In Part 1: AD RMS – Data Access Controls we learned about file access controls to data and resources by leveraging permissions via NTFS and share restrictions.

Part 2: AD RMS – Encryption covered the Encrypting File System and BitLocker functionality.

Part 3: AD RMS – Features & Operational Considerations covered some of the higher level features and operational considerations of the technology, reviewing content permission and control.

In today’s post I will be outlining the system requirements of Active Directory Rights Management Services as well as other dependencies for the service.

AD RMS System Requirements

Like any other application, Active Directory Rights Management Services has minimum and recommended system requirements.

Server 2008 R2 and Internet Information Services (IIS) are required in order to successfully install and initialize AD RMS. Additionally, AD RMS also requires access to a database server with SQL Server being identified as part of the system requirements. The database can be run either on the same server as AD RMS or on a remote server.

As defined by Microsoft the “requirement” for AD RMS is:

One (1) Pentium 4 Processors running at 3 GHz or higher
512 MB of RAM
40 GB of free hard disk space

The recommended configuration is:

Two (2) Pentium 4 Processors running at 3 GHz or higher
1 GB of RAM
80 GB of free hard disk space

AD RMS Software Requirements

Below are the software requirements for running your Server 2008 R2 based configuration on the Active Directory Rights Management Services role:

The File system installed should be NTFS and Message Queuing needs to be enabled.

Internet Information Services (IIS) is needed as well as ASP.NET.

Your Server 2008 R2 system in the AD RMS role must be installed in an Active Directory domain. The domain controllers need to be running Windows Server 2000 with Service Pack 3 (SP3), Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, or Windows Server 2008 R2.

An additional requirement is that all users and groups who need to use AD RMS to acquire licenses and publish content must have an e-mail address configured in Active Directory.

AD RMS also requires a database server and Microsoft’s outlined requirements recommend SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server 2008. (SQL Server 2000 is not supported).

Additional Considerations

Before AD RMS can be installed there are several additional considerations that need to be reviewed:

The AD RMS server needs to be installed as a member server in the same domain as the user accounts that will be leveraging the service.

You will need to create a domain user account to be used as the AD RMS service account.

You need to also specify a user account to be used for the installation of AD RMS; this account needs to be different than the AD RMS service account and it must have access to query the Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) domain.

If you are going to register the AD RMS service connection point (SCP) during installation, the specified user account installing must be a member of the Domain Enterprise Admins group (or have at least the equivalent permissions).

With respect to using an external database server for the AD RMS databases, the user account must have the right to create new databases. If SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server 2008 is used, the user account must be a member of the System Administrators database role, or equivalent

A Few More Recommendations

Microsoft best practices also details the following additional recommendations:

The database server used to host the AD RMS databases should be installed on a separate computer.

When installing an AD RMS cluster, secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates should be used and it should be issued from a trusted root certification authority.

You will need to create a DNS alias (CNAME) record for the AD RMS cluster URL and a separate CNAME record for the computer hosting the AD RMS configuration database. This is helpful in a scenario where the AD RMS servers are no longer in use or taken out of service as the CNAME record can be updated without having to publish all rights-protected files again.

If you are using a named instance for the AD RMS configuration database, the SQL Server Browser service must be started on the database server before installing AD RMS. If the SQL Server Browser service is not started the AD RMS installation will not be able to locate the configuration database and the installation will fail.

And that’s as far as system recommendations and other considerations for AD RMS go.

Next time, we’ll finally get to the fun part — installing AD RMS on a Server 2008 R2 system!

Related posts:

• Active Directory Rights Management Services: Features & Operational Considerations
• Active Directory Rights Management Services: Data Access Controls
• Active Directory Rights Management Services: Encryption – EFS and BitLocker

In my last post about SQL Server Certification we talked about the SQL Server 2008 Administrator (70-432) Exam. 

I also told you that there are 3 different types of SQL certifications:

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

Since exam 70-432 focuses on Implementation and Maintenance and we already covered it, now it’s time to talk about the second type of SQL certification: Database Development. 

You can obtain the MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Database Development certification by passing a single exam: 70-433 Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Database Development.

70-433 Exam Details

As we all know, Microsoft doesn’t like to share the details of their exams with anyone. They change their exams periodically to throw people off and keep them on their toes. I was able to get some info about the 70-433 exam but keep in mind that this information might change by the time you read this.

