mcse / mcdba /mcitp preparation

[llap444]

I've not had to certify in the past for my job - but that may change soon. My experience is a lot of dBASE IV DOS programming, a little Vis Fox Pro, administering Novell server, usual one man show hardware/network issues in a 25 user environment, more recently started migrating using SQL Server 2000 and have installed and used Windows Server 2003. Also have been using Vis Studio (C#) for several years now and have created apps that connect to MS Access as well as SQL server databases.

My interest is in database development, management as well as network administration and applications development. I've taken intro networking and server classes at local community college (no problems - usually top of class).

My thoughts are to pursue MCSE as well as MCDBA or MCITP and possibly MCSD.

Questions:
1. Does my certification plan make sense -- wanting to make myself as marketable as possible for areas I'm comforatable in.

2. I have full time day job -- will need to either take a "live" crash course -- or at home course prep via online or CD type study -- or simply just books. Has anyone used "Insider Training.com" ? I talked with Andy from there, and got a good feeling about their quality -- but haven't seen any mention of them on this forum.

3. Most efficient, i.e. fastest (assuming I'm willing to put in the time) for preparing for the various exams?
I know this has been asked in various threads, so apologize for repeat -- but wouldn't mind getting a feel for current opinion of the state of the learning options --- as this is obviously dynamic - what was good 6 months ago may not be as good anymore.

Thanks in advance to all who offer advice and apologies for being verbose.

John

 

[Wishdiak]

llap444,

I can only comment with regards to my own certification path, MCSE.

1. I think your certification path makes sense. If you like working with the subject matter, then you'll be more likely to retain the knowledge.

2. You don't mention any other demands on your time. Having a family/dart league/bingo night will impact the time you can devote to achieving certification(s).

I haven't heard of "Insider Training.com" and know nothing about them.

3. Fastest can sometimes equate with most expensive. It all depends on your learning style and how much time you have to devote to learning new material.

As far as MCSE, what was good 6 months ago still applies. MS Press and Sybex books are still useful tools, as are Transcenders and CBT Nuggets. TestKing prep materials are still worthless.

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

http://www.wishdiak.com