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We have already disccus about the re-introduction of the MCSA and MCSE certification levels and also of the new MTA level (see also my exam experience). Recently also the MCM certification level has been slightly modified (with a new name MCSM). Microsoft certification site could help to find the right IT certification for your needs and your competency.

For those new to technology, Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is the recommended starting point for our certifications. MTA certifications provide a foundation for those preparing for the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and MCSD certifications.

Those who have been working with the technology should start with the MCSA or MCSD certification. These are prerequisites for any further certifications. The MCSA certification validates that job seekers have a minimum set of skills to hit the ground running.

The interesting aspect that was not so clear in the previous months is that MCSE and MCSM are not “versioned” because they may cover multiple technologies.

For this reason MCSE and MCSM candidates will be required to recertify every three years, while MCSD candidates will recertify every two years. Initially, recertification requires passing one or two exams or earning the associated Masters certification. Microsoft is exploring other recertification options and will announce those options as appropriate.

MCSA certifications will not expire, but they are just related to the specific technology (like MCSA on Windows Server 2008 or 2012).

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Virtualization, Cloud and Storage Architect. Tech Field delegate. VMUG IT Co-Founder and board member. VMware VMTN Moderator and vExpert 2010-24. Dell TechCenter Rockstar 2014-15. Microsoft MVP 2014-16. Veeam Vanguard 2015-23. Nutanix NTC 2014-20. Several certifications including: VCDX-DCV, VCP-DCV/DT/Cloud, VCAP-DCA/DCD/CIA/CID/DTA/DTD, MCSA, MCSE, MCITP, CCA, NPP.