AIS - HP ProLiant ML/DL/SL Servers

This certification validates that the technical professional is able to fully prepare a ProLiant expandable tower (ML), rack mount (DL) or scalable (SL) server for the customer so that it can be placed into a test environment or into production, or be ready for the customer to install his applications. This includes all aspects of installation and startup tasks (hardware configuration, operating system installation, HP driver installation, and full management instrumentation). The candidate should have knowledge of how HP ProLiant ML/DL/SL solutions address real problems customers are facing today.

The training that leads to this certification provides the perfect foundation for understanding the 6th generation of this family of server products.

Why Earn This Certification

Businesses around the world rely on HP ProLiant ML expandable tower servers, HP ProLiant DL rack mount servers, and HP ProLiant SL scalable system servers for the highest level of efficiency, insight and control. The "ProLiant" brand is synonymous with "industry standard server." This certification provides a foundation for acquiring certifications that support more advanced ProLiant solutions capabilities.

Ideal Candidate

HP partner, employee or customer technical professionals who design and implement SMB or enterprise computing solutions based on the ProLiant server family.

AIS - HP BladeSystem Solutions

This certification validates that the professional is able to fully prepare a BladeSystem solution for the customer so that it can be placed into a test environment or into production, or be ready for the customer to install his applications. This individual performs all aspects of Installation and Startup Services, including hardware configuration, operating system installation, HP driver installation, and full management instrumentation. This individual also should have knowledge of performance enhancement tools like the Essentials Suite of products. This is a foundational certification for understanding the technical aspects of a converged infrastructure environment. The certification and its associated training include content pertaining to both HP Integrity blades and HP ProLiant blades.

Ideal Candidate

HP partner, employee or customer technical professionals who design, implement or support solutions based on the HP BladeSystem platform.

The required exam

• Exam PRA-S27: Practice exam for "Implementing HP BladeSystem Solutions"

HP Master ASE - Storage Solutions

This master-level certification validates the technical expert's ability to drive storage strategy at the overall infrastructure level rather than the product level. Master ASE certified professionals shift the storage infrastructure to deliver cloud services and mission-critical applications from a cloud data center, leveraging CloudSystem Matrix and using Storage Provisioning Manager to auto-provision multi-tiered storage in a federated data center.

Why Earn this Certification?

The data center is undergoing its most dramatic shift since the move to client server computing 20 years ago. HP sees two major tectonic shifts happening in IT: the move to secure multi-tenant computing, and the shift to cloud delivery models. HP Storage is best positioned to capitalize on these trends and deliver leading solutions to the challenge of today's unpredictable workloads and explosive data growth that legacy storage architectures are unable to meet.

The Master ASE has the broad knowledge and skills necessary to architect a customer's enterprise-wide storage solution that will drive business enablement. This professional ensures that the storage architecture is:

Virtualized to allow dynamic provisioning of resources to support applications when capacity is needed most

Capacity optimized to lower the cost and reduce management complexities when responding to explosive data growth

Application integrated to enable smooth orchestration across the network and allow massive data sets to bypass network limitations

Standardized on common platforms and components to lower costs and enable scale-out architectures

Ideal Candidate

HP partner, employee or customer technical professional who defines business requirements, designs multi-site complex solutions and manages the deployment of sophisticated enterprise storage solutions.

HP Master ASE - Converged Infrastructure Architect

The HP Master ASE - Converged Infrastructure Architect certification validates that the candidate has the vast technical knowledge and experience required to architect and oversee (at every level) the implementation of a highly-effective Converged Infrastructure solution. Additionally, and equally important, this candidate has the proven ability to present and explain this solution to the highest level of management, selling Converged Infrastructure, based on the business value it will deliver, while relating the customer's business problems to IT solutions.

Designed for a very elite group of top professionals across the globe, this certification signals that the architect is most highly qualified to: 

• Lead an organization's data center transformation.
• Design and drive the development, specification and communication of the architecture plans.
• Select and recommend the appropriate components, technologies and products.
• Set the strategy for enterprise information across the new infrastructure.
• Effectively participate in business transformation projects.
• Identify opportunities to provide innovative solutions.
• Communicate with the high level decision makers. 

Ideal Candidate

 HP partner, employee or customer technical integration professional who has a minimum of ten years experience in enterprise level infrastructure design. Typical candidates often hold any of the following job roles or certifications:

• IT Architect/ Enterprise Architect
• Principal Technology Consultant.
• HP ExpertONE certified professional with a current ASE or Master ASE and APC

Prerequisites

 No formal prerequisite certifications are required. However, a candidate should have the following:

• Very strong management-level presentation skills together with exceptional business skills
• ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library), TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), or similar certification, or equivalent experience
• Strong technical background in IT technologies, including (but not exclusive to) servers,storage, networking, management and software, power & cooling, data centers, virtualization, and cloud computing
• Technology and design expertise in data centers
• Presales experience in competitive data center and/or cloud computing environments, including designing cost-effective data center solutions, solution sizing, developing proposals and Proof of Concepts, managing resources to implement a solution, coordinating technical and business resources, and leading change efforts and governance processes
• Concepts, managing resources to implement a solution, coordinating technical and business resources, and leading change efforts and governance processes
• Experience and knowledge with HP Converged Infrastructure and its related technologies, including (but not exclusive to) Flex Fabric, Smart Grid, Matrix OE, and others
• Familiarity with the Alinean tool, BladeSystem Power Sizing Tool, and eConfigure or Sales Builder for Windows

The required exam:

• Entrance exam (HP0-D18)
• Board Review Exam ( HP0-D19: create a Converged Infrastructure business solution and present to the board)

HP networking certification

HP networking solutions are built to deliver predictable performance, high availability, and security, using products and technologies that offer scalability, cutting-edge features, energy efficiency, and reduced complexity. 

