MCDST on Microsoft Windows Certification Requirements
The Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) credential proves that you have the skills to successfully support end-users and to successfully troubleshoot desktop environments that are running the Microsoft Windows operating system.
MCDST candidates are required to pass two core exams. Elective exams are not required. The following table lists Official Microsoft Learning Products courses and Microsoft Press books that are designed to help you prepare for these exams. See individual exam preparation guides for exam availability.
The MCDST credential will not retire with the release of Windows Vista certifications; it will continue to be supported by Microsoft and valued by employers and decision makers who use Microsoft Windows XP.
Learn about the upgrade path from MCDST to Windows Vista
Core exams (two exams required)
| Core exams (two exams required) | Classroom training | Microsoft E-Learning | Microsoft Press books |
Exam 70-271: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting a Microsoft Windows XP Operating System | Course 2261: Supporting Users Running Microsoft Windows XP Desktop Operating Systems (three days) | Course 2261: Supporting Users Running the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System (12 hours)* | |
Exam 70-272: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting Desktop Applications on a Microsoft Windows XP Operating System | Course 2262: Supporting Users Running Applications on Microsoft Windows XP (two days) | Course 2262: Supporting Users Running Applications on the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System (12 hours)* | |
There are no core exams related to Clinic 2263 currently available. | There are no classroom training courses currently available. | Clinic 2263: Exam Preparation for the MCDST Certification (six hours)* | There are no Microsoft Press books currently available. |
*E-Learning course tips:
| • | Prepare for Exam 70-271 (operating system exam) first. Use Course 2261, Course 2262, and the first part of Clinic 2263 to help with this. Your main focus will be on Course 2261. |
| • | Prepare for Exam 70-272 (Applications support) second. Your knowledge of the operating system will help with the application exam. Use 2261, 2262, and the second part of 2263 to help with this. Your main focus will be on 2262. |
| • | Clinic 2263 is appropriate for individuals who are already working with Windows XP. |
Complementary Certifications
If you are interested in soft skills certification or hardware certification for the help desk, refer to these complementary certifications:
| • | Soft Skills Certification—Help Desk Institute (HDI) CSS and HDA Certifications |
| • | Hardware Certification—CompTIA A+ Certification |