MCSA Certification Windows 2000
The Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification is designed for professionals who implement, manage, and troubleshoot existing network and system environments based on Microsoft Windows 2000 platforms, including Windows .NET Server. Implementation responsibilities include installing and configuring parts of the systems. Management responsibilities incude administering and supporting the systems.
Demand for the network administration job function has grown significantly, and candidates as well as the industry, have indicated that a certification for this job function is needed. Research indicates that the job demand for network administrators in 2001 will be 13 percent higher than it was in 2000. Studies also show that network/design administrators at IT companies have significant advancement opportunities - more than most other job categories.
Question: How is the MCSA certification different from the MCSE?
Answer: MCSAs would not typically deploy new networks and systems as part of their job functions, as is expected of individuals holding the MCSE certification. In addition, MCSAs are not expected to have design skills. MCSA is the entry level engineering certification; the MCSE remains as the premier certification.
Question: I am already an MCSE. Should I consider pursuing the MCSA certification?
Answer: You may want to consider pursuing the MCSA certification if it represents your current responsibilities in systems implementation and management. And, depending on the elective exas you have passed for your Win2k MCSE, you may need to pass only Exam 70-218 Managing a Windows 2000 Network Environment to earn the MCSA certification.
Question: If I earn the MCSA, will that help me eventually move up to the MCSE certification?
Answer: The MCSA is designed as an independent credential that represents the job functions of a network administration. The MCSA will certainly provide a stepping stone toward your MCSE, but if you are thinking about moving up to the MCSE, be sure to plan your MCSA elective accordingly so you can save yourself some work - choose an elective that qualifies for both the MCSE and the MCSA so you don't have to take extra tests. Upgrading to an MCSE will require a minimum of 4 additional exams.