The HP ExpertONE program offers a full range of networking curricula, from beginning-level courses all the way up to Master engineer classes. You'll also find fast-track programs that let you leverage your current industry certifications from Cisco and other companies, building on the investment you've already made in networking education.

As a participant in the HP ExpertONE networking training and certification program, you'll gain:  

• Access to robust courseware
• Rapid professional cross-certification
• Proven practices for networking interoperability
• Differentiation in the job market

Technical certification path:

• HP AIS – Network Infrastructure
• HP AIS – Network Security
• HP ASE – Network Infrastructure
• HP ASE - Network Security
• HP ASE – Wireless Networks
• HP Master ASE - Network Infrastructure
• HP Master ASE - Wireless Networks Implementer

Sales Certification:

• HP Sales Certified – Networking
• HP ASP - Network Security
• HP ASC - Networking
• HP ASC - Enterprise Networking

Product Certification:

• Accredited Platform Specialist (APS)
• APP - Enterprise Networking [2011]
• APP - Network Security (Restricted to Americas)
• APP - S-Series Networking Products (Restricted to EMEA and APJ)

HP networking certifications: APP (Accredited Presales Professional)

The APP and Technical Qualifications are credentials that HP Resellers may need to attain in order to meet specific contractual requirements. These credentials are not designed or intended to be used for career advancement.

Enterprise Networking has two Presales certifications:

1. HP APP – Enterprise Networking

This presales networking certification provides comprehensive understanding of HP’s scalable network architecture, necessary to design complex core, data center and campus LAN networks. Design concepts and architectures include multiple tiered network architectures, Cloud based networks, and converged networks, comprised of SANs and servers. Technologies covered include Converged Enhanced Ethernet (CEE), Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE), Intelligent Resilient Framework (IRF) and Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS).

Audience

Technical networking professionals who plan and design enterprise networking solutions based on HP products and technologies. This certification is limited to HP employees and HP Partners.

The required exam

• HP2-Z21 Planning and Designing HP Enterprise Networking Solutions

2.1. HP APP – Network Security

Note: This credential is restricted to the Americas region.

The Accredited Presales Professional (APP) certification provides technical IT Professionals with the knowledge of HP products and solutions to sell and support them effectively. If you are looking to become an HP authorized partner or self maintainer this is the place to start.
This is a credential which HP Resellers may need to attain in order to meet specific contractual requirements and are not designed or intended to be used for career advancement.

Audience
This certification is ideal for anyone looking to provide hardware troubleshooting and repair for HP equipment.

(Note: In order to sell or provide warranty support for HP products, you must be employed by an authorized HP partner or authorized self-maintainer customer.) 

The required exam

• HP2-Z09 TippingPoint Advanced Technical Security Products 

2.2. HP APP – S-Series Networking Products
Note: This credential is restricted to EMEA and APJ locations.

The Accredited Presales Professional (APP) certification provides technical IT Professionals with the knowledge of HP products and solutions to sell and support them effectively. If you are looking to become an HP authorized partner or self maintainer this is the place to start.
This is a credential which HP Resellers may need to attain in order to meet specific contractual requirements and are not designed or intended to be used for career advancement.

Audience
This certification is ideal for anyone looking to provide hardware troubleshooting and repair for HP equipment.

(Note: In order to sell or provide warranty support for HP products, you must be employed by an authorized HP partner or authorized self-maintainer customer.)

The required exam

• HP2-Z20 Introduction to HP TippingPoint Security Products

HP networking certifications: APS (Accredited Platform Specialist)

APS (Accredited Platform Specialist) has one Certification path:

Accredited Platform Specialist (APS)

An APS (Accredited Platform Specialist) can also verify that a device is operating "as shipped from the factory". Since APS technicians work on one device and one technical issue at a time under the direction of a higher skilled individual (who, for example, creates configurations and does troubleshooting), APS certificate holders should recognize the limits of their certificate's scope and know when to use appropriate escalation procedures.

Audience

Field repair engineers who perform basic troubleshooting, repair, installation, configuration, and/or verification on HP Networking products (including hardware and internal operating system) to operational level as from factory. The scope of this certification covers HP Networking Switches up to Layer 3, HP Networking wireless products (Access Points and Wireless Controllers), HP Networking WAN routers. This course is to new and experienced field engineers who need to become familiar with wired and wireless HP Networking hardware and software.

The required exam

• HP2-Z12 - Servicing HP Networking Products Exam Prep Guide

HP networking certifications: HP Advanced Sales Certified

The HP Advanced Sales Certified enables the sales professional to apply consultative selling skills focused on solutions and strategies that will position him or her as the trusted advisor to the Enterprise customer. Achievement of this certification will demonstrate command of HP’s FlexNetwork Architecture, ability to retire quota using the primary benefits of the FlexNetwork Architecture and to present at C-Level a compelling business case for investment in HP Networking solutions.

HP Advanced Sales Certified has the following certification path:

1. HP ASC – Networking

The Accredited Sales Consultant certification will enable sales representatives to develop a long-term, value-added relationship with their customers. This certification focuses on how to engage customers at an executive level to gain a deeper understanding of their mission-critical business issues and how to design a comprehensive HP networking solution that will meet customers’ evolving networking requirements.

Audience

Reseller and HP Sales Representatives who recommends HP networking products and solutions.

The required exam

• HP2-Z16 Selling HP E-Series Networking Solutions

2. HP ASC – Enterprise Networking

The ASC (Accredited Sales Consultant) certification will enable sales representatives to develop a long-term, value-add relationship with their customers. This certification expands the skills of the Sales Professional by focusing on how to engage customers at an executive level to gain a deeper understanding of their mission-critical business issues and how to design a comprehensive HP networking enterprise solution that will meet customers' evolving networking requirements.

Audience

Reseller and HP Sales Representatives who recommends HP enterprise networking products and solutions.

