At present, there are many IT certifications that are offered by various system providers and software developers.
Among the most well-known system providers is Microsoft. Microsoft is a mainstay in the IT industry as many people are acquiring various Microsoft software, systems, and applications.
In accordance with their IT product and equipment offers, Microsoft also offers every IT professional a chance to be a part of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) community. In simple words, Microsoft offers IT certifications. At present, one of the most popular IT certifications that Microsoft offers is the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (or MCSE).
What is the MCSE?
The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (or MCSE) certification is among the most popular and most esteemed certification offered by Microsoft. Once an individual acquires this certification, it means that he or she is capable of analyzing and assessing the business necessities for information systems solutions. In addition to that, he is also capable of designing and implementing the required infrastructure for the identified business. Basically, MCSE is offered by Microsoft for two product lines; Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003.
What is the difference between the MCSE 2000 and the MCSE 2003?
The main difference between the two is the fact that each certification is made to cater each of the two different product lines offered by Microsoft. Another variation is that each certification requires the individual to pass a different set of exam.
In case of the MCSE for Windows 2003, the individual should be able to pass six core design exams and one elective exam. This set of core exams is consisted of four networking exams, a design exam, and an exam which focuses on a client operating system.
As for the MCSE for Windows 2000, the individual should pass five core exams and two elective exams. The set of core exams is then composed of four operating system exams and a design exam.
What topics are covered by the MCSE Certification exams?
Certification exams for MCSE cover a wide range of topics that primarily focus on network security, network management, network efficiency, and computer networking infrastructure. It also includes comprehensive tests on Active Directory, Microsoft Exchange Server, Microsoft SQL Server, and other subjects which are prominent and useful in the field of computer networking. Also, it may include tests on the various usage and applications of specific Microsoft products.
Why is it necessary to have an MCSE certification?
Getting a certification on MCSE ensures that the IT skills of an individual are reliable, relevant and competitive. As such, the certified individual will have expanded chances and opportunities when it comes to career growth in the field of IT.
In addition to that, an MCSE certification allows one to avail of the privileges that Microsoft offers to its community of certified professionals. Such privileges include an access to Microsoft's suite of online tools, MCP exclusive technical resources, and network access to other Microsoft certified professionals around the globe.
