From Proprofs

[edit section] All About the Microsoft MCSE 70-284 Exchange Server 2003 Exam

The Microsoft MCSE 70-284 certification exam covers the configuration and maintenance of Exchange Server 2003, the standard Microsoft offering for server-based messaging. The exam is a possible elective on the MCSE track but can also serve as a standalone MCP exam as Exchange Server management has become an increasingly valued skill that is required of messaging administrators as well as general IT systems administrators and engineers.

[edit section] Difficulty and Scope

The Microsoft MCSE 70-284 exam covers both installation and configuration of an Exchange Server 2003 messaging system, making it a fairly comprehensive exam in comparison to other elective exams. It covers topics such as integration of Exchange Server with Active Directory and Windows Server 2003, managing server health and performance dynamics, and even recovery procedures. The meat and bones of the exam, however, are the topics related to the configuration of Exchange Server, especially those related to public stores, mailbox stores, auditing, security, and recipient policies. The questions on the exam are oftentimes exhibit-based and test you on your ability to apply knowledge about policies and stores to different real life situations.

[edit section] When and why to take the MCSE 70-284 exam

If you are currently a candidate for MCSA/MCSE certification, you should probably wait to finish your core requirements before focusing on elective exams. Although elective exams allow you to specialize in particular subject areas, you should be attentive to the relatively difficult core exams as a first priority. Once you have completed the core exams (or if you are not a candidate for MCSE/MCSA certification), you can then begin the process of studying for the 70-284 certification exam. Although you may not be aiming to become a messaging administrator, the 70-284 certification is probably a good one to pursue. The increase emphasis on Windows server integration and messaging with regard to Active Directory would place a premium on Exchange Server knowledge.

[edit section] I’m going to take the 70-284! Now what?

First, you will need to determine if it is really feasible for you to take the certification exam. Not everyone has the time to set aside to study for this exam, and it wouldn’t be a stretch to suggest that you should have at least 100 hours available to prepare for this exam, although anywhere from 60 to 150 hours would be a reasonable estimate of time required to prepare. For this reason, we would highly suggest that you have at least a month or two available to really prepare for the exam. Next, once you have set the time aside, you should probably schedule a date to take the exam with VUE or Prometric. Finally, use ProProfs resources in addition to your own study materials to prepare for the exam. The most important step in this process is taking the time to sit down and use Exchange Server 2003. Toying around with the software is very important to your success.

	Web ProProfs.com