The required exam

• HP2-Z17 Selling HP Enterprise Network Solutions

HP networking certifications: HP Sales Certified

The HP Sales Certified certification designates an individual who is knowledgeable about networking concepts and can describe the features, functions and positioning of the products in the HP Networking portfolio. The certification is focused at the foundational level to develop strong competence in product, technology, and selling skills. Skills include identifying target markets and customers, understanding and positioning features that address customer pain points and deliver business benefits. Competency will be established for recognizing cross- and up-sell opportunities in Converged Infrastructure. These certifications are restricted to HP Employees and Partners

HP Sales Certified has two paths:

1. HP Sales Certified – Networking

The HP Sales Certified certification designates an individual who is knowledgeable about networking concepts and can describe the features, functions and positioning of the products in the HP Networking portfolio.

The certification is focused at the foundational level to develop strong competence in product, technology, and selling skills. Skills include identifying target markets and customers, understanding and positioning features that address customer pain points and deliver business benefits. Competency will be established for recognizing cross- and up-sell opportunities in Converged Infrastructure. These certifications are restricted to HP Employees and Partners.

The required exam

• HP2-Z22 Selling HP Network Solutions

2. HP ASP – Network Security

The ASP (Accredited Sales Professional) designation certifies that an individual is knowledgeable of networking concepts and can describe the features, functions and positioning of the products in the HP networking portfolio. It also certifies that the candidate has the sales skills to understand the customer's business environment and can recommend a security networking product or solution to meet the customer's networking needs.

Audience

Reseller and HP Sales Representatives who recommends HP networking security products and solutions.

The required exam

• HP2-Z14 Selling HP S-Series Networking Solutions

HP networking certifications: Master ASE (Accredited System Engineer)

Attaining Master ASE certification signifies your master-level ability to perform consultative planning, architecting, and leading the deployment of HP Networking solutions for enterprise environments. A symbol of excellence, Master ASE certification can be attained in the following two discipline areas.

Master ASE (Accredited System Engineer) has two Certification paths:

1.HP Master ASE - Network Infrastructure

The Master Accredited Systems Engineer (Master ASE) - Network Infrastructure certification signifies to employers that you possess the highest levels of skill, including master-engineer ability to design and troubleshoot advanced network solutions for enterprise networks and the data center. This certification also signifies an individual has the skill to migrate customers from proprietary to open-standard technologies.

Audience

Professionals who design, implement, maintain and troubleshoot advanced network solutions based on HP Networking products in large enterprise environments including: HP Reseller and Service Authorized Partners, Customer IT Staff, HP Field Presales and Competency Center Solution Architects, HP Services Field and Call Center Support Engineers.

The required exams  

1. HP0-Y36 Deploying HP Enterprise Networks
2. HP0-Y37 Migrating and Troubleshooting HP Enterprise Networks

2. HP Master ASE – Wireless Networks Implementer

The Master Accredited Systems Engineer (Master ASE) – Wireless Networks certification signifies to employers that you possess the highest levels of skill, including master-engineer ability to successfully plan, design, implement and troubleshoot enterprise level HP wireless networks, including how to integrate into the existing wired infrastructure. It also addresses CIO’s number one concern with regard to wireless networks – security. Wireless Master ASEs have the ability to protect an HP Networking wireless solution from security threats using appropriate policies to ensure proper implementation of security standards.

Audience

Professionals with 3-5 years of experience designing, implementing, maintaining and troubleshooting advanced wireless network solutions based on HP Networking products in large enterprise environments including: HP Reseller and Service Authorized Partners, Customer IT Staff, HP Field Presales and Competency Center Solution Architects, HP Services Field and Call Center Support Engineers.

What's New?

This certification has been redesigned to focus on new HP MSM solutions, covering advanced topics such as troubleshooting enterprise level wireless networks and security requirements.

 

The required exam

• HP0-Y27 Deploying HP Enterprise Wireless Networks

HP networking certifications: ASE (Accredited System Engineer)

The ASE certification is for anyone who deploys complex networking solutions. An ASE is able to design, implement, and troubleshoot a HP-based network solution with the following elements: advanced switching and interior routing for IP networks; core and edge network infrastructure incorporating backbones, VLANs, and network access security.

ASE (Accredited System Engineer) has three Certification paths:

1. HP ASE - Network Infrastructure

Accredited Systems Engineer (ASE) networking certifications are awarded to network engineers who have the knowledge and ability to deploy complex networking solutions. An HP ASE networking certification signifies that the individual is fully able to design and implement an HP open-standards based network solution.

An engineer with an ASE – Network Infrastructure certification is capable of designing, implementing and troubleshooting secure network solutions for large and complex, multivendor campus LAN environments using HP E- and A-Series network technologies, including those that interoperate with non-HP networking solutions.

Audience
Anyone who deploys complex solutions based on HP technologies including: HP Reseller and Service Authorized Partners, Customer IT Staff, HP Field Presales and Competency Center Solution Architects, HP Services Field and Call Center Support Engineers.
 

The required exams 

1. HP0-Y43 - Implementing HP Network Infrastructure Solutions
2. HP0-Y32 Designing & Troubleshooting Open Standards Networks

2. HP ASE - Network Security  

The HP ASE – Network Security certification signifies that an individual has significant knowledge in the area of network security, possessing the abilities to design and implement secure solutions for large, complex network environments specializing the deployment of advanced defense and protection capabilities using HP TippingPoint technologies.

Audience

Professionals who design, implement, maintain and troubleshoot advanced network security solutions based on HP Networking products in large enterprise environments including: HP Reseller and Service Authorized Partners, Customer IT Staff, HP Field Presales and Competency Center Solution Architects, HP Services Field and Call Center Support Engineers.

The required exams

1. HP0-Y40 Implementing HP Network Infrastructure Security
2. HP0-Y42 Implementing HP TippingPoint Solutions

3. HP ASE - Wireless Networks

Accredited Systems Engineer (ASE) networking certifications are awarded to network engineers who have the knowledge and ability to deploy complex networking solutions. An HP ASE networking certification signifies that the individual is fully able to design and implement an HP open-standards based network solution.

