Certification MCSA Microsoft - the little brother of MCSE

Now you can follow in big brothers (MCSE) footsteps or remain a MCSA. Up to you.

Some new comers into I.T get confused with these certs. Here is the solution to your confusion:

The certification MCSA Microsoft credential is for professionals who implement, manage, and troubleshoot existing network and system environments that are based on the Microsoft Windows 2000 and Microsoft Windows Server 2003 operating systems.

These individuals typically do not deploy new networks and systems as part of their job function as is expected of individuals holding the MCSE credential. Unlike MCSEs, MCSAs are not expected to have design skills.

Who is the MCSA for?

A new person entering I.T?

No.

This isn't an entry certification. It the step above. Here are Microsoft's words: (copy+paste. I get tired of writing sometimes):

The MCSA credential is for IT professionals who work in the typically complex computing environment of medium-to-large organizations. An MCSA candidate should have 6–12 months of experience implementing and administering a desktop operating system, implementing and administering a server operating system, and managing client and network operating systems in environments with the following characteristics:

The number of users that are supported is between 200 users and 26,000 users.
The number of physical locations that are supported is between two locations and 100 locations.
Typical network services and resources include messaging, database, file and print, proxy server or firewall, Internet and intranet, remote access, and client computer management.
Connectivity needs include connecting branch offices and individual users in remote locations to the corporate network and connecting corporate networks to the Internet.

With the certification MCSA microsoft you can also specialize

Isn't the MCSA enough? Why specialize?

Here are Microsoft's words (more copy+paste. God I'm getting lazy):

A certification validates and identifies competency in a specific job role. A specialization validates and identifies job role competency applied to a specific technical field. Specializations allow individuals who currently have or who are seeking certifications to highlight their focus in a specific field.

If you specialize, does it mean you have a more advanced MCSA?

Nope. It just means... well... you have just specialized on a specific area. You can specialize in two things with the MCSA. Messaging and Security.