Do you want to prove mastery in the technical skills which are required to build a career in Information Technology or do you want to acquire core skills for your professional career? The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification is the right credential for you. This certification serves as a prerequisite to the MCSE expert-level certification.
What is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Certification?
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Certification is a certification program, which is suitable for anyone who wants entry level jobs in the Information Technology (IT) industry. This certification pays attention to the ability to design and develop technology solutions. It serves as a stepping stone to the MSCE certification. The MCSA credential is referred to as a professional starter certification. It focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to work on Microsoft platforms, technologies, applications, and tools in an organization. This certification requires you to pass the following certification exams:
MCSA Windows: The MCSA Windows certification is based on various Window technologies. Windows 10 focuses on the expertise of how to configure, manage and maintain a Windows 10 enterprise system. The MCSA Windows 10 credential qualifies you for the position of computer support specialist. Windows 8 requires you to prove your expertise in configuring, managing, and maintaining a Windows 8 enterprise system.
MCSA Office 365: This certification is required for your professional career. Office 365 qualifies you for the position as a ‘Software as a Service’ (SaaS) administrator. It enables you to showcase your skills in transitioning and administrating cloud hosted business applications with Microsoft Office 365. It enables you to manage Office 365 business applications such as SharePoint, Skype for business, and Exchange.
MCSA Server: The MCSA Windows Server 2008 certification proves that you have the skills to work with Active Directory in a real world business situation. The MCSA Windows Server 2012 certification requires you to prove your expertise in the mastery of the primary set of Windows Server 2012 which minimizes IT costs and offers more business value. This certification is the first step on your way to earning an MCSE certification. The MCSA Windows Server 2016 certification focuses on the installation, storage, and computing of the Windows Server 2016, identifying the Windows Server 2016, and networking with the Windows Server 2016.
MCSA SQL Server: The MCSA SQL Server certification requires you to showcase your skills and insights in developing and maintaining innovative mission-critical environments. This certification will qualify you for the database developer or analyst position.
What are the Most Popular Microsoft Certifications?
Microsoft certifications are one of the world’s most respected IT credentials. One of the top Microsoft certifications is the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), a mid-level IT credential, which focuses on system administrators who support Microsoft desktop computers and servers, and also Office 365 and SQL Servers. This credential is a stepping stone to obtaining the MCSE certification.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification is a top-level credential or an advanced certification, which focuses on different areas, such as server infrastructure, private cloud usage, data platforms, Desktop Infrastructure, Enterprise Devices and Applications, messaging, business intelligence, SharePoint, and communication.
The Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) certification is widely recognized by developers. This credential is aimed at developers to prove their ability to develop innovations across various technologies including on-premises and cloud. Holders of Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer certification are required to possess strong problem-solving skills, communication skills, and to display a well-versed knowledge of Visual Studio, .Net Framework, and other software development programs.
Why Should I earn Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Certification?
Becoming a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate is important because the certification is valuable in building your career in the IT world. With the rate of unemployment, the MCSA certification gives you an advantage over other job applicants.
- It provides you with an up-to-date portfolio, which makes you the preferred candidate for an IT position.
- An MCSA certification builds your skills and makes you well versed in the application of Microsoft technologies.
- It gives you the opportunity to advance in your career and also to get a raise in salary.
- Becoming a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate is important because the certification is considered valuable in the business world.
- Exams in MCSA provide you with the ability to manage the operating costs of an organization.
What are the Common MCSA Jobs?
Holders of the MCSA certification can perform various IT related tasks. With this credential, you can work as a systems administrator, Information Technology (IT) manager, senior systems administrator, network administrator, Information Technology director, network engineer and much more.
What are the Requirements and How to Apply for MCSA Certification?
The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associates (MCSA) Certification exams cost $150 each. The price may differ based on geographical locations and taxes which may apply in those areas. To earn an MCSA certification, you are required to pass either 2 (Windows 7 or Windows 8) or 3 (Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2012, SQL Server 2012) exams.
What is the Best Way to Prepare for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate Certification?
The best way to prepare for MCSA certification exams is through constant studying and practicing of exam tests. You can also access study guides at the Microsoft learning website. You may create time out of your schedule to self-study or attend a professional class close to you. Passing the MCSA certification exam is easy as long as you create enough time for studying and preparing for the MCSA certification exams.
Where can I Find Free MCSA Certification Study Guides?
The recommended and easiest way to prepare for MCSA certification exams is by using the study guides and practicing questions and answers from past tests on Exam-labs website. For example, 70-410 exam “Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012”, which is one of the most popular exams.
Candidates who have access to the latest test papers will understand the model of the examination better and can therefore perform better. It gives a significant advantage to one’s preparation to practice the exam tests on the website. You can also watch those practice exams, which are tested and approved by best professionals in the field, on Exam-labs YouTube channel.
Exam-Labs provides you with all the materials you need to help you pass the exam in one go. The website materials positions and equips aspiring candidates to achieve the best possible results to obtain the MCSA certification.
In conclusion, the MCSA certification is essential for IT specialists who want to develop their skills and also advance in their careers. It is a certification which has continued to gain great value in the IT world.
