Category Archives: Microsoft

Live the Dream – Become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

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To become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MSCE) is one of the most important certification categories authorized by Microsoft, still regarded as the World’s leading software company. Computer experts who complete the MCSE course acquire all the necessary skills and knowledge that will enable them to design and develop a business infrastructure based around both the Windows 2000 and Windows Server systems. Holders of a MCSE certificate virtually guarantee themselves a promising future in one of the most lucrative branches of the industry, that of software networking. In good times and bad, the network still needs to be managed 

Even in the difficult times that we are going through, anyone who has studied ever computer systems should find it easier to make a niche for them in the work force. For many, they have developed their interest through pursuing hobbies. As anyone will ever tell you, if you are lucky to find a job or a vocation based around something that you enjoy doing in your free time, then you are more than half way there. Anyone who understands computer software and looks to a sound future should consider taking the necessary steps towards gaining a valued Microsoft IT certificate.

MCSE jobs entail varied responsibilities. These can include the planning, design and implementation of intricate server solutions on the Microsoft Windows platform as well as planning and designing in-house software architecture for medium sized to large sized companies. These companies can be active in the public and private sectors.

The various job descriptions that come under the umbrella of being a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer run as follows:

  • Systems Engineer – Systems Engineers work with larger organizations and would be called up to design and develop complex artificial systems.
  • Network Engineer – The common base of any communication interface is its network. An MCSE Network Engineer would be called upon to plan and develop Local Area Networks as well as IP addresses for their organization.
  • Systems Analyst – An MCSE who had found their niche as a Systems Analyst would be required to research, plan and recommend software to any organization, either as consultant or an employee of the company. Systems analysts are generally more experienced having worked for a few years as an engineer beforehand.
  • Network Analyst – An MCSE who had found their niche as a Network Analyst would be required to build and implement networks across an entire organization, either private of publicly owned. They could be employed, either as consultant or an employee of the company. Network analysts are generally more experienced having worked for a few years as an engineer beforehand.

Any MCSE job provides an opening for a step up the ladder. An MCSE certificate provides endless openings and opportunities and should be able to guarantee a very financially rewarding and intellectually challenging career in the most dynamic setting.

The Advantages of Official Microsoft and Cisco Certification Training Courses

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Lots of aspirants in design and network management channel all their efforts in order to obtain highly recognized certifications such as MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) and MCSA (Microsoft Certified System Administrator). These world-recognized certifications are much desired, as they can easily make the difference between a prosperous, lucrative career in designand an average, low-rewarding job as a programmer. Most people would do anything to obtain such world-recognized certifications and they invest lots of money and time in the process, with little or no prospect of ever achieving their goals.

There are thousands of scammers on the Internet who commonly lure people into buying various second-hand tutorials and self-study oriented training programs, promising great results with minimal effort. However, there are also many solid, reliable websites on the World Wide Web that provide students with elaborate, well-structured and comprehensive materials, facilitating the process of learning and guaranteeing success. Considering this fact, it is very important to distinguish between average speculants and professional websites that actually provide effective MCSE and MCSA training programs.

If your time allows it, consider attending to a short classroom training course instead of using self-study oriented programs. There are websites that offer advanced MCSE and MCSA accelerated training courses, laboratories and seminaries, taught by well-trained, experienced professionals. Such classes are far superior to self-training programs, as they involve active participation, better comprehension and learning, stimulating students’ thinking and enhancing their overall skills. By participating to a 14-day official MCSE and MCSA training course, one is able to rapidly assimilate vital information regarding solution design and network management with the help of well-trained professionals. In addition, such training programs allow students to acquire a complete set of practical abilities that will help them in their future careers. Official MCSE and MCSA training programs guarantee graduates acceptance in the best companies of the w orld!

Similar to MCSE and MCSA, CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) certifications are also highly requested in present. There are various professional training centers that offer people the opportunity to participate to elaborate CCNA and CCIE training programs in exchange for a reasonable sum of money. By attending a five or six-day CCNA and CCIE training course, students can quickly familiarize themselves with latest Cisco technologies and hardware. During CCNA and CCIE training sessions , attending students receive constant support and feed-back from well-trained professionals. Such training courses are not only focused on theory; they are also aimed at forming and enhancing students’ practical skills regarding various aspects of Cisco technologies and hardware. Thousands of graduates recommend professional CCNA and CCIE training courses to people who wish to build a solid, successful c areer in the field.

Why are it Certifications Important for Your it Career?

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Title : Why are IT Certifications important for your IT Career?

In today’s business world, certifications are almost always a must! This is apparent in almost any job posting that you see. Most employers will not consider an applicant if they do not posses a certification, or certifications, that show that the candidate has the required skill set relevant to the job. Certifications allow you to not only advance your skill set, but to make more money! Study your IT exams with CertMagic.com

IT certification from Microsoft, Cisco, Abode and other software and hardware vendors can help you to advance your information technology career. Recruiters, hiring managers and human resource staffing professionals scan the resumes for keywords, or benchmarks to decide if a candidate is qualified for a position. Certification is one of these keywords. Getting IT certified proves that a candidate is committed, both to the process of learning, and to the subject matter they study. Certification not only provides the tools and training required to deliver world-class support to every customer but it also establishes an essential set of credentials. Certifications help to establish the industry benchmarks and best practices to abide by – enabling practitioners to be consistent in the delivery of customer care. Study your IT exams with CertMagic.com

Well, some people think diplomas and degrees can get around in the industry, no matter what degrees you holding, you won’t be a match for certified professionals (of course unless your degree is from MIT or well-known universities). Because when you go and apply at an IT firm for work, if you are just showing them degree, they will consider first, but if you have certificates, they are sure that you have the experiences and knowledge for the post that you are applying.

When comes to experiences, a certified professional will have much more experiences than a degree or diploma holders. Study your IT exams with testboss.com


There are various types of certifications available today in the IT industry but it depend on your choice of you career. One of the most popular and booming career choices is in IT security. With the never ending creation of new intelligent viruses, spam, and hacking, we need to continue to expect growth in this area. Everyone is concerned with protecting their privacy, whether it is on their personal or their business computers. Being protected on a computer is as essential as shredding your information, because all it takes is one virus and the predator could have all your personal information. Just to name a few recognized IT certifications in this field are MCSA: Certified Information Systems security Professional (CISSP), Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP), and Certified Information System Auditor (CISA). Study your IT exams with CertMagic.com

Another IT area you may want to consider consists of Network Design, Network Installation, and Network Security. With companies competing to have the most up to date and reliable network infrastructures, you will find there are a lot of jobs for Network Administrators. Here is a list of different IT certifications available: Microsoft’s MCSA/MCSE, Cisco’s CCNA/CCNP/CCIE, and CompTIA’s Network+. Cisco’s CCIE is known to be one of the hardest and respected certifications in this industry.

