Meet Microsoft Azure

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Meet Microsoft Azure

When it comes to storage for your files and programs, you need the best for yourself and your clients.  Microsoft has taken it’s cloud computing platform to the next level with Microsoft Azure, released in 2010.  This is the ultimate sharing program, and is ideal for businesses or multiple users, as well as individuals with the need for privacy or mass storage.  It also happens to be one of the many Microsoft certifications we offer at TechSherpas 365 . 

Microsoft Certifications for Microsoft Azure

This platform is useful for any IT professional.  There are a number of tools and templates integrated within the system that make management of apps faster and user friendly.  You can manage your cloud infrastructure and storage with ease and efficiency.

Azure is known for its flexibility, supporting a vast selection of operating systems and programming languages.  You can use a wide variety of programs and integrate them with Azure.  By combining technologies that are already utilized by IT professionals everywhere, Azure has created a mass support system that is sought after at all levels.

Perhaps one of the most appealing and groundbreaking aspects of Microsoft Azure is its capability for ultimate security.  Many businesses and organizations store private client information that cannot be released at any cost.  This creates a hesitancy when it comes to storing data on a cloud, and forces business to undergo constant backups.  The storage equipment and space used to backup these businesses can be expensive and require constant upgrades, which also cause the business to incur charges.

With Microsoft Azure, you acquire a commitment to privacy.  Microsoft is the first major cloud provider to adopt the new international cloud privacy standard.  When you are certified in Microsoft Azure, you are able to provide your clients or company the ideal storage solution.  You have affordable space that provides high security, and the name Microsoft backing you up with assurance of your services and security standards.

You can offer your client flexible payment plans, since Microsoft Azure allows you to scale your payment plan to the services you need.  This also makes it a great tool for your own work, as you can grow your Microsoft Azure services while you grow in your industry and needs.  

At TechSherpas , we offer various levels of training and Microsoft certifications with Microsoft Azure.  We are a Gold Microsoft Learning Partner with an excellent reputation in IT training.   Our instructors have shown the highest level of competence and expertise with Microsoft technologies, and can help you take your career and your company to the next level of excellence.

 

Choose YOUR OWN path towards Microsoft Certification

Why should you get Microsoft certified? This is a question that many students ponder. The truth is IT certifications are a great way to increase your credibility for the job. Employers are looking for candidates that have hands-on training, are officially certified, and can demonstrate they are ready for the job. Microsoft certifications prove to your employer that you have completed hands- on training, providing real life experience, and are knowledgeable about the technology. Certifications will help knock out the competition and increase your chances of employment. With a few certifications under your belt, your career can skyrocket to a new level!

Skyrocket Your Career with a Microsoft Certification!

Certifications are a great way to spice up your resumes and add an additional credential. With more employees entering the IT field, it’s important to stay on top of the game and increase your credibility in your career. A certification can be the deciding factor during your next job interview. Studies indicate that candidates who are officially certified receive more job offers in the IT field. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get certified!

Choose the certification path that’s right for you

TechSherpas is committed to helping you achieve your career goals, whether you desire to be a Project Manager or Security Engineer. We are proud to offer our Microsoft Certification Bundles that provide you with everything you need to get certified! Our discounted bundles include:

  • Official Microsoft courses and course material (Courses are live instructor-led with remote student capability)
  • Practice exams (180 days of access to practice tests and exam engines)
  • Official Microsoft exams

Students may choose from Windows Server 2012, SQL Server, Windows 7 & 8, SharePoint, Office 365, Exchange Server, Visual Studio, Lync Server, or System Center. Different levels of certification are also available – MTA, MCSA, MCSE, MCSD.

Looking for an accelerated path towards certification? Check out the Microsoft Certification Boot Camps.  This options is a faster pace and gets you certified in days.

