The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a credential that shows a graduate’s ability to design and implement systems built around Windows Desktop operating systems and Windows Server System software. Those with MCSA certification have the capability to assess the business requirements for these systems and to both create and maintain them. Here are some more things you should know about MCSA certification.
1. Microsoft has a large part of business/non-profit IT market share. 80% of the Fortune 500 is on the Microsoft Cloud and more than 350 million devices (business and personal) are running Windows 10. Their products have been downloaded over 340 million times. MCSA certification gives you credibility to build systems around these products for business customers and non-profit organizations.
2. MCSA certification is a prerequisite to MCSE Expert-level certifications. MCSE stands for Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert, and it is the globally recognized standard for IT professionals.
3. There are many certifications under the MCSA umbrella, including Windows 10, Windows Server 2012, SQL 2016, Office 365, and Linux on Azure. These certifications cover various Microsoft products within the line and can show that you know how to service and put together a variety with different business functions.
4. Most larger businesses with the money to hire IT staff will want administrators with the knowledge necessary to handle complex systems with multiple moving parts. The MCSA certification will show that you have passed a hands-on exam that showcases your abilities to give them what they need.
5. MCSA is an updated certification that used to be the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator certification. The updated certification concentrates on designing and building technology solutions, while the older certification was focused on a particular position (systems administrator) with a more limited scope.
6. There are no prerequisites to MCSA certification. Preparation for these certifications is often part of a school’s IT coursework. There are two to three exams required for the MCSA certification paths available to students.
7. Some of the jobs a MCSA-certified IT professional can get include systems administrator, computer network specialist, network administrator, technical support specialist, database developer or cloud application administrator. Many of these jobs in larger companies entail supervising entry level workers and employees as they navigate the company systems and infrastructure.
8. Free online courses are also available for students who can be disciplined enough to self-prepare, or as additional preparation, but this is difficult for most students to do on their own. PC AGE’s courses and programs prepare students for MCSA Server 2012 and other certifications so they are ready for these difficult exams and have the best possible chance of success. Contact us to learn about our programs including preparation for MCSA certification and many others.