Benefits of Certification


     

  • Increases performance and productivity


The most important benefit of certification is that the process of certification increases your skills and your knowledge to a great extent and you feel that technical certifications have increased your overall job productivity.


     

  • Optimize return on investment and technology features


Another economic factor that certification holders consider is Return on Investment (ROI). ROI from certification is integrally tied to the cost of the certification. According to some recent surveys, for every dollar invested in a certification, the certification holder realizes a $3.2 return in the form of a pay raise.


     

  • Keep up with changing technology


Certifications really help to keep you updated with the ever changing technology of computer.


     

  • Career development advantages


Despite the IT downturn, and relative job scarcity, certification holders jumped companies after acquiring certifications in their desired fields. Study your IT exams with CertMagic.com

Benefits for the Individual


     

  • Provides a quantifiable milestone for achievement.
  • Increases productivity, pride and job satisfaction.
  • Establishes credibility and verifies mastery in the industry.
  • Enhances job opportunities within the I.T. industry.


Some other Useful Certificates

Some of the well known and most useful certificates are -

1. MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer)
2. MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer)
3. MCDBA (Microsoft Certified Database Administrator)
4. MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional)
5. CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associates)
6. CCSP (Cisco Certified Security Professional)
7. CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)


To Be A Part Of The Digital Age, IT Training Is Necessary

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IT or Information Technology is one of the fastest growing fields around the globe. Many treat it not only as form of science nor just a simple and specific profession. Rather, most people see information technology as an essential body of knowledge that everybody must be aware of, especially if they want to be part of the world’s advancement towards technological progress. This serves as the primary reason why many people, including companies, deem that IT training is highly important.

What is IT Training?

IT Training is basically a workshop which focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and skills in Information Technology. IT Training covers a wide range of subjects- from setting up computers to building computer programs and computer software.

IT Training is necessary for users of the computer and the professionals. The basic aim of such training is to make sure that the students or attendees are equipped with the knowledge and tools for the digital age.

In the case of the computer or technology users, IT training allows them to utilize the technological equipment and tools that re available. As for the IT professionals, the training is a step towards a more prosperous career.

IT training comes in varied forms, durations, directions and focus. Some opt to have training on the basics of IT such as the skills in using common computer applications, software, and operating programs. Other IT seminars aim allow IT professionals to gain certifications about specific and specialized IT niche such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician, (MCDST), Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), and the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

Why is IT Training necessary?

Information Technology is a continuously evolving and changing science. Every now and then, there are many IT systems, programs and applications that are introduced to the field. These innovations only spell progress and advancement. As such, many people along with many companies are compelled to use such new equipments and tools. In line with the change of tools and equipment is the emerging need for new knowledge and skills as well.

In the case of businesses, IT training is highly important, especially if the kind of IT equipment and application being introduced to the staff of the company is totally new. In such cases, the staff needs to be adequately trained on the proper use and the purpose of such tools.

In cases where the staff is not properly trained with the new IT applications and systems, the company may suffer from many drawbacks such as failure in productivity, problems with the efficiency of labor and equipment resource, interruptions in the business operations, stressed personnel, and declining profit and customer satisfaction. As such, it is more than apparent that adequate IT training is very vital among company staff and personnel.

In the case of an individual, IT training is important primarily because it will allow him to utilize the new software or application. Such will open doors for a better IT career and a higher pay scale and the readiness to use the upcoming technological innovations as well.

Certification Programmes in Networking

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CSE boot camp training is for those who want to build a career in the field of networking. A boot camp training process covers the main topics very quickly but effectively. The course is of very short duration, that is, of only two to three weeks. MCSE or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer is one of the best-known and opening Microsoft certification. MCSE certifies a person as being able to handle the networking problems and can analyze the networking requirements to run the business. The certification not only validates your expertise with products launched by Microsoft, but also demonstrates your skills and capabilities to present and potential employers and peers.

Windows 2000 and Windows server 2003 are the two different product platforms of MCSE past 2007, these lines were not a part of the MCSE, and each of them requires a different set of exams.

For MCSE boot camp 2003, candidate must pass six core-designed exams (one client operating system exams, one design exam, and four networking exams) and one elective exam.

For the windows 2000 MCSE boot camp training, a candidate is required to clear five core exams (four operating system and one design exam). There are four compulsory or core examinations to be cleared by the candidate for MCSE NT 4.0 boot camp (retired). The syllabus of the examinations includes Networking essentials, Windows NT Server, Windows NT server in the enterprise and Windows NT workstation, plus two electives. The basic subjects of the exams are Microsoft SQL Server, network security, computer networking, Microsoft Exchange Server, other topics of networking and specific Microsoft products.

The individuals also prefer CISCO career certifications like CCNA, CCNP, and CCNE etc. Various institutions organize CISCO boot camp training program that provide, for training for these specific courses.

There are three levels of certification: Associate, Professional and Expert. The certification of CCNA cab be gained by passing two tests (ICND1 and ICND2), or one single test (CCNA 640-802), the two test option is more advantageous, allowing the candidate to focus on certain subjects. The certificate is valid for three years.

CCNA imparts trainee knowledge of networking like ability to install, configure and trouble shoot local and wide area networks. On the other hand, CCNP certifications have the demonstrated knowledge and expertise required to manage the routers and switches that form the medium sized networks (between 100 and 500 nodes). All the MCSE, CISCO and CCNP Boot Camp training programs are required to gain expertise in the networking field.

Systems Support to Project Management?

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Question: I’ve set a goal for myself, I want to move into project management and away from systems support (after 15 years). What is the best way to do this over say a 4 year period, I have lost interest in IT systems and want to change.
I do not have a degree but have certs and a diploma, mainly systems support stuff (mcse, ccna etc). I got into IT the long way round, failed the leaving, got into a fee paying tech college then Fas. After Fas I got a placement in a support role and have been stuck in support roles since… obviously this is not how I planned things but its been a means to an end.

This wouldn’t be the first time I’ve changed careers as I used to be a Chef but gave up because of the hours I was putting in, huge difference in the type of industry and the types of people etc.. However I’m a lot older now and could not take the financial hit of starting out as a junior type project manager. I’ve recently done a diploma in project man, but its difficult to break into my area as infra PM, as roles are very rare these days.
There seems to be a lot more of programming type PM roles, from a programmers point of view what skills would a PM need to work successfully in a similar role.. Obviously PM stuff like PMP and prince2 but would the PM need programming skills also?

Answer:

A software project manager is a project manager with a firm background in software development and related fields. They are often responsible for overseeing the Software development life cycle.

