Computers and Microsoft are almost one and the same to scores of people today! Hardly any people have not been influenced by 'Microsoft' software & operating systems, and with the MS global educational & school programs, it seems that no-one from now on will be able to escape them if they tried. The organisation was established in 1975, by the then college dropout Bill Gates. The company's 1st version of the home operating-system Windows was produced in the 1980's. Several generations of the software have been developed over time, bringing us up to the present 'Windows' 08. We've consistently been given a choice of the 'Windows' home-version & the 'Windows' Professional version, with each and every upgrade being relevant to both operating systems. Windows Server '2000' replaced the original Windows NT Server. Next came 'Server 2003' & the most recent offering: Server '2008'. Since the start of 'Microsoft' professional accreditation, we have had training-tracks specialising in professional management of the 'Windows' Server Operating-systems.

'Windows' 'NT' Operating systems are actually very rare, though quite a number of Windows 2000 still remain. It is still early days yet for Windows server '08, with 2003 remaining dominant. Because Server '2003' remains the top dog in commerce, Microsoft's key qualifications are still based around this. Microsoft's qualifications MCSA & MCSE have supported the various server evolutions over the years. Consistent with industry, the '2003' versions of these networking certifications are still the most commonly asked for. It must nevertheless be borne in mind that upgrade training to server '2008' is coming, and sensible where attainable.

The 'MCSE' path also features messaging & security as 2 specialist tracks. These require either 2 additional MCP examinations, or a single extra exam if one of the first 7 has been appropriately selected. If you're considering one of these specialities then it is smart to consider this from the beginning - as it means just eight exams are needed, rather than 9. Upgrade exams have now also been released by 'Microsoft', (exam 70-648 for the MCSA & exam 70-649 for the 'MCSE') for Server 2008 MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist). We'd suggest you should consider including the relevant update into your training-package. This won't only future proof you to some degree, but will also help create further job opportunities.

Despite the fact that the MCSA & the MCSE are often discussed in the same career-track, they are basically rather different. The certification 'MCSA' (that is short for 'Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator') will get you into server-administration and work in networking & senior support. Mainly the qualification is a superb basis for a technical systems administrator, who will work with the functions of running a small to medium commercial network. You should derive a lot from this particular work if you're a well organised problem solver who enjoys a proper technical-challenge. It is a really people-oriented role with a good deal of variety, because the job intrinsically entails support and interaction with other network users.

The 'Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer' (MCSE) will train you for a rather more responsible management position in project-work, planning & design. This particular qualification needs to be looked at carefully if your goal is to be a manager of a network, a project manager, a technical or senior administrator, or a senior IT Security professional. Personal, creative and leadership skill-sets can also be dealt with within this training program, as effective MCSE professionals often take care of many personnel and resource management duties.

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