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There are more Microsft certifications than ever, which means that choosing one isn't as easy as it used to be.

If you're considering pursuing a Microsoft certification, you may already have discovered that the number of Microsoft certifications is legion. This has come about because Microsoft has redesigned the structure of its certification program several times as it worked to come up with a sustainable, straight forward structure. However, each certification in the latest crop comes in a wide array of variations, and on top of that, the old certifications never went away, and some of them are in fact still relevant to IT professionals today. All of this makes the menu of choices a little overwhelming.

Another reason for this article is that, as of this writing, Microsoft forces you to install their new Silverlight plug in before you can view certification information, and many of us would rather not do that...

The Hottest Options

If you are working with the latest Microsoft technologies, you will want to earn a certification from the newest generation, we'll start with those.

The most recent generation certifications are as follows:

• Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) -individual products and technologies.
• Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) - job role focus added on top of MCTS.
• Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) - developers using Microsoft Visual Studio and the Microsoft .NET Framework.
• Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) - highly experienced experts with strong managerial and technical skills.

There are also two instructor certifications:

• Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) - required qualification to teach official Microsoft courses.
  
• Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant (MCLC) - MCTs who are also consultants.

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) is the building block for higher level Microsoft certifications. It is roughly equivalent to the original Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) designation. It is product focused, for individuals who want to demonstrate expertise with individual Microsoft products or technologies. MCTS certification options range from Windows Server 2008 all the way back to Microsoft SQL Server 2005 and cover just about everything between. They typically require passing one to three exams in your chosen area of focus. When mainstream support for the particular product expires, the certification will be retired.

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) takes product specific expertise and adds a job role on top of it, such as administrator, developer, or support technician. Each MCITP has a related MCTS requirement, so you'll have to earn that first. With the exception of the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator which consists of five exams, each of the MCITP roles requires one to two MCTS exams plus one to two MCITP exams. For example, to earn MCITP: Server Administrator you would need to pass two MCTS exams (Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration and Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuration) and then pass the MCITP Windows Server 2008, Server Administrator exam. The retirement policy is the same as it is for MCTS designations.

Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) is for application developers who work with Microsoft Visual Studio and Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5. This certification takes MCTS skills and adds on specific developer roles using these technologies. The current MCPD certifications focus on Visual Studio 2008, but you can still earn certifications on Visual Studio 2005. For Visual Studio .NET, the older Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) is the certification to earn.

The three MCPD options for Visual Studio 2008 are Windows Developer, ASP.NET Developer, or Enterprise Application Developer. For a Windows or ASP.NET designation, you must first earn the MCTS certification on the same technology (2 exams) and then pass the related MCPD exam. The Enterprise Developer title is much more demanding, requiring you to earn multiple MCTS certifications before taking MCPD Enterprise exams.

Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) is the highest level of Microsoft certification and by far the most rigorous and costly. You'll need a ton of experience just to consider it, and it will set you back at least $10,000 just in program fees, half of which is due up front. The skills assessed include soft skills such as leadership, communication, and organizational strategies as well as technology expertise, which is billed as vendor neutral. There are infrastructure and solutions tracks, as well as a separate MCA Technology program.

Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) is the highest level of Microsoft certification and by far the most rigorous and costly.

For the infrastructure or solutions tracks, first you'll have to submit an extensive dossier documenting your work history, an architectural solution case study, and descriptions of instances in which you have demonstrated each of the required competencies. Then you'll have to undergo an extensive, two hour review by a panel of four experts including two who are current MCAs. During the review, you will present and defend your solution and make a case for why you are really, truly an architecture expert.

The MCA Technology program is open only to Microsoft partners and employees and operates a bit differently. It is even more expensive, requiring you to attend four weeks of training, pass a qualification lab, and then face the review board, as well as meet experience requirements.

Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) is the certification that must be earned before you can teach an official Microsoft course using the official curriculum. It has been around for many years. There are four steps to becoming an MCT. The first is of course that you hold a current Microsoft certification from a fairly broad list that includes various MCSA, MCSE, MCITP, MCTS, MCDBA, and other certifications. Second, you must prove trainer expertise by either a) holding CompTIA CTT+ certification or a trainer credential from Cisco, Citrix, Oracle, or Novell, b) attend and pass an approved presentation skills course, or c) prove that you are an instructor at an accredited academic institution. Third, you must sign up for a "Metrics that Matter" account which enforces ongoing MCT requirements such as performance standards. You will need the account number for the next step. The final requirement is that you must complete Microsoft MCT application and pay the $400 program fee (US). An MCT certification must be renewed annually.

Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant (MCLC) is for Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs) who are also serve as consultants who design, develop, and implement customized Microsoft learning solutions. To step up from MCT to MCLC, you will need to submit a case study of a project you completed within the last two years that proves your skills as a learning consultant and submit a letter from the customer profiled in your case study. You will have to submit a new case study and a new letter every two years.

Oldies (and Not So Oldies) but Goodies

The original crop of Microsoft certifications is arguably the best known group, but they are disappearing fast. Neverless, some are still quite applicable to today's IT professionals. If you pick one of these, be sure to pay attention to when it is being retired and complete all requirements before then. This bunch includes:

• Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) - basic competency in any legacy Microsoft product.
• Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) - technical support for Windows XP end users.
• Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) - intended as a stepping stone to the MCSE.
• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) - high level skills in Microsoft Windows up to Windows 2003.
• Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD) - intended as a stepping stone to MCSD.
• Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) - application development using Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 or 1.1
• Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) - implementation and administration of Microsoft SQL Server databases.