So, while there are Project Managers that manage Systems the majority of Project Managers are in Software Development. This is just that the Software Development Life Cycle has a need for more PM’s. It would improve your job chances if you gained experience in the Software Development Life Cycle preferably as a programmer to start.

The other issue that you are trying to avoid, is your education. While there are PM’s without a college degree their careers are not as stable and typically do not make as high a salary as one that has. You will find that the majority of successful PM’s will have at least a Bachelors Degree and usually a Masters. Most Universities are graduating large numbers of graduates with Management of Information Services (MIS) degrees. They will usually get the Project Manager position before you would. You need to go back to school.

What is an Mcse Training Program?

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What Is an MCSE Training Program?

An MCSE training program is a course which prepares IT professionals, or those who would like to become Microsoft Certified System Engineers, to pass certification exams. Through these programs students become familiar with Microsoft operating systems, practicing concepts such as configuring, installing, and troubleshooting network infrastructure. There are different types of mcse training programs available to those interested. A few examples are computer based trainings, distance learning programs, and boot camps.
Computer based trainings allow students to learn from their own computer. They will usually come in a cd package, which can be installed on a home computer. The information covered on the actual certification exams are detailed through practice examinations and much more through the use of the software. IT certification companies such as TestOut offer simulations which give the user the ability to gain hands on experience, through the use of their LabSim product. Another feature of cbt software is multimedia technology, where students can listen to videos of instructors covering testing objectives. Through computer based mcse training programs, students control the time and pace of learning.
Distance learning programs can be offered through colleges, universities, or other education institutions. Distance learning courses are usually set up to provide the student with all of the resources to earn their certification; however the student must meet certain requirements throughout the course in order to gain credit for the class. These classes can be monitored online, through television broadcasts, or in a classroom setting. As certain requirements are met, the individual becomes more prepared to pass certification exams.
Another mcse training program is called a boot camp. This is probably the most accelerated of the three. A boot camp is set up to get students in and out, giving them the training necessary to pass examinations. These camps are set up in a tight time frame, such as two weeks. Students study from dawn to dusk for length of the course, and at the end each student should be ready to pass exams. Companies who offer boot camps will provide food, accommodations, and travel for those who plan to attend; however this can vary depending upon the company hosting the trainings.
MCSE training programs are designed to train and educate students in order to increase their potential when taking certification exams. Some IT professionals will work through these types of course simply to gain more training, while others are interested in building up a resume to increase work opportunities. Either way, the programs are an excellent way to extend an education.

What Are Requirements of Possessing and Using the MCSE Exam Vouchers?

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MCSE exam vouchers are number tickets, which provide a discount or free passing the exams during a certain term. Vouchers can be both in electronic (only the number) or in paper form. The only way to get them is through the authorized centres of testing, which are VUE and Prometric. Vouchers can also be used in advertising actions as a prize. The other option is to get such vouchers before the increase of the exams prices.

The VUE centres of testing offer services on the organization of exams to the sponsor companies, such as Cisco, Ericsson and others. The full list of the exams given by system VUE can be found at this address: http://www.vue.com. System VUE supports the control centre of data including a database of candidates and examination questions. Within 3-5 minutes after the order of exam, the individual set of questions for the given order is sent on the Internet in the authorized centre of testing. After passing the testing, results of the examination are sent back to the control centre of data VUE, and from there – to the sponsor company.

The company Prometric is a world famous developer and provider of computer tests on products of leading world manufacturers of the software: Microsoft, Oracle and many others. The full list of the examinations given by the system Prometric can be found in the web site: http://www.prometric.com. Prometric puts forward worldwide a uniform extensive list of requirements to the opened centres of testing. Some of them are spacious and well-shined classes, special computer equipment, certificated personnel, and strict control for those who pass the exams.

As a rule, any interested person can be registered on exam of the sponsor company, having paid its cost. It is possible to pay for the examination in cash, or showing gotten in advance MCSE exam voucher. The voucher allows you to pass the exam or to receive a discount in any centre of testing VUE or Prometric.

Those who already decide to use CCNA exam vouchers should know some of the requirements about these vouchers. The Voucher for the CCNA exam is ordered from the system of testing Prometric or from the system of testing VUE. Changing of the system of testing is impossible. The voucher can be used in the EMEA region

Cisco and the partners of the company, which are carrying out testing, do not guarantee authenticity of any discounts or codes of advertising actions (like vouchers), received from foreign persons or the organizations. So be careful and follow the advice of Cisco to get vouchers for passing the examinations directly in the centres of testing VUE and Prometric. As a sanction for using of not authorized discounts or advertising codes, the results of the exam can be recognized null and void. Besides, Cisco can eliminate such candidate for life from passing of any further exam and the certificates received earlier can be cancelled. Cisco will not make a replacement of the voucher, when it is recognized as counterfeit or used.


Getting an MCSE Certification Can Boost an it Career

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it training provides an individual with many benefits when it comes to career growth and opportunities. However, getting an IT certification takes the IT professional a step further in terms of potentials, privileges, and benefit.

At present, there are many IT certifications that are offered by various system providers and software developers.

Among the most well-known system providers is Microsoft. Microsoft is a mainstay in the IT industry as many people are acquiring various Microsoft software, systems, and applications.

In accordance with their IT product and equipment offers, Microsoft also offers every IT professional a chance to be a part of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) community. In simple words, Microsoft offers IT certifications. At present, one of the most popular IT certifications that Microsoft offers is the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (or MCSE).

What is the MCSE?

The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (or MCSE) certification is among the most popular and most esteemed certification offered by Microsoft. Once an individual acquires this certification, it means that he or she is capable of analyzing and assessing the business necessities for information systems solutions. In addition to that, he is also capable of designing and implementing the required infrastructure for the identified business. Basically, MCSE is offered by Microsoft for two product lines; Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003.

What is the difference between the MCSE 2000 and the MCSE 2003?

The main difference between the two is the fact that each certification is made to cater each of the two different product lines offered by Microsoft. Another variation is that each certification requires the individual to pass a different set of exam.

In case of the MCSE for Windows 2003, the individual should be able to pass six core design exams and one elective exam. This set of core exams is consisted of four networking exams, a design exam, and an exam which focuses on a client operating system.

As for the MCSE for Windows 2000, the individual should pass five core exams and two elective exams. The set of core exams is then composed of four operating system exams and a design exam.

What topics are covered by the MCSE Certification exams?

Certification exams for MCSE cover a wide range of topics that primarily focus on network security, network management, network efficiency, and computer networking infrastructure. It also includes comprehensive tests on Active Directory, Microsoft Exchange Server, Microsoft SQL Server, and other subjects which are prominent and useful in the field of computer networking. Also, it may include tests on the various usage and applications of specific Microsoft products.

