Getting Microsoft certified is an excellent way to boost your career or to increase your credibility if you are looking for a job. Many employers seek candidates who have earned their MCSA (Microsoft Certified System Administrator) or MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) because it shoes them that these people have the dedication and knowledge when it comes to Microsoft operating systems and networking. Deciding which certification to get can be a difficult decision.

The MCSA certification from Microsoft only requires four exams and is the first step to getting your MCSE. So, many people who have their MCSE already have their MCSA. If you are just starting out, though, you may just opt for your MCSA. This can be quickly obtained either through self study or some online distance learning courses. The MCSA 2012 exam is not as tough as the MCSE tests. The MCSA certification is great for people who are looking for a job where you will be administering an already existing Microsoft network. These IT professionals are the ones with the day-to-day responsibilities of maintaining the network, users, and assets on the network.

An MCSE certification proves you have a deeper knowledge of the Microsoft environment and is ideal for the person who is responsible for a larger, more complex network. If you have a domain controller with DNS or even multiple domains in an enterprise-wide forest, then you are looking at the responsibilities of an MCSE. These networks can be extremely complicated and network security will be an important aspect of the MCSE's responsibility. If you work in this type of environment or wish to work in this type of environment, passing the seven exams required of an MCSE proves that you have the knowledge and skill set to handle this larger, more complex network.

The one big differentiation between the two certifications is the amount of work, study and knowledge involved to pass the exams. The MCSA exams are much easier (although they are not easy by any standards!) than the ones for the MCSE. This is because the job requirements of an MCSE are much higher than that of the MCSA. Also, the costs associated with earning the MCSE are higher since there are more exam requirements and hence, more studying, more classes, and more study materials that are required. Also, the cost to take the exams will be much higher.

So, if you are an IT professional or desire to become one, getting your MCSA is your first step to getting your MCSE. If you don't have the time or finances, you can always start with the MCSA certification, and then later earn your MCSE. This can be a better way to ease into the more difficult certification process.