An engineer who has earned this certification can design and implement complex WLAN network solutions for large campus LAN environments using HP E-Series wireless technologies, and also has the foundational skills needed to implement A-Series wireless solutions.

Audience

Anyone who deploys complex solutions based on HP technologies including: HP Reseller and Service Authorized Partners, Customer IT Staff, HP Field Presales and Competency Center Solution Architects, HP Services Field and Call Center Support Engineers.

The required exams

1. HP0-Y43 Implementing HP Network Infrastructure Solutions
2. HP0-Y33 Implementing HP Wireless Networks

HP networking certifications: AIS (Accredited Integration Specialist)

The AIS is able to design a HP Networking customer solution based on intermediate switching and basic routing environments.

AIS (Accredited Integration Specialist) has two Certification paths:

1. HP AIS – Network Infrastructure: 

The HP Accredited Integration Specialist (AIS) is the entry level networking certification. Achieving the AIS standard indicates that a network engineer can deploy business-class to mid-size networks.

This certification identified an engineer who is capable of implementing HP E-Series wired network solutions for small to mid-market customers, and who has foundational knowledge of wireless technologies and HP A-Series solutions for large scale networks and the data center.

There are three paths to achieve this certification, as outlined below. The exams you must pass are dependent upon which achievements you currently hold.

Path 1 

If you are just starting with networking certification, you should take the proctored Implementing HP Networking Technologies (HP0-Y30) exam.

Path 2 

For those who are already certified by HP or certain other vendors, HP appreciates the time, effort, and money that you have invested in your current certification. If you have one of the certifications listed below, you can take an online exam instead of the proctored exam and obtain the HP AIS – Network Infrastructure [2011] certification more conveniently. 

• AIS – HP ProCurve Networking (2004 or later)
• H3CNE
• CCNA – Any track
• CCDA
• 3Com DP
• 3Com IAP

Path 3 

If you have already achieved AIS – HP ProCurve Networking (2008 or later) certification, and you take and pass the Migrating to 3Com/H3C Routing and Switching (HP2-Z08) exam (which tests you only on HP A-Series products), you do not need to take either the proctored HP0-Y30 exam or the online HP2-Z18 exam. You will automatically be awarded HP AIS – Network Infrastructure [2011] certification.

2. HP AIS – Network Security:

The HP Accredited Integration Specialist (AIS) is the entry level networking certification. Achieving the AIS standard indicates that a network engineer can deploy business-class to mid-size networks.

The AIS - Network Security certification signals to employers and colleagues that this engineer can design and implement fundamental security solutions for small to mid-market networks, and that the engineer also has foundational knowledge of advanced security solutions based on HP TippingPoint technologies.

Audience 

Professionals who small to midrange solutions based on HP technologies including HP Reseller Systems Engineers, Customer IT Staff, HP System Engineers, HP Services Field & Call Center Support Engineers.

Exam HP2-Z19: Implementing HP Network Security Solutions

This exam is for networking professionals who sell, support, and use HP.

Examples of job roles include: 

• Reseller and customer network specialists
• System Engineers
• Network Engineers
• HP Field System Engineers
• HP Services Technical Support and Field Services

Minimum qualifications

To pass this exam, you should have at least 1 year experience implementing or maintaining networking products and solutions, including familiarity with network security features. Exams are based on an assumed level of industry-standard knowledge that may be gained from the training, hands-on experience, or other pre-requisite events.

Relevant certifications

After passing this exam, your achievement may be applied toward more than one certification. To determine which certifications will be credited with this achievement, log into The Learning Center and view the certifications listed on the exam’s More Details tab. You may be on your way to achieving additional HP certifications.

Exam details

The following are details about the exam:

• Number of items: 66
• Item types: multiple choice (single-response), multiple choice (multiple-response)
• Exam time: 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes)
• Passing score: 73%

Microsoft Certified Master: Windows Server 2008 R2: Directory

The Active Directory directory service of the Windows Server 2008 operating system provides the means to manage the identities and relationships that make up an organization’s network. Thus, to help develop, deliver, and manage rich user experiences and applications; provide a highly secure network infrastructure; and increase technological efficiency and value, an organization needs a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) on Windows Server 2008 R2: Directory. An MCM will have a demonstrated and proven expertise in the entire Active Directory product suite, including Active Directory Domain Services, Active Directory Lightweight Directory Services, Active Directory Federation Services, and Active Directory Certificate Services. The Microsoft Certified Master on Windows Server 2008 R2: Directory certification will develop the next generation of technical leaders in this critically important IT service.

Join the exclusive community of Active Directory technical experts
All Microsoft Certified Masters become an immediate part of an exclusive community of Active Directory experts that includes fellow MCM graduates and members of the Active Directory product group as well as valuable resources to which they can contribute and from which they can draw the collective knowledge of that community at any time.

Certified individuals prove their technical mastery
In designing and building customer-specified directory solutions, Microsoft Certified Masters understand how design decisions affect the final solution. They troubleshoot and diagnose Active Directory services configuration and performance issues, and they have the detailed knowledge and skills that are required to successfully operate and manage enterprise-class Active Directory customer solutions based on the following services:

Active Directory Domain Services

• Use Active Directory Domain Services, formerly known as Active Directory Services, to design the central location for configuration information, authentication requests, and information about all of the objects that are stored within an organization’s forest.

Active Directory Lightweight Directory Services

• Optimize use of the Active Directory Lightweight Directory Service, formerly known as Active Directory Application Mode, for directory-enabled applications.
• Build a location to support the application configuration and directory data and another location for security accounts.

Active Directory Certificate Services

• Use certificates to prove the identity of users or computers, as well as to encrypt data during transmission across unsecured network connections.
• Enhance security by binding the identity of a person, device, or service to a private key.

