[cocotu]

I'm interested in getting some Microsoft certifications. Would like to start with the MCP or MOS. I know there is a lot of info. on the Internet, but I would prefer to hear from someone that has gotten a certificate or is in the process of getting it. At the moment I have no money to invest in those expensive MS books or anything similar. What do you suggest?

Thanks

[Yankee Rose]

Hi and welcome to TSG.

When I got my first MS cert (many moons ago) I did not use any materials that were purchased to help me study. I used hands-on experience and the internet, which has a VAST amount of information and free study materials available. I personally think that purchasing expensive materials from some of those sites is a waste of money when the information is available for free with a little research online.

There are many forums on the Internet dedicated strictly to IT Certifications. The one that I used to help me at the time has since vanished from view, but if I were starting fresh today I would probably go here: http://www.mcmcse.com/forums/

One word of caution: stay away from any site that advocates braindumps, because that is CHEATING and will not benefit your education in the long run.

Unfortunately, Tech Support Guy does not have a forum dedicated to IT Certifications. I've suggested it in the past but the mods do not feel it is necessary at this point (yet, they have numerous non-technical forums so go figure.) If you do a quick Google search, you can find many reputatable forums which dedicate time to helping those who are seeking certifications from all avenues of technology.

I assume you have hit Microsoft's website to research the MCP?

Best of luck to you.

[loony_taz00]

Can u actually write like a test online and get certified?

[Yankee Rose]

To become certified through Microsoft, you have to take their exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric, which are independent certification testing vendors. MS exams are $125 per test.

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mc...r/default.mspx

The above link also provides information for those interested in taking the exam to become an MS Office Specialist.