One of my readers - Anne Frank - has asked me a question which I am regularly asked, so I have posted it and my reply in this post.

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“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?”

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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 (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 on Windows Server 2003 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)

NOTE: These certifications are scheduled to be available 30 days after Windows Server 2008 goes Release to Manufacture (RTM).

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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

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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.

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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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