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) used to be the entry point to the Microsoft certification program. Basically, pass any single exam on any Microsoft product and you would obtain MCP certification. This no longer applies and has been effectively replaced by the MCTS designation described earlier.

Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) s for individuals who provide support to end users of Windows XP. There are two exams required, one that focuses on the operating system itself and a second that covers troubleshooting applications that run on it.

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) is essentially a stepping stone to the MCSE, created because the list of MCSE requirements can be rather daunting at seven exams. It can be earned on Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003 and requires passing four exams which overlap the MCSE exams, thus you will earn the MCSA on the way to the MCSE. The exams include two networking system exams, one client operating system exam, and one elective. MCSA: Messaging and MCSA: Security specializations are also available for both the Windows 2000 and the Windows 2003 tracks.

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is without a doubt the best known certification worldwide; no suprise since it's been around since 1992, and it's not going away any time soon. It is intended to certify a high skill level in designing and implementing Windows operating system solutions. Currently it can only be earned following a seven exam Windows 2003 track. Exams for earlier tracks, such as Windows 2000, are no longer available. There are no current plans to retire this certification, although the newer certifications at the beginning of this article warrant a look first.

The MCSE is still a very viable certification and will be for the foreseeable future as Windows Server 2003 is likely to remain in wide use for some time.

To earn an MCSE on Windows Server 2003, you must pass seven exams including four core networking system exams, a client operating system exam, a design exam, and one elective exam from an extensive list that includes many of the latest Microsoft certification exams. The four core networking exams cover skills related to managing, implementing, and maintaining Windows Server 2003 in a networked environment. The client operating system exam can be either for Windows Vista or Windows XP professional. For the design exam, the two choices are Designing a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure or Designing Security for a Windows Server 2003 Network. The list of possible electives includes quite a few from the new MCTS certification exam list. MCSE: Messaging and MCSE: Security specializations are also available for both the Windows 2000 and the Windows 2003 tracks.

The MCSE is still a very viable certification and will be for the foreseeable future as Windows Server 2003 is likely to remain in wide use for some time.

Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD) is for developers who work with Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 or 1.1. For later versions of the .NET Framework, look at the newer MCTS above. Also, keep in mind that t crucial core exams will retire in March 2009, so you will not be able to take them after that. MCAD was created as a more easily obtainable developer certification than the MCSD and serves as a stepping stone to that. It requires three exams rather than five. The exams overlap so you will earn the MCAD on the way to the MCSD. First you choose either Visual C# .NET or Visual Basic .NET as your track. Then you will need to pass a Windows or web application development exam and a web services and server component development exam, plus one elective that covers a specific Microsoft server product.

Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) was Microsoft's first certification for developers and is nearly as well known as the MCSE; however, the core exams will retire in March 2009, so if you have not completed them by then, you will not be able to earn this certification. On the up side, Microsoft says the title will never expire, so if you earn it you get to keep it. An MCSD is for application developers who work with Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 or 1.1. For later versions of the .NET framework look at MCTS and MCITP above.

The MCSD certification offers a choice of a Visual C# .NET or Visual Basic .NET. Four core exams are required, one each for web application development, windows application development, web services and server component development, and solution architecture. An additional elective is also required, which can be chosen from a list that includes Microsoft BizTalk Server 2004, Microsoft SQL Server 2005, and implementing application security, among other options.

Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) is for administrators of Microsoft SQL Server 2000. Most of the exams on this track have already retired or will retire in March 2009, so you will need to complete the requirements before then. To earn an MCDBA, you must pass on SQL Server administration exam and one SQL Server design exam. You must also pass either a Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003 exam. The last requirement is your choice of an elective from a list that includes some of the newer MCTS exams. Most of the other elective options are for exams that have been retired.

That's a Wrap - For Now

As you can see, the latest generation of certifications offers many more certification tracks within each designation. They pertain to the latest Microsoft technologies as well some of the more venerable products and are certainly the first place to look if you are considering a new certification. However, many previous Microsoft products, such as Windows Server 2003, are still widely used, and earlier Microsoft certifications that remain available are quite appropriate for individuals who work with those products. Basically it comes down to what technology generation you are working with, at least until the menu of certifications gets redesigned again...

Microsoft's Learning Group closes beta testing on several new Windows Server 2008 exams, with release soon after the software launches next month.

Windows Server 2008 rounds the corner toward release at the end of next month. And the Microsoft Learning Group, for its part, has been keeping pace with new exams that are slated to be generally available at Prometric testing centers soon after the software hits shelves. According to blog posts from Trika Harms zum Spreckel, a member of the marketing team in the Microsoft Learning Group, MCPs will see a healthy mix of MCTS and MCITP exams in the weeks to come.

