Duties of a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), for which nearly every network out there requires at least one, include the installation, configuration and maintenance of PCs, networking equipment and network operating systems. As well, an MCP must deal with patching systems where necessary as well as locking down systems so that only authorized personal can access and use them. Microsoft network administration is a rather highly technical role. 

A good understanding of Microsoft Windows network operating systems, network equipment and networking protocols is essential, as well as a basic ability to program scripts and batch files. However, relatively strong interpersonal skills are also important, as the MCP must understand the networking needs and problems of users and be able to address those issues in a timely fashion. Lastly, an MCP must be diligent at documenting the network as well as be proficient at troubleshooting problems, often under tense situations. This includes knowing when to give up trying to be the hero when solving a problem and having the humility to go to outside sources for help.

Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Exam 70-299)

Audience Profile

The Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server™ 2003 credential is intended for IT professionals who work in the typically complex computing environment of medium to large companies. An MCSA candidate should have 6 to 12 months of experience administering client and network operating systems in environments that have the following characteristics:

• 250 to 5,000 or more users

• Three or more physical locations

• Three or more domain controllers

• Network services and resources such as messaging, database, file and print, proxy server, firewall, public key infrastructure (PKI), Internet, intranet, remote access, and client computer management

• Connectivity requirements such as connecting branch offices and individual users in remote locations to the corporate network and connecting corporate networks to the Internet

Credit toward Certification

When you pass the Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network exam, you achieve Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) status. You also earn credit toward the following certifications:

• Core credit toward Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA): Security on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 certification

• Core credit toward Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE): Security on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 certification

• Elective credit toward Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 certification

• Elective credit toward Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 certification

Skills Being Measured

This certification exam measures your ability to implement, manage, maintain, and troubleshoot security in a Windows Server 2003 network infrastructure and also plan and configure a Windows Server 2003 PKI. Before taking the exam, you should be proficient in the job skills listed in the following

1. Implementing, Managing, and Troubleshooting Security Policies
2. Implementing, Managing, and Troubleshooting Patch Management Infrastructure
3. Implementing, Managing, and Troubleshooting Security for Network Communications
4. Planning, Configuring, and Troubleshooting Authentication, Authorization, and PKI