Job Wants Me To Continue Certs, Advice

LauZaIM

Hello,

I recently landed a job as a Network Administrator of a small business. I am pretty new to the actual Microsoft Server/SQL/Sharepoint side of things, but I have a degree in Networking and a CCENT, and I've been through the Cisco Networking Academy so I know additional things that are on the full CCNA as well. I've been asked by my employer to seek Microsoft certification training and it would be payed for. Our setup here consists of Windows Server 2003, 2008 R2 Machines with SQL 2005, 2008, and Sharepoint 3.0 (Considering upgrades), we also use Hyper-V.

My question to you is, what path should I take? Is there good online training programs that end with taking a certification exam? Which cert would be best?

ptilsen

I would pursue a standard server infrastructure cert -- probably MCSA 2008 right now, followed up with MCSA 2012 and MCSE Server Infrastructure, when they are released.

LauZaIM

Any recommendations on the best way to train for this? Typically I would just use a book and read, but my employer is paying for training. I'd love for it to be online if there are any excellent programs online..

ptilsen

I'm not aware of anything specific, sorry. I might go directly to the source, though:
Configuring and Troubleshooting Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Domain Services
Configuring and Troubleshooting a Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure
Planning and Implementing Windows Server 2008

ajs1976

Based on what you will be supporting, I would start with MCITP:SA (MCSA 200 and SQL 2008.

look around the Microsoft Technology Training and Certification | Microsoft Learning site. You should be able to find information on online training. CBTs are also an option, TrainSignal - Computer Training Videos - Microsoft, VMware, Cisco, CompTIA & more! and CBT IT Training Videos Online, Certification and Education | CBT Nuggets