Hello Dev, as a developer, you know that technology is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. One way to enhance your skills and keep your knowledge fresh is by obtaining Windows Server certifications. A Windows Server certification can help you gain recognition in your field and show your expertise to potential employers. In this article, we will discuss 20 consecutive headings about Windows Server certifications that can help you advance in your career.
1. What Are Windows Server Certifications?
Windows Server certifications are credentials awarded by Microsoft to IT professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in Windows Server technology. These certifications typically involve passing one or more exams that test the candidate’s knowledge and skills in Windows Server installation, configuration, management, and troubleshooting.
There are several different types of Windows Server certifications available, each targeting a different level of expertise or specialization. Some of the most popular certifications include:
Certification |
Description |
|---|---|
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate |
This certification focuses on managing and supporting Microsoft Azure cloud services, including Windows Server virtual machines. |
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert |
This certification focuses on designing and implementing solutions that run on Azure, including Windows Server deployments. |
Microsoft Certified: Windows Server 2019 Administrator |
This certification focuses on managing and maintaining Windows Server 2019 environments, including Active Directory, storage, and network services. |
2. Why Should You Get Certified?
There are several reasons why you might want to pursue a Windows Server certification:
- To enhance your skills and knowledge in Windows Server technology
- To gain recognition and credibility in your field
- To increase your earning potential
- To pursue career advancement opportunities
2.1. Skill Enhancement
Obtaining a Windows Server certification can help you develop a more in-depth understanding of Windows Server technology and how it can be used to solve business problems. You will learn best practices, tips and tricks from industry experts, and hands-on experience in deploying, configuring, and managing Windows Server environments.
2.2. Credibility and Recognition
A Windows Server certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. It can also improve your chances of being promoted within your current organization.
2.3. Earning Potential
According to Microsoft, IT professionals with Windows Server certifications can earn significantly higher salaries than those without certifications. This can be especially true for certifications that are in high demand, such as Azure certifications or Windows Server 2019 certifications.
2.4. Career Advancement
Obtaining a Windows Server certification can open up new career opportunities and allow you to take on more challenging and rewarding projects. It can also give you the skills and knowledge you need to become a subject matter expert or consultant in your field.
3. Types of Windows Server Certifications
As mentioned earlier, there are several different types of Windows Server certifications available, each targeting a different level of expertise or specialization. Some of the most popular certifications include:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- Microsoft Certified: Windows Server 2019 Administrator
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Enterprise Administrator Expert
- Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Developer Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate
3.1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who manage and support Microsoft Azure cloud services. This certification focuses on Azure virtual machines, storage solutions, network services, and Azure Active Directory.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the AZ-104 exam, which covers topics such as Azure subscriptions and resources, Azure compute solutions, Azure storage solutions, network solutions, and Azure AD. Candidates must also have a solid understanding of PowerShell and Azure CLI.
3.2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is designed for IT professionals who design and implement solutions that run on Azure. This certification focuses on Azure virtual machines, storage solutions, network services, and Azure Active Directory.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass both the AZ-303 and AZ-304 exams. The AZ-303 exam covers topics such as Azure infrastructure, Azure services, and Azure management tools. The AZ-304 exam covers topics such as designing for identity and security, designing a data platform solution, designing for deployment, migration, and integration, and designing an infrastructure strategy.
3.3. Microsoft Certified: Windows Server 2019 Administrator
The Microsoft Certified: Windows Server 2019 Administrator certification is designed for IT professionals who manage and maintain Windows Server 2019 environments. This certification focuses on Active Directory, storage solutions, and network services.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the MD-100 exam, which covers topics such as Windows 10 deployment, management, and maintenance. Candidates must also pass the MD-101 exam, which covers topics such as managing devices and data, managing security, and managing modern desktops.
3.4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification is designed for developers who build and deploy applications that run on Azure. This certification focuses on Azure compute solutions, Azure storage solutions, and Azure App Service.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the AZ-204 exam, which covers topics such as developing Azure compute solutions, developing for Azure storage, developing Azure App Service, implementing Azure security, and monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing Azure solutions.
3.5. Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert
The Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert certification is designed for IT professionals who design and implement DevOps practices using Azure technologies. This certification focuses on Azure DevOps solutions, source control, continuous integration and delivery, and infrastructure as code.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass both the AZ-400 and AZ-204 exams. The AZ-400 exam covers topics such as planning and implementing DevOps development processes, implementing continuous integration, implementing continuous delivery, implementing dependency management, implementing application infrastructure, and implementing continuous feedback. The AZ-204 exam covers topics such as developing Azure compute solutions, developing for Azure storage, developing Azure App Service, implementing Azure security, and monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing Azure solutions.
3.6. Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who implement security controls, maintain the security posture, and identify and remediate vulnerabilities by using a variety of security tools and techniques that span all Azure services.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the AZ-500 exam, which covers topics such as managing identity and access, implementing platform protection, managing security operations, and securing data and applications.
3.7. Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Enterprise Administrator Expert
The Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Enterprise Administrator Expert certification is designed for IT professionals who evaluate, plan, migrate, deploy, and manage Microsoft 365 services.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass both the MS-100 and MS-101 exams. The MS-100 exam covers topics such as Microsoft 365 tenant and service management, user identity and roles, access and authentication management, and Microsoft 365 identity synchronization. The MS-101 exam covers topics such as Microsoft 365 compliance management, Microsoft 365 device management, and Microsoft 365 information protection.