There is no typical student. People choose to get trained and certified for different reasons. People have different learning styles. People have different schedules, flexibility, and budget. As a training company, we understand this and is why we have developed two different Microsoft certification paths – to appeal and accommodate a diverse client base. These options let the student choose the path that is right for them. What is holding you back from earning your certification?

The Pathway to Database Expertise– Becoming an MCSE in Data Platform & Business Intelligence

“You can have data without information, but you cannot have information without data.” – Daniel Keys Moran. Data is everywhere we look. In this age of the internet, Google, and high tech reporting tools, businesses and people are flooded with an abundance of data. The flooding of data can be overwhelming, and difficult to analyze and take away valuable MCSE-300x300information. Isn’t data collected in order to provide information to assist with making important decisions? That’s kind of the point, right? That is precisely why data savvy people are so important to successful companies now more than ever. Data experts are needed to collect, organize, and analyze the flood of data from limitless resources.

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

One way people become experts in their particular line of work is through education and certifications. Studies show that 91% of hiring managers consider certifications as part of their hiring criteria. (Microsoft, Microsoft Certification Program Satisfaction Study, April 2012) With this being said, certification should be high on the To-Do-List to prepare yourself for success, right? Right!

Within the IT world there are several certifying organizations. Globally recognized, Microsoft is one of the largest. Microsoft offers various certification levels that fall under four main umbrellas (below). A Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification allows IT professionals to prove their ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and in the cloud. There are currently eight different MCSE certifications that fall within 2 of the 4 main umbrellas:

Client – MTA Server

  • MCSE Desktop Infrastructure
  • MCSE Server Infrastructure
  • MCSE Private Cloud
  • MCSE Communications
  • MCSE Messaging
  • MCSE SharePoint

Database

  • MCSE Data Platform
  • MCSE Business Intelligence

Developer – MCSD

The focus here is on MCSE. To get up to speed on the other levels of Microsoft certifications read the Certification blog here.

The Database Pathway – SQL Server Expert

The Database Pathway provides IT professionals with invaluable, sought after SQL Server skills. Data Platform courses teach how to demonstrate the broad skills needed to administer and build solutions for enterprise scale organizations. These courses also teach the design of database solutions for Microsoft SQL Server 2012 and the development of Microsoft SQL Server 2012 databases.

The Pathway to earn a Database or SQL Server MCSE begins the same, with an MCSA in SQL Server 2012, and then branches off into two distinctive areas. Depending on their job roles and career goals, IT professionals can choose from two different database pathways:

  • MCSE Data Platform – for database professionals who build enterprise-scale data solutions on-premises or in cloud environments
  • MCSE Business  Intelligence – for database professionals who develop and deploy business intelligence solutions and reports

 

As illustrated above, interested MCSE candidates should obtain the following certifications and training in a specific order:

  • MTA
    • Database Fundamentals (40364) – 3 Day Course
  • MCSA – SQL Server 2012
    • Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (10774) – 5 Day Course
    • Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases (10775) – 5 Day Course
    • Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (10777) –  5 Day Course

Then choose from these two paths:

  • MCSE – Data Platform
    • Developing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases (10776) – 5 Day Course
    • Designing Database Solutions for Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (20465) – 5 Day Course
  • MCSE – Business Intelligence
    • Implementing Data Models and Reports with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (10778) – 5 Day Course
    • Designing Business Intelligence Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (20467) – 5 Day Course

For pricing and to register for these courses visit our MCSE Database Courses page. Be sure to also check out our promotion page to receive a discount and learn how to earn free MCSE training!

TechSherpas ’ headquarters in Tampa, FL is a Prometric testing center. When you are ready to take the exam, visit the Prometric website, locate TechSherpas and select a time and date to come in and sit for your exam. The MCSE exam cost is $150.00.

Why take certified Microsoft training courses before taking the certification exam?