Specifically, Microsoft will release three Technology Specialist-level and two Professional-level exams targeting all aspects of Windows Server 2008 design and administration:

• 70-640 TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
• 70-642 TS: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, Configuring
• 70-643 TS: Windows Server 2008 Applications Infrastructure, Configuring
• 70-646 Pro: Windows Server 2008, Server Administrator
• 70-647 Pro: Windows Server 2008, Enterprise Administrator

All of these exams were put through a month-long beta test period that ended Jan. 21. Candidates who take these exams will earn an MCTS designation as follows:

• Pass 70-640 - MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration
• Pass 70-642 - MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Networking Infrastructure Configuration
• Pass 70-643 - MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Applications Infrastructure Configuration

Those exams also make up the requirements for two new Windows Server 2003-based IT Professional titles, details of which were posted on the Microsoft site and Trika's blog late last week

• MCITP: Server Administrator
• MCITP: Enterprise Administrator

According to the certification guides on the MCP site, the MCITP: Server Administrator is aimed at IT administrators who get their hands dirty mixing it up with servers and contending with daily networking issues, much like an MCSA for the new-era certifications. Obtaining that title requires passing of two TS-level exams -- 70-640 and 70-642 -- as well as 70-646 at the Professional level.

The MCITP: Enterprise Administrator title, on the other hand, requires a bit more network design-based expertise and an understanding of network infrastructure in the context of the enterprise. So, Microsoft makes the bar for obtaining this title a bit higher, with candidates having to pass at least four of the following MCTS level exams: 70-640, 70-642, 70-643 and 70-620 TS: Windows Vista, Configuring or 70-624 TS: Deploying Vista and Office Desktops (70-620 and 70-624 have been available since soon after the release of Vista last year). Over on the Professional level, candidates finally have need to pass one more exam, 70-647, to obtain MCITP nirvana.

Migrating from MCSA/MCSE on Windows 2003

As it has done in the past, the Microsoft Learning Group incorporates transition exams into both Windows 2008-based MCITP tracks for MCSA and MCSE on Windows 2003 titleholders.

For those with MCSA on Windows 2003 certificates who want to upgrade to MCITP: Server Administrator, candidates need only pass two exams: 70-646 on the Pro level and 70-648 TS: Upgrading MCSA on Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2008, Technology Specialist, an exam that has been available since October 2007.

For the more comprehensive MCITP: Enterprise Administrator, MCSAs have to pass either of the Vista exams (70-620 or 70-624), plus 70-643 and 70-647, as well as the transitional 70-648 exam.

For MCSEs taking on the MCITP: Server Administrator requirements means passing the same 70-646 exam, but a different transition exam: 70-649 TS: Upgrading from MCSE on Windows 2003 to Windows 2008, Technology Specialist (that one has also been available since October 2007). MCSEs migrating to the Enterprise-grade title take a similar path as MCSAs, but substitute 70-649 for 70-648.

Noteworthy: The Microsoft Learning Group is providing early adopters with a price incentive to get certified on the new Windows 2008 exams. Under its "First to Know" program, those who register to receive e-mail alerts when the Windows 2008 exams go live will receive a code that can be used to save 40 percent off the price of the news TS exams 70-640-, 70-642 and 70-643. Another code will also be issued along with alerts when the Pro-level 70-646 and 70-647 exams become generally available.

Windows Server 2008 will be released early next year. That's right...I said it, another major server OS will be released with undoubtedly more to learn! However, with this release, Microsoft is also rolling out major changes to its certification program. All of us old MCSEs are in for some big changes.

For example, the MCSE we're all familiar with is going away. Yep, you heard it, completely going away! Instead, new certification titles, like MCTS, or Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Active Directory Configuration or Application Platform Configuration, will be the certification de jour.

Here's an overview of the new Windows Server 2008 certification program. Specifically, it will address:

• New changes in the Windows Server 2008 certification program
• What you need to do to transition your Windows Server 2003 MCSE skills to 2008
• What you need to do to go from Windows 2000 MCSE to 2008
• Learn practical tips on what you can do now to start planning

The world's most popular certification is going through a major remodel-are you ready?

[Note: The MCP and MCSA have been excluded from this article with the focus being only on the MCSE.]

First look: What's changed?

After years of complaints about the MCSE being far too ordinary and too generic, Microsoft is taking a new approach to its certifications. Instead of offering a more generically themed program (like the traditional MCSE), Microsoft is creating certifications that are more tightly focused on specific roles and skill sets. These changes are part of a larger effort to revamp the entire certification program (which includes more than Windows Server 2008). However, for traditional MCSEs, Windows Server 2008 is where we'll see the most changes.

These new tracks are referred to as the Technology Series and the Professional Series.

Technology Series-Microsoft wants to provide a means for cert holders to demonstrate proficiency in a specific technology area, like configuring the Active Directory or Vista. These certifications are known as Microsoft Certified Technical Specialist (MCTS) and are very technologically focused.

Professional Series-Here, there are two focus areas: IT Professional and Professional Developer. I've excluded the Developer series from this article, as most traditional MCSEs will likely not be on the Developer track. Professional certifications allow a person to demonstrate they can perform a job like Server Administrator. A person who earns a Professional certification will be known as a Microsoft Certified IT Professional, or MCITP.

