The Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCTS Training) designation, even though its relevance is being questioned given that it is no longer awarded by Microsoft as a certification for the new server operating systems, remains a valued certification for those seeking high paying jobs in computer networking. Its success is more measured in providing the opportunity for a job interview, with the chances of securing employment dependent on your technical expertise and soft skills.
History
1. Certification, Paper or Real?
Certification, Paper or Real?
Microsoft’s first attempt in career certifications began in the early ’90s with the development of its professional certification programs that focused on computer networking and programming with its MCTS and MCSD (Solutions Developer) certifications. In the early stages of the dotCOM explosion, obtaining either certification was a recognized ticket to obtain a high paying job in the computer industry. Colleges and trade schools, along with commercial training companies, were quick to jump on the certification bandwagon in hopes of turning out large numbers of students with “recognized skills” based upon their professional certifications.
The value of the MCTS designation began to slide as a direct consequence of training that appeared focused on simply passing the certification exams as opposed to having an understanding of how to install, configure, and maintain a network. The term “paper MCTS” is used to characterize individuals holding the certification but lacking technical skills. With the dotCOM bust in 2002, employment opportunities disappeared and the rush to obtain an MCTS certification disappeared.
MCTS Out, MCITP In
2. With the release of the 2008 version of its server product, Microsoft announced that it would no longer provide MCTS certification on its new product lines. “If you want to be certified on newer technologies, such as Microsoft Exchange Server 2010, Windows Server 2008, or Microsoft SQL Server 2008, the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP Certification) is the appropriate certification to pursue.”
Whether or not this decision makes sense has been the subject of much debate. Employers recognize the MCTS and are likely to have less of an understanding of what an MCITP represents, given the whole host of other certifications Microsoft offers that include MCDST (Microsoft Certified Desktop Technician), MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist), MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) and MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional).
The Path to MCTS Certification
3. Microsoft provides a road map to MCTS certification on its website. Certification candidates are required to take and pass seven (7) certification exams that are identified in four (4) different categories. For those interested in pursuing this certification, the best approach may be to focus on new products. For example the Windows 7 certification exam (70-680) may be a better choice than the Windows XP exam (70-270), because it can be utilized in obtaining other certifications and represents an effort by the candidate to focus on new products rather than older operating systems and applications that are no longer being supported by Microsoft.
The Elective Path
4. One important decision when seeking MCTS certification is to determine which elective path to follow. Electives include certification focused on security in general, or can be focused on specific Microsoft products that include Exchange Server, SQL Server, and ISA Server.
The Path After MCTS
5. While achieving MCTS certification is important, recognize that as Microsoft products change it will be necessary for you to continue your certification efforts to maintain a current level of competency. Consideration should also be given to obtaining other certifications like Cisco’s CCNA and CCNP credentials.