Microsoft Certifications > Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

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

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

Top of page