By Myron Len


The pros know: When it comes down to boosting resumes and displaying talents, not all certs are created equal.

Many IT pros stress the proven fact that some accreditations are way more valuable than others in the present day's market. Though technologies consistently develop and new licenses often become available in specific areas, the importance of holding basic certifications should not be overlooked.

Microsoft Certified Systems Director (MCSA) certification is among a handful of IT building blocks many professionals depend on to show their talents working with systems running Windows Server operating systems.

Market share boosts MCSA certification's price

According to an early 2011 report from Network World, almost 90 percent of all computers worldwide run on a Microsoft OS. With such a huge share of the market using Windows, IT execs with powerful accreditations from Microsoft, including MCSA certification, are probably going to be important players on any technology team.

Why the MCSA authorization works for IT pros

According to Microsoft, the MCSA authorization "helps enable IT pros to show their ability to administer network and systems environments with Windows Server 2003-based business solutions." It can be thought of as a stepping stone to the MCSE (Microsoft Licensed Systems Engineer) and other certs.

Though Windows Server 2003 might sound like a dated operating systemâ€"indeed, official mainstream support from Microsoft ran out in July 2010â€"it's crucial to be conscious of the software's staying power in world markets. Just as, according to a May 2011 report from Tech Spot, 53 % of all PCs run Windows XP, many companies have found no reason to replace their Windows Server 2003 platforms with Windows Server 2008 or 2008 R2 as of yet. Having said that , for more modern technologies such as Windows Server 2008 or Exchange Server 2010, Microsoft recommends chasing the MCITP (Microsoft Certificated IT Professional) title.

According to Microsoft, IT pros suitable for MCSA candidacy typically have "one to 12 months of experience in working with a desktop system software, a network O. S and an existing network infrastructure." For most professionals, MCSA authorization can be obtained after earning passing marks on four tests.

MCSA authorization makes a difference in the job market

Microsoft boasts that workers who hold its certifications are valuable members of any IT staff, saying, "Training and certification are necessary to maintain a significant amount of performance." The company says that 63 p.c of higher-level chiefs accept that licensed individuals are more productive on the job and that certs authenticate topical abilities.

Earning MSCA authorization might make a larger paycheck a reality, too. According to information updated in May of 2011 from PayScale.com, annual salary for an IT chief with MCSA certification sometimes goes from $55,900 to $85,817.




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