Value of MCSA 2012 in 2015

ernestr

Hey All,

I was reviewing @Ronnie-Wong 's helpful exam requirements post and it jogged my mind.

I've been working through the Server 2012 MCSA material for a few weeks. This morning I got an email from TechNet about Server 2016 coming out sometime next year and the new technologies that it will leverage, such as containerized applications. It got me wondering about the lasting applicability and market value of a Server 2012-specific certification. For example, I am sure that some enterprises will switch from 2008 directly to 2016, much like the Windows XP to Windows 8.1 jumpers.

Can anyone offer insights on taking MCSA upgrade exams, and/or how long it usually takes Microsoft to start offering exams for its new Server version? Also, will someone with a Server 2012 MCSA be able to obtain an MCSE after Server 2016 MCSAs hit the streets without first upgrading their MCSA?

Ronnie Wong

@ernestr,

The value of seeking a certification is always higher if it is the current technology. But having said that it doesn't mean the older technology certifications didn't provide value. What I mean by that is that is that your company may still be on Server 2008R2 or even Server 2012 when 2016 comes on the scene. Does that devalue the certification? Not really. To your company, a certified individual in their technology is probably as valued as the certification in the latest technology.

I would encourage you to continue in your pursuit of the Server 2012 certifications because some things may change but the fundamental concepts between 2012 and 2016 will be familiar. Your pursuit in 2012 will only help you as 2016 exams are on their way.

Microsoft normally offers the exams for their OSes within 6 months of the RTM. Sometimes, they even offer beta exams before the release of the OS. I can't remember exactly, but I believe I took the Vista Exam,Windows 7 in beta which would have been right before the release or soon after the release. The same is probably true of the Server OSes too.

They normally offer an upgrade exam between editions. I don't normally recommend this path because it requires you to answer questions from both OSes but people do them all the time!

Cordially,
Ronnie Wong
Host, ITProTV