They also require earning the equivalent technology certification (MCTS) in the corresponding Microsoft product. Each focus area has generally one to three exams. For most MCSEs, there are two Professional Certifications that will likely be right in your wheelhouse. I list them below, and include the necessary exams. The "TS" next to each exam number denotes an MCTS exam, while the "Pro" denotes an MCITP exam.

Server Administrator

• 70-642: TS: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuring
• 70-640: TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
• 70-646: Pro: Windows Server 2008 Administrator

Enterprise Administrator

• 70-620: TS: Configuring Microsoft Windows Vista Client or 70-624: TS: Deploying and Maintaining Windows Vista Client and 2007 Microsoft Office System Desktops
• 70-643: TS: Windows Server 2008 Applications Platform, Configuring
• 70-642: TS: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuring
• 70-640: TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
• 70-647: Pro: Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Administrator

The theory with these new programs is that they allow for more specificity by creating very tightly focused certifications and emphasizing actual real world job roles, thus making it easier for prospective employers to judge abilities and talents. I'm already having nightmares about the alphabet soup that the already lengthy signature blocks will become. We may be seeing something like this:

John Smith, Network Engineer, MCSE (NT 4.0), MCSE+I (Windows Server 2000 and Windows Server 2003), MCSA (Windows Server 2000 and Windows Server 2003), MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Active Directory Configuration, MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Network Infrastructure Configuration, MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Application Platform Configuration, MCITP: Enterprise Administrator...and so on...

Good Grief!

And finally, in a move that not only keeps technologists current, but, coincidentally, also generates consistent revenue for Microsoft, the new MCTS certifications expire. In fact, they expire when the specific technology expires. The MCITP also requires re-certification-every three years! However, in most cases, MCITP re-up will be a single exam, and it will probably be the latest MCTS exam.
Transition your Windows Server 2003 MCSE to 2008

If you're a Windows Server 2003 MCSE (W2k3MCSE), the path to achieve certification depends on what your goals are. Because the MCSE doesn't exist in Windows Server 2008 you have to "transfer" your certification skills, as a Microsoft calls it, to the new MCTS track (and then if you'd like, tack on the applicable MCITP certification).

Microsoft has created a new exam entitled "70-649: TS: Upgrading your MCSE on Windows Server 2003 to MCTS on Windows Server 2008." When you pass it, you will earn three MCTS qualifications in one swoop:

• MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Active Directory Configuration
• MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Network Infrastructure Configuration
• MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Application Platform Configuration

A Windows 2003 MCSE who isn't interested in such a large exam could take individual MCTS exams in each of the aforementioned technology areas. However, if you're looking for a less circuitous route and you don't mind taking the daunting single exam, the 70-649 is probably the better approach.

It's important to note that Microsoft is transitioning folks to the TS level, but there's no transition plan to move people directly to the Professional level. You can still get there, but you have to transition to the TS level first, and then take the remaining exams at whatever professional level you are seeking, just like any other MCITP seeker.

For example, if you're a Windows 2003 MCSE and you want to be a MCITP Enterprise Administrator you'd have to:

1. Take 70-649 to transition your skills to the new MCTS
2. Select a desktop MCTS (70-620 or 70-624)
3. Take the 70-647 Enterprise Administrator Professional Exam

If you only wanted to obtain the MCITP Server Administrator, you'd have to:

1. Take 70-649 to transition your skills to the new MCTS certifications
2. Take the 70-646 Server Administrator Professional Exam

As I mentioned before, I've left the MCSA out of the discussion here, but you will find a similar, if slightly less difficult, path to upgrade a Windows Server 2003 MCSA to Windows Server 2008. Check out the following link for more information on MCSAs: http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/windowsserver2008/default.mspx.

Going from Windows 2000 MCSE to 2008?

If you're a Windows 2000 MCSE or, for that matter, any non-Windows 2000/2003 MCSE (NT 4.0), you're out of luck. There's no transition path from Windows 2000 (or anything earlier) to Windows Server 2008. Instead, depending on how far along you are with your Windows Server 2003 MCSE, you have two choices:

1. Complete your upgrade to Windows Server 2003 (thus making your transition to Windows Server 2008 a bit shorter), or
2. Start fresh with Windows Server 2008

It actually may be easier to upgrade to Windows Server 2003 MCSE in order to make for an easier transition to Windows Server 2008.

[REMINDER: The two exams a Windows 2000 MCSE needs to take to upgrade to Windows Server 2003 (without taking the long route), 70-292 and 70-296 are currently scheduled for discontinuation on March 31, 2008.]

Start planning now!

The time to get your plans in order is now, what with the W2k3MCSE upgrade exams set to expire in March 2008. If you're a Windows 2000 MCSE, consider the upgrade path to W2k3MCSE first-it may make your Windows Server 2008 transition much easier.

If you're already a Windows 2003 MCSE, start looking at the new Windows Server 2008 technology. There are already some beta examinations available. Microsoft has also indicated that final versions of the exams will be released shortly after the technology's Release-To-Market date:

• TS Exam Goals Release Date: 30 days post RTM
• Pro Exam Goals Release Date: 60 days post RTM

Exam 70-622 PRO: Installing, Maintaining, Supporting, and Troubleshooting Applications on the Windows Vista Client-Enterprise, is a mouthful and it's also a good test of your ability to roll out applications on this or any Windows-based network. Exam 70-622 is one of two exams that you'll need to pass (along with completion of a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist exam, such as 70-620: Vista Configuration) in order to obtain a Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Support Technician certification.

