In this article, we will specifically talk about MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification and how to get it. We will also take a look at one particular certification exam so you could know how the credential process works.
If you are reading this article, then the chances are high that you already have some knowledge about the various available IT certifications and want to learn more. However, most people who are heading for their first credential rarely know the real extent of the challenge they have to overcome and how beneficial acquiring a proper credential may be in the world of IT.
You may have a fancy degree and many years of experience to back you up during job interviews or promotion discussions, and usually things work the way you expect, but not in this industry. IT businesses and companies mostly pay attention to the nature of certifications that you might have gained in a certain discipline. These credentials have a huge impact on your work and bring you closer to achieving your career objectives.
If you are intended to get some of the best credentials existing in the market, you should pay attention to Microsoft certifications. This company is known not only for its famous Windows OS and other software products but also for a certification program created for IT specialists. The program includes a few proficiency levels, so you can choose the certification path that suits you the best.
In this article, we will specifically talk about MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification and how to get it. We will also take a look at one particular certification exam so you could know how the credential process works.
MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification
So, let’s start from the beginning. To get MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure, first you need to attain one of the four MCSA certifications (associate-level):
• MCSA: Windows Server 2016
• MCSA: Cloud Platform
• MCSA: Linux on Azure
• MCSA: Windows Server 2012
Then, you will be offered 10 exams and you should pass one of them. To be more specific, let’s use 70-473: exam as an example.
This exam is titled as Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions. The test is focused on the topics such as designing and implementing database solutions for Azure SQL Database, disaster recovery, high availability, scalability, and more.
Let's look at this exam in more detail. We will discuss the concept of the test, why people are trying to earn the certification associated with this exam, and how it can help them in advancing their career. Furthermore, we will also touch upon the topics that the exam includes, and how you can prepare to get the certification at the first attempt.
What skills are tested in Microsoft 70-473 exam?
Like all other certification exams, Microsoft 70-473 also has its own set of tested topics. It measures the candidates according to their knowledge of these subjects, and the final test score shows whether the students passes or fails the test. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss in detail all the significant exam topics as this is the most crucial knowledge that you will need to pass this certification test.
One of the most important skills that are tested in Microsoft 70-473 is the candidate’s ability to design, build, and implement security in line with the best practices of the IT industry. It includes your security skills in regard to Azure SQL Database and SQL Server Database. The questions pertaining to these topics cover from 25% to 30% of the entire exam.
Probably the most important skill that is tested is the test taker’s ability to implement and design solutions pertaining to Microsoft Azure SQL Database and Microsoft SQL Server. This part of the exam also covers around 25-30% of Microsoft 70-473 exam. Furthermore, it tests the applicant around his or her abilities in implementing Azure SQL Database and SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines (VMs), as well as designing hybrid SQL Server solutions. This section also includes topics like designing of MySQL, PostgreSQL database, Azure SQL Database, and SQL Server in Azure.
Another major objective of the certification exam is to ensure that the candidate is adequately prepared for managing and monitoring implementation of databases in Azure. This portion of the test also includes from 25% to 30% of the total number of question. It also tests the professional’s abilities in troubleshooting and managing SQL Database and SQL Server Virtual Machines on Azure along with the skills connected to the management and automation of database implementations on Azure.
Finally, the last major objective around which the exam positions itself is the abilities of the candidates to come up with designs that are tailor-made for scalability, high availability, and disaster recovery. Just like the previous three sections, this one takes up 25-30% of the entire certification exam. It further explores the test taker’s knowledge and abilities in the area of designing and implementing of scalable and highly available solutions, as well as Azure SQL Database data recovery.
Who should pass this Microsoft exam?
IT certifications are not meant for everyone. There are certain individuals who are more capable and better prepared for a particular program or certificate, and there is a chance that some may not be eligible altogether. Hence, it is important for a student to identify his or her strengths, career direction, and objectives before actually applying for this certification exam.
This particular credential is specifically designed for those individuals who are directly involved in working with Microsoft SQL Server to create and manage data platform solutions of all sorts. The certificate will give a guarantee that you possess all the skills that are necessary to work with Microsoft SQL Server. It also further pronounces your achievements in the IT sphere, and also gives confidence to the recruiters regarding your knowledge about running SQL Server Virtual Machines on Azure. In brief, it focuses on a person’s abilities around relational databases and SQL Server.
How to prepare for the test?
Microsoft 70-473 exam is in no way an easy mountain to climb as it requires patience and a certain level of preparation for the candidate to pass it. However, you should not lose heart, as below we will mention some of the reliable preparatory methods that can help you in achieving your goal without taking a lot of stress.
One of the easiest methods to prepare for the test is to enroll in a training course that covers all the certification exam topics that you need to know. This is extremely easy as there are so many renowned IT companies out there that are offering such courses to make your preparation easier.
If training courses are not your option, then you can try preparing yourself with the help of practice tests, recommended study books, and online exam dumps. This way you will develop an understanding of the nature of the questions that form Microsoft 70-473 exam. However, since you will not have any teachers or instructors to check your progress, you will have to be more alert and vigilant to ensure that your self-preparation is effective enough.
What’s next?
If you already have one of the numerous Microsoft 70-473 Exam Dumps credentials, you can consider the next MCSE options for further certification:
To get MCSE Productivity Solutions Expert certification, you may pass one of the exams listed below:
• 70-331: Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013. This exam tests the skills related to SharePoint topology, SharePoint farms, site collections and web applications, and more.
• 70-333: Deploying Enterprise Voice with Skype for Business 2015. This test includes topics such as managing, deploying, configuring, and troubleshooting Enterprise Voice.
• 70-341: Core Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2013. This test is dedicated to installing, configuring, and managing Client Access, Transport, and Mailbox Role.
Upon completing MCSA certification, such as Web Applications, you can get MCSD credential. To get MCSD App Builder certification you just need to pass 70-487 exam.
Previously, you needed to pass one more exam to gain this credential -70-488 exam, but unfortunately or luckily, this test retired quite some time ago.
Exam 70-488: Developing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions was testing the skills associated with SharePoint sites, SharePoint solutions, creating of the Office apps, and more.
Still, if you have a suitable MCSA background, you can get MCSE: Mobility certification by passing one exam:
70-695: Deploying Windows Desktops and Enterprise Applications. This exam is intended to test the skills related to Lite Touch deployment, Zero Touch deployment, device images, and more.
To get the information about prerequisites for MCSE certification, visit Microsoft.com website.
Conclusion
In the end, it should be noted that this credential is in high demand among the IT employees as it opens up various new avenues for aspiring and ambitious professionals who are working not only to make ends meet but also to bring value to their companies and earn a name for themselves. Whether you decided to take 70-473, 70-695, 70-331, 70-333, 70-341, or 70-488 exam, don’t forget to use only reliable preparation resources.
