Getting Started with IT Certification

I’ve been in the game long enough that it’s about time I can pretend I know what I’m talking about and start offering advice. If you’re looking to get started with IT certification, and looking to make Microsoft Certification your focus point, look no further. This is what you need to get started:

Certification Information

• Microsoft Certification: http://www.microsoft.com/certification/
• Citrix Certification: http://www.citrix.com/certification/
• Cisco Certification: http://www.cisco.com/certifcation/
• vmware Certification: http://www.vmware.com/certification/
• ITIL Certification: http://www.itil-officialsite.com/

Where to Start

• For Systems Administrators and Desktop Support – Start with 70-680 – Windows 7, Configuring
• For Database Administrators – Start with 70-432 or 70-461 for Microsoft and OCP for Oracle
• For Network Administrators – Cisco CCNA
• For Storage Administrators – SNIA

Training Providers

• CBT Nuggets (Fee)
• TrainSignal (Fee)
• Testout (Fee)
• Microsoft Learning (Fee, some Free with a TechNet Subscription)
• Tech Ed (Free – Online)
• Citrix Synergy (Free – Online)

Exam Providers

• Self Test Software
• Measure Up
• Free Apps (Windows Phone examples are available via the link)

Hardware

• Be sure to build yourself a decent “lab server”. You’ll want something with a decent amount of memory and disk performance and a 64-bit virtualisation-enabled CPU (All new CPUs should have this, but be aware of this if you are repurposing an existing computer). If you’re going to specialise in networking, get something with a decent amount of network cards.

Feedback

• If you have any suggestions, please post a comment.