Overview of Windows 7 MCTS Certifications

As expected as Microsoft technology has changed, so has the certifications. Although many still remain the same, there was been some changes to specific certifications. Windows 7 has quickly replaced most Vista and XP systems, and in turn many IT specialists have had to bring up to date their qualifications.

Microsoft revealed Windows 7 to the world in 2009 and has now created several certifications based on this new technology. These include the MCTS Training : Enterprise Desktop Support Technician 7 and the MCTS Enterprise Administrator 7. Candidates for both these certifications should have experience of implementing, managing and configuring Microsoft technologies in an enterprise environment. For the 70-680 exam, which is included in both certifications, you are required to already understand how to upgrade to Windows 7, overcome compatibility issues and manage and maintain the Windows 7 system.

To certify under any of these two certifications, you need to pass the 70-680 exam, which tests your initial ability to configure windows. You should be able to perform a clean installation of Windows 7 and upgrade from prior Microsoft technologies or versions of Windows 7. The exam will go on to test your ability in deploying Windows, configuring applications and hardware, network connectivity, access to resources (i.e. shared folders, printers etc), backup and recovery options, maintaining the personal computer and mobile computing. This exam covers everything from the essential process of installation to the configuration of software, hardware and resources.

For the Desktop Enterprise Technician 7, next you will need to take exam 70-685, which focuses on identifying issues, from initial setup and configuration issues to failure issues. Exam 70-685 tests these skills in the following areas; Desktop applications, networking, hardware, performance, wireless connectivity, remote access and security. This exam focuses on understanding the causes of such issues and how to resolve them.

For the Enterprise Administrator 7, the next exam to take is the 70-686 exam, which aims to test your ability to set the strategy for managing and supporting the infrastructure as well as applications. This exam mostly focuses on the administrative side and concentrates on creating standard images for windows clients, designing Windows 7 client configurations and deployment, planning and managing a strategy for hardware, software and licensing, acknowledging any issues or problems (i.e. network issues) and managing applications.

To prepare for these exams, it is recommended that you study for these exams, as well as have hands on experience with Windows 7. Since Microsoft certifications are knowledge based as well as practical, you’ll need to be able to put your knowledge into practice. You can access training resources whether by attending classes, or self study (book or computer based MCTS Certification training).

If interested in computer based training resources for Microsoft technologies, including MCTS training, check out what www.certkingdom.com have to offer.

Training for MCTS 70-640 Certification

I’ve taken quite an extended break from my last CCNA certification. After much thought, I’ve stepped back and decided to go towards a Microsoft certification. In particular, I will be training myself for the Microsoft MCITP: Enterprise Administrator.

The prerequisites for the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator are 70-640, 70-642, 70-643, 70-647 and either 70-680 or 70-620 or 70-624.

 

Best Microsoft MCTS Training – Microsoft MCITP Certification

 

Right now I am starting off with the 70-640. At my organization we already have some Windows Server 2008 machines deployed but I’d like to get an expert grasp with this technology. I’d like to acquire more knowledge in creating solutions and deploying. The maintaining part is natural to me.

The tools I will be using to train myself for the MCTS 70-640:

* Sybex MCTS Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration Study Guide by William Panek and James Chellis

* Various online material from Microsoft and Techexams

* Practice tests from the Sybex book

* Lab environment – physical or virtual

Since I do have a couple years experience working with Windows Server I will be putting myself on a fast track study guide. I plan on finishing the book and labs within 2 months and shortly after completing some practice tests I will take the real certification exam.

The most challenging part of all this will be managing time and resources. With full dedication I have no doubt that I can acquire this new knowledge and become MCTS Training and MCTS Certification certified through Microsoft.