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Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification, or MCSE, is a program developed and offered by Microsoft that gives a person expertise in using Microsoft operating systems. As the most popular of accreditations in the MCP (or Microsoft Certified Professional) program, an MCSE in Alabama is recognized worldwide. The series of standardized tests given at a Microsoft approved testing facility allows one to earn this credential thereby increasing their value to employers.

An individual with an MCSE certification stands out from other IT professionals in that the training involved in earning the credential requires extensive training. Passing the exams for certification ensure that a master level of expertise has been acquired that goes above and beyond the average IT training course. It is a qualification that lets employers know that there is a true expert of Microsoft server systems in their midst.

Since operating systems use Microsoft, those with MCSE certification are deemed quite a valuable asset. A person can earn their certification for either Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003. Although the exam topics for the two are mostly the same, there are different elements that make the tests different from each other. Those earning their certification in either one of the Windows systems can then specialize in messaging or security.

This certification is highly suitable for technical consultants, systems engineers, systems and network analysts and technical support engineers. Duties of certified individuals require that they be able to not only install network systems but also know how to configure and trouble shoot them. Often, they are part of a team that provides daily onsite administrative support, maintaining and monitoring the system network.

Candidates for this credential generally work in medium to large companies or agencies that require or use multifaceted computer technology. The networks in their experience have at least 200 to 26,000 users with 5 to 150 physical locations. They are experienced in handling the connectivity needs of offices, remote locations and corporate networks; and they have the ability to make all three Internet ready.

Although these skilled individuals tend to be found in professional offices, businesses, major corporations and government agencies, it is not uncommon for those with MCSE certification to also act as consultants in certain situations. This can have them out of their own workplace quite regularly and into other types of work environments, providing an opportunity to collaborate with others.

Many who earn this certification find that their new qualifications can put them in high demand in their field. As technology grows and changes, the skills of IT professionals must grow and change also and recertification will be required from time to time. Often, companies subsidize the cost of re-certifications for their employees. Those who choose to earn and stay certified for the MCSE will find their earning power greatly increased.

There are other benefits to earning a MCSE credential. Not only do certified professionals earn the respect of their industry, they also have direct access to Microsoft technological and product information. At times, discounts on products and services are available and invites to conferences, technical training sessions and other special events are a regular occurrence. These opportunities help to keep professionals up to date on new and pioneering software advances.

Thanks to the everyday use of computers, there is hardly a place one can go that doesn't require the skills of an IT professional. Those with an MCSE in Alabama not only stand out above other IT professionals but are more likely to have an easier time with career placement, as many employers believe that certifications improve work performance and productivity while giving a company a competitive advantage.