| So you want to be a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer for Windows Server 2003? Not a bad idea.To stay competitive in today’s competitive IT world, you must not only possess the knowledge necessary to do your job, but you must also be able to prove to your employer (or potential employer) that you have the abilities and knowledge.The best way to prove this is through certifications. If you are reading this book, you have already achieved the status of Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer on Windows 2000.This is not a bad title to have, but unfortunately (or, fortunately depending on how you look at it) times have to change. As Microsoft continues to improve upon its Windows products, you will be required to keep up with this evolving technology.The good news is, the path from MCSE on Windows 2000 to MCSE on Windows Server 2003 is a relatively short one, as you are only required to take two exams for certification.The other good news is that unlike the upgrade path from Windows NT 4.0 to Windows 2000, this isn’t a one-time shot, you are allowed to take this exam as many times as necessary – although we think you’ll have everything you need in this book to pass it the first time. Let’s talk a little more about the this exam, and the requirements to sit for the exam.
As we stated earlier, the MCSE on Windows Server 2003 upgrade exams are only available to those candidates who currently certified an MCSE on Windows 2000. Although Microsoft states that the MCSE for Windows Server 2003 credential is intended for IT professionals that work in medium to large computing environments, even smaller companies still have a need for many of the features and benefits that come with Windows Server 2003. Officially, however, Microsoft states that candidates should have experience implementing and administering a network operating system in environments that have the following characteristics:
250 to 5,000 or more users
Three or more physical locations
Three or more domain controllers
Network services and resources such as messaging, database, file and print, proxy server, firewall, Internet, intranet, remote access, and client computer management
Connectivity requirements such as connecting branch offices and individual users in remote locations to the corporate network and connecting corporate networks to the Internet
In addition, candidates should have experience in the following areas:
Implementing and administering a desktop operating system
Designing a network infrastructure
Once again, even if you don’t have the experience in an environment that Microsoft has laid out, it does not mean that you should close this book and pass on upgrading your MCSE status. In fact, quite the contrary; once you have read this book, you will not only be able to manage a small network environment, you will be prepared to take on larger environments when the opportunity arises. |
