what is the best, least expensive MCSE training method? How difficult is it to become certified?

Question

I have seen many offers on Ebay, Wal Mart, and many other book stores. I am looking for something on DVD or CD rom if possible. I also don't want only one year to be able to study. I am going to DeVry, and they don't offer any certifications for Microsoft. Ironic isn't it? Also, if you had to pick one direction that "Networking" is headed, Security, Storage etc... what is your prediction?

Answer 1

I got several free sources and a set of manuals from another publisher (I forget the name, but they were highly recommended). These are helpful, but will not let you pass the exams. To pass the Microsoft Exam, you have to have the Microsoft materials. Period. So, spend the money for the stuff from Microsoft Press. A bit more expensive, yes, but essential to pass. They contain CD's with full Enterprise trial versions of the OS, test questions, etc. I started with the four core courses for 2003 server first, then Exchange, XP and the final one... Probably better to start with the XP first. Much easier to pass. Once you have one success under your belt, you'll have more confidence to tackle the harder stuff.

You'll be better off to familiarize yourself with all four core courses before taking the first core exam. Much of the material "bleeds" over from one exam to the next. You'll need a working knowledge of all of them in order to pass even one.
Study on your own. Either you get it, or you don't. Classes, etc. are generally very expensive and not very productive. (This from a former professor).

The MCSE is extremely difficult. Harder than law school. It took me 8 months of full-time study to pass all seven exams. I hear the failure rate is about 70%, but I'm not sure if that's truth, or rumor.

In terms of "one direction"; the real need is for true systems engineers who can design, troubleshoot and maintain small-medium sized networks. Small business is the growth industry in the US. Always new ones starting up, or expanding to the point they need a true domain. Focus only on security, storage, or something else and you'll be trapped in a niche. Focus on making a small (less than 100 systems) network run smoothly, and you can get a job anywhere in the country.

Answer 2

It's really hard to get a microsoft cert. i have only one. I took the test maybe 4 yrs ago for windows 2k pro. I'm guessing the test is still $100 something, so pass or fail say goodbye to that money. i don't know how well your knowledge of computers are but there's no one book or dvd that's going to be the least expensive and help you get your cert (alot of it helps if it's hands on). Anyway, there's plenty of sources you can get free material to help you, for ex. some p2p like limewire, bearshare...etc. just do some searching and you'll find cheat sheets or guides for mcse. I think the IT field is getting flooded in general, alot of competition, at least where i live. it all depends where you live, it's going to be alot harder for you to get a real good job in a big city unless you have a strong background. I really don't have any recommendations but do your research online with places like amazon.com where people rate IT books or what not and you'll find a training book or dvd that suits you. hope this helps good luck!

Answer 3

It depends. Many Christians (I'm one myself, by the way) would take issue with the irreverence in your question. So would, I expect, Jews and Muslims. I Ive in Taiwan. It's different here. Chinese "Gods" are not really divine as we in the west understand the term. Many were real persons, who actually lived lives. In the old days, the Emperor could designate someone as a God. They are actually more like Christian saints, people whose good behaviour should be emulated. You should listen to Them. I've never seen a Chinese God make fun of someone Else's religion. I think that, under the guise of asking a question, that is what you are doing.