Best Microsoft Certifications

FAQ - Microsoft Certifications

• What is a Microsoft certification?

  A Microsoft certification is a credential that validates your technical expertise, particularly in roles that utilize Microsoft technologies. Microsoft provides more than 250 certifications across various levels of proficiency, each linked to specific exams. Some of these certifications can be obtained independently, while others may need to be earned in a sequential series. Microsoft generally requires professionals to renew their certifications annually to confirm their up-to-date knowledge of the products and related industry trends.

• What is Microsoft?‎

  Microsoft is a leading global provider of computer software, services, and business applications. It develops, licenses, and supports a broad spectrum of technology processes, software, and internet services for billions of users worldwide. For decades, Microsoft has played a pivotal role in the global shift towards a digital economy and lifestyle. Microsoft provides productivity and business software to large corporations globally and offers a range of cloud-based solutions for small-to-medium-sized businesses. In addition to managing the Windows operating system and cloud services, Microsoft also produces accessories for personal computers and owns gaming platforms, search engines, and enterprise software.

• What are the benefits of taking Microsoft Certification courses?

  Taking Microsoft certification courses can benefit you both personally and professionally. 

  Enhanced Technical Skills: Develops in-depth knowledge and skills in Microsoft technologies, essential for various IT roles.

  Career Advancement: Increases job opportunities and potential for promotion, as certifications demonstrate validated expertise to employers.

  Higher Earning Potential: Often leads to higher salaries due to recognized skills and qualifications.

  Professional Credibility: Establishes your commitment to professional growth and staying current in the technology field.

  Networking Opportunities: Access to a global community of certified professionals, which can lead to career and learning opportunities.

• What are typical career opportunities that can arise from learning Microsoft?

  Learning Microsoft products can unlock a diverse range of career opportunities. Upon getting Microsoft certified, one can explore job roles like Microsoft Office Specialist, IT support technician, systems administrator, cloud solutions architect (with Azure), software developer, or data analyst. These roles are prevalent across industries.

  Administrators and business analysts use Microsoft Office for data management. System administrators use Microsoft Server products to maintain computer systems. Developers use Microsoft development tools like .NET to build applications.

• Why is it valuable to learn about Microsoft?

  Learning about Microsoft and getting Microsoft Training is important because Microsoft products and technologies influence various aspects of modern life, from software development to cloud computing. Understanding Microsoft's innovations and tools can enhance technical skills, improve career opportunities, and keep one informed about trends in the tech industry.

  Microsoft certifications are highly valuable as it validate expertise in Microsoft technologies, enhancing career prospects and earning potential. It is recognized globally and often preferred by employers, demonstrating a commitment to professional development and technical proficiency.

• Do Microsoft certifications expire?

  Yes, Microsoft certifications do expire. The expiry process depends upon the type of certification. However, certifications can now be renewed online for free. To keep your certification active, you must apply for the free renewal within six months of getting certified. You can keep doing this for an additional year in perpetuity. The different types of Microsoft certifications are-

  • Fundamentals certifications- These certifications (such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Fundamentals) do not expire.

  • Role-based and specialty certifications- Most certifications, like Azzure administrator, Azure Developer, etc., are valid for one year. After that, you need to renew them. Microsoft provides free renewal exams, which can be taken online through the Microsoft Learn platform.

  • Legacy certifications: Older certifications, such as those in the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) series, typically remain valid for a period (often two or three years) and then need to be renewed or replaced by newer certifications as technologies and roles evolve.

• How can online courses help me learn Microsoft?

  Online courses can help a lot in learning Microsoft. Simplilearn online courses provide structured lessons, interactive exercises, and expert guidance tailored to different skill levels, which assist students in learning various Microsoft tools. 

  They offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and revisit materials as needed. Additionally, many courses include practical projects and certifications to demonstrate your proficiency.

• Can you get a job with just Microsoft Certifications?

  Getting Microsoft certified sets your candidature apart in the job market and thus improves your chances of getting hired. Simplilearn Microsoft certifications validate your skills and knowledge in specific Microsoft technologies, making you a desirable candidate for roles like system administrator, network administrator, or cloud specialist. However, getting a job with a Microsoft certification can be put into perspective. Along with Microsoft training, it is essential to get hands-on experience to get a job, especially in IT and tech-related fields.

• How to get a Microsoft certification?

  Follow these basic steps to earn a Microsoft certification:

  Choose a Certification: Select a Microsoft certification that aligns with your career goals and expertise level from the wide range offered.

  Prepare for the Exam: Utilize Microsoft's learning paths, training materials, and practice tests to prepare.

  Register for the Exam: Schedule your exam through Microsoft's official certification dashboard or a licensed testing center.

  Take the Exam: Attend the exam on your scheduled date and time, either online or at a testing center.

  Pass the Exam: Achieve the required passing score to earn your certification.

  Maintain Certification: Keep your certification current by completing any required renewals or continuing education as specified by Microsoft.

• Does Simplilearn have corporate training solutions?

  Yes, Simplilearn for Business offers learning solutions for the latest AI and other digital skills, including industry certifications. For talent development strategy, we work with Fortune 500 and mid-sized companies with short skill-based certification training and role-based learning paths. We also offer a learning library with unlimited live and interactive solutions - Simplilearn Learning Hub+, which is accessible to your entire workforce. Our team of curriculum consultants works with each client to select and deploy the learning solutions that best meet their teams’ requirements.