MCSE 2003: A very popular and in-demand Microsoft Certification

Microsoft Certified System Engineer 2003 (MCSE 2003) is a well-known Microsoft Certification for Windows Server 2003. It verifies an individual’s proficiency in designing and execution of business solutions based on Microsoft Windows Server 2003.

There are specializations available for MCSE’s along different career path. For Windows Server 2003 these were MCSE Security and Messaging.

MCSE Certification is appropriate for IT professionals who have worked in complex computing environments in medium-to-large environments. It is recommended that the candidate appearing for MCSE exam must have at least one year of experience in implementation and administration of network and client server operating system. The candidate must have a good knowledge on planning, designing and execution of Microsoft Windows server solutions.

To become an MCSE on Windows Server 2003, the aspirant must pass seven exams, which includes six core exams and one elective exam.

Core Exams;

Networking Systems (All)

1. 70-290: Managing and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Environment
2. 70-291: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure
3. 70-293: Planning and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure
4. 70-294: Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure

Client Operating Exams (choose 1)

1. 70-620^A: Windows Vista, Configuring
2. 70-270 : Installing, Configuring and Administering Windows XP Professional

Design Exams (Choose 1)

1. 70-297: Designing a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
2. 70-298: Designing Security for a Windows Server 2003 Network

Elective Exams (choose 1)

1. 70-284: Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003
2. 70-431: TS: Microsoft SQL Server 2005 – Implementation and Maintenance

A - Exam 70-620 can count one time toward a core client exam or an elective exam, but not both.

The best way to exhibit your expertise on Windows Server 2003 and to encourage your team and yourself is by earning the Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) credentials. Although newer versions have come, yet Server 2003 is here to stay for a long time and hence the demand for MCSEs is going to stay!