Did you know that Microsoft is revamping the entire certification program with profound changes for MCSEs involved in Windows Server 2008 and that the MCSE as we know it is being replaced with the MCTS certification?  For example, with certifications such as MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Network Infrastructure Configuration and MCTS: Windows Server 2008 - Application Platform Configuration.  The new certifications focus on specific job roles and skill sets are designed to show off your specific technical skills and offer two tracks – Technology Series and Professional Series.

Technology Series is the track that validates technical proficiency in a specific technical area. For example, a MCTS can specialize in Vista or .NET Framework 2.0. MCTS credentials are extremely focused with an emphasis on technology.

Professional Series breaks down into two branches: IT Professional and Professional Developer. These credentials allow you to demonstrate your abilities to perform a specific job such as a Server Administrator. When you successfully earn your IT Professional certification, you earn the title of Microsoft Certified IT Professional or MCITP.

To earn an MCITP, you must also have earned the equivalent MCTS certification in the corresponding Microsoft product.  Expect to pass between one to three exams for each area of specialization. Two Professional Certifications will likely appeal to most MCSEs: Server Administrator and Enterprise Administrator. Each will require MCTS training and MCITP Training  as well as passing a series of exams.  See following tables for details. These new programs are supposed to make it easier for prospective employers to judge an applicant's skills and talents by having tightly focused certifications that emphasize job roles found in the real world. Note that the MCTS certifications actually expire when the specific technology itself does and that the MCITP requires renewal and re-certification every three years. This process usually involves passing a single exam which is most likely going to be the latest related MCTS exam.

Does all of this mean you must start at ground zero? Not necessarily. You can upgrade your MCSE skills to Windows Server through different upgrade paths. For example, if you are an MCSE in Windows Server 2003, you can transfer your skills to the new MCTS track for Windows Server 2008. If you want to move beyond the MCTS, you can continue on to the desired MCITP certification.  See tables below for more details.

Windows Server Certification

Earning a Windows Server 2008 certification shows that you have the expertise to confidently evaluate, design, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows Server 2008 solutions. It also demonstrates your ability to use new features, including Web tools, virtualization technologies, security enhancements, and management utilities.

Use the following table; to choose the right certification for you—Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), or a more advanced certification.