I took 70-622 while it was in beta (which this exam is based on). During the beta, I was given 180 minutes to complete 75 questions. The final version is 90 to 120 minutes for about 50 questions.

This exam was wide in scope and tests one's knowledge of all aspects of installing, maintaining, supporting and troubleshooting applications on Windows Vista on an enterprise network in these key areas:

• Deploying Vista
• Managing Vista security
• Managing, maintaining systems that run Vista
• Configuring, troubleshooting network connections

My first recommendation for study falls under the category of hands-on - if you're new to Vista, you need some time at the controls, and it's always time well spent!

Microsoft has several online and e-learning courses available for this exam (search here and here). If you'd rather take the self-study route, the official Microsoft Press publication is MCITP Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-622): Supporting and Troubleshooting Applications on a Windows Vista Client for Enterprise Support Technicians by Tony Northrup and J.C. Mackin. For my study, I went to www.WindowsVista.com. It has links to information for consumers, developers and IT professionals like us. Click that link and you'll find yourself at the Microsoft Technet site, where you'll find all the printed study information you'll need. I highly recommend you study the following documents available there: Windows Vista Product Guide, Deploying Vista Step by Step Guide, Windows Vista Security Guide, Understanding and Configuring User Account Control in Windows Vista, Step-By-Step Guide to Controlling Device Installation and Usage with Group Policy, and finally; Windows Vista Networking.

Now I could just give you all the questions and answers to the exam, but what fun would there be in that? After all it's been five long years since Microsoft last released a new desktop operating system and I'm ready to learn all the new things, aren't you? On with the review.

The set of skills you'll need to demonstrate for this exam were noted earlier and through the remainder of this article, I will help you prepare to pass this exam by directing you to specific areas in the Windows Vista. Be sure you read and study the exam objectives available from the Microsoft Web site for a general idea of what to expect on this exam!

Deploying Windows Vista
Remember these hardware requirements: Vista requires a 800MHz but preferably a 1GHz or greater CPU; 512MB but preferably 1GB of RAM, 128MB graphics card for the Aero interface; 20GB but preferably a 40GB hard drive (15GB of free disk space is required for upgrades); and a DVD drive. Upgrades are supported from Windows 2000 and up. The greater requirements allow you to experience all that Vista has to offer.

Microsoft has also made many new tools and applications available for OS deployments such as; ImageX and Windows System Image Manager. ImageX is a disk imaging tool for capturing, modifying and applying images. Because of Vista's HAL-independent design, fewer images are needed to deploy hundreds of computers. It also allows for editing and maintaining them in the new WIM (Windows Image) format. ImageX is a command-line tool in Vista or available with Windows PE. Also available is Windows System Image Manger. Scripting, editing and modifying images are possible, plus the ability to create the new XML format answer files. Be sure and read the entire "Deploying Vista Step by Step Guide"!

Exam Tip: Sysprep is an image creating and deployment tool and is still available for Windows Vista.
70-622 Installing, Maintaining, Supporting, and Troubleshooting Applications on Windows Vista (Beta)

Reviewer's Rating
This exam is geared towards IT professionals who work in enterprise environments that use Windows Vista, who have experience with previous versions of Windows and who have experience with Windows Server OSes. You should have experience deploying Windows Vista, managing security and troubleshooting network-related issues with Vista. Microsoft also recommends at least 3 to 5 years of experience as a tier 2 or lead desktop support technician.

This exam counts as a core client exam for the MCSA and MCSE (Windows 2000/2003) and is one of two needed for the new Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Support Technician.

• Exam Title -Installing, Maintaining, Supporting, and Troubleshooting Applications on the Windows Vista Client-Enterprise
• Duration -180 minutes (beta; this differs from the live version)
• Number of questions -78 (beta; this differs from the live version)
• Who Should Take It - Anyone wishing to prove their knowledge of installing, maintaining and supporting applications on Windows Vista in enterprise-size networks.
• Exam Objectives - http://www.microsoft.com/learning/exams/70-622.mspx

Managing Windows Vista Security
Once Windows Vista is installed, additional configuration will be necessary to achieve the most secure operating system available. Windows Update is now integrated in the Windows Update center found in Control Panel. It automatically checks for and applies all Vista updates and possible upgrades. You'll also find the Programs and Features center in Control Panel for managing installed updates and application software. IE 7 includes many new security features which prevent phishing, installation and execution of malicious software, and the ability to isolate add-ons per logged-on user.

Windows Defender, a free spyware detection and removal application from Microsoft for Windows XP, 2003, and Vista, can provide real-time monitoring for adware, keyloggers, and spyware. It can receive its updates through the Windows Update site or locally using WSUS.

The Windows Firewall in Windows Vista includes both inbound and outbound filtering to help protect computers by restricting access to key operating system resources. A single console known as the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security, integrates IPSec and firewall management. The firewall blocks most unsolicited inbound traffic until a change is made either by an administrator or by Group Policy settings. The Windows Vista firewall supports a Domain and a Standard profile. The Domain profile is active when the computer is connected to a network that contains the domain controllers in which its computer account resides. This allows you to create rules that are specific to the requirements of the company's internal network. The Windows Vista firewall also includes a Private and Public profile to provide a finer level of control to protect a computer when a user uses it outside of the company's protected network.

