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MCSE - Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) credential is the premier certification for professionals who can successfully design, plan, and implement a network infrastructure, Active Directory–based infrastructure, and client deployment on the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 platform. They also perform maintenance at a high level for a medium- to large-sized Windows Server 2003–based environment.

Technology that combines functionality, reliability, and seamless integration

Windows Server 2003 is Microsoft’s most scalable, reliable, and high-performing server operating system to date, built to handle the most complex business applications. It is designed to simplify migration from previous versions of Windows, manage mission-critical data with enhanced security technology, and provide maximum server uptime for sophisticated business needs.

MCSE certification is the benchmark of success

Professional certification designates you as a top-tier IT professional. When you follow the Windows Server 2003 learning path, you can strive to achieve the highest certification: MCSE on Windows Server 2003. You can earn the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) credential as you work toward achieving the MCSE certification. Investigate your short-term and long term plans and choose the exams that best meet your professional goals.

Demonstrate your specific expertise by earning a certification specialization

To recognize those systems engineers whose job role focuses on implementing and maintaining server security, Microsoft offers the new MCSE: Security certification specialization. Systems engineers with expertise in the management of a Microsoft Exchange Server messaging infrastructure can pursue the new MCSE: Messaging certification specialization.

The value of MCSE certification to IT professionals:

  • Certification validates your ability to design a network and infrastructure based on the Active Directory service, as well as implement and administer a network and desktop operating system.
  • The MCSE credential enhances and distinguishes your professional status as a systems engineer.
  • Certification improves proficiency with Windows Server 2003 by raising awareness of time-saving product features and capabilities.

The value of MCSE certification to hiring managers and organizations:

  • Certification strengthens organizations by identifying top-quality talent that is proficient on Windows Server 2003.
  • MCSE-certified staff are better able to increase customer satisfaction and decrease support costs through improved service, productivity, and technical self-sufficiency.
  • Microsoft certifications serve as reliable benchmarks for hiring and promotions.

Target Audience:


IT professionals who analyze the business requirements and design, plan, and implement the infrastructure for business solutions based on the Microsoft Windows Server System integrated server software.

Typical job titles for MCSE:

  • Systems Engineer
  • Technical Support Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Network Analyst
  • Technical Consultant

MCSE candidates should have at least one year of experience planning, implementing, and analyzing business solutions with Microsoft products and technologies.

 MCSE certification exam requirements

MCSE candidates will be required to pass six core exams and one elective exam.
To fulfill the core certification requirements, pass all four required exams focused on Core Networking, pass one of the two Core Client exams, and one of the two Core Design exams. Finally, pass one elective exam to complete the certification.

Core Exams (6 Exams Required)

To fulfill the core certification requirements, all four required exams focused on Core Networking:

  • Exam 70-290: Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment
  • Exam 70-291: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure
  • Exam 70-293: Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure
  • Exam 70-294: Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure

Pass one of the two Core Client exams:

  • Exam 70-270: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows® XP Professional
  • Exam 70-210: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

Then, pass one of the two Core Design exams:

  • Exam 70-298: Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
  • Exam 70-210: Designing Security for a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network

Elective Exams (1 Exams Required)

You must also pass one elective exam that provides proof of expertise with a specific Microsoft product.

  • Exam 70-086: Implementing and Supporting Microsoft Systems Management Server 2.0
  • Exam 70-227: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2000, Enterprise Edition
  • Exam 70-228: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft SQL Server™ 2000 Enterprise Edition
  • Exam 70-229: Designing and Implementing Databases with Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Enterprise Edition
  • Exam 70-232: Implementing and Maintaining Highly Available Web Solutions with Microsoft Windows 2000 Server Technologies and Microsoft Application Center 2000
  • Exam 70-281: Planning, Deploying, and Managing an Enterprise Project Management Solution
  • Exam 70-282: Designing, Deploying, and Managing a Network Solution for a Small- and Medium-Sized Business
  • Exam 70-284: Designing, Deploying, and Managing a Network Solution for a Small- and Medium-Sized Business
  • Exam 70-285: Designing, Deploying, and Managing a Network Solution for a Small- and Medium-Sized Business
  • Exam 70-297: Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
  • Exam 70-298: Designing Security for a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network
  • Exam 70-299: Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network
  • Exam 70-301: Managing, Organizing, and Delivering IT Projects by Using Microsoft Solutions Framework 3.0

As an alternative to the electives listed above, these Microsoft certifications may substitute for an MCSA elective:

  • MCSA: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator on Microsoft Windows 2000
  • MCSE: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer on Microsoft Windows 2000
  • MCSE: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer on Microsoft Windows NT 4.0

As an alternative to the electives listed above, these third-party certification combinations may substitute for an MCSA elective:

  • CompTIA Security+