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[edit section] All About the Microsoft MCSE 70-294 Planning and Maintaining an Active Directory Infrastructure Exam

[edit section] Synopsis of the Microsoft 70-294 Exam

The Microsoft 70-294 Active Directory Infrastructure test is considered one of the pivotal exams of the MCSE certification. It covers what is one of the most useful, widely deployed, and multi-faceted tools of the Windows Server system, namely Active Directory. It is also among the core exams, and although not required for the MCSA, it is essential for the MCSE. Many candidates who are experienced with the Active Directory system find the Microsoft 70-294 Exam to be somewhat of a breeze, but others who are new to the directory protocol experience difficulty in preparing for this exam. It is the most useful exam you will probably take a future Windows Server administrator as it covers most of the features specific to Windows that Microsoft has to offer, including Group Policy functionality.

[edit section] Difficulty and Scope

As previously discussed, the Microsoft 70-294 Exam can be among the more difficult exams, but many candidates with prior experience in Active Directory find it a cinch. In any case, it is recommended that candidates have already obtained the Microsoft 70-291 Exam certification and are on the MCSE track. The exam covers a multitude of Active Directory-related topics, which include:

• Active Directory implementation and migration
• Active Directory toplogy
• Trust relationships and Organizational Units
• Directory Services
• Users and Groups
• Group Policy

Note that the last item, group policy, is considered one of the most important tested points and is given a high weighting in the test. Many different aspects of group policy are tested and candidates will be asked to find solutions through group policy to real-world problems and issues in networking.

[edit section] When and why should I take the Microsoft 70-294 Exam?

Many students ask when the right time to take the Active Directory exam is. The truth is that it varies for all students, but for many, it may be ideal to sequentially pursue the 70-290, 70-291, and 70-293 before attempting the Microsoft 70-294 Exam. This is for a number of reasons: first, the Microsoft 70-294 Exam covers fundamentally different content than its three predecessors; second, the exam can be significantly harder than the 70-291/70-293 series, and third, the content should be fresh in your mind as you pursue potential elective exams. However, some students may choose to take the 70-294 Exam before the 70-293 if they are concerned about the difficulty and breadth of coverage on the 70-293. In general, unless you have previous Active Directory experience, avoid the Microsoft 70-294 Exam until after taking the 70-293.

[edit section] I want to take the Microsoft 70-294 Active Directory Infrastructure Exam. What’s next?

You will need to first plan out a study schedule and determine if it is feasible for you to complete an effective study routine the time available. This means allotting sufficient time for both reading new material and reviewing old material. In general, many students find two-three months to be the ideal study time preparing for IT certification exams, but your mileage may vary. You will next need to register for the exam, which you can find information about here. Finally, you must study for the exam, and we welcome you to utilize ProProfs myriad of study resources, tips, and tools for the Microsoft 70-294 Exam. We have features from forums to flashcards and everywhere in between, so keep on studying and aiming to ace the exam!

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