Where to start?

RReap

I have had 2 years in classes with Server 2003 and 2008. Then limited experience with Server 2012 R2. I'm on an internship now working mostly just help desk, set to graduate in July. I'm looking to start getting some certs with Microsoft, I just don't know where to start.

Asif Dasl

I would start off with Windows 7 (70-680) or Windows 8.1 (70-687) then start looking for Server 2012 MCSA exams like 70-410, 70-411 & 70-412. If you are in help desk then you are probably dealing with mostly client issues, so starting off with the client exams should be a little easier for you.

Then with the hands-on that you've got with Server 2012 maybe it will also help you with those exams. In the link above the Windows 8.1 book hasn't released yet but it's up to you to decide which OS you would like to learn. If you go with Windows 7 the Poulton book is highly recommended around here but I myself used the MS Press book.

HTH

RReap

Asif Dasl wrote: »

I would start off with Windows 7 (70-680) or Windows 8.1 (70-687) then start looking for Server 2012 MCSA exams like 70-410, 70-411 & 70-412. If you are in help desk then you are probably dealing with mostly client issues, so starting off with the client exams should be a little easier for you.

Then with the hands-on that you've got with Server 2012 maybe it will also help you with those exams. In the link above the Windows 8.1 book hasn't released yet but it's up to you to decide which OS you would like to learn. If you go with Windows 7 the Poulton book is highly recommended around here but I myself used the MS Press book.

HTH

I go to a technical school, so I've got probably 75+ hours or so of lab experience with server OS's as well as client OS's. Are client OS's still the way to go for me?

Asif Dasl

Yes I would say so, lab experience generally doesn't count in the real world. Real hands-on work experience is what employers are looking for and if you are working on the help desk then I think it's better to start off with the client exam first.

It'll take 1 or 2 months of extra study and the associated costs but you need a good foundation to build on when you get to the Server OS. Maybe it is too easy for you, I don't know - but employers are looking for relevant work experience and certs in tandem and I think it will only help you in the long run.

RReap

Awesome, thank you. I'll definitely look into the Windows 7 one to start then. My school reimburses testing costs if I pass, so I'm going to do as much as I can to pass this thing.