Why is it necessary to have an MCSE certification?

Getting a certification on MCSE ensures that the IT skills of an individual are reliable, relevant and competitive. As such, the certified individual will have expanded chances and opportunities when it comes to career growth in the field of IT.

In addition to that, an MCSE certification allows one to avail of the privileges that Microsoft offers to its community of certified professionals. Such privileges include an access to Microsoft’s suite of online tools, MCP exclusive technical resources, and network access to other Microsoft certified professionals around the globe.

How to Study for Microsofts Mcse Exams

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Just type in mcse certification in google and you will see thousands of results. How is one to make a decision on which mcse books to buy, what kind of training material to use , which test to take first, which ones are not brain dumps, etc. Alot of people don’t know how long to study, what they should be getting on practice test, or how many different mcse certification books they should read. Here we are going to review the different types of training material there are and give you our picks of each group.

MCSE Certification Books
Training books are by far the most used training material used. Books are great you study almost anywhere, you can mark in them, most of them have practice tests and online versions if you like reading ebooks. Our favorite book series for the MCSE has to be Microsoft’s MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit. These are great, they come with 180 day trial editions of the operating systems you need, the format is clear and easy to read, and the books do a fantastic job of outlining WHY you are learning something, not just WHAT you need to know to pass the exam. These books would be a great investment to your career future.

MCSE Certification Practice Tests

Just don’t go down the road of braindumps. You learn little, and degrade the certifications even more than they are now. Braindumps are bad. That said practice tests are probably the most important part of your training. They get you thinking about problems and how to solve them. The most important part of taking the practice tests are reviewing the ones that you missed. Our pick in the practice tests category has to be Transcender. These guys have been around forever and know how to write questions. They provide the most realistic exam experience outside the real thing.

MCSE Certification CBT’s

CBT stands for Computer Based Training, these are great because they show you how to do it instead of
telling you how. These CBT’s don’t replace Books and practice tests but they are a great addition to them.
Our pick in this category has to be Cbt Nuggets. The quality is great, the instructors are very knowledgeable and have great speaking voices. They also mix in some jokes and try to make things fun and interesting. Thumbs up to Cbt Nuggets.

MCSE Audio Training

Last buy not least we are going to look at MCSE Training in audio format. This is by no means a replacement of books, but a great addition. In this day and age where free time is so scarce, these are perfect. You can listen to them while working out, while working,or while in the car. Our pick in this category has to go to Audiocerts.com. The questions are great, and every question has an answer and explanation. Not only that they seem to be the least expensive.

Conclusion
The most important thing to remember is to use alot of different training material. Using training materials
from each of the categories listed above are sure to get you a passing score. Good luck on the exam.


Pass Mcse 70-290 Exam Easily

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MCSE 2003 70-290 Certification
Get Certified in Days
According to our survey, over 85% of the candidates acknowledge that they have spent needless time and money before finding the most suitable solution to pass the 70-290 exams. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting out and looking for the most suitable way to get certified, or a skilled technician looking for the most efficient way to get certified, we have the right solution for you.
We provide the following to help you get certified in the most convenient way
24/7, around the clock, consulting service that will assist you, guide you and help you, until you get certified. This price also includes; exam vouchers and all other related expenses. There is no further cost to attain your certification.
Our Guarantee
We will refund any payment that you make, should you for any reason fail to get certified. The refund is an unconditional total refund of any moneys paid.

Why MCSE 2003
MCSE 2003 70-290 Certifications are among the most specialized certifications available today. The MCSE 2003 70-290 Certification give you industry recognition for your expertise for business solutions based on the Microsoft Windows? 2003 platform and Microsoft 2003 server software. Implementation responsibilities include installing, configuring, and troubleshooting network systems. The MCSE 2003 credential is one of the most widely recognized technical certifications in the industry, a credential in high demand. By earning the premier MCSE credential, individuals are demonstrating that they have the skills necessary to lead organizations in the successful design, implementation, and administration of the most advanced Microsoft Windows platform and Microsoft server products.
MCSE 2003 Certification Requirement:
1. Core exams (six exams required)
• Four networking system exams: (four exams required)
Exam 70-290: Managing and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Environment.
Exam 70-291: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure.
Exam 70-293: Planning and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure.
Exam 70-294: Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure.
• One client operating system exam: (one exam required)
Exam 70-620: TS: Microsoft Windows Vista, Configuring.
Exam 70-270: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional.
Exam 70-210: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional.
• One design exam:
Exam 70-297: Designing a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure.
Exam 70-298: Designing Security for a Windows Server 2003 Network.

2. Elective exams (one exam required)
Exam 70-089: Designing, Implementing, and Managing a Microsoft Systems Management Server 2003 Infrastructure.
Exam 70-227: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2000, Enterprise Edition.
Exam 70-228: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Enterprise Edition.
Exam 70-229: Designing and Implementing Databases with Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Enterprise Edition.
Exam 70-235: TS: Developing Business Process and Integration Solutions Using BizTalk Server.
Exam 70-236: TS: Microsoft Exchange Server 2007, Configuring.
Exam 70-262: TS: Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 – Implementing, Managing, and Troubleshooting.
Exam 70-281: Planning, Deploying, and Managing an Enterprise Project Management Solution.
Exam 70-282: Designing, Deploying, and Managing a Network Solution for a Small- and Medium-Sized Business.
Exam 70-284: Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003.
Exam 70-285: Designing a Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 Organization.
Exam 70-297: Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure.
Exam 70-298: Designing Security for a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network.
Exam 70-299: Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network.
Exam 70–301: Managing, Organizing, and Delivering IT Projects by Using Microsoft Solutions Framework 3.0.
Exam 70–350: Implementing Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2004.
Exam 70–431: TS: Microsoft SQL Server 2005 – Implementation and Maintenance.
Exam 70-445: Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Business Intelligence – Implementation and Maintenance.
Exam 70-500: TS: Microsoft Windows Mobile Designing, Implementing, and Managing.
Exam 70-501: TS: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Hosted Environments, Configuring, and Managing.
Exam 70-620: TS: Microsoft Windows Vista, Configuring.
Exam 70-624: TS: Deploying and Maintaining Windows Vista Client and 2007 Microsoft Office System Desktops.
Exam 70-630: TS: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007, Configuring.
Exam 70-631: TS: Configuring Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services 3.0.

9 Ways to Get an MCSE or CNE Without Wasting $5000-$9000

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Here’re my suggestions. None of them apply to everybody. Hopefully one will fit you.

1. Buy good certification books.

I was told by a training school recruiter that the recommended MCSE process was to take a class for 3 full days, then study for a month, then take the certification exam.

