Whenever we consider Microsoft certifications, we're spanning a very wide range. You could be interested in training in the standard MS software packages, or you may be looking at professional-grade I.T. training to become a Microsoft Certified-Professional (or MCP) in a number of different areas. Whenever you're thinking about any type of training program it's a good idea to first look at exactly what you want to get from it - in other words why did you begin searching for training in the first place? Included in your research, go over your plans with an industry specialist who can help you to get everything you need out of your training course for the right price and in the most appropriate learning-style for you personally.

You can divide up the different accreditation routes fundamentally in line with the systems they are relevant to. They are namely Networking (and Server Operating Systems), Databases (both Administration and Development) & Programming (& Software-Development in 'Windows'). There are particular & quite different certification groupings pertaining to each one of these routes; take a look at the appropriate sectors on this website for further information.

Databases possess their own 'language' called SQL (Structured Query Language) which is needed to interrogate a 'standardised' Database. Knowledge of this language is extremely important for everyone considering entering into the database field, because it underpins exactly how data is filed & extracted. There are two tracks for Database specialists - Database Administrators who deal with and create reports on the information kept, & 'Database Developers', who are the Designers and creators of 'databases'. DB Developers often also acquire programming-skills in order to create database-software - this requires a different qualification in 'VB' or C#.

Over the years, it has to be said, Microsoft have created more and more professional level certifications - which means that several other players in the sector have been prompted to enhance their packages. Consequently professional level Microsoft certification is very well considered through-out the entire world of I.T. and I.T. management.

Commercial communications around the globe are dominated by MS Network and Server Operating-Systems. It is currently estimated that no less than 80-90 percent of workplace networks use 'Windows' Server as their operating platform. This particular application has undergone quite a few generations now, beginning with NT server, then turning into 'Server 2000', 'Server 2003' & currently Server 2008. The majority of business establishments still use 'Server 2003', & upgrading to 2008 is unlikely for a lot of them. Generally, its the older platforms that will up-grade (NT Server or '2000') - effectively bypassing a generation. If you read our 'MCSA' & 'MCSE' pages, you will learn much more about Networking, Servers and the challenge of Server 2003 verses 2008.

The principal Windows software program development environment is known as 'Microsoft' Visual Studio. They supply a number of 'languages', with C#.Net and 'VB.Net' ('Visual Basic') being the most extensively used. Advice regarding both of these 'languages' is included in the Programming sector of this website. 'MCAD' and MCSD qualifications have been updated to the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) and the 'Microsoft Certified Professional Developer' ('MCPD').

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