Developments in Microsoft Certification and Your Windows Server Credential or Exam Path

As you may know, Microsoft® has introduced a new certification framework to better reflect both technology-specific expertise and professional skills. All new offerings are synchronized with Microsoft technology releases. A new set of certifications will release in late calendar year 2007 in support of the Microsoft Windows Server® Code Name "Longhorn".To help you make an informed decision about your Windows Server certification path, we want to make you aware that:

• MCSA and MCSE on Windows Server 2003 credential holders will have a cost- and time-efficient upgrade path to Windows Server "Longhorn" certifications. There will not be an upgrade path from Windows Server NT or Windows Server 2000 certifications.

• MCSA and MCSE on Windows Server 2000 can still migrate to Windows Server 2003 using the one- or two-exam upgrade path, respectively. The 70-292 and 70-296 upgrade exams will retire in early calendar year 2008.

• Additional electives have been added to the MCSE on Windows Server 2003 track to make it easier to complete your requirements.

• The Windows Server "Longhorn" certifications will be released in the new generation format of Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) and Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) credentials. There will not be a Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) credential associated with Windows Server "Longhorn."

• MCSA and MCSE are, and will remain, the premier vehicles for demonstrating skills on Windows Server 2000 and 2003.

Find the Information and Training You Need to Inform Your Next Step
We have created a web page with links to more information, a Live Meeting with certification planners, and other resources to support your next step in Windows Server certifications and to understand your opportunity for Windows Server "Longhorn."

• Visit Microsoft.com