So, that’s at least ten days of study in front of a thick book for each day of class anyway.

So do you really need to pay for a live teacher too?

2. Buy computer based CD-ROM training.

This is of course very similar to the above method, except that computer based training is more interactive, more fun, probably more effective for most people.

3. Take training classes online through the Internet.

4. Put together your own network study laboratory by buying several used PCS and hooking them up in your home office.

Look for used computers cheap online, in your local newspaper For Sale ads or just ask your friends. Lots of people have old machines they’ll gladly give you for free just so they’ll have more closet space.

5. If you’re currently employed in a networking job, get your current employer to pay for the classes.

You may have to sign an agreement to continue working for them for two years or so.

6. Pass the first several required tests, use the Microsoft Certified Analyst (MCSA) credential to get an entry level job and then get your new employer to pay for the classes.

7. If you are unemployed, the government may pay for your training.

8. Check with your local unemployment office to see what is available in your area. Here in St. Louis, laid off Boeing workers have a complete center paid for with a government grant, and the program is sending some to computer training.

9. If you are on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), apply for a Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS Plan).

The basic idea is, you are capable of working as a networking professional, but you can’t yet because you don’t know how. So you want to learn by buying the books etc.

Consult with a good career counselor or Vocational Rehabilitation. If your PASS Plan is approved, the Social Security Administration will let you pay for your training out of money that would otherwise reduce your SSI.

That way, you can live on your SSI and use the other income to obtain your MCSE.

Consult with your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 for additional details.

If you are a Native American, a special government program may pay for your training.

I have a friend who was recently approved for a government grant that would have paid for his tuition to attend a local technical school and get his MCSE certification.

Not all methods will work for everybody.

The point is, if you’re willing to read, study and work hard on your own, you don’t have to spend top dollar. If you can get your employer or the government to pay for your classes, go for it. All these methods have been used by somebody and will be used by many more. Now they’re yours.

Be Certifiable! The Basics of MCSE and MCP

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It is not always who you know, but what you know. That is why obtaining Microsoft certification can be a valuable asset to your career. Of course, it does depend on what career path you want to take as to whether you want to get either MCSE training or MCP training or anything else for that matter. So what do those abbreviations MCSE and MCP stand for anyway?

MCP stands for Microsoft Certified Professional and MCSE is an abbreviation for Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. What exactly does having a Microsoft certification mean anyway? We know that it looks good on a resume and opens new doors in your career. Did you know that being certifiable – in Microsoft anyway – sometimes will also boost your pay? Experience counts for a lot, but having a Microsoft certification or two does not hurt either!

So what does it take to be and MCP or MCSE? Lots of studying! The MCP courses and MCP exams are geared toward a more rounded technical professional. Candidates for MCP must pass one current certification test from Microsoft. Passing one of the exams demonstrates that the candidate has a consistent level of technical expertise.

With the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer path, there are MCSE boot camps that help prepare candidates for the MCSE exams. These MCSE boot camps are intense classes often packed into a full two week period instead of the traditional weekly MCSE training classes in preparation for the MCSE exams. This path is more involved. MCSE certification is standard in the IT field and prepares you for anything from the design of a system’s infrastructure to analyzing the company’s needs before implementing a design.

Unlike those individuals who take the MCP training to prepare for MCP exams, students of MCSE have a course of study that is more intense. Instead of one test to prepare for, they have seven tests that they are required to pass to get their Microsoft certification. Yikes! Seven! They have five main exams to take as well as two electives. The five required MCSE exams are broken down into four operating system exams and one design exam. The two electives typically deal with other issues in design and implementation not covered in the five core tests.

After learning a few basics, it is easy to see that the MCP or Microsoft Certified Professional is really just a stepping stone to bigger and greater things in the world of Microsoft certification. The individuals who go for the MCP have a leg up on those peers who have no technical experience. They will have a better grasp on technical issues and usually stay a step ahead of trends. The MCSE is more specialized and appeals to the techno geek with a penchant for design and implementation. They like knowing how stuff works. So market yourself  and become certifiable!

Mcse: Equipping You to Meet Latest Challenges

Microsoft Certified System Engineer’ that’s what you would proudly call yourself after attaining this highly acclaimed certification module on offer from Microsoft.

MCSE is one of the most popular and premiere Microsoft certification standard, after securing which an individual is recognized to be able to analyse the business requirements for information system solutions, as well as design and implement the necessary infrastructure as required.

According to the latest reports, the MCSE program is available for Windows 2000 and Windows 2003 product lines. Each requiring different set exams to be cleared to secure a certificate in the same.

For MCSE 2000, a candidate needs to pass five core papers, constituted by four papers operating system and one on design, and two elective papers. In attaining an MCSE 2003 certificate, a candidate must pass six core design exams (or papers), including four networking exams, one client operating system and one design exam, as well as one elective.

Although not offered now, MCSE NT 4.0 is still considered a valid certification. To secure this certification a candidate needs to pass four core exams including network security, computer networking infrastructure, active directory, Microsoft SQL server, Microsoft Exchange server, and other topics on both general networking interests as well as some specific Microsoft products.

With the long established dominance of Microsoft and its range of products, there lies little to think about the utility of a MCSE certified professional in a corporate architecture where right networking and information flow architecture plays significant role in business propagation.

Proud MCSE professionals make their destiny as well as of the business process they are involved with.

Better Paid As A Certified Systems Engineer

MCSE is a widely known certification provided by Microsoft Corporation and stands for Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers. This certification provides a qualitative impetus to your resume in the Information Technology field. MCSE engineers are known to get good offers financially compared to other engineers of equivalent education.

The certification qualifies a person to analyze the business requirements and find solutions in information systems, and the individual is able to design and implement the infrastructure required. MCSE is available in two streams Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003. Both the streams have different sets of examinations. The certification is suitable for most engineers and analysts and is especially suitable for systems engineers & analysts and Network engineers & analysts.

The objective of MCSE is to provide the individual with knowledge such as:
Pin pointing the tasks involved in supporting Windows 2000/2003 networks.
Knowing the network concepts and how to implement it in Windows 2000/2003.
Gaining the knowledge of how to configure Microsoft Windows 2000/2003 Professional on stand-alone computers and on client computers, and to install configure windows 2000/2003 Server.
Gain the knowledge and skills in designing a Microsoft Windows 2000/2003 directory service and infrastructure.

MCSE Windows 2000

For MCSE 2000 certification the candidate has to pass seven exams. The exams include four operating exams, one design exam and two electives. The subjects span syllabus such as installing, configuring and administering Windows 2000, implementing & administering Windows 2000 Network and Windows 2000 infrastructure.

