MCSA or MCSE: Which Certification is Right for You?

  Frequently Asked Questions About MCSA

  Frequently Asked Questions About MCSE

  Benefits of Certification


As an information technology (IT) professional, you have a choice of earning two different credentials to highlight your Microsoft Windows knowledge and expertise: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE). Which certification is right for you and your job role?

Identify Your Role in the Technology Lifecycle

Technology Lifecycle

Choose the MCSE credential if you:

 Plan, design, and implement Microsoft Windows server solutions and architectures
in medium- to large-sized companies.

 Have at least one year of experience implementing and administering network operating systems and desktop operating systems.


Related job titles: systems engineer, network engineer, systems analyst, network analyst, or technical consultant.

Find out more:

  MCSE on Windows 2000

  MCSE on Windows Server 2003

  MCSE: Messaging on Windows Server 2003

  MCSE: Messaging on Windows 2000

  MCSE: Security on Windows Server 2003

  MCSE: Security on Windows 2000

Choose the MCSA credential if you:

 Implement, manage, and maintain the typically complex computing environment of medium- to large-sized companies.

 Have 6–12 months of experience administering client and network operating systems.


Related job titles: systems administrator, network administrator, information systems administrator, network operations analyst, network technician, or technical support specialist.

Find out more:

  MCSA on Windows 2000

  MCSA on Windows Server 2003

  MCSA: Messaging on Windows Server 2003

  MCSA: Messaging on Windows 2000

  MCSA: Security on Windows Server 2003

  MCSA: Security on Windows 2000

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