Microsoft MCTS Certification Training

It can't be avoided: Not all IT certifications are created equal.

Experts in the information technology field assert that some certs boost earning power and job prospects, while others might not even pay for themselves. Figuring out which certs and accreditations pros can bank on can be tricky.

Since the first Windows operating system hit the market a quarter-century ago, Microsoft has climbed to the top. Recent numbers show that almost nine out of 10 PCs and a growing percentage of servers run a Windows OS, creating many job opportunities for IT professionals with strong Microsoft accreditations. Simply put, Windows proliferation makes Microsoft-specific certifications an important part of any IT pro's credentials.

The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification is among the most valuable accreditations for IT industry veterans and newbies alike, thanks to its broad application and practicality. James McGuire, an IT professional and contributor for Datamation.com, cites the MCTS as one of the most in-demand certs available today and specifically mentions the cert's ability to pad salaries in Datamation's 2011 IT Salary Guide.

Why MCTS certification is relevant today

According to training information, MCTS certification is important because it "provides a foundation" for further Microsoft certifications. This credential displays an IT pro's technical ability in building, implementing, executing, troubleshooting, enhancing and debugging a variety of Microsoft products. MCTS certification deals specifically with some of Microsoft's most widely used platforms, with exams focused on everything from Windows 7 configuration to Bing mapping applications.

Products and technologies covered by MCTS certification can include:

• Windows operating systems
• Microsoft Visual Studio and .NET Framework
• Microsoft SQL Server
• Microsoft Office Systems, including Office SharePoint Server and Office Project Server
• Microsoft Exchange Server

Additionally, MCTS certification comes with options. IT pros and technical specialists can chose specific areas in which to become MCTS-certified or earn the accreditation in multiple areas. Because the MCTS certification is considered a building block, it helps lay the groundwork for further Microsoft accreditations like the advanced Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) cert.

Taking MCTS certification to the bank

According to salary information from the Global Knowledge 2011 IT Skills and Salary report, MCTS certification can pay off in the long run--literally. Statistics show the MCTS certifications can lead to higher earnings, which can vary further by MCTS specialization. Specifically, the report lists common MCTS certifications as paying:

• MCTS: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist - $73,474
• MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration - $72,039
• MCTS: Windows 7 Configuration - $68,876
• MCTS: Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 Configuration - $84,196
• MCTS: Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Configuration - $88,952

By earning the MCTS certification, IT pros can show both potential clients and employers alike their skills specializing in some of the world's most popular platforms and work toward a bigger paycheck, too.