MCSA or MCSE?

Just to show I know my Microsoft stuff, the certificate will be placed alongside my CCNA and CCNP, I don't see many Linux certifications but I can prove that I know my Linux too. So which is best in your opinion, MCSA or the MCSE? Thanks.

The MCSE is designed for individuals who will "plan, design, and implement Microsoft Windows server solutions and architectures in medium- to large-sized companies."

The MCSA is designed for those who will "Implement, manage, and maintain the typically complex computing environment of medium- to large-sized companies."

Heres a link, titled: MCSA or MCSE: Which Certification is Right for You?
www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/mcsa_mcse.asp

I think I like the MCSE better.

Take a look at the below link. It indicates the differences between both certificates.

www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/mcsa_mcse.asp

My personal opinion (as i've been through all this with an mcsa/mcse in 2000 & now 2003) is the Mcsa is a better route to take.

The only advantage you gain by extending the cert to an Mcse is you learn about designing and planning networks. If you dont know much about this, then fine, go for it but your work experience can teach you just as much and no offence to Bill or anyone but microsofts ideas about designing and planning networks is not very "practical" so to speak. I personally did not gain anything from it and i found after completing the core exams, all the topics were pretty much the same anyway.

Now if you feel the "status" of having Mcse would be best for you, by all means go for it, but you find that the Mcsa is cheaper, more interesting and if you take electives like Exchange/ISA or SQL, you can work towards a specialised Mcsa in security or messaging certification.

www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/mess...indowsserver2003.asp

www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcsa/secu...indowsserver2003.asp

I've found prospective employers dont just look at my cert(if they do at all lol) but more so the exams i took to get it. Your choice of electives therefore, is very important. They dig people with SQL skills for example.

Remember aswell, that to get Mcsa you have to take exams which contribute to the Mcse, so by the time you hit Mcsa status, you can decide whether to carry on or not with the extra 2 or so for an mcse.

Good Luck & dont forget the microsoft certs will only get your foot in the door at most companies. It doesnt hold the respect like it used before the millenium.