Active Directory Federation Services

• Design a highly secure, highly extensible, and Internet-scalable identity access solution that allows organizations to authenticate users from partner organizations.
• Grant external users secure access to your organization’s domain resources.
• Simplify integration between untrusted resources and domain resources in an organization.

Optimize your Windows Server 2008 R2 Active Directory investment by hiring an MCM
According to research firm Gartner Group, 80 percent of all unplanned downtime is caused by people and process issues, not by hardware and software failure.* Optimize your IT investment resources and take full advantage of the power and diversity of Active Directory by employing a Microsoft Certified Master to lead your design, migration, implementation, and critical troubleshooting activities.

Advanced training deepens the technical skills of experienced Windows Server 2008 R2 Active Directory professionalsThe MCM program—a mixture of presentations, whiteboard discussions, group study, and goal-based labs—provides the most in-depth and comprehensive training that is available today for Active Directory and Windows Server 2008.

Prerequisites
Prerequisites for entry into the program include the following knowledge and experience:

1. Five or more years of hands-on experience installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Active Directory in complex enterprise environments.

2. A thorough understanding of Active Directory design and architecture.

3. A 300-level understanding of site component topology, forest operations and topology, the Active Directory distributed file system, file replication services, security, client interactions, and Group Policy.
For example, you should be able to:

• Troubleshoot and repair broken replication for common issues (for example, secure channel, beyond TSL, and name resolution dependencies)
• Understand USN Rollback, and how to correct any potential failure points
• Effectively use BASL, site links, site costing, change notification, or other advanced features
• Understand how FRS and DFSR function (and differ)
• Understand common issues with FRS, and how to repair them, such as Journal Wrap, Morphed Folder, and Auth/Non-Auth Restore

4. A basic understanding of Active Directory Certificate Services, Active Directory Federation Services, and Active Directory Lightweight Directory Services.

5. Functional skills in basic protocol analysis, Hyper-V, scripting, PKI, and IP addressing and routing.

6. Ability to speak, understand, and write fluent English.

7. An MCSE certification on Microsoft Windows 2000 Server or Windows Server 2003, or a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Enterprise Administrator certification.

If you have either or both of the preceding MCSE certifications, you must also have passed:

Exam 70-219: Designing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Directory Services Infrastructure (retired exam)

or

Exam 70-297: Designing a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure

If you have the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification, no additional exams are required.

Microsoft Certified Master: Microsoft SQL Server 2008

In today’s competitive market, data management requirements are more complex and diverse than ever before. Transactional and business intelligence data must be managed efficiently while providing enhanced security, availability, reliability, manageability, integration, performance, and data integrity. The investment in Microsoft SQL Server 2008 provides a more secure, reliable, and scalable platform for storing mission-critical information and delivering the right information to users, while reducing the time and cost of managing data. An organization that wants to make the most of its data should have a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) on Microsoft SQL Server 2008 on staff.

The MCM program on Microsoft SQL Server 2008 is designed to provide the most experienced and talented IT professionals worldwide with validation and recognition of their in-depth technical expertise in Microsoft SQL Server.

A Microsoft Certified Master for SQL Server 2008 is the highest level of SQL Server technical certification offered by Microsoft and can be achieved by passing these two exams in the following sequence:

1. Exam 88-970: SQL Server 2008 Microsoft Certified Master: Knowledge Exam
2. Exam 88-971: SQL Server 2008 Microsoft Certified Master: Lab Exam

Test your technical skills for today’s complex data management requirements and tomorrow’s challenges. Designed by experts for experts, these challenging exams test your in-depth technical knowledge and help validate your ability to make effective design, deployment, and operational decisions when using SQL Server 2008.

Certified individuals prove their technical mastery
To obtain an MCM on SQL Server 2008 certification, you must prove your mastery in a virtual lab environment that emulates an enterprise infrastructure of the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 platform. You are tasked to troubleshoot and diagnose configuration and performance issues, and demonstrate and deploy the detailed knowledge and skills that are required to successfully design, operate, and manage an enterprise-class SQL Server 2008 infrastructure.

Organizations looking for large, complex, or highly available SQL Server solutions benefit from the expertise of a MCM on SQL Server. These experts work with customers to successfully design, implement, troubleshoot, and support SQL Server 2008 solutions, in a number of scenarios, including:

• Public-facing websites that serve millions of customers
• Enterprise intranet solutions that serve global organizations with hundreds of thousands of users
• Consolidation platforms that host terabytes of content for large organizations
• SQL Server 2008 consolidation scenarios, multi-tenancy, enterprise data warehousing, and business intelligence
• Highly available solutions that require constant uptime
• High transaction volume systems that require optimally configured solutions to ensure maximum throughput
  
  

  

  The enterprise infrastructure of the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 platform

Preparing for the required exams
Although the most effective preparation is real-world, hands-on experience, there are a number of training resources that can help prepare you for the Knowledge and Lab Exams.

Accelerated Exam Preparation program for Microsoft Certified Master: SQL Server 2008
The SQL MCM Accelerated Exam Preparation program is designed to prepare SQL Server MCM candidates to take the Knowledge Exam and/or the Lab Exam for the SQL Server 2008 Microsoft Certified Master program. Candidates may participate in a scheduled series of live online sessions, subscribe to practice labs, or choose a bundle of both offerings. 

a) SQL MCM Sessions: starting March 6, 2012
Take a scheduled series of seven weeks of live online sessions with a presenter, who is a SQL MCM, including a review of an exam topic and open Q&A time. Two sessions of two hours each will be delivered weekly, with each week focusing on one of the seven exam topic areas.

b) SQL MCM labs
Get a two month subscription for practicing with 20 SQL MCM-level labs in a hosted SQL Server VM environment. The labs will be associated with the weekly exam topics. This is an easy to use, anytime access lab environment to practice the skills you need.