Exam Tip: From the available firewall profiles -- domain, public and private - only one can be active at a time.

One of the key areas and additional security you'll find in Windows Vista is User Account Control. It's enabled by default and limits even a logged-on administrator account's ability to change system configuration and settings without explicit permission, or by clicking Continue in the warning window; it prevents unauthorized changes. It can be turned off using the User Accounts center in Control Panel or with Group Policy.

If UAC is enabled and administrator credentials are needed to perform an action or run application software, the network administrator must provide the logged-on user with this information. The user can either provide them when prompted or right-click a configuration settings and select Run as. Group Policy settings Admin Approval for Built-in Administrator Account and Behavior of the elevation prompt for administrators in the Admin Approval Mode are settings you should become familiar with by reading the document, "Understanding and Configuring User Account Control in Windows Vista."

Exam Tip: Firewall exceptions configured with the Windows Firewall and Advanced Security console are very powerful and should be understood prior to the exam.

The ease and ability of users to plug in removable memory and storage devices creates significant administrative issues for networks, and they can pose threats to data security. Windows Vista includes Group Policy controls for user-level permission assignments of these types of devices. You'll find most everything you need to know in the document, "Step-By-Step Guide to Controlling Device Installation and Usage with Group Policy."

BitLocker drive encryption helps protect data on a computer. The entire Windows volume is encrypted to help prevent unauthorized users from breaking Windows file and system protections. BitLocker prevents someone who either starts another operating system on the computer or runs a software attack tool bypassing the Windows Vista file and system protection from performing offline viewing of the files stored on the protected drive. BitLocker drive encryption can lock the normal boot sequence until the user supplies a personal identification number or inserts a USB flash drive that contains the decryption keys. The maximum protection is obtained when the computer includes Trusted Platform Module 1.2 BIOS hardware support. For more information I recommend "Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption Step-by-Step Guide."

Managing and Maintaining Systems That Run Windows Vista
Windows Vista includes a new configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting center in Control Panel: Network and Sharing Center. From here you can create connections, manage them and even see a list of shares and printers available from a computer while connected to a particular network.

The user profile used in Windows XP is identical to the one used in Windows 2000, making interoperability between these two operating systems transparent. A new design and layout prevents Windows Vista from using the older XP and Win2K profiles. Also, previous versions of Windows do not load Windows Vista user profiles. When using Windows Vista and roaming user profiles, a designator of "v2" will be added to the end of the profile folder. The "v2" is used to isolate Windows Vista roaming user profiles from roaming user profiles created by previous operating systems.

Data Collector Sets are the building blocks of performance monitoring and reporting found in the Windows Reliability and Performance Monitor console. It allows for organizing multiple data collection points into a single component that can be used to review or log performance. A Data Collector Set can be created and then recorded, grouped with other Data Collector Sets, incorporated into logs and viewed in Performance Monitor to generate alerts. To learn more about how to configure and automate them, be sure and read "Help on Reliability and Performance Monitor" from the Help menu of the console.

There are many new command-line administrative tools included with Windows Vista. Be sure and review the Command Reference list and options available, such as BCDEdit, which is the primary tool for editing the boot configuration of Windows Vista and later versions of Windows; and Wbadmin, which lets you back up and restore a computer and files from a command prompt.
Must-Know Tips Before Taking an Exam

If this is your very first IT exam or at least your first Microsoft exam, there are some things you should know:

• The price for Microsoft exams in the US is $125.
• You are allowed to take any exam as many times as needed to pass.
• You must pay the $125 for each and every attempt at the exam. (For first-time exam takers, Microsoft usually provides incentive offers; you'll find these on the Microsoft MCP Web site.)
• You will receive an onscreen pass or fail indicator at the completion of the exam.
• You will also receive a printed score report upon exiting the exam booth.
• You will receive a certificate, wallet card, congratulations letter and Microsoft Certification number after you have requested the certification package from Microsoft's Web site. (Don't forget to give a valid e-mail address when registering for your exam.)
• You can take any IT exam at any Thomson Prometric testing center.

One more tip while you're taking the exam: You will be able to move forward and backward through the exam question set. Very often, a later question can help you answer an earlier one for which you may not have been absolutely certain of your answer. You should, however, always choose an answer for each and every question before moving forward since you may run out of time, and any unanswered questions are scored as incorrect.

You can mark questions you are unsure of and return using the back button or by using the review screen at the end prior to scoring.

Configuring and Troubleshooting Networking
Windows Vista includes networking support with a new IP version 4 and 6 stack loaded. It's been entirely updated and includes all new support protocols and configuration methods. Integration of IPSec and the Windows Firewall into the networking stack provide for a more secure configuration.

Wireless network support, configuration, advanced protocols and troubleshooting have also been further improved in Vista. Vista includes a command-line script that provides a method to connect to a company's wireless network to join a domain: netsh wlan. I recommend the following document for more: "Joining a Windows Vista Wireless Client to a Domain."

