Get SQL Server Certified: What you need to know about the SQL Server 2008 Administrator (70-432) Exam

Posted on May 5th, 2009 by Gosia Grabowska

SQL Server Certification

Want to get SQL Server Certified?

There are 3 certification paths that you can select in the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 area:

  • Implementation and Maintenance
  • Database Development
  • Business Intelligence Development and Maintenance

Today I will discuss the first area and show you how you can become a MCTS certified SQL Server Database Administrator by passing a single exam: 70-432 Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Implementation and Maintenance.

Exam Information

Unfortunately Microsoft keeps most of the exam information in a very secret, secure location so finding reliable information is close to impossible. Luckily, I was able to compile some info from folks that already took this exam. It is just a jumping off point, so keep in mind that your exam may be a little different as Microsoft is known to make changes on the fly.


There are about 50 questions total on the 70-432 exam.  Many people I spoke to told me that the 70-432 exam is a so called “case study” exam; meaning you will have 6 case studies on the exam, and in each case study there will be between 4-12 questions related to a specific scenario.  Each scenario is about a page and a half long, and consists of paragraphs, exhibits, system requirements, etc.  To complete each case study you will have from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the scenario.

One important thing to remember is that each case study is timed separately. Once you complete a case study and the questions, you cannot return to it to make edits. Some of the exam takers suggest skimming the case studies quickly, then continuing to the questions. You can always go back to the scenario for reference and more information while answering questions. 

Keep in mind that a lot of people say that there is not enough time to completely read the case study and answer all of the questions — so get to the questions as quickly as possible.

In order to pass this exam you will need a score of at least 700 which is standard for Microsoft Certifications.

SQL Server Topics Coverage

Here are the major topics covered on the exam:

  • Installing and Configuring SQL Server 2008 (10 percent)
  • Maintaining SQL Server Instances (13 percent)
  • Managing SQL Server Security (15 percent)
  • Maintaining a SQL Server Database (16 percent)
  • Performing Data Management Tasks (14 percent)
  • Monitoring and Troubleshooting SQL Server (13 percent)
  • Optimizing SQL Server Performance (10 percent)
  • Implementing High Availability (9 percent)

For more detailed description of each topic visit Microsoft site.

Do I Need to Have Experience to Take the 70-432 Exam?

Microsoft recommends that all candidates for the 70-432 exam should have at least 1 to 2 years of experience using SQL Server 2008 or 2 to 3 years of experience in previous versions of SQL Server.

Does that mean that if you do not have any experience in SQL Server you will not be allowed to take this exam?  No. If you feel confident that you can pass the exam without any real world experience you can still sign up and take it. 

I would strongly suggest, however, building your own SQL Server environment and practicing all the requirements before actually taking the exam.

Do I Need Any Prerequisites Before Taking the 70-432 Exam?

Good news!  No prerequisites.  This can be your first Microsoft MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist) certification.

You don’t need to be familiar with any other databases, or any other technologies to embark on your SQL Server career.

Resources and Training Info

We’re currently only a couple of weeks away from releasing our SQL Server Administration course that will completely cover all the 70-432 exam objectives. Our real world scenarios will help you get the experience you need and the Transcender’s practice exams will prepare you for the exam.   

Visit our SQL Server 2008 Administration page for more information.

Microsoft also provides SQL Server training for this exam.  You can sign up for it here.

And here are a couple of books that you can get to help you prepare for the exam:

Where to Start

First, I would definitely suggest to either sign up for a class, grab a book or check out a video course.  Get all the basic information under your belt and practice what you have learned.  If you learn how to install SQL Server 2008 — practice it.  Get on your machine and install it a couple of times without any help.  Then configure it, break it, and go back and fix it. That’s the best way to learn.

Once you have completed all of your training start taking practice exams. Then go back to more practice, if needed, and retake the practice exams again. Allow yourself some time to study; depending on your previous knowledge it may take you anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to get ready to take the exam.  Remember — don’t rush!  Take your time; this is not a race.

Once you register for the exam, check with Microsoft to find out if a free second chance to pass your MS certification is available.  Currently it’s available until June 30 and it costs you nothing — see all details here.

What are the Benefits for Passing this Exam?

SQL server is used widely in almost every company. You can be a SQL Administrator for small, medium, or large organizations.  In this economy, SQL experience and certification will expand your horizons and open doors to new opportunities!

Good luck and let me know how you do!

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2 Responses to “Get SQL Server Certified: What you need to know about the SQL Server 2008 Administrator (70-432) Exam”

  • Kevin Says:

    May 14th, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    Any info on the following exams:

    Database Development
    Business Intelligence Development and Maintenance

  • Kevin Says:

    May 29th, 2009 at 1:44 pm

    Can you provide a date when training material will be available for exam 70-433 ?

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