MCSE Windows Server 2003

For MCSE Windows Server 2003 certification, the candidate must qualify seven exams. The exams include four networking exams, one client operating system, one design exam and one elective exam. The syllabus includes network infrastructure & security, SQL server, active directory, Microsoft products etc.

TRAINING

MCSE training is very intensive, time consuming and requires a lot of hard work. Many aspirants are not able to appear exams in the stipulated time. There are many ways to prepare for the examinations such as MSCE classes, boot camps, online study guides and practice exams. Many candidates prefer to approach local MCSE training centers. These training centers help the candidates in course work and practical sessions professionally and help the candidates in exam and career oriented study.

The candidates must be aware of the practical applications, Microsoft products and services since the aspirants face multi-level testing on design implementation and administration skills in Microsoft Windows platform.

BENEFITS OF MCSE

MCSE is the most specialized certifications available today. It provides industry recognition and expertise in Microsoft products and technologies. As per Fairfield Research survey on MCSE, the certification provides a 12.6% rise in salary on an average. MCSE holders can also directly access technical and product information from Microsoft through the MCP Member site. There are spinoff benefits such as invitation to Microsoft conferences, technical training sessions and special events etc.

10 Tips to Succeed at Mcse Certification Exams

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The Microsoft Certified system engineer or MCSE examination is taken by students and IT professionals world wide.

The MCSE certification is for professionals who design and implement infrastructure for Windows server 2003. The MCSE is recognized globally and shows technical competence. The MCSE consists of 6 core exams and one elective.

There are ways in which one must prepare for the MCSE exam:

1. Find out what you need to cover in the exams. Then find out about the MOC classes or other classes and boot camps online that will help you prepare for the exam such that you will succeed.

2. Log onto the Microsoft MCSE learning groups discussion and update yourself on preparing for the exam.

3. Find out about MCSE training resources. There are many options online and offline.

4. If you are serious about passing you need to create an infallible study plan. Decide whether you like to study alone or in a group.

5. Collect the right study material. This should include: books, practice tests (online or offline), CBTs or computer based training, and MCSE audio training units.

6. Use MCSE online resources both free and paid to ensure that you are studying right and that you are not off track.

7. Learn to plan your study and ensure you have time for review. Read about optimizing study at:

8. Attempt as many practice exams as you can this will polish your knowledge of installing, configuring, and administering windows server 2000 and 2003 and other aspects like implementing network infrastructure, directory infrastructure, and installation of windows systems.

9. Network with other students and exchange tips and information on study material and experiences.

10. Get a MCSE coach. An expert who will test you on your preparedness and keep you on track so that you leave no lacunae in your preparations.

Study well, ensure you eat balanced meals, use available resources, keep in mind brain overload, take sufficient rest and don’t be afraid. Often a days rest will refresh your mind and body such that double the amount of studying will be done the next day. So always listen to your mind and body and believe in your abilities to succeed.

The World Wide Web has zillions of resources on MCSE certifications and it is important for you to use reliable resources and not spend money on wrong things. Choose wisely and you are sure to succeed. There are online magazines such as the Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine Online that offers exam reviews, tips, and leads to other resources.

Exchange 2000 Study Guide ( 70-224 )

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Exchange Server 2000 Architecture
For Exchange Server 2000 to be functional, the following components must be functional:

* Active Directory – schema integration
* System Attendant – controls the entire Exchange 2000 server system
* Information Store:
o Hosts mailboxes and public folders.
o Public store maintains information stored in public folders.
o Mailbox store holds mailboxes and messages for individual users.
o Up to 16 individual storage groups can be kpet on a single Exchange 2000 server Each storage group can hold six individual stores.
o You should have the physical stores spread across your server’s hard disk system for maximum performance.
* SMTP service:
o For message delivery
o Hosts the advanced queuing engine.
o Note that SMTP transport requires the IIS Admin Service as it is implemented in the form of IIS.
o It is the only component that communicate directly with each other between servers.
o Communicate with Active Directory – for looking up address information.
o Communicate with Information Store – for obtaining messages from and placing messages into the Information Store.
o Communicate with Remote SMTP services – for communicating with other SMTP services over the network to transfer e-mail messages.
* Message Transfer Agent MTA:
o Not required for delivery of messages to recipients on the same computer.
o Not required for delivery of messages to recipients reachable via SMTP.
o Required for delivery of messages to X.400 systems and foreign messaging systems.
* Front end/back end architecture:
o Concentrate incoming client connections through front end servers.
o This is a way to split the incoming connections across multiple servers.
o Front end servers retrieve information about the location of a particular mailbox from Active Directory.
o Users can connect to any of the front end servers.
o Optionally, you may use software or hardware load-balancing mechanisms to randomly distribute the load.

Scenario: What will happen to the Outlook clients if the Information Store Service is stopped?
Outlook clients will not be able to log on and users currently logged on will lose their sessions. Outlook will automatically reconnect when the Information Store service is available again.

Exchange Server 2000 Installation Planning

* Schema
o Exchange 2000 Server will extend the Active Directory Schema.
o You should install the first Exchange 2000 Server in the domain where the schema master resides.
* Organizations
o cannot span multiple Active Directory forests.
o domain in a separate forest must be isolated and integrated into the main forest BEFORE installing Exchange 2000 Server.
* Routing groups
o Network regions of high-speed connections
o Messages sent between servers in the same routing group are transferred directly and immediately with SMTP.
o Use Routing Group Connector, X.400 connector, or SMTP Connector for providing message path between Exchange 2000 routing groups.
o Can only contain servers from the same administrative group.
o Cannot span multiple administrative groups.
* Administrative groups
o You may not move mailboxes between servers in different administrative groups.
o You may not move servers between administrative groups.
o One administrative group may contain multiple routing groups.
* ForestPrep
o Included in the Exchange 2000 Setup program.
o For extending the Active Directory Schema to add Exchange-specific classes and attributes.
o For creating the directory objects for the Exchange 2000 organization.
o For assigning the specified account Exchange Full Administrator permissions.
* DomainPrep
o Included in the Exchange 2000 Setup program.
o For adding Exchange-specific configuration information to the Active Directory directory service.
o ForestPrep should be run FIRST.
* Hardware Requirement per Microsoft recommendations
o 128 to 256 MB of RAM.
o 2 gigabytes of available disk space on the drive for Exchange 2000 Server.
o 500 MB on the system drive.
o CD-ROM drive.
o Intel Pentium or compatible at 300 Megahertz or faster.
o Paging file set to twice the amount of RAM or larger.
o VGA-compatible display adapter.
* Software Requirements
o Microsoft Windows 2000 Server, Windows 2000 Advanced Server, or Windows 2000 Datacenter Server
o Service Pack 1
o Internet Information Services (IIS) 5.0 with SMTP
o Network News Transfer Protocol (NNTP) service
o NTFS

Scenario: You need to set up the administrator accounts for your Exchange Server 2000 implementation. What rights are available for the Exchange Administrators?
Exchange Full Administrator can administer the Exchange organization and modify permissions on Exchange configuration objects. Exchange administrator can administer the Exchange organization, but cannot modify permissions on Exchange configuration objects. Exchange View Only administrator can view configuration information only.