When you take an exam you want to be as prepared as possible. This will ensure that you won’t have to retake the exam, and more importantly, it also gives you the SQL skills that hiring managers and companies are looking for.Sixty-four percent of IT hiring managers rate certifications as having extremely high or high value in validating the skills and expertise of job candidates. (CompTIA, Employer Perceptions of IT Training and Certification, January 2011). Having a certification is one thing, and having experience and skills are a completely different thing. The truth is, hiring managers are looking for both! Getting extensive training, with hands-on labs give you more experience working within databases, in real work-place situations.

What kind of jobs and pay can I expect from this certification?

So you registered for classes, prepared for the MCSE certification exam, and passed! What’s next? What kind of job can you expect from having this credential on your resume? An MCSE certification can put you in a very good position when it comes time to find a job or lock in that promotion. It can also add some cash to your wallet as the MCSE is among the top 15 paying certifications of 2013.

Those with an MCSE certification, specifically in Data Platform or Business Intelligence make excellent candidates for the following positions:

  • Database Analyst
  • Database Designer
  • Database Administrators
  • Network Engineers
  • Database Developers
  • Systems Engineer
  • Business Intelligence Analyst

Getting MCSE certified creates a pathway for success

Becoming a database expert by earning your MCSE Database Platform or MCSE Business Intelligence will certainly open doors for you. Certification, training, and experience are three of the top four most important characteristics when selecting a candidate for a cloud-related position. (IDC/Microsoft, Climate Change: Cloud’s Impact on IT Organizations and Staffing, November 2012). Visit our website and contact us today to get started on your MCSE journey.

The Reinvented Microsoft Certifications

Information technology reinvents itself daily. It seems like every time you learn how to use the newest technology, the next newest version is released. Corporations realize the benefits of having a successful IT department, and many are requiring certain credentials and certifications from job candidates and current employees. With the demand for qualified IT professionals on the rise, receiving training and getting certified in this ever-growing field is becoming more important than ever before. A certification can distinguish you from the crowd, and get you into a position to kick off or advance your career.  Microsoft is a corporation who realizes the relevance of IT certifications, and felt it necessary to develop a certification program that would distinguish IT professionals that have acquired the specific knowledge and understanding to successfully utilize the various technologies offered. As of April 2012, Microsoft has reinvented their certification process, and made changes in order to keep up with all the recent technological advances.

Why the change in Microsoft certifications?

Microsoft has been branded a leader in technology, and developed a certification program to allow qualified individuals to affirm their knowledge of various Microsoft programs. Microsoft holds their certification program at a high level, and understands that it too has to keep up with the dynamic world of IT. It’s for that reason that Microsoft reinvented their certification program. It was necessary in order for them to maintain their market relevance as the industry shifts to the cloud. Microsoft Certifications now validate broader and deeper skills required to build solutions on-premises or within the cloud. As with other professionals who receive certifications and licenses, such as doctors and engineers, those receiving Microsoft Certifications will have to dedicate time to continuing their education and will have to get re-certified every few years, depending on the type of certification.

Small names bring big change

The acronyms associated with the various certifications offered by Microsoft have changed slightly, but one shouldn’t imply that the actual certification changes are so minor.  The two most notable changes are: 1) there are fewer certifications covering more topic areas, and 2) certifications are no longer product/versioned-based.

There are four main categories in which you can receive a Microsoft Certification. Those are:

Within these four main categories there are four different levels, in which you can get certified. Those include:

  • MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Association) – The Foundation
  • MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert)– The Globally Recognized Standard
  • MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer) – The Globally recognized Standard for Developers
  • MCSM (Microsoft Certified Solutions Master) – The Pinnacle of Professional Distinction

Microsoft Certifications Roadmap

The previous certifications included:

  • MCTS (Microsoft Certified technical Specialist) – This certification is being replaced by the MCSA.
  • MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professionals) – This certification is being replaced by the MCSE. The MCITP level is being combined. In order to get an MCSE in SQL Server, you need to pass exams for developing & designing database solutions.
  • MCPD (Microsoft Certified Professional Developer) – This is being replaced by the MCSD
  • MCM (Microsoft Certified Master) – This certification will eventually be replaced by the MCSM
  • MCDBA (Microsoft Certified Database Administrator) – The MCSE in the Database category has replaced this certification.