Exam Tip: When networking between Windows Vista and Windows NT, SMB version 1.0 is the highest authentication level supported.

Windows Vista's Network Center provides a clear view of the current connection status, available wireless networks, and a network map to show surrounding network resources. It also includes many troubleshooting tools to identify connectivity problems and allow users to browse network resources by starting the new Network Explorer. Another must read: Enterprise Networking with Windows Vista.

Although not perfect in my opinion, Windows Vista is one of the most secure desktops released since Windows 95.

Now, Go Forth and Test
That wraps it up for this exam review; you now have a good basis for which to study and tackle any weaknesses you've identified so far. And remember that nothing beats hands-on experience when preparing for an exam. Divide your time preparing for this exam by practicing, reviewing and reading the materials I've recommended - and good luck!

Introduction
Microsoft has once again come up with a new suite of certifications. So, what are these all about and why is there a new generation of credentials?

One of the problems today is that there are an abundance of credentials in the IT world, making it increasingly difficult for managers to understand which certification best meets the needs of their department and organization.
For individuals, the question becomes: what added value does a specific certification provide, and, ultimately, how can I distinguish myself from other IT professionals?

Customers told Microsoft that they wanted a program that is focused and flexible, challenging and credible, and relevant and simple.

So, Microsoft went back to the drawing board and created the latest generation of certifications based on industry and customer feedback with the goal of making them more targeted, relevant to the latest technologies, and geared towards specific job roles. The new credentials highlight the primary technology skill set and job role of each individual and focus on core technical and professional skills.

The new certification framework gives IT managers another tool to distinguish candidates who must meet specific job criteria. The program also gives individuals the ability to highlight specialization ( i.e., Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist for SQL Server 2005[MCTS: SQL Server 2005]).

What's It All About?
Focused and Flexible
One of the positive changes to the new program is building certifications to reflect specific and well-understood job roles within organizations. The new model reflects a three-tiered system with the entry-level Technology Specialist (MCTS), the mid-level IT Professional (MCITP)/Professional Developer (MCPD), and the Architect Series (MCA) at the top. The three tiers coupled with specific technology choices (SQL, Visual Studio, etc.) to form an a la carte certification model.

This targeted certification model enables individuals to identify their various skill sets and provides for a more flexible certification path to meet specific job-related needs.

Challenging and Credible
What is the value of certification and why should I get certified? These are big questions for individuals as well as organizations. Easier tests lessen the value of the credential. One of the positive changes implemented by Microsoft was to make the testing process more rigorous and challenging. In 2005, Microsoft introduced performance-based testing using simulation technology with several of the Windows Server 2003 core exams. Microsoft is looking at using more and more of this simulation-style testing to make the exams more challenging, with the goal of mimicking real-world scenarios in the test booth. There does seem to be buy-in from Redmond for raising the bar in the testing process with the ultimate goal of increasing the value of certification for individuals and organizations.

Relevant and Simple
The new certification structure is designed to be more relevant, simple, and easy to understand. With this in mind, Microsoft reduced the number of exams expected to complete a certification. For the current tracks, the MCTS requires one to two exams. One level up from the MCTS, the MCITP and MCPD credentials require the relevant MCTS as a pre-requisite, and then passing an additional exam or two. The exception is the MCPD Enterprise Application Developer, which requires all three available Visual Studio MCTS credentials as a prerequisite.

The certifications path has been streamlined with the goals of making the credentials simpler and more relevant for both individuals and IT managers.

A Closer Look at the Certifications
Microsoft has been offering certification programs now for 14 years and has been due to revamp the program. Microsoft's new certification model consists of three series (technology, professional, and architect) and four credentials (MCST, MCITP, MCPD, and MCA). This newest generation of Microsoft certifications provides a more
targeted framework for IT managers to qualify and validate core technical, professional, and architectural skills. It also provides IT professionals with a more flexible, relevant, and simpler way to showcase their skill sets.

The Technology Series (MCST)
The Technology Series of certifications are the starting point in a three-tiered model. This series are technology focused and include job-role skills. These typically consist of one or two exams. IT professionals have the ability to target specific technologies and demonstrate in-depth knowledge and expertise in a broad range of specialized technologies. The Technology Series includes seven Certified Technology Specialist certifications including:

• Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Web Applications
• Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Windows Applications
• Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Distributed Applications
• Technology Specialist: SQL Server 2005
• Technology Specialist: BizTalk Server 2006
• Technology Specialist: Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005
• Technology Specialist: Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Applications

The Professional Series (MCITP/MCPD)
The Professional Series credentials are the next tier up from the Technology Series and reflect specific job roles within organizations. This series of credentials builds on the Technology Series and the relevant Technology Series certifications act as pre-requisites for this middle tier of certifications. There are typically one to three exams required to achieve this level of certifications. The credentials are focused on job roles and skill-sets, including design, project management, operations management, and planning. Microsoft currently offers two Professional series credentials, the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and the Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD).

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)
The Microsoft Certified IT Professional certification highlights specific areas of expertise and job role. This credential demonstrate skill sets in planning, deploying, supporting, maintaining, and optimizing IT infrastructures,  and distinguishes you as an expert in database administration, database development, or business intelligence.