3.8. Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Developer Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Developer Associate certification is designed for developers who design and build solutions that extend Microsoft 365 collaboration and productivity capabilities.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the MS-600 exam, which covers topics such as designing and developing apps, integrating Microsoft 365 services and Microsoft Graph, and implementing Microsoft identity and access.
3.9. Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who deploy, configure, secure, manage, and monitor devices and client applications in an enterprise environment.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass both the MD-100 and MD-101 exams. The MD-100 exam covers topics such as Windows 10 deployment, management, and maintenance. The MD-101 exam covers topics such as managing devices and data, managing security, and managing modern desktops.
3.10. Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate
The Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who design, implement, and manage identity and access solutions in an enterprise environment.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass the SC-300 exam, which covers topics such as identity and access management, Azure Active Directory, and identity and access governance.
4. Study Materials and Resources
To prepare for a Windows Server certification exam, you will need to have a solid understanding of the exam topics and objectives. There are several study materials and resources available to help you prepare, including:
- Official Microsoft certification exams and study guides
- Educational training courses and boot camps
- Practice exams and sample questions
- Online forums and communities
4.1. Official Microsoft Certification Exams and Study Guides
The official Microsoft certification exams and study guides are created by Microsoft and provide a comprehensive overview of the exam topics and objectives. These resources are essential for anyone preparing for a Windows Server certification exam.
Microsoft offers a variety of different certification exams and study guides, which can be purchased online or through authorized testing centers.
4.2. Educational Training Courses and Boot Camps
Educational training courses and boot camps can provide a more structured approach to learning and help you prepare for a certification exam in a shorter amount of time.
These courses are typically offered by training centers or educational institutions and are designed to provide hands-on experience with Windows Server technology. They can be expensive, but may be worth the investment if you need to learn quickly or have limited experience with Windows Server.
4.3. Practice Exams and Sample Questions
Practice exams and sample questions can help you identify areas where you need to improve and get a feel for the types of questions you can expect on the actual certification exam.
Many online resources offer practice exams and sample questions for Windows Server certification exams. Some of these resources are free, while others require payment or membership.
4.4. Online Forums and Communities
Online forums and communities can be a great resource for asking questions, getting advice, and connecting with other IT professionals who are preparing for Windows Server certification exams.
Some popular online forums and communities for Windows Server certifications include TechNet, Reddit, and Microsoft Community.
5. Tips for Passing a Windows Server Certification Exam
Passing a Windows Server certification exam can be challenging, but with the right approach and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips for passing a Windows Server certification exam:
- Study regularly and consistently
- Create a study plan and stick to it
- Use multiple study resources
- Practice hands-on exercises and labs
- Take practice exams and quizzes
- Get plenty of sleep and exercise
- Stay calm and confident during the exam
5.1. Study Regularly and Consistently
Studying regularly and consistently is essential for retaining information and preparing for a certification exam. Set aside dedicated study time each week and stick to it.
5.2. Create a Study Plan and Stick to It
Create a study plan that outlines your goals, study resources, and study schedule. Review your plan regularly to ensure you are making progress and adjust as needed.
5.3. Use Multiple Study Resources
Use multiple study resources, such as official Microsoft study guides, educational training courses, and online forums. This will provide you with a well-rounded perspective on the exam topics and objectives.
5.4. Practice Hands-On Exercises and Labs
Practice hands-on exercises and labs to gain practical experience with Windows Server technology. This will help you better understand the concepts and give you the confidence you need to pass the exam.
5.5. Take Practice Exams and Quizzes
Take practice exams and quizzes to help you identify areas where you need to improve and get a feel for the types of questions you can expect on the actual certification exam.
5.6. Get Plenty of Sleep and Exercise
Getting plenty of sleep and exercise can help you stay alert and focused during the exam. Make sure to take breaks and get enough sleep in the days leading up to the exam.
5.7. Stay Calm and Confident During the Exam
Staying calm and confident during the exam can help you perform better and reduce test anxiety. Take deep breaths, read each question carefully, and answer to the best of your ability.
6. FAQs
6.1. How Long Does It Take to Get a Windows Server Certification?
The amount of time it takes to get a Windows Server certification depends on several factors, including your current level of knowledge and experience, the type of certification you are pursuing, and your study habits.
Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for and pass a certification exam. However, some candidates may be able to pass the exam in a shorter amount of time if they have significant experience with Windows Server technology.
6.2. How Much Does a Windows Server Certification Cost?
The cost of a Windows Server certification varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and the location of the exam.
Most Windows Server certification exams cost between $165 and $300, although some exams may be more expensive. Additionally, study materials and training courses can also be costly.
6.3. Do I Need to Renew My Windows Server Certification?
Yes, most Windows Server certifications require renewal every two years to stay current. This involves passing a renewal exam or completing a certain amount of continuing education credits.
6.4. What Happens If I Fail a Windows Server Certification Exam?
If you fail a Windows Server certification exam, you can retake the exam after a certain period of time. The waiting period varies depending on the exam, but is usually around two weeks.
You will need to pay the exam fee again when retaking the exam. However, you may be eligible for a discount if you retake the exam within a certain timeframe.
6.5. How Can I Verify My Windows Server Certification?
You can verify your Windows Server certification by logging into the Microsoft Certification Dashboard and downloading your digital certificate. You can also share your certification with potential employers and colleagues by using the Microsoft Certification Verification tool.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Windows Server certification can be a valuable investment in your career as a developer. By demonstrating your expertise in Windows Server technology, you can gain recognition, credibility, and career advancement opportunities. Whether you are just starting out in your career or looking to take on more challenging projects, a Windows Server certification can help you achieve your goals.