Exchange Server 2000 Installation, Upgrade and Integration

* Minimum installation
o Installs Exchange 2000 with the minimum number of files.
o Administrative utilities are not installed.
* Setup program maintenance mode
o Install the management utilities to the server.
o Install the management utilities to your workstation.
* Upgrade
o In-place upgrade is only supported for version 5.5.
o From version prior to 5.5 you must upgrade Exchange Server to version 5.5 first.
o After upgrade Exchange Server 2000, update the Windows NT Server to Windows 2000.
o After uprade to Windows 2000, configure connection agreements in the Active Directory Connector and launch the Exchange 2000 Server Setup program.
* Unattended install
o To launch SETUP.EXE in CreateUnattand mode, use the command SETUP.EXE /CreateUnattend SETUP.INI.
o This will only generate the initialization file, without performing actual installation.
* Upgrade a mixed installation of various earlier server versions with minimal disruption
o Use the move-mailbox upgrade to join the existing site with an Exchange 2000 server and move Exchange resources onto the new system afterward.
o Remove the legacy Exchange Servers afterwards.
* Integrate Exchange 2000 Server into an existing Exchange Server 5.5 site
o Upgrade an existing Exchange server directly and join an existing site via in-place upgrade, OR install a fresh server and join an existing site during Setup, then migrate the Exchange 5.5 resources to the Exchange 2000 server.

Scenario: You need to connect your Exchange 2000 Server environment to previous versions in the foreseeable future. How do you ensure full backward compatibility? Operate your organization in mixed mode.

Scenario: At the end of the move-mailbox approach, you want to switch your organization into native mode. What must be done to prepare for this?

1) Remove the installations of earlier Exchange Servers in Active Directory.
2) Remove the installations of earlier Exchange Servers in the SRS database.
3) Remove the existing objects of the earlier Exchange versions in the SRS database.
4) Remove the existing objects of the earlier Exchange versions in Active Directory.

Scenario: Your server does not work because an important DLL file is missing. What should you do? Reinstall Exchange 2000 Server in maintenance mode to replace the corrupted or missing files.

Clustering

* Physical connections for joining the cluster nodes
o Shared storage bus connects all nodes to the disks where the clustered data resides.
o The public network connection connects client computers to the nodes in the cluster.
o The private network connection connects the nodes in a cluster.
* Quorum Resource
o A minimum of three disk volumes are needed.
o One disk volume is designated as the quorum resource.
o The remaining volumes are assigned to separate virtual servers.
* Install Exchange 2000 Server on a Datacenter cluster
o Install and reboot one node at a time.
o You must set up all nodes using the same directories and installation options.
o You should reserve the M drive on all nodes for the Web Store of Exchange 2000 Server.
o After Exchange 2000 Enterprise Server on all nodes are installed, configure the virtual servers.

According to Microsoft, it is NOT recommended that you add Exchange 2000 Server services to the virtual server representing the cluster. The reason for this is that, by defining dedicated virtual servers for Exchange 2000, service maintenance can be simplified. To reduce performance losses, you should operate the nodes below the following theoretical limits:

* Two-node clusters – 50% of the node’s power
* Three-node clusters – 66% of the node’s power
* Four-node clusters – 75% of the node’s power

Scenario: A failover can occur in what situations? When you trigger it manually or by allowing the Cluster service to initiate it automatically in case of resource failure.

Scenario: How is a failover triggered manually? Use Cluster Administrator, right-click on an Exchange 2000 resource, then select Initiate Failure. The stopping and starting of the resource instances is performed automatically

Managing Exchange Server 2000

* Exchange System Manager
o Cannot be installed on a workstation computer.
o Can be deployed via Terminal Services or any other means that have the Exchange System Manager instance running on Windows 2000 Server remotely
o Can administer all Exchange 2000 servers that are members of administrative groups.
o You must have Administrative permissions to manage.
* Performance Tool
o Can monitor performance objects on the local computers.
o Can monitor performance objects on the remote computers.
o Can create performance chart for processor utilization, disk and network activities, and processes.
o You use it to isolate bottlenecks and determine hardware upgrades.
* Expansion Server
o You may setup another server in the same administrative group as an expansion server.
o You can designate the expansion server for each group separately.
o You do this via the Expansion Server setting in the Exchange Advanced tab.
* Mail-enabled contact objects
o Reference recipients outside the organization.
o Points to external actual recipients.
o Do not possess mailboxes.
* Multiple storage groups and multiple message stores
o Requires the Exchange 2000 Enterprise Server edition.
o Support a maximum of four storage groups.
o Each storage group supports five individual stores.
* Dedicated public folder server
o Ideal for hosting forums.
o Maintainly deployed for performance.
o Need to remove all existing user mailboxes and mailbox stores.
* Full-text index
o Often used for public store.
o After creation, you need to populate the full-text catalog.
o You should define update and rebuild intervals so that search information is always up to date.
* Moving servers between administrative groups
o The server must be reinstalled.
o You can only specify the server’s new administrative group when the administrative group already exists.

Scenario: How do you find out the currently logged on users? You retrieve the information via the Logon object under the Private Information Store object. When you select this object, status information regarding all logged on users will be displayed in the contents pane, under the Administration window.

SMTP Configuration

* To receive incoming messages, your SMTP domain name must be registered in the DNS MX records.
* To send outgoing messages, you must enable Exchange 2000 Server to use Internet DNS servers.
* You can setup references to external DNS servers to your SMTP virtual server configuration. In fact, you can specify multiple DNS servers.
* To block unsolicited messages, you may configure a message filter and activate the filtering.
* Filtering can be specified so that all messages from a particular domain are filtered.
* Bridgehead server
o Handle a constant stream of messages to downstream servers.
o To optimize the throughput of messages, let the bridgehead handle all e-mail over established links and avoid additional handshakes for further connection establishments.

Routing Groups

* Multiple routing groups are recommended if:
1. Access to public folder resources must be controlled.
2. Dedicated bridgehead servers for message transfer are desired.
3. Geographical requirements are to be considered.
4. Network traffic has to be reduced.
5. Network links are unstable.
* The first server in the routing group almost always acts as the routing group master.
* The routing group master maintains the LST for all other servers in the routing group.
* If the routing group master is to be unavailable for a period of time, you should designate a different master for avoiding inefficient message routing.
* You may designate a server as a master by using Exchange System Manager.