Practice labs for SQL Server MCM
If you want to access practice labs, but without the two-month commitment required by the Accelerated Exam Preparation program, the same labs are also available right now in one week or one month increments. The labs cover advanced SQL Server topics geared to helping you prepare for Master level certification. The goal of these hands-on lab materials is to give you an understanding of the features of SQL Server 2008 that a Microsoft Certified Master may use when designing and implementing solutions for business requirements.

Recommended skills and experience
Individuals interested in pursuing a Microsoft Certified Master on SQL Server 2008 certification typically have five or more years of hands-on SQL Server experience in mission-critical environments, with competencies that include:

• Designing and implementing high-performance, scalable, and secure enterprise environments
• Troubleshooting the most challenging SQL Server issues
• Managing multiple instances of SQL Server, including the use of a variety of features and tasks, with a thorough understanding of SQL Server design and architecture.
• A thorough understanding of SQL Server core engine components and dependencies, such as online transaction processing (OLTP), high availability, disaster recovery, performance tuning and optimization, the SQL Server operating system (SQLOS), the storage engine, the relational engine, security, manageability, and data distribution.

Microsoft Certified Master: Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010

Microsoft SharePoint Server is the fastest growing server product in Microsoft history. With this success, there is an increased demand from SharePoint customers and partners for individuals who possess an in-depth, hands-on, technical understanding of SharePoint Server 2010.

The Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) on Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 certification is developing the next generation of technical leaders in this dramatically growing business. A combination of expert technical instructor-led training, white board discussions, goal-based labs, and thorough exam testing delivers the most in-depth and comprehensive training available today for Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 delivered by top SharePoint experts. Successful completion of this program demonstrates knowledge of SharePoint Products and Technologies at a deeper level than has ever been assessed before. Graduates of this program are recognized by Microsoft as the top SharePoint experts in the world.

Join the exclusive community of SharePoint technical experts
All Microsoft Certified Masters become an immediate part of an exclusive community of SharePoint Server 2010 experts, which includes fellow MCM graduates and members of the SharePoint product group as well as valuable resources to which they can contribute and from which they can draw the collective knowledge of that community at any time.

Certified individuals prove their technical mastery
Microsoft Certified Masters on SharePoint Server 2010 deliver high-performance, scalable solutions that meet even the most complex customer requirements. These experts possess the comprehensive product knowledge and experiential skills to successfully design, build, deploy, migrate, and troubleshoot enterprise-class SharePoint Server 2010 environments based on customer requirements. Organizations looking to onboard large, complex, or highly customized SharePoint Server 2010 environments will significantly benefit from the expertise of a SharePoint MCM. These product experts work with customers to successfully implement SharePoint Server 2010 solutions, including (but not limited to) the following scenarios:

• Public-facing websites serving millions of customers
• Enterprise intranet solutions serving global organizations with hundreds of thousands of users
• Collaboration platforms hosting terabytes of content for large organizations
• Business intelligence solutions for large financial customers
• Knowledge management solutions focused on a large store of information
• Enterprise Search implementations scaling to tens of millions of search items
• Multitenant and SharePoint online-based environments
• Large, team-based, custom development environments

No matter what the complexity, size, or requirements are, customers who engage a Microsoft Certified Master on SharePoint Server 2010 will significantly increase the likelihood of a successful, properly designed solution and will reduce the overall risk associated with the project.

Optimize your SharePoint Server 2010 IT investment with an MCM
IT environments comprise three basic elements—people, process, and technology. According to research firm Gartner Group, 80 percent of all unplanned downtime is caused by people and process issues, not by hardware and software failure.* Optimize your IT investment resources and take full advantage of the power and diversity of the SharePoint Server 2010 platform by employing a Microsoft Certified Master to lead your design, migration, implementation, and critical troubleshooting activities.

Advanced training deepens the technical skills of experienced SharePoint professionals
The MCM SharePoint Server 2010 certification process includes three weeks of in-depth technical training at the Microsoft campus in Redmond, Washington, in the United States, where candidates will receive training and knowledge transfer from some of the top SharePoint experts in the world.
The MCM certification on SharePoint Server 2010 training activities include:

• Configuring, operating, and customizing multiple SharePoint Server 2010 farms. Each candidate operates a dedicated server that hosts these virtual environments, using Microsoft Hypervisor Technology (Hyper-V) technology
• Training and lab assignments focused on critical tasks, including capacity planning, disaster recovery, performance tuning and testing, and logical architecture design
• Team exercises where students design and plan for key workloads and large environments
• A "deep dive" into the core technical design of SharePoint Server 2010 and a transfer of the knowledge needed to make wise choices in complex deployment scenarios

Other training topics include enterprise development with SharePoint Server 2010, enterprise search, business connectivity services, and upgrading from prior versions of SharePoint.

Prerequisites
Prerequisites for entry into the program include the following knowledge and experience:

1 A thorough understanding of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 design and architecture.

2. A thorough understanding of Microsoft ASP.NET, Windows Server, Internet Information Services, and other core technologies upon which SharePoint Products and Technologies depend.

3. The ability to speak, understand, and write in fluent English.

4. The following experience:

• Hands-on experience via early adoption programs with Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010: installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and custom development
• Three or more years of hands-on experience with Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007: installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and custom development

5. Candidates must have passed the following exams prior to applying to the program:

• Exam 70-573: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Application Development
• Exam 70-576: PRO: Designing and Developing Microsoft SharePoint 2010 Applications
• Exam 70-667: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Configuring
• Exam 70-668: PRO: SharePoint 2010, Administrator

Microsoft Certified Master: Microsoft Lync Server 2010

When businesses communicate today, they have proliferating options: from phone, fax, and email to instant messaging, electronic whiteboards, and web conferences. As increasingly mobile employees collaborate with colleagues around the globe, providing them with the most appropriate communications capability in a robust, enterprise-class fashion becomes essential. Microsoft Lync Server 2010 combines voice, data, and video to eliminate roadblocks in communications and improve productivity for individuals and workgroups. Individuals with a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) on Lync Server 2010 certification have the depth and breadth of skill to help an organization implement communications options, such as software-powered voice, PBX integration, instant messaging, on-premise audio and video conferencing, application sharing, and mobile access to meet their business needs.

