 70-647 Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Administrator Exam

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