I don’t think it’s going to be completely different, but some things like the total number of questions, or the depth of coverage for specific topics might be different. So just keep that in mind when you are preparing for this exam, ok?

I think the best news is — you do not need any prerequisites to take this exam. This is an entry level exam for a database developer.  You will receive your MCTS status after passing this single exam.

The Microsoft Learning site states that anyone who wants to take this exam should be an IT professional who “works in jobs in which database development is their main area of responsibility, or they work in environments in which databases are central to their primary job roles. These job roles include the following:

• IT generalists who work in environments in which SQL Server 2008 is part of an overall solution
• IT professionals who manage systems that run SQL Server 2008
• Developers who build applications that use SQL Server 2008
• IT professionals who work with third-party applications that are built on SQL Server 2008″

Does that mean you can’t take this exam if you are just entering the field.  Nope — nobody is going to ask you where you work of what your title is if you go to take the exam, so don’t worry. If you have the desire to get the SQL Server Developer cert then go for it!

I heard that there are about 60 questions for this exam with 3 hours to complete it.  This might not be 100% accurate however, as the person who took this exam doesn’t remember exactly.  (Sorry guys, I guess we need more certified SQL developers out there so I can bother them with my questions. If you do find exact numbers please share them in the comments with everyone.)

The passing score is the usual 700.  I say, “usual” because most of Microsoft exams have a passing score of 700 — so that’s easy to remember. From what I heard, this exam isn’t too difficult; you should be able to pass it after adequately preparing for it.

70-433 Exam Topics

The following topics are covered in this particular exam:

• Implementing Tables and Views (14 percent)
• Implementing Programming Objects (16 percent)
• Working with Query Fundamentals (21 percent)
• Applying Additional Query Techniques (15 percent)
• Working with Additional SQL Server Components (11 percent)
• Working with XML Data (12 percent)
• Gathering Performance Information (11 percent)

There is also a detailed version of this list at Microsoft Learning. It has a list of subtopics and other detailed information for this exam.

Where to Start?

Like with any other exam preparation I would start by getting some type of training material: a book, a training video or singing up for an instructor lead class.  You will get a better understanding of SQL databases with some previous database experience.  What you need is basic knowledge of what a database is and how it functions. 

If you are a complete n00b to SQL and are interested in learning the basics before studying for the developer exam, check out our free SQL 101 training videos — they are really good (I reviewed them all so you can trust me).

How About Experience?

Well, sure experience is great.  But how are you supposed to get hands-on experience with SQL when you are trying to get into the field? 

Easy — you get your own server, install a free trial version of SQL Server 2008 and practice, practice, and then practice some more. 

Follow examples from the book or video that you’re learning from and do them on your server. Make sure to break something and then try to fix it. Don’t just reinstall SQL, put your troubleshooting skills to the test and see if you can fix ‘em.  That will be extremely helpful in your position as a SQL Developer since there is no way you can just re-install the database everyone is working on.

Do I Need This Certification?

Certification is not everything; in my opinion, you need the knowledge more than your certification. The cert will however be beneficial if you’re trying to get a job as a SQL Server developer. So since you are going after the knowledge then why not get the proof that you know your stuff.

Does Train Signal have SQL Database Developer Training?

At the moment, we are very close to having the complete SQL Server Developer training available. 

I am currently working with Mel Haynes, our SQL Server Instructor on all the final videos that are going to be included in this course. We are very close — cross your fingers so that we can have it released in early September!

Related posts:

• Get SQL Server Certified: What you need to know about the SQL Server 2008 Administrator (70-432) Exam
• MCTS Demystified: What you need to know about the Server 2008 Applications Infrastructure (exam 70-643) Certification
• MCTS Demystified: What you need to know about the Server 2008 Network Infrastructure (exam 70-642) Certification

Mel and I recently did a bonus video on how to install SQL Server 2008 on Hyper-V for our SQL Server 2008 Administration and Hyper-V trainings and today we wanted to share a short clip from that video.

The complete video on how to install SQL Server on Hyper-V will be available as a bonus video in both the Hyper-V and SQL Server 2008 Administration courses.

So check out the short video clip and let us know what you think!

