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MCDST - Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician

Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technicians (MCDSTs) troubleshoot desktop environments running on the Microsoft Windows operating system. The MCDST certification validates the fundamental skills needed to enter the IT industry as a support desk professional. The desktop support technician role helps end-users be more productive with Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office. For individuals who are ready to begin a successful career path and take advantage of job market opportunities, the MCDST certification puts them on the right track to get a job that meets increasing support services demand.


Launch a successful IT career

Organizations need qualified entry-level professionals to support the Microsoft Windows Desktop Operating System environment. There are an estimated 100,000 IT desktop support jobs available in the United States.1 In addition, demand for support specialists is expected to grow more than 90% between now and 2010.2

Start with the right foundation

For career entrants looking to enter the IT industry or current support desk representatives looking to differentiate themselves, MCDST training and certification demonstrate to employers and clients valuable troubleshooting skills supporting end-users with the Windows Desktop Operating System.

The MCDST certification also provides a framework for learning and validating the skills that support technicians need. Individuals learn valuable skills and best practices consistent with IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF) foundational operations which are emphasized throughout all of the training content.

Move ahead of the competition with quality, flexible learning solutions
Prepare for the MCDST certification exams with Official Microsoft Learning Products. Designed with the help of Microsoft Product Support Services staff, content, scenarios, and troubleshooting methods are derived from customers with real-world problems.

All learning products and exams are reviewed and approved by Microsoft product support staff, product developers, service experts, and technical editors to ensure the most accurate information for the Windows Desktop Operating System. A Microsoft Certified Partner for Learning Solutions (Microsoft CPLS) can deliver these learning resources as well as other consultative services tailored to individual needs.

The value of MCDST certification to IT professionals:

  • Validates the baseline skills needed to enter the IT industry as a support professional.
  • Helps accelerate support technician careers by providing a structured framework for learning skills.
  • Distinguishes job candidates from their peers.
  • Enhances job satisfaction through increased technical competency.
  • Provides a knowledge foundation for additional Microsoft certifications.

The value of MCDST certification to hiring managers and organizations:

  • Provides a tangible benchmark for identifying qualified candidates for a support technician role.
  • Gives organizations a competitive advantage by enabling outstanding and consistent customer service.
  • Helps increase operational efficiency and reduce business costs.

The Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) credential proves that you have the skills to successfully support end-users and to successfully troubleshoot desktop environments that are running the Microsoft Windows operating system.

MCDST candidates are required to pass two core exams:

  • Exam 70-271: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting a Microsoft Windows XP Operating System
  • Exam 70-272: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting Desktop Applications on a Microsoft Windows XP Operating System