Public Folders

* Access relies on two elements
o Public folder hierarchy.
o Public folder content.
* Public folder content replication allows you to keep multiple synchronized copies of a particular public folder.
* You may use multiple replicas to distribute workload across multiple servers. This can:
o Improve response time.
o Provide fault tolerance.
* If some other users can’t see your new public folder, while users on the local server can work with the new folder, it is likely that the public folder hierarchy replication has not been completed yet.
* Routing group connectors allow public folder referrals by default.
* When you have two routing groups connected with WAN connection that has no support for remote procedure calls, all public folders must be kept locally in all routing groups, and that the content of each public folder must be replicated to at least one server in each remote routing group, so that content can be accessible.
* The receiving PFRA determine whether a replication conflict has occurred by checking whether the change number of the local message is included in the predecessor list of the updated message.
* Backfill discovers out-of-sync replicas based on message status information. When there are no changes to be replicated, status information is exchanged once per day automatically. When there are missing changes, the backfill mechanism requests them from any Information Store that has a more recent replica.

Scenario: How do you explicitly resolve design conflicts?

* Design conflicts
o Do not need to be resolved explicitly.
o The most recent changes overwrite all others.
o Public folder contacts and public folder owners are notified.

Permissions

* Entirely based on the security model for Active Directory.
* You may rely on Windows 2000 security groups for Exchange 2000 administration.
* With native mode, you have the following security groups:
o Domain Local – can contain user accounts, global groups, and universal groups from any domain as well as domain local groups from the same domain.
o Global – can contain user accounts and global groups from the same domain.
o Universal – can contain user accounts, global groups, and universal groups from any domain.

Advanced Security

* Signing
o Allows a sender to add a digital signature to a message.
o For proving the message’s origin and authenticity.
* Sealing
o Message encryption.
o Can be used together with Signing.
* KM
o Server password is used to decrypt the KM Database Master Encryption key.
o The KM Database Master Encryption key is needed for accessing the KM database.
o Server password must be supplied during the KMS startup.
o The KM administrator enables advanced security and have a 12-character security token generated and provided to the user.
o Multiple users can be enrolled concurrently.
o Outlook sign messages by having the original message hashed. The user’s private signing key is then retrieved from the security store. The hash is encrypted using the private signing key. Finally, the encrypted hash will be added to the message as well as the user’s signing certificate.
o The user’s signing certificate contains the public signing key.

Scenario: You forgot the security password for your digital ID. How do you sign and seal messages again? Have the administrator recover the security keys for you. You use the new 12-character security token to complete the recovery by repeating the steps of enabling advanced security. Note: A new digital ID will be created for you.

MAPI Clients

* MAPI
o MAPI is a specification – not a messaging system by itself.
o Has interfaces at two layers: client-side specification is called the client interface, system-side specification is known as the service provider interface.
* Outlook 2000
o This client is MAPI based and is the preferred client.
o Uses the Exchange transport service to communicate with an Exchange 2000 server.
o Relies entirely on RPCs.
o You can customize the Outlook 2000 installation process via:
+ command-line options
+ SETUP.INI
+ transform files
* To roll out Outlook 2000 to a large number of end users:
o The best way is to install in an unattended way via a login script.
o You may launch Setup with the parameter /A to set up an administrative installation point. Fromt hat point on, you can customize using the Custom Installation Wizard.
* Messaging profile
o Can be created using Microsoft Outlook Setup Wizard.
o Contains configuration information about information services used by the Microsoft Exchange Client.
o Needed for establishing session with the underlying messaging backbone.
o A client cannot be started without a profile.
o In Windows 2000, MAPI profiles are stored in the HKEY_CURRENT_USER registry hive.
o You may include the MAPI profiles in the server-based profiles for roaming user support.
* Offline message stores
o For users to work offline with messages.
o Holds a replica of the actual server-based content.
o Messages are copied to the local hard disk.
o In contrast, a personal folder store is used to download and remove messages from the server.
* Offline folder
o Can synchronize public folders
o Allows you to work with public folders while disconnected.
* Exchange 2000 Server and Novell NetWare network integration
o You must create a corresponding Windows 2000 account for each existing Novell NetWare user.
o You use Microsoft Directory Synchronization Services (MSDSS) to synchronize account information for both systems.

Scenario: If you want to integrate Exchange 2000 Server into your Novell NetWare network, what configuration parameters of the NWLink IPX/SPX_Compatible Transport must most likely be configured? The frame type and internal network number would need to be correctly configured.

Scenario: How do you deploy MS-DOS based clients effectively? For legacy clients, you may use Terminal Services to provide users with access to Outlook 2000′s functionality.

Scenario: How do you keep messages available offline? You configure a .pst file and use Outlook’s remote mail functionality to download messages. Create an .ost file and perform synchronization with server-based messaging folders when you are online. The .ost file approach allows you to work with public folders offline.

Internet Clients

* MX records must exist in DNS for your Internet domain.
* IIS manages all Internet client protocol engines.
* SMTP and NNTP services are integrated with Exchange 2000 Server.
* Common Internet clients supported:
o IMAP4
o POP3
o NNTP
o HTTP
o SMTP
o Note that LDAP access is available via Active Directory and Global Catalog servers.
* News feed
o Pull feed initiates connection to a remote USENET host for pulling information from existing newsgroups.

Scenario: To support all possible POP3/IMAP4 clients, which authentication type is appropriate? Basic Authentication, Integrated Windows Authentication and it is advised that you use SSL together with Basic Authentication if it takes place over the Internet.

Outlook Web Access (OWA)

* Based on the ISAPI of IIS 5.0.
* Requires Windows 2000 Server.
* Installed as an integral part of Microsoft Exchange Messaging and Collaboration Services.
* Allows users to gain access to Exchange 2000 with browser.
* Browser must support JavaScript and frames.
* OWA URLs are based on host or domain names, and are independent of individual mailbox or public store locations.
* In an FE/BE environment, users do not know where their mailboxes reside. OWA will look up their mailboxes on their behalf.

Exchange Web Storage

* Relies on Windows 2000 Server and IIS 5.0.
* Every item in Web Storage is accessible through an internet URL.
* Supports Web browsers and WebDAV applications via:
o HTTP
o WebDAV
o XML
* Supports Internet mail or MAPI-based clients.
* Support ADO 2.5 and OLE DB applications via ExOLEDB.
* Supports events based on ExOLEDB so that workflow and process-tracking logic can be implemented.
* Web Storage System event sinks must be registered in the IIS metabase.