MCMs on Lync Server 2010 design and build high-quality unified communications solutions, which reduce travel costs, cut the time needed to complete projects, shorten the sales cycle, and minimize telephony costs.

Join the exclusive community of Microsoft Lync Server experts

MCMs on Lync Server 2010 may be eligible to participate in an exclusive community of Lync Server experts, which includes fellow MCMs and the Microsoft Lync Server product group.

Prove your technical mastery

Candidates who successfully complete the program have an in-depth understanding of the Lync Server 2010 platform. In designing and building customer-specified solutions, MCMs on Lync Server 2010 fully understand how technical design decisions affect the final solution. Not only can they troubleshoot and diagnose configuration and performance issues, but they can also operate and manage an enterprise-class Microsoft Lync Server 2010 infrastructure. Organizations looking to design and deploy large, complex, or highly customized Microsoft Lync Server 2010 environments will significantly benefit from the expertise of a MCM on Lync Server 2010. These product experts work with customers to successfully implement Lync Server 2010 solutions, including (but not limited to) the following scenarios:

• Globally dispersed, highly available infrastructures serving thousands of users for voice, instant messaging, presence, and conferencing
• Mobile or remote work forces
• Complex voice or multivendor PBX integration
• Conferencing solutions, including third-party interoperability
• Line-of-business application integration
• Upgrade and migrations

Employing certified individuals protects and optimizes organizations’ Lync Server 2010 IT investments

IT environments are comprised of three basic elements: people, process, and technology. According to the research firm Gartner Group, 80 percent of all unplanned downtime is caused by people and process issues, not by hardware and software failure. Optimize your IT investment resources and take full advantage of the power and diversity of the Microsoft Lync Server 2010 platform by employing a Microsoft Certified Master on Lync Server 2010.

Advanced training deepens and broadens the technical skills of experienced communications professionals

The certification process for the Microsoft Certified Master on Lync Server 2010 includes three weeks of in-depth technical training at the Microsoft campus in Redmond, Washington, in the United States. It covers the individual core Lync Server 2010 technologies as well as broader architectural and operational areas such as telephony integration, upgrade and migration, application integration, performance analysis, management, and operations. As part of their training, candidates complete many highly challenging independent lab exercises, which allow them to develop and apply their learning in an environment where instructor and peer support is readily available.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites for entry into the program include the following knowledge and experience:

1. Two or more years of hands-on experience with Office Communications Server 2007: installing, configuring, and troubleshooting (or equivalent experience).

2. Practical, hands-on experience with Microsoft Lync Server 2010: installing, configuring, and troubleshooting all workloads in multiple deployment scenarios.

3. A thorough understanding of Microsoft Lync Server 2010 design and architecture.

4. A thorough understanding of Active Directory directory service , Domain Name System (DNS), traditional telephony concepts, VoIP, and other core network services related to Lync Server.

5. Ability to speak and write fluent English.

6. Successful completion of the following certifications:

• Exam 70-638: TS: Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007, Configuring
• Exam 70-664: TS: Microsoft Lync Server 2010, Configuring
• Exam 70-665: PRO: Microsoft Lync Server 2010, Administrator

And one of the following:

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003

or

successful completion of two of the following exams, as indicated:

Exam 70-294: Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure

 or

 Exam 70-640: TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuration

 or

 Exam 83-640 (retired)   and   Exam 70-297: Designing a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure

 or 

 Exam 70-642: TS: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, Configuring

Microsoft Certified Master: Microsoft Exchange Server 2010

Communication drives business. Whether onsite or in the cloud, Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 is a critical infrastructure to ensure availability and security of an organization’s email, calendar, and contacts. Microsoft Certified Masters (MCMs) who are certified on Exchange Server 2010 are specialists in the design, migration, implementation, and optimization of the mail experience across multiple devices —which in turn helps lower messaging costs and helps ensure availability and security.

Join the exclusive community of Exchange Server 2010 technical experts

All Microsoft Certified Masters on Exchange Server 2010 become an immediate part of an exclusive community of experts that includes fellow graduates and members of the Exchange Server product group as well as valuable resources to which they can contribute and from which they can draw the collective knowledge of that community at any time.

Prove your technical mastery

Earning an MCM: Exchange Server 2010 certification demonstrates your detailed knowledge and skills in successfully designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting an enterprise-class Exchange Server infrastructure. MCMs can help organizations optimize messaging; map major initiatives and projects; identify and rate the impact of people, process, and technology gaps; design and build customer-specific messaging solutions; and prioritize IT assets for maximum impact and return on investment. IT professionals can achieve an MCM: Exchange Server 2010 by passing two exams, in the following sequence:

1. MCM: Exchange Server 2010, Knowledge Exam
2. MCM: Exchange Server 2010, Lab Exam

Designed by specialists for specialists, these exams test and validate your in-depth technical knowledge of Exchange Server 2010. Starting in July 2011, Prometric will offer the Knowledge Exam at select testing centers worldwide. Microsoft offers the Lab Exam via direct remote proctoring at select Microsoft facilities worldwide.

Employing certified individuals protects and optimizes organizations’ Exchange Server 2010 IT investments

IT environments are comprised of three basic elements: people, process, and technology. According to the research firm Gartner Group, 80 percent of all unplanned downtime is caused by people and process issues, not by hardware and software failure.* Optimize your IT investment resources and take full advantage of the power and diversity of the Exchange Server 2010 platform by employing an MCM: Exchange Server 2010 to lead your design, migration, implementation, and troubleshooting activities.

