NT 4 or Windows 2000 certification?

by Ron Nutter

February 12, 2001 —

Last year I started taking an NT 4 Microsoft Certified Software Engineer (MCSE) course but I didn't take the tests. Now the Windows 2000 server course is here and I really need to finish my MCSE. Should I finish taking the NT 4 tests since I already took the course or should I take the Windows 2000 server course? Please advise so I can finish this certification.

-- RUSEL REYES

The best way to proceed depends on how much you still remember from the NT 4 course. Microsoft recently announced that the NT 4 exams would remain available until the end of February. Keep in mind that seating availability is limited at these testing centers. You will also need to carefully choose your electives. If you can pass all the NT 4 exams by the end of February, you should only need to take two additional exams for a Windows 2000 MCSE.

If you opt for Windows 2000 MCSE instead, you will need to take as many as seven additional exams. You may want to finish your NT 4 exams first and then move on to the Windows 2000. Holding a certification in two versions of the NT operating system could give you an advantage in the reseller and consultant communities. NT 4 is not going away overnight. Third parties such as Oracle have yet to announce support for Windows 2000 for their Oracle 8i accounting system.

Your decision should be based on how many tests you can afford, how many exams you feel like taking and how much time you can put aside for studying and taking tests. There is no one right path. Look at what your local job market has listed as requirements for employment. This will help you decide which MCSE certification in your area is most in demand.

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