Microsoft certifications are some of the most popular IT certifications in the world. The most commonly known Microsoft certifications are MCP and MCSE.
What are the Microsoft certifications available?
A full listing of Microsoft certifications is available here.
Common certifications are:
MCP – Microsoft Certified Professional, a person who has passed one Microsoft exam (eg Windows XP Pro, or Windows Server 2003). The usefulness of this certification will depend on which type of job you are applying for.
MCDST – Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician, a person who has passed the two required exams. This certification also earns you MCP status. This certification is aimed at Help Desk/1st Level Desktop Support roles.
MCSA – Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, a person who has passed the four required exams. This certification is generally for system administrators who support and administer Microsoft products on a daily basis. This is a milestone on the road to MCSE status.
MCSE – Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, a person who has passed the seven required exams. This certification is generally for system engineers who design, implement, and support Microsoft environments.
I just heard about the new Microsoft certifications. Should I stop my current credential path, or hold off until the new ones are established?
To quote the Microsoft.com website:
No. Continue pursuing your current credential. It’s still the most relevant credential in the market for the products you are certifying in. An upgrade option toward the next credential will be available