If you have spent even one minute exploring the job market recently, you know it's competitive out there. Employers are looking for candidates who are serious about their disciplines and can prove it. You've worked hard to get your technical expertise and back up that MCSA you earned awhile back. What can you do to remain competitive? Consider upgrading to your MCITP Server Administrator. Upgrading attests to your drive to remain capable of managing the full range of Windows Server products. If you are now holding an expired certification you may find yourself behind the pack. The MCITP is worth the investment of time and resources to put you back in the running for choice positions and career advancement.

So what is the Microsoft Certified Information Technology Professional credential? It's actually ten different credentials that map to specific job roles. In the administrator role, you have your choice of MCITP: Server Administrator and MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. They each focus on Windows Server 2008 technology, and so do not replace the MCSA. Instead, they certify a different set of skills on different technology. Although the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator credential is still valid, its emphasis is on Windows Server 2000/2003. The MCITP credentials validate a comprehensive set of skills necessary to fulfill a particular role utilizing Windows Server 2008.

Another distinction between the old certifications and MCITP is the expiration policy. Previous certifications expire after 3 years. The new set of certifications from Microsoft will be retired when mainstream support for the related technology is phased out. Holders of the certifications being phased out will be offered an upgrade path to the newest version certification without having to retake the exam series.

Don't wait to upgrade your MCSA to the MCITP. Whether it's to reinforce your position with your current employer, facilitate your advancement or better serve your clients, it's best to be out front.

Earn an MCITP: Server Administrator certification to demonstrate your leadership and problem-solving skills in working with Windows Server 2008.

Server Administrators are recognized among their peers and managers as leaders in the day-to-day operations management of Windows Server 2008. Demonstrate and communicate your ability to take system-wide ownership of Windows Server 2008 administration and increase your organization's return on technology investment by earning the MCITP: Server Administrator certification.

More information about MCITP: Server Administrator

You are required to take 2 Microsoft exams in order to upgrade your MCSA 2003 certification to MCITP: Server Administrator.