MCSE 2003 Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How is Microsoft Windows Server 2003 different from Microsoft Windows 2000?

A. The Microsoft Windows Server 2003 family takes the best of Microsoft Windows 2000 Server technology and makes it easier to deploy, manage, and use.

Q. I have passed some Windows 2000 exams. Will I be required to complete my certification with Windows 2000 exams? Or, will I be able to complete my certification with both Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003 exams?

A. Microsoft has developed independent certification requirements for Windows Server 2003. The certification requirements for Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003 differ from those for MCSE on Windows 2000. However, if you complete your MCSE or MCSA certification in Windows 2000, you can take advantage of an upgrade path that will enable you to update your certification to Windows Server 2003 in a time-effective and cost-effective manner.

Q. I am an MCSE on Microsoft Windows NT 4.0. Do I need experience or training in Windows 2000 before I move to Windows Server 2003?

A. No. You can start your training and experience with Windows Server 2003. However, any skills you acquire with Windows 2000 either through hands-on experience or training will be highly relevant to and provide a solid foundation for an upgrade to Windows Server 2003.

Q. I am an MCSE on Windows 2000. Will I need additional skills and experience to be certified on Windows Server 2003?

A. Yes. Although your Windows 2000 skills are highly relevant and provide a solid foundation for a migration to Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 has significant new or changed technologies. The skills that you acquire when you work with Windows 2000 will be highly relevant. They will provide a solid foundation for an upgrade to Windows Server 2003. Additional study may be necessary to be fully prepared.

Q. Are the Windows Server 2003 exams available?

A. The Windows Server 2003 core and upgrade exams are available now.

Q. According to the upgrade requirements, if I am an MCSE on Windows 2000, I must pass the MCSA upgrade exam in addition to the MCSE upgrade exam. Why is the MCSA upgrade exam necessary?

A. The Windows Server 2003 upgrade exam for MCSAs covers a direct subset of the job tasks that are included in typical MCSE skills. The skills tested by the MCSA upgrade exam are expected to be part of an MCSE's job tasks.

Q. If I am an MCSE on Windows 2000 and upgrade to MCSE on Windows Server 2003, will I automatically become certified as an MCSA on Windows Server 2003?

A. Yes. Exam 70-292: Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment for an MCSA Certified on Windows 2000 is part of the upgrade path for an MCSE on Windows 2000. It includes objectives that validate the skills set of an MCSA on Windows Server 2003.

Q. What is the price of the upgrade exams?

A. Each upgrade exam costs the same as all other MCP exams. For example, each upgrade exam costs US$125.

Q. Are labs or a practicum part of the Windows Server 2003 exams?

A. The Windows Server 2003 exams do not include labs or a practicum. However, the exams may include various innovative testing technologies to present a more realistic visual representation of the products that you are being tested on. This is so that your exam experience more consistently reflects the types of tasks that you perform on the job.