MCSA Track Advice Needed 1

[jackbnimble]

I want to purse the MCSA, probably the MCSA 2000 since I have more familiarity with Win 2000 servers. Then I can take the upgrade exam at some point for MCSA 2003.

I need to know the exact steps to take in order to become MCSA 2000. Do I simply take the tests required in the track? Or do I have to register for a MCSA program?

These are my current certifications:

- CompTIA A+
- MCP (70-210)

Advice please.

 

[jrbarnett]

According to

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/requirements.asp

you've already fulfilled the client operating system core component by passing the 70-210 exam.
Additionally, your A+ together with a Network+ or Server+ will fulfill the elective requirement. Alternatively, you may want to take one of those that is acceptable as an elective for the MCSE should you want to upgrade at a later date (eg SQL Server, Exchange or Security+). You will have to decide what you want to do on this.

You've then got to pass the two core Windows 2000 server exams 70-215 and 70-218. Details are at the web page above.

John

 

[jackbnimble]

John,

Thanks. So if I pass the Network+, 70-215 and 70-218, I'm going to automatically recieve a MCSA certificate in the mail? It seems like I would have to fill out some paper work or something. Do I have to fill out a form somewhere so someone knows that I've completed all the right tests in order to get the MCSA status?

Should I call CompTIA?

 

[jrbarnett]

Firstly, your A+ cert needs to be recognised by Microsoft. You can find this out if it is already by logging into the MCP website and viewing your transcript. If it doesn't show up as an external examination pass, use the email address shown on the site to contact the MCP administration staff to get it recorded. They will be able to help you on what evidence is needed.

Once you've passed the 215, 218 and network+ exams (and the results have been received by Microsoft) you will be able to request your MCSA welcome kit which will include your MCSA certificate, wallet card and lapel badge, as you will need to confirm your delivery address. It will not be automatically sent to you upon passing all your exams.

John

 

[jackbnimble]

Thanks John. That was the exact information I was looking for.

Which test do you recommend for the elective? Network+ or Server+?

 

[iownroot]

There's no need to contact Microsoft or CompTIA, simply go to this link and fill out the form. It will automatically be submitted to Microsoft who will post it to your transcript. This will take about 7 days.

http://www.comptia.org/certification/related/ms_signup_form.aspx

CISSP,ISC2 Affiliate & Instructor, MCT, MCSE2K/2K3, MCSA, CEH, Security+, Network+, CTT+, A+

 

[jrbarnett]

Personally, I've no experience of CompTIA certifications at all, so I'd go with whatever you feel more comfortable.

As a quick tip though, CompTIA Security+ seems fairly highly regarded and can be used as an elective for the MCSE should you wish to upgrade at a later date, whereas the A+ and Network+ or Server+ combinations will only be valid to the MCSA level.

John

 

[Wishdiak]

jackbnimble,

Since nobody's pointed it out yet, there is a significant difference in price between taking a Microsoft elective for your MCSA and a CompTIA elective.

Microsoft exam = 125USD
Security+ exam = 237USD

If you're planning to pay for it yourself, you might want to factor in the cost.

Wishdiak
A+, Network+, Security+, MCSA: Security 2003

http://www.wishdiak.com