Personal computers & Microsoft are more or less the same thing to most individuals! The vast majority of our Operating systems and computer software come from 'Microsoft', and so we're using it in our homes and on the job every day. Also in schools and colleges, our youngsters are benefiting from the company's international educational programs. Started in 1975, by the now infamous Bill Gates, it quickly completely outclassed the home operating system market in the 1980's, creating the initial versions of Windows. Several 'generations' of this 'software' have evolved as time has passed, up to the modern day 'Windows' '08. 'Microsoft' have basically always released a Home and a professional version of their operating-systems, with their Server Operating Systems working somewhat in parallel. Windows server '2000' took over from the first 'Windows' NT server. This was then up-dated to Windows 2003, & more recently to Windows 2008. From the time MS started creating certification paths, there have been programs available for candidates to study how they can professionally manage their operating-systems.

There are in addition 2 specialities in the MCSE route - security & messaging. This can mean taking a further two MCP's, or an additional one subject to which ones were picked out in the first seven. This means you should look at which 7 you select very carefully if you're likely to specialise in security or messaging - good choices will mean eight rather than nine examinations. Up-date examinations have now also been made available by MS, (exam 70-648 for MCSA and exam 70/649 for the MCSE) for Server-2008 MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist). One of these updates (or possibly an equivalent accreditation) must be thought about at the start of your decision process. This will not only future-proof you to a certain degree, but will also open up more job prospects.

Even though they're regularly talked about alongside one another, the 'MCSA' & MCSE are in reality tailored to carry out two distinct functions. The certification MCSA (that means 'Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator') will prepare you for server administration and work in networking & senior support. Someone looking for technical systems roles, managing the activities of a mid-sized or smaller office network would benefit if they opt for the MCSA. You will get a lot out of this work if you are a well organised problem solver that loves a good technical challenge. It is quite a people-oriented job with a lot of variety, as the work effectively necessitates support and interaction with all the network-users.

The MCSE, on the other hand, is centred on planning, design and project-management; in other words a more high level of responsibility. For those who like to get into network-management, senior administration, technical-consulting or project management, or you intend to progress towards a higher level IT Security career, then this is absolutely the route to look at. Personal, creative & leadership skillsets can also be covered within this training, as successful 'MCSE' experts often address an array of staff and resource management duties.

Right now, there are very few 'Windows' NT Server installations left, but you'll find even now quite a lot remaining at Server '2000'. It's still early-days yet for 'Windows' server '2008', with Server 2003 continuing it's dominance. This being so, the key Microsoft certifications continue to be largely based on 'Windows' Server 2003. The Microsoft MCSE and Microsoft MCSA training-programs have developed over the years in accordance with the servers. At the moment, both MCSE 2003 & MCSA '2003' are Microsoft's key Network qualifications. Because up-grade training for Server 2008 is also obtainable however, it is a good idea to bolt this on as well.

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