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All About Microsoft 70-293 Exam: Planning a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure MCSE Certification

[edit section] Microsoft 70-293 Certification Exam Synopsis

The Microsoft 70-293 certification exam is the progression of the 70-291 Network Infrastructure exam and is also a component of the MCSE certification track core. The exam covers both the maintenance of a Windows Server 2003 network infrastructure as well as the planning of such a network. While the 70-291 mainly tests candidates on their knowledge of troubleshooting Windows Server 2003 network, the Microsoft 70-293 exam is more focused on the setup and structure of such networks. The certification is recommended for IT professionals with several years of experience in large-network management, which is a nice idea but highly unlikely given that the MCSE certification is a virtual requirement for most systems administrators and engineers today. So, candidates can expect an exam that covers many topics from PKI to IPSec and that will force them to utilize their knowledge to analyze, develop, and troubleshoot.

[edit section] Difficulty and Scope of the Microsoft 70-293 Exam

The Microsoft 70-293 tests topics included within the 70-291 as well as several new topics. These subject areas include:

• Security Baseline Testing
• Server Roles and Network Topology
• Routing Groups
• TCP/IP, DNS, and NetBIOS
• Clustering
• Backup and Recovery
• IPSec
• Active Directory (limited)
• PKI

The Microsoft 70-293 exam is also analytically based and will require candidates to perform troubleshooting tasks and develop solutions based on real-world issues in Microsoft networking. The realism and practicality of these tasks makes them applicable to actual planning and development of Windows networking, but many candidates find that the breadth of the information required for the exam as well as the analysis makes this among the most difficult MCSE exams. It is therefore recommended that you take this exam only after taking the 70-291.

[edit section] When and why should I take the Microsoft 70-293 Exam?

To be frank, the Microsoft 70-293 is a very difficult test and most candidates really do not need to take the test unless they plan to undergo MCSE certification; this includes MCSA candidates, as the MCSA core does not include the 70-293/70-294. Even MCSE candidates should be weary of the exam and wait until they have mastered general networking concepts vis-‡-vis the 70-291. Other potential candidates for certification include long-term Windows network administrators and students interested in pursuing more technical networking certifications such as CCNA.

[edit section] Ok, I want to take the Microsoft 70-293 Exam! Now What?

As we always recommend, you should begin by having a clear idea of how feasible it will be to prepare for the exam. We have explained to you some of the prerequisites to the 70-293 and just how difficult the exam can be, so you will have to determine if you can set enough time aside to develop an effective study schedule around the test. After you have determined that you have enough time for the test, you should sign up for a testing date. Read more about Microsoft exam registration and potential vouchers/discounts here, then begin to utilize ProProfs array of valuable resources for the Microsoft 70-293 certification. Our flash cards, user community, and many other features will aide you in your studies. We wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of the Windows Server 2003 Planning Network Infrastructure exam and in all of your future educational pursuits.

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