Related posts:

• How to Use Hyper-V and WDS to Virtualize Windows Server 2003
• Video: Coach Culbertson on Server 2008 R2 Training — Free for a Limited Time
• How to Create a New Virtual Machine with Hyper-V

For something that is targeted at companies with no dedicated IT person/department SBS 2008 sure is complicated. Here is the long list of hardware requirements and network design restrictions:

• Only one machine in the domain can be running SBS 2008 – there can be other servers but they can’t be running SBS.
• The SBS 2008 server must be the root of the Active Directory forest
• It Cannot have any child domains
• The SBS Server cannot trust any other Active Directory forests or domains
• Can only have a total of 75 CALs (either user CALs or device CALs – see below)
• Tape based backup is not supported (Whoo hoo!)
• Must run on 64-bit hardware (blame exchange)
• Minimum of 60 GB of available disk space
• Minimum of 4 GB Ram
• At least a 2 GHz single core processor or 1.5 GHz or faster multi-core processor

So is Microsoft just trying to line the pockets of IT consultants? Maybe, but most instances of SBS 2008 will be pre-installed by the OEM so at lease you don’t need to worry about the hardware requirements.

CALs – Expansive Expensive Paperwork

Client Access Licenses for SBS 2008 are not actually installed anywhere. This means they only exist on paper, but we still must take care to become and stay compliant. I found a humorous but accurate article by the SBS Diva explaining what exactly to do with your CALs: Take your CALs and shove them…in a safe.

While SBS allows for up to 75 CALs, a business that needs stretching above 50 CALs should start thinking about a different server solution.  Here is a quick rundown of the many many different kinds of Client Access Licenses.

Device CAL – Picture a library or a school. They may have a lab with 10 machines but have thousands of users. In this case they would want to purchase licenses per device and not per user.

User CAL – This is for when a company has a set number of users, but the users can be accessing the server from many locations such as home, work, or a smartphone.

Premium User CAL– This is for use with the premium version of SBS. Not all CALs used with SBS 2008 Premium need to be premium CALs. Only users that access SQL need premium CALs.

Premium Device CALs  – Same as above but per device not per user.

Outlook CAL – I want to mention that Microsoft Outlook CALs are not included with SBS 2008 (they were in previous versions).

An organization does not need to choose only one type of CAL. They can pick and choose according to their needs. Note that CALS are sold is packs of 1, 5, and 20 so plan accordingly.

But Don’t Underestimate SBS 2008

I know that I have just been whining about SBS, but that doesn’t mean I think it is an inferior product. In fact I think that it is often undervalued. If you think that SBS 2008 is just a dumbed down version of Server 2008 you are mistaken. Here is what you get with SBS 2008:

SBS 2008 Standard Edition

• A full versions of Windows Server 2008 Standard (so most programs that run of Server 2008 will run on SBS 2008)
• A full version of Microsoft Exchange Server 2007
• A full versions of Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 Standard Edition
• Microsoft Forefront Security for Exchange Server
• Windows Server Updates Services
• Microsoft Office Live Small Business

SBS 2008 Premium Edition

• Everything in SBS 2008 Standard Edition
• An additional copy of Windows Server 2008
• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 – Standard Edition (can be virtual)

It is arguable that SBS 2008 is so robust it might even be overkill for a “small business.” How is this possible when we all know that you aren’t supposed to put all those server roles on one machine? Well Microsoft has done the prep work to magically make them work together just fine.

And don’t start complaining about being confined and oppressed by all those wizards. Train Signal Instructor and Microsoft MVP Dave Shackelford put it this way:

If you are just trying to drive from point A to point B why would you go off roading when you can just follow the streets? They are well known, properly maintained, and cause less wear and tear on your vehicle. Sure a little rally riding is fun from time to time but you wouldn’t do it on your daily commute. Don’t worry thrill seekers – with SBS 2008 you have the option of going off road!

David Shackelford and I are working on some first class SBS 2008 training for you right now. Sign up for updates to find out more info as it becomes available.

Related posts:

• Windows Server 2008 Foundation: What is it and Who is it for?
• Active Directory Rights Management Services: Features & Operational Considerations
• Active Directory Rights Management Services: System Requirements & Other Considerations

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:

• MCTS Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-432)
• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Administrator’s Pocket Consultant

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!

Related posts:

• Get SQL Certified: What you need to know about the SQL Server 2008 Developer (70-433) Exam
• MCTS Demystified: What you need to know about the Server 2008 Applications Infrastructure (exam 70-643) Certification
• MCTS Demystified: What you need to know about the Server 2008 Active Directory (Exam 70-640) Certification