Need Advice

ULWiz

Hey everyone,

I recently passed my Network+ Exam and have had the A+ since it was first released and am now looking at taking either the 620 or even the 270. I was wondering what books everyone recommends and what people did to pass this exam. I want both my MCSA and MCSE so from what i understand i need to complete a few exams. Most likely going to finish MCSA first then finish all the exams i need for MCSE.


Let me now what everyone did to prepare for this exam, looking for some input on the book or book sets so i can order mine and begin the practice.



Thanks again look forward to being in this new forum.

dynamik

Acquaint yourself with these links:
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/windows2003/default.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcse/windows2003/default.mspx

Those are the requirements for the MCSA/E. Keep in mind that you can add a security and/or messaging specialization on to each of those. You should decide what you're going to go for from the onset, so you go the most efficient route.

Since you're just getting started, you might as well go with 620 since it will count for the MCITP: Enterprise Admin as well.

I use MS Press and/or Syngress for books, Transcender for practice exams, CBT Nuggets, and a VMWare lab. Probably the best thing you can do at this point, is become familiar with VMWare or Virtual PC. VMWare has drastically changed the way I study.

Also, keep in mind that 620 is a relatively new exam, and I've heard the MS Press book is plagued with errors. Be sure to keep up with the errata.

ULWiz

I am aware of all the exams needed to get my MCSA and MCSE just not 100 percent sure which exam i want to take next. Most likely going to be the 270 next.

I have heard bad things about the MS press books in the forum. This included missprints etc.

I guess i need to install my copy of Virtual PC 2004 that i got from school.


Anyone else got any input on what books or exams to take.

dynamik

Sorry, I guess I didn't fully understand what you were asking. 290 or one of the client exams are typical starting points. I did 290 first, but it really doesn't matter.

With the exception of 293, I've liked all the MS Press books. The exercises at the end of each chapter are quite valuable. Every technical book you read is going to have errors; some are just worse than others. Just be sure to keep a print out of the errata nearby for any book you use. A lot of the MCSE books are relatively old and on second editions, so they have been improved quite a bit. The 620 book seems to have been rushed out and has quite a few errors.

You can download Virtual PC 2007 and VMWare Server for free:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/virtualpc/default.mspx
http://www.vmware.com/products/server/