Microsoft’s Windows 2003 MCSA (Microsoft Certified
Systems Administrator) certification is for professionals
who implement, manage, and troubleshoot existing network
and system environments based on the Microsoft Windows
2000 and Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Operating Systems.
These individuals typically do not deploy new networks
and systems as part of their job function, as is expected
of individuals holding the MCSE credential. Unlike MCSEs,
MCSAs are not expected to have design skills.
The Windows 2003 MCSA got its start back in the summer
of 2003, two years after the introduction of the Windows
2000 MCSA. This certification does not retire but newer
versions of it are released every few years as Microsoft
upgrades their core server technologies. There are no
specific prerequisites for the MCSA, although Microsoft
says that: candidates should have 6-12 months of experience
administering client and network operating systems.
As soon as candidates pass their first qualifying exam
for the MCSA program, they achieve a Microsoft Certified
Professional (MCP) certification.
Job roles of those pursuing this certification typically
include: systems administrator, network administrator,
information systems administrator, network operations
analyst, network technician, or technical support specialist.
To achieve the Windows 2003 MCSA, a candidate must
pass a total of four exams. There are three core exams
and one elective exam.
There is a one exam upgrade path to this certification
for those who hold the Windows 2000 MCSA: 70-292 - Managing
and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment
for an MCSA Certified on Windows 2000.
