Understanding Microsoft Exam 70-290

Exam 70-290 which is also known as 'Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment' is a type of Microsoft certification which is specially anticipated for professionals with IT background. It is available since August 14, 2003. Nowadays, this certification has become essential for those who work mainly in the IT world. This exam is usually being conducted in English language.



So, what are the implications of this certification for an IT professional?

First of all, passing this exam is a requirement for you to be known as a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). Other than that, it is also counted as the core credit for other certifications such as Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server 2003, Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003 and Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) on Windows Server 2003.

This Exam 70-290 basically evaluates your ability and knowledge based on the objectives set below;

Manage and Maintain Physical and Logical Devices

It tests your skill in managing the basic disks and dynamic disks and at the same time optimizing the server disk performance. You will have to know about Device Manager, Control Panel items and how to monitor, troubleshoot, install and configure server hardware devices as well.

Manage Users, Computers and Group

From this exam, you will get to know how to create and manage groups of user accounts. At the same time, if there's any problem which occurs you will be able to do the troubleshooting immediately.

Manage and Maintain Access to Resources

You will also learn to configure and manage shared folders with permissions effectively.

Manage and Maintain a Server Environment

You will be assessed to supervise, evaluate and optimize a server environment and to manage software and servers efficiently.

Manage and Implement Disaster Recovery

Lastly, this exam requires you to be competent in performing system recovery by using Automated System Recovery (ASR) - manage backup files, recover system failure and restore the data.

Knowing the basic idea of this exam doesn't mean that you will pass it easily. There are some preparations needed in order to pass with flying colors. It is best for you to have hands-on experience and practice on the product itself with the help of available training resources.

1. Training Class

There are several training classes which are available to guide you such as Managing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment and Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment.

2. Tests

Find some online tests that will increase your knowledge on this exam.

3. Press Books

If you are someone who loves reading, find some press books that are suitable for this exam such as MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment, Second Edition or MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Second Edition.

4. Ask Around

You might find it by asking around people who have the experience in taking this exam. Get their advice before sitting for the exam. At the same time, you can join some online forums with lots of ideas and suggestions for you to prepare for the exam.

This Exam 70-290 is not that difficult to pass as most of the questions are multiple choices type. Basically, it examines you on your basic knowledge that you will be handling with in the future. Don't be panic and answer each of the questions calmly. You will need at least 700 to pass the exam out of 1000. There are 45 questions to be answered and the allotted time is 2 hours and 55 minutes. Remember, being the first to finish doesn't guarantee you a passing mark but to answer the questions correctly, will. All the best!

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