MCP Question

[Jeepfreek]

I just recently passed my CCNA exam and am going to take the Network + and A + exams in the near future. I am also going to start my CCNP classes in 2 weeks. I was wondering about the MCP certs. How many tests do you have to take to become an MCP and which ones are possible to take? I think I would be able to pass a couple of them with not much studying time and think it would look better on the resume. Any ideas on this?

 

[KBtrade]

Jeepfreek,

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) candidates are required to pass one current Microsoft certification exam that provides a valid and reliable measure of technical proficiency and expertise (a current exam is any that has not been retired).

http://www.microsoft.com/traincert/mcp/mcp/requirements.asp

I am doing my MCSE certifications right now, so far I have 70-210, 70-215 and 70-217 under my belt.

 

[Jeepfreek]

I read that I don't know how many times and never actually "read" it. Duh.... I just had it in my mind that you had to have at least 2 of certain ones to get the MCP status. I never realized it was just the one. Congrats on the way to the MCSE. Maybe in time I will do the same. Can never really get away from Microsoft. Not yet at least.......

 

[netsysadmin]

Dude you have your CCNA why take the Network + and A+ classes and exams???...I would think you have the basics of networking already??

 

[Jeepfreek]

I want to take them to put the "notches" under my belt. I know the CCNA is more advanced but it can't hurt to have them. IMHO. Anyone else?

 

[netsysadmin]

Well I hope I am not offending anyone here but Network+ & A+ are very basic classes...its like beginning networking...I would take the time you have and put it to good use getting some practical experience...what do you do for a living??..are you working in the IT field right now?...if I was going to hire someone...as an example I would defintaely hire someone with more experience over the person with more certs...I dont think IT managers take Network+ or A+ seriously....they are looking for experience

 

[Jeepfreek]

True but I am not currently working in the IT field and need all the help I can get to get my foot in the door. Can you think of a better way? Like I said, I need all the help or let in on any secrets.

Dan

 

[netsysadmin]

Jeepfreak...how many computers do you have at home??....what kind of networking experience do you have??....did you have any prior to your CCNA class??...what do you want to do in your future...and whats your timeframe that you want to get there?

 

[Jeepfreek]

At home I have 3 networked together right now. I have been doing home networking for the past 3-4 years. I have been playing with computers since 92. I have not had much router experience except what we did in class. I want to be in the IT field. Just about anywhere except programming. Can't stand it. Don't have that kind of personality. I want to get started in the IT industry today! The sooner the better!

 

[netsysadmin]

Have you been trying to get a job in the IT field??...any interviews at all??...its definately hard to get your first position in the field!!...whats your current job status now...its definately easier to break into IT if you do not have to big of a load to carry...such as a wife and kids...try getting a help desk job...be prepared for a not so good salary and to work bad hours...weekends and nights...hang with the admins as much as you can at work and after work during you off hours and show them that you can learn fast....suck up as much info as you can!!...and one thing I can tell you NOT to do is to go into a interview or job position with a cocky attitude...I have seen alot of people that get some CERT's and think they are god after...you will be put in your place very quickly!....go into a interview wth some knowledge and a positive ready to learn attitude...if you are a quick learner try to let the info out slowly...suprise them every once in a while with your ability to learn quickly...dont let the cat out of the bag all at once...also dont be to quick to point out something wrong that a higher level person did...its a good way to get a bad rep...those are few tips just off the top of my head...I have seen other people do some of those mistakes...and I have done at least one of them myself...I learned

Good Luck!!!

 

[rock33]

The Network + and A+ exams have both been recently changed and are now a little harder. Also if you have both you can subsitute that for the elective portion of the MCSA. Take the 70-210 test for the MCP it is the Win 2k Pro exam. I am taking a class tomorrow for that. As for getting into an IT job.....try starting out with a small company and gain experience, or volunteer your time with an organization. The experience will definately help.

Good Luck

 

[Tallgeese]

Experience, experience, experience...will beat most certs ANY time.

Proper attitude as a rookie (exactly as netsysadmin described)is just as important in your career.
Expect to pay some dues...because respect is EARNED, never given (neither by a cert nor a title).

P.S. This very forum is a good example of the aforementioned dynamics...

 

[Jeepfreek]

I appreciate all the repsonses and good information. I have had an interview with a recruiter in Chicago but the main job I was interviewing for is awaiting approval by Cook County. No telling when that will go through. I have really just started posting my resume at different sites. I would no way go in with a cocky attitude. I would be the first to tell you I don't know something but I could probably figure it out or learn very quickly. I am currently working at a small office doing basic desktop help and the networking for them. So I do have a little background in it. The office is more of a glorified home network to be honest with yas. Anyone need some help in the Chicago land area? Fast learner!