http://mcpmag.com/news/article.asp?editorialsid=549

Looks like its time to open the wallet once again. I am beginning to wish that MS had more "hands on" tests like the CCIE for cisco. All these "paper" tests are turning people into "paper" qualified technicians.

Still, G'Luck to those who will be pursuing these as well.

End of Rant.

The annoying thing is that Microsoft had said as late as last year that 2000 MCSE's and 2000 MCP's would NOT have to recertify at all for Windows 2003... 2000 certifications would be good for 2003 server.

Liars.

--Alexander

It is a problem, when you have paper techs who have no idea how to troubleshoot, or do much of anything that they don't recall from their 'boot camp'.

I haven't actually updated my MCP qualifications for a while.
In fact the last official qualifications I had was actually back in the WinNT days.
I do still use the letters "MCP" now and again, but I guess I am really doing so illegally.
The thing is, when I go for interviews for new jobs the paper qualifications get you nowwhere (well they wont get you that far if the company who is hiring are worth their salt).
My experience and references count for a hell of a lot more than a few paper qualifications that as others have said "those with no real-world skills can gain".
It is just a matter of cramming as much information into your head at the last minute and away you go.

My solution for all this:

I would love the exams to actually cost more to take.
Now I know that doesn't sound fair, but it will maybe stop a few people just getting these papers without having the skills.
Secondly, the exam should take longer and it should be a "simulation" rather than a series of questions.
Exam room is a workstation and a few servers in a domain with AD etc.
Examiners monitor you as they "break" things that make up the most common faults.
During the exam they also throw some of the less common faults at you and watch your method when it comes to troubleshooting and finding the problem.
The whole exam would be similar to say a driving test where your actual skills are put to work rather than how much you can remember.
More hassle?
Yes
More expensive?
Yes

End result, less people with the qualifications and they actually mean something to the industry at the end of the day.

BladeRunner, that'd be a great idea. Unfortunately, I don't think it will happen any time soon.

I got my first test in 3 weeks,

THen I'll have to wait for .net server tests to come out, with the study guides as well to take them

GOing for my MCSA first. then on to MSCE when i can

Certifications are a beautifull way to get your foot in the door for an interview .... now all you have to back it up with your new coworkers.

MCSE and MCSA 2000 tests were moderately easy compared to some of the stuff that I have seen. Those with about 2 years experience in a multi domain environment should pass the MCSE core 4 rather easily.

Electives wise ... might I recommend Exchange 2000 ... sorry just a little partial

If you have any questions about the tests / requirments / etc, feel free to ask.