A (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) MCSA degree is the best way to display your professional skills on Windows Server 2003. The Windows Server 2003 market today signifies that the demand for related IT know-how will be present for many years to come.



If you additionally have a certification on Windows Server 2003, you can easily acquire Windows Server 2008 certifications. The MCSA certification tests your knowledge in system administration of the Microsoft Windows operating systems. This certification is the proof that you can effectively manage and troubleshoot system environments. With this certification, you can expect to get a substantial salary hike.

Overview Of The MCSA Certification Exams

Candidates for MCSA on Windows Server 2003 certification should have basic knowledge of implementing, managing, as well as maintaining the typically complex computing environment of large or mid sized companies. It will be great if you have some hands on experience with the systems. This way, you will be aware of the real life challenges that come up in the day to day work life.

There are certain exams that you need to pass for obtaining the Windows Server 2003 certification. These exams are more or less on the easier side. With a little dedication, you can easily expect to sail through them. The four exams are:

- Two basic exams on networking systems.

- One simple exam on client operating systems.

- One elective exam.

The certification will not expire. If you have a MCSA certification on Microsoft Windows 2000 Server, then you can easily transition your skills to Windows Server 2003 by taking just one exam. If you do this certification, you are sure to have a bright career. Most companies consider this as the basic requirement while recruiting new IT staff. The certification will give you the required edge over your competitors. You can expect to have the following job titles after doing the certification - Systems Administrator, Network Operations Analyst, Technical Support Specialist, Information Systems Administrator, Network Technician and Network Administrator.

Studying For The Certification

For getting the MCSA certification, you need to have passed 4 MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) exams. If you are well versed with the Microsoft Windows platform, then you can expect to complete the certification between 2-4 months. If you are new to the industry, then you might have to put in some more time and effort. There is a lot to know and learn. You will have to do some in-depth study. If you are a beginner, you will need to devote at least six months to the course.

This certification is quite similar to the MSCE certification. With MCSE, you will be planning and designing the server system of the organization. But in MCSA, you will be maintaining the systems instead of planning and designing them. All the systems should be in running condition. It is your job to maintain it that way. If the network gets affected, you, with your MCSA certification, will be expected to fix it.