MCSA Certification (Microsoft Windows 2003)

About MCSA 2003 certification exam

The MCSA 2003 certification is for professionals who implement, manage, and troubleshoot existing network and system environments based on the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Operating System. These individuals typically do not deploy new networks and systems as part of their job function as is expected of individuals holding the MCSE certification. Unlike MCSEs, MCSAs are not expected to acquire design skills.

Pass all of the following Networking System exams:

• 70-290 Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Env
• 70-291 Windows Server 2003 Network Infrast

Pass one of the following core Client Operating System exams:

• 70-210 Windows 2000 Professional
• 70-270 Windows XP Professional

Pass one of the following elective exams:

• 220-301 A+ Hardware (2003)
• 220-302 A+ Operating System (2003)
• N10-003 Network+ (2007) (Network Plus)
• SK0-002 Server+ (2005)
• SY0-101 Security+
• 70-227 Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server
• 70-228 SQL Server 2000 Administration
• 70-284 Exchange Server 2003 Installation
• 70-299 Windows 2003 Implementing Security

Job Roles for MCSA certified professionals

The job roles for MCSA certified professionals typically include: systems administrator, network administrator, information systems administrator, network operations analyst, network technician, or technical support specialist.

MCSA 2003 certification requirements

To get MCSA certification for Microsoft Windows 2003, you have to take three mandatory Core tests paper and one elective test paper. For the MCSA 2003 elective tests, you can choose from plenty of exam that suit your requirement. CompTIA's Security+ certification, or a CompTIA A+ certification and Network+ certification combination, or a CompTIA A+ and Server+ combination, may count towards one elective for this certification exam. You may also take the MCDST certification exam as an elective.

Benefits of MCSA certification

• Microsoft products are most widely used in business enterprises today and the MCSA certification proves expertise on the Microsoft products and technologies.
• Professionals holding the MCSA certification are preferred by the employers and they also get preference in promotions.
• MCSA certification is helpful for professionals who have entry-level certification in related technologies to upgrade their credentials and get recognition from the industry.
• MCSA Certified professional can find appropriate job easily and get paid more.
• And most importantly, on average, an MCSA certified person gets more salary than persons having the same job profile.