A recent entry on a Technet Blog has stated that Microsoft has delayed the release of Windows Server 2008 to manufacturing (RTM) from late this year to a launch event scheduled in Los Angeles, late in February 2008, the unnamed author states “we would rather spend a little more time to meet the high quality bar that our customers and partners deserve and expect.” The launch event will also feature Windows Visual Studio 2008 and SQL Server 2008.

Windows 2008 is currently in beta 3 testing and can be downloaded from the Microsoft website

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The release of SP2 in August 2004 helped Windows XP gain popularity as a desktop operating system. An unexpected increase in demand by system builders to meet customer demand introduced SP2c and has prompted Microsoft to state  “Microsoft will be releasing Windows XP SP3 to customers and partners in the next few weeks and is targeting the first half of 2008 for an RTM release.”

Microsoft said SP3 will include previously released updates and fixes, as well as “a small number of new updates,” and that the updates “should not significantly change the Windows XP experience.”

Microsoft’s mainstream support for XP is scheduled to expire in April 2009, with extended support running out in April 2014.

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A large number of those who visit my site have recently asked me the same question

 

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“Should I start or continue my studies for MCSA / MCSE on Windows Server 2003 or wait for the MCTS on Windows Server 2008?”

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In my opinion most companies will not upgrade to Windows 2008 for some time, but will require IT Professionals to have a clear understanding of the existing Operating Systems deployed, such as Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP or 2000. I will admit some have added Windows Vista clients, but most are awaiting Service Pack 1 prior to deployment.

Remember there is an upgrade option with MCSA and MCSE qualified individuals to MCTS on Windows Server 2008

I have found the following article by Trika Harms zum Spreckel which I think most of you will find of interest and hopefully answers this question in greater detail

Tell me what you think by commenting below

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The increase in customer demand for Windows XP has prompted some system builders, such as Dell to re-offer Windows XP on their new systems

To meet with this unexpected increase in demand Microsoft have had to release a new version of Windows XP Professional because it has run out of product license keys for the 32 bit version . Windows XP Service Pack 2c (SP2c) has been produced to provide new copies of the Operating System for system builders and does not provide any additional features. More details can be found on a TechNet Blog

Microsoft still plans to phase out Windows XP, which will only be available for sale to everyone except system builders until 31 January 2008, however, system builders will still be able to offer the operating system on new builds until 31 January 2009 when it will become unavailable altogether.

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Microsoft recently released several updates and fixes for Windows Vista in a step to help improve the performance and compatibility features of both the 32 and 64 bit versions, these updates are available from the Windows download site

These fixes are expected to be incorporated into the first service pack (SP1) when it is released early next year.

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The CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) A+ certification provides an entry point into an IT career and is the industry standard to validate foundational skills, designed to cover the latest skills needed by computer support professionals. It is an international, vendor-neutral certification recognized by major hardware and software manufacturers, distributors and resellers.

The CompTIA A+ confirms a technician’s ability to perform tasks such as installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking.

The updated CompTIA A+ credential (2006 version) requires two examinations to be passed:

•   A+ Essentials (Exam 220-601)

This exam validates the basic skills needed by any entry-level service technician regardless of job environment. Skills covered will include Operating System installation, building, upgrading, repairing, configuring, troubleshooting, optimizing, diagnosing and preventive maintenance, with additional elements of security and soft skills.

Plus any one of the following:

•  A+ IT Technician (Exam 220-602 )

This exam is for those who work or intend to work in a mobile or corporate technical environment with a high level of face-to-face client interaction

Examples job roles include:

· Enterprise Technician

· IT Administrator

· Field Service Technician

· PC Technician

•   A+ Remote Support Technician (Exam 220-603)

This exam is targeted for individuals who work or intend to work in a remote-based work environment where client interaction, client training, operating system and connectivity issues are emphasized.

Example job roles include:

· Remote Support Technician

· Help Desk Technician

· Call Center Technician

•   A+ Depot Technician (Exam 220-604)

This exam is targeted for individuals who work or intend to work in settings where hardware related activities are emphasized.

Example job roles include:

· Depot Technician

· Bench technician

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For more information Visit the CompTIA Web Site

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CompTIA has announced the worldwide retirement on December 31 2007 of their I-Net+ certification

This certification was launched some time ago following the success of the A+ and Network+ certifications, to cover the Internet technologies and protocols needed by Internet professionals, however, the certification no longer covers all the necessary skills needed.

Although the exam is retiring the qualification will still remain valid. For more information on the retirement Visit the CompTIA website.

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