Microsoft certifications are one of the most popular and coveted certifications in the information technology industry today. There is great demand for Microsoft-trained professionals in the job market. Microsoft also offers many certification levels depending upon user proficiency and the nature of the job. One of the most popular certificates is the MCSE certificate.

Most IT professionals pursue MCSE training after they have gained experience in the industry. This enables them to implement their newly acquired skills in their jobs. The certification is ideal for anyone who wishes to design and implement infrastructure for business solutions in certain installations that use Microsoft Windows platforms. It also provides an edge to professionals already in the field, as the formal certification guarantees recognition by employers and scope for higher promotions.

Some people wishing to work in the industry also take the certification. This added tool provides a valuable benchmark for prospective employers to assess the skills of the candidate, and for the employee to negotiate for a competitive salary.

Microsoft offers different MSCE certifications for different users. There is the MSCE on Windows server 2003 and the MSCE on Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, and Windows 2000. There are specializations available for security and messaging on both servers 2003 and 2000. This is beneficial for employees of companies already working on these systems to enhance their skills.

Microsoft has independent requirements for the MSCE certification on the Windows 2000 platform and on Windows server 2003. For the certificate pertaining to the Windows 2000 platform one needs to clear five core examinations, four of which are based on the operating systems and one on design. There are two elective exams which help determine technical proficiency and the level of ease in solution design and implementation.

For the Windows server 2003 there are six core exams required, four of which are based on networking systems, one on client operating systems and one design exam. There is one elective examination similar in nature to the one for Windows 2000.