Microsoft is revamping its certification tracks, and can sooner or later retire the familiar MCSE certificatons. The new certification setup is similar to Cisco's, the place there are professional certifications to head in conjunction with the extra normal CCNA, then mid-degree certifications such because the CCNP, after which an extra-complex practical exam modeled reasonably after the coveted CCIE certification.
Microsoft's new expert tests are the Microsoft Certified Generation Professional (MCTS) exams. As of March 2006, there have been 5 separate MCTS Tracks. Three of them handle .NET Framework 2.0; these are the Web Utility, Home windows Applications, and Distributed Applications certifications. Each and every of these separate certifications requires the candidate to cross two exams. There could also be an one-exam SQL Server 2005 certification, as well as a BizTalk Server 2006 unmarried-exam certification.
The initial query is "Why is Microsoft doing this?" In line with their site, MS feels that IT hiring managers as of late have a tough time identifying which computer certifications best possible identify activity candidates who easiest meet their needs. I realize it's simple to take verbal shots at Microsoft (it's going to be an Olympic game at some point), however this new series of certs does have appeal for hiring managers, which can most effective assist qualified candidates. As a substitute of the extra-common MCSE, which does nonetheless be afflicted by the overcertification of NT 4.0 MCSEs back within the day, those more-particular certifications will make it easier for the process candidate to prove that they can do the job - and more straightforward for the hiring supervisor to make an informed decision.
Microsoft hasn't announced the monitor if you want to ultimately change the MCSE, however this track can be revealed with the following client-server Home windows release. It is as much as you to stick knowledgeable of those changes, so I like to recommend you talk over with Microsoft's certification website online often. "I did not know" isn't so much help as soon as a certification expires!