It’s important to note that these certifications remain current and still valuable in the market, and therefore are still being offered. They do have expiration dates, so you need to be aware of those and look into upgrading to the new certification. That being said, many companies are still utilizing the older technologies, so the old certification is still valuable. As new technologies are released, they will be released in the new solutions structure. Over time, the MCTS, MCITP, and MCPD certifications will retire and will transition to a legacy status. Legacy Microsoft Certifications (retired certifications) will still appear on your transcript and will be designated as such.

The Microsoft Certification Hierarchy

  • New to IT – MTA is a recommended entry point into IT certification and job preparation. Pass just one exam and you’ll earn a certification, taking your first step toward a career in technology. If you are just starting your IT career path or are looking to enhance your understanding of IT fundamentals, MTA will validate your core knowledge. MTA is an optional industry-recognized certification for those pursuing a career path in IT infrastructure, database design, or software development using Microsoft technologies. Currently there are three MTA certification tracks: Infrastructure; Database; and Development.
  • The first level – MCSA is a pre-requisite to the MCSE Certification. It is also serves as the foundation for a career path. Currently, there are five MSCA certifications: Windows Server 2012; Windows Server 2008; Windows 8; Windows 7; and SQL Server 2012. This certification will get any candidate on the right path in building a sustainable career in IT, and focuses on the ability to design and build technological solutions rather than a specific job role, like the previous MCTS certification.
  • The second level – MSCE is the globally recognized standard for IT Professionals. To earn this certification you must be able to demonstrate your ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and in the cloud. Currently, there are eight MSCE certifications: Server Infrastructure, Desktop Infrastructure, Private Cloud, Data Platform, Business Intelligence, Messaging, Communication, and SharePoint. To ensure the certifications remain meaningful and valuable indicators of candidates’ skills, MCSE certifications will require recertification every three years.
  • The third level – MCSM, the “pinnacle of professional distinction” is where you will validate your ability to successfully design and implement innovative technical solutions for complex on-premise or off-premise hybrid enterprise environments. Currently, there are five certifications within MCSM: Data Platform; Messaging; Communication; SharePoint; and Directory Services. The MCSM will require recertification every 3 years.
  • For the Developer – MCSD is the globally recognized standard for developers and is replacing MCPD. To earn this certification you must be able to demonstrate your ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and in the cloud. Currently, there are three MCSD certifications: Window Store Apps; Web Applications;  and Application Lifestyle Management. To ensure the certifications remain meaningful and valuable indicators of candidates’ skills, MCSD certifications will require recertification every two years.

Certifications for a better future

If you were already familiar with the Microsoft Certification program, you’ll notice that the new requirements are more stringent and recertification is now required for many of the certifications. This is just another sign that IT credentials are important and are being perceived as such. There is some opposition to the new certification program as it may be more difficult for some more than others to keep up with the re-certifications. The reality is companies implement and utilize the latest technology upgrades at different rates. That being the case it still may be beneficial, even essential, to receive certifications from the older program, depending on the technology being utilized by your firm. This is something you need be aware of when choosing what certification to get, but either way, IT professionals need to be able to demonstrate their capabilities, knowledge, and understanding in order to obtain a job in IT and continue to build their IT career. According to a recent study completed by CompTIA, 86% of hiring managers indicate IT certifications are a high or medium priority during the candidate evaluation process. Right now there is 40% gap in supply and demand for qualified IT professionals. It’s time to capitalize on that gap! Don’t be left behind! Get training! Get certified! We offer Microsoft certifications from both the older and newer certification programs, so which ever path you choose, TechSherpas can guide you to the top.