• IT Professional: Database Developer
• IT Professional: Database Administrator
• Professional: Business Intelligence Developer

Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD)
This certification was created for developers working with .NET Framework 2.0 applications using Microsoft Visual Studio 2005, and it provides a simpler, more targeted framework to showcase your technical skills for specific developer job roles.

The Microsoft Certified Professional Developer credentials differentiate you as an expert Windows Application Developer,Web Application Developer, or Enterprise Applications Developer. This certification highlights your ability to build rich applications with a variety of platforms using the .NET Framework 2.0. There are three MCPD certification paths, including:

• Professional Developer:Web Developer
• Professional Developer: Windows Developer
• Professional Developer: Enterprise Applications Developer

The Architect Series (MCA)
One of the more exciting developments late last year was the announcement by Microsoft of the creation of a senior-level IT Architect certification program. This credential sits atop the three tiers and was built around identifying and validating top industry experts in IT architecture. Qualifications and requirements for this credential include:

• Ten years minimum advanced IT industry experience
• Three+ years of experience as a practicing architect
• Possess strong technical and managerial skills
• Work closely with a mentor in the industry
• Appear before an Oral Board of industry peers

One of the unique elements of this credential is that it was built on feedback directly from the architect community. This type of certification program fills a gap in the industry by taking certification to a new level. Until recently, the majority of the certification programs have relied on computer-based exams to test mainly technical knowledge. This new architectural certification will require candidates to have a combination of broad range of skills, significant work history in the field, and ability to demonstrate a high level of architectural expertise in past projects. This certification takes a stark departure from traditional Microsoft certifications. It is broad-based and inclusive of non-proprietary technologies.

The program targets practicing solutions and infrastructure architects who have successfully designed, architected, and implemented solutions through the entire IT life cycle. This program has set the bar high and identifies top industry experts in IT architecture. These architects are experienced in using diverse platforms and technologies to solve business problems and provide business metrics and measurements. Candidates are required to interview and present to a review board of their peers on the success of past projects.

There are currently two vendor-neutral Microsoft Architectural certifications that validate broad architecture skills. These certifications are:

• Microsoft Certified Architect: Infrastructure
• Microsoft Certified Architect: Solutions

In addition, there is also one product-specific architectural certification, the Messaging Architect Program. This is the first product-specific architect program under the Microsoft Certified Architect umbrella. The goal for this certification is to provide the top-tier training and certification on Microsoft Exchange Server revolving around messaging to address the most complex customer requirements.

• Microsoft Certified Architect: Messaging

Top 10 Benefits of Certifications
Microsoft-certified IT professionals give individuals and organizations a competitive advantage. According to a Burlington study in 2003, companies with that place a priority on certified staff enjoy a 15% increase in projects deployed on-time and on-budget, a 17% decrease in spending on external consultants, an 18% decrease in downtime, and a 14% increase in end-user satisfaction.

From an organizational perspective, the top 10 reasons benefits to achieving and promoting certification include:

1. Gain a Competitive advantage: Individuals and employees who hold Microsoft certifications bring advanced skill-sets to provide greater levels of service and productivity internally and externally.
2. Realize benefits to investing in staff training: Organizations with successful bottom lines are shown to have invested more in training and certification for their internal technical staff. (1)
3. Increased employee satisfaction: Increased employee satisfaction and staff retention are higher when management facilitates employees' career goals, including training.
4. Improved, more successful project deployments: According to an independent study (2), organizations with Microsoft-certified staff reported significant improvements in delivering projects on-time and within budget.
5. Improved customer satisfaction: Well-trained and certified staff help increase customer satisfaction through improved service, higher productivity, and greater self-sufficiency.
6. Improved support costs: According to the Burlington study in 2003, organizations with certified staff experience less network downtime and lower dependency on unplanned support.
7. Qualified vendor qualifications: Certification can provide one more tool to assess an outside vendor's technical qualifications when outsourcing projects.
8. Another benchmark to measure staff skill-sets: Certification can help provide another benchmark to measure, hire, and promote staff employees.
9. Reward employee expertise: Certification can provide an avenue for retraining opportunities so existing employees can work more effectively with new technologies.
10. Measure ROI on your training investments: Certification provides an measurable ROI on training and certification investments by providing a standard method of determining training needs and measuring results.
    

Summary
In the 14 years since Microsoft launched their certification programs, the landscape has evolved so much that today there is strong demand for individuals in all types of specific IT professional roles. It's more complex, interdependent, and prevalent. Job roles are becoming both more diverse and more specialized. Microsoft has responded to these changes in the industry with a revamped certification program.

The transformation to an a la carte certification model that combines professional role-based and technology based credentials should allow for greater flexibility for individuals and organizations when looking at training and certification options. Hiring managers will have another tool to distinguish specific skill-sets. Individuals will have the ability to augment and distinguish their value via targeted certifications.

Building simulations into the testing process makes the exam process more difficult, but ultimately adds value the credentials.

The Architect series is one of the most exciting new developments in the program, and it builds in a great deal of real world experience, which is a departure from previous certification programs. Microsoft has been offering a variety of certifications from the early 90s on, and their program was due for an overhaul, and most of the changes to Microsoft's certification program appear to be positive.