Advanced training deepens and broadens the technical skills of experienced professionals

Although training attendance is no longer a mandatory requirement for achieving MCM: Exchange Server 2010, candidates can prepare for the required exams by participating in three weeks of in-depth technical training at the Microsoft campus in Redmond, Washington, in the United States. This intensive training covers the individual core Exchange Server 2010 technologies as well as broader architectural and operational areas, such as high availability of a messaging service, co-existence and migration, transport, performance analysis, management, and operations. As a part of their training, candidates complete many independent lab exercises, which allow them to develop and apply their learning in an environment where instructor and peer support are readily available. Training activities for the MCM: Exchange Server 2010 include: 

• A "deep dive" into the core Exchange Server 2010 technologies with members of the Microsoft Exchange Center of Excellence or technology subject matter experts.  
• Exercises in which candidates work to produce a design to meet a set of requirements for a highly available environment, build and test their solutions, and then present their findings to the class. 
• Working through a multitude of migration and co-existence scenarios. During the long days of instruction and study groups, candidates have direct access to Microsoft and partner industry experts.

Microsoft IT professional: Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)

The Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) certification provides proof of your ability to design, implement, and manage SQL Server 2000 databases. If you work with SQL Server 2008 or SQL Server 2012 databases, see below for our recommended certifications.

Level: One year of experience working with Microsoft SQL Server

Audience: IT professional

Type: Microsoft Certification

 

Overview

 

Individuals who hold the MCDBA certification have proven their ability to design, implement, and manage the administration of SQL Server 2000 databases. While three exams that are included in the requirements for earning this certification are still available, all other required exams are retired.

We recommend the following SQL Server certifications—choose one that reflects your job role, career goals, and version of SQL Server: 

• Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Platform—for database professionals who build enterprise-scale data solutions on-premise or in cloud environments
• MCSE: Business Intelligence—for database professionals who develop and deploy business intelligence solutions and reports.
• Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certifications: for database professionals who design, implement, build on, troubleshoot, and support SQL Server 2008 solutions
• Microsoft Certified Master (MCM): for senior-level IT professionals who seek in-depth and comprehensive training on implementing SQL Server 2008 solutions

Certifications

 

To earn the Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) credential, you must pass four exams (in any order):

• One Microsoft SQL Server Administration exam
• One SQL Server Design exam
• One Microsoft Windows 2000 Server or Windows Server 2003 exam
• One elective exam

Note All exams in this certification track are retired, Except the following Exams:

• Managing and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Environment: Exam 70-290
• Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure: Exam 70-291
• Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure: Exam 70-293

Microsoft IT professional: Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Help demonstrate your knowledge of technology fundamentals by earning a Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification. Earning the MTA certification can help you stand out when you submit college and internship applications by helping to prove your commitment and understanding of a variety of entry-level technology concepts.

 

Level: Knowledge and basic understanding of key technology concepts

 

Audience: Students, technology educators, and entry-level IT staff of accredited academic institutions

 

Type: Microsoft Certification

 

Overview

 

The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) suite of certification products helps schools teach and validate core IT infrastructure, software development, and database administration knowledge. Becoming MTA certified provides students with IT career exploration opportunities and confidence, while allowing them to demonstrate aptitude for more advanced certifications, internships, apprenticeships, and some entry-level jobs.

Over 95% of companies around the world use Microsoft products and solutions to help run their business. Microsoft Certifications remain the method by which IT pros and developers stand out from their peers and by which employers recognize candidates/employees who have the skills they are looking for.

For those new to IT, MTA is the optional starting point and stepping stone to all Microsoft Certifications.

Integrating the MTA Campus License in your IT program will help your institution stand out as an innovative technology curriculum provider while offering students an opportunity to earn a Microsoft Certification right in the classroom.

MTA exams are based on high-demand industry career tracks and designed by Microsoft Learning experts and professional educators. Each exam has a companion MTA certification exam review kit and MTA student study guide designed to supplement the courseware already in use by educators.

An MTA Campus License allows institutions to deliver MTA exams to all registered students on campus, as well as to faculty and staff, as a development resource. Contact your school administrator to find out if your school is an approved MTA testing center.

If your school is not already an MTA testing center, a faculty member or administrator can contact a Certiport sales consultant to learn how to obtain an MTA campus license.

MTA candidate profile

 

MTA candidates are able to understand and explain fundamental concepts of the topic on which they are being tested. Typically, hands-on hardware or technology experience is recommended, but not always required.

MTA campus license

 

MTA campus licenses are available in sizes to fit your institution’s needs and come in increments of 500, 250, or 100 exams per year. Exams can be administered anywhere on campus, anytime it’s convenient for you, without classroom or desktop restrictions.

Why get certified?

 

Designed to validate your expertise in the latest Microsoft products, becoming Microsoft Certified helps you get hired, get recognized, and get ahead in the IT marketplace.

 

Whether you are new to technology, changing jobs, or a seasoned IT professional, becoming certified helps demonstrate to customers, peers, and employers that you are committed to advancing your skills and taking on greater challenges. In addition, certification provides you with access to exclusive Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) resources and benefits, including opportunities to connect with a vast, global network of MCPs.

Certification

 

To earn an MTA certification, you must pass only one of the following exams. However, we recommend that you review the MTA Exam Certification Paths chart (later in this section) and consider earning a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification to help you further your career in the IT industry. Earning more than one certification helps show potential employers and college admissions offices that you have a variety of technology skills and are committed to a wide set of abilities.

Developer exams

 

• Software Development Fundamentals: Exam 98-361
• Windows Development Fundamentals: Exam 98-362
• Web Development Fundamentals: Exam 98-363
• Database Administration Fundamentals: Exam 98-364
• Microsoft .NET Fundamentals: Exam 98-372
• Mobile Development Fundamentals: Exam 98-373
• MTA: Gaming Development Fundamentals: Exam 98-374

IT professional exams

 

• Networking Fundamentals: Exam 98-366
• Security Fundamentals: Exam 98-367
• Windows Server Administration Fundamentals: Exam 98-365
• Windows Operating System Fundamentals: Exam 98-349