14 DAY TRIAL // As it is generally the case, a new wave of technology releases from Microsoft spurs in its turn a new generation of certifications and exams for IT professionals. Windows 7 makes no exception to this rule, with new resources offered by the Redmond company to help IT workers clearly indicate the depth of their knowledge of the latest Windows client. Moreover, the software giant announced special deals for select Microsoft Certification exams. In this regard, IT pros that will want to take the new Windows 7 certification exams no later than December 31st, 2009, will be able to benefit from discounts ranging between 15 and 25 percent.
As far as Windows 7 Certifications go, Microsoft has introduced new versions of the Enterprise Desktop Support Technician Pro credential, as well as of the core configuring TS exam. But in addition, the company is also offering new credential with Windows 7 designed for the Enterprise Desktop Administrator.
“The primary difference is that the EDST is focused on reacting to customer issues as a helpdesk or technical support responder? But the EDA roles is focused on proactive desktop tasks that include designing, deploying, and managing. The EDA role is part of a design team that is looking into the future to determine what the desktop infrastructure will need to maintain, grow, or gain efficiency. This could be by upgrading or deploying a new OS, or modifying an existing deployment,” stated Jim Clark, sr. certification manager for Microsoft Learning.
On top of the two Pro credentials, Microsoft brings to the table fresh Technology Specialists (TS) exams for Windows 7. Stephen L. Rose, senior community manager, Windows IT Pro Client, reveals that Microsoft is offering a comprehensive lineup of certification and exams, which also streamline access to credentials related to Windows Server 2008 R2.
“There is one new TS exam that will support both the Enterprise Desktop Administrator (EDA), and the Enterprise Desktop Support Technician (EDST) credentials. That exam is 70-680: TS: Windows 7, Configuring. This exam is the backbone of our credentials and it validates all of the common how-to tasks associated with Windows 7. It is a requirement for both the EDA and EDST credentials,” Clark added. “The 70-680 TS: Windows 7, Configuring exam will count towards the Desktop requirement for the Enterprise Administrator Windows Server 2008 credential.”
At the same time, Microsoft has offerings in place for IT pros that already obtained Windows Vista and Windows XP certifications. Essentially, workers with the Vista EDST or the XP DST credentials, will be able to upgrade their credential to the latest iteration of Windows. However, this exam will only be available in 2010, and it will allow XP DST’s or Vista EDST’s to become MCTS: Windows 7, Enterprise Desktop Support Technician certified.
“[The] best place to start is the Windows Client Certification portal. This page will link you to all the Exam Preparation Guides for the Windows 7 exams. If you decide you would like training before you take the exams then here Windows – Training Portal is the place to start or to get the latest information around the world of training and certification, check out the Born To Learn Blog,” Clark advised.