Windows Server HQ by Train Signal.com » System Center http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com We are here to help you learn Windows Server! Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:23:22 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9 en hourly 1 Microsoft System Center Data Protection Manager (SCDPM Exam 70-658) Certification Guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scdpm-exam-70-658-certification-info http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scdpm-exam-70-658-certification-info#comments Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:00:55 +0000 Kasia Grabowska http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=7479 Related posts:]]> mscdataToday we wrap up the Microsoft System Center series with a look at System Center Data Protection Manager Certification.

System Center Data Protection Manager (SCDPM)

System Center Data Protection Manager is the final product in the System Center family. Data loss from system failure or accidental deletion has the potential to bring operations to a standstill. Accordingly, the backbone of an IT Department’s policies and procedures should outline provisions for data backup and recovery.

But backing up systems in an enterprise environment is no easy task. That’s where System Center Data Protection Manager 2008 comes in. Windows backup and recovery for applications and servers is integrated into a secondary disk and tape solution via the DPM server.

SCDPM Certification

You will need to pass one exam for this certification — Exam 70-658: TS: System Center Data Protection Manager 2007, Configuring. Your new designation will be, Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: System Center Data Protection Manager, Configuration.


Like the other Microsoft exams, this will be a multiple choice or performance based exam.

Required Skills
In terms of skills, candidates should have experience with System Center Data Protection Manager 2007, and the following:

  • At least one year of experience with data and system recoverability and data protection
  • At least one year of experience with Windows Server administration and network infrastructure
  • Production experience with at least one protected workload, plus working knowledge of the other protected workloads

70-658 Exam Breakdown

Installing Data Protection Manager (DPM) (16%)

  • Install the DPM server
    • This objective may include but is not limited to: verify software and hardware prerequisites; choose and configure SQL Server location; run DPM installation wizard
    • Enable End User Recovery (EUR)
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: configuring Active Directory, DPM server, and Shadow Copy Client
    • Configure networking for DPM
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: agent to server communication; bandwidth requirements; enabling a dedicated backup protection network

    Managing Media and Agents (21%)

    • Deploy a DPM agent
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: domain/forest membership; pushing an agent from the console; deploying an agent by using software distribution or manually; connecting an agent to a DPM server by using the DPM Management Shell
    • Control DPM bandwidth
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: agent bandwidth throttling; server bandwidth throttling; on-the-wire compression
    • Manage disks
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: disk; cloud; moving a replica to another disk
    • Manage tapes
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: tape, tape devices, copy to tape, inventory, encryption

    Protecting Workloads (23%)

    • Define protection for standalone configurations
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: setting up protection groups for core workloads, criteria for separate protection groups, ramifications for restore, selecting data sources
    • Define protection for highly available configurations
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: application availability options, failover clustering, DFS interactions
    • Configure protection policies
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: implementing a protection policy through a protection group, short-term vs. long-term protection schedules, retention time
    • Manage recovery points
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: creating a recovery point; different types of recovery points; defining recovery point schedules; optimizing schedules for recovery time; time offset
    • Stage a replica
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: prestaging; running an initial consistency check; postponing initial replication

    Recovering Workloads (23%)

    • Recover files
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: workstations, file servers, overwrite, permissions, recovering to a network folder
    • Recover Exchange Server data
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: Recovery Storage Group (RSG), Exchange Server 2003 vs. Exchange Server 2007, recovering to an alternative Exchange server, scope of recovery
    • Recover SharePoint data
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: recovery farms, data granularity, protection schedules
    • Recover SQL Server data
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: SQL Server 2005 vs. SQL Server 2008, recovery to an alternate server, advanced recovery options, protection schedules and SQL Server recovery mode
    • Recover system state data
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: choosing when to enable system state recovery; applying recovered system state
    • Recover virtualized environments
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: virtual guests, host configuration, recovering to another host

    Managing, Protecting, and Recovering the DPM Server (18%)

    • Monitor DPM
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: setting up alerts, scheduling and running reports, System Center Operations Manager (SCOM), Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM), PerfMon, Event Viewer, DPM Administrator Console
    • Perform maintenance
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: ensuring replica integrity, ad hoc and scheduled consistency checks, data integrity checks
    • Integrate with other backup solutions
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: identifying the production data within the DPM server; protecting the DPM configuration database
    • Configure DPM for disaster recovery
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: activating the agent on the primary DPM server; configuring workloads to be protected; switch primary/secondary roles; enable secondary protection with DPM; protecting the DPM configuration database
    • Recover a DPM server
      • This objective may include but is not limited to: restoring the DPM configuration database, creating static copies of replicas, repairing DPM

    SCDPM Training

    Unfortunately, there isn’t a practice test or Microsoft book to help you prepare for this exam. However, there is classroom and E-Learning training, in addition to a few other resources. Here’s what Microsoft recommends:

    Classroom Training:

    • 50213A: Implementing Data Protection Manager 2007 (2 Days)

    Microsoft E-Learning:

    • 10112AE: Implementing Data Protection Manager 2007 (12 Hours)

    Books:

    Online Microsoft Resources:

    • SCDPM Website: This is the website for more product information.

    Testing and Recertification

    All Microsoft exams are scheduled and taken at Prometric Testing Centers. Like the other System Center exams, there is no set recertification schedule. You’ll need to retest, only when Microsoft discontinues support for the product.

    Is The SCDPM Certification For Me?

    The value of IT certifications has been hotly debated, with opinions varying depending on the technology. But what remains unchanged is the need to continually update your skills. Thus certifications, and more importantly, the training associated with them, take on another level of value.

    Ultimately, the decision to pursue certification will depend on many factors. Needs in your current position and the certification culture in your organization are foremost. But don’t forget to factor in the future – research requirements and the reward structure at other employers. The idea is to remain as competitive as possible in an increasingly competitive field.

    Related posts:

    ]]> http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scdpm-exam-70-658-certification-info/feed 0 Microsoft System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM Exam 70-403) Certification Guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scvmm-exam-70-403-certification-info http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scvmm-exam-70-403-certification-info#comments Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:00:32 +0000 Kasia Grabowska http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=7469 Related posts:]]> mscvirtualIn our series on Microsoft System Center Certifications, we’ve covered SCCM: System Center Configuration Manager and SCOM: System Center Operations Manager.

    Today we continue with the System Center Virtual Machine Manager Certification.

    System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM)

    System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008 is the third product in the System Center family. If virtual environments are a part of your corporate network environment, this is the tool for you. SCVMM not only supports management of virtual machines, but physical devices as well. You’ll be able to manage performance and resource optimization, consolidation of underutilized physical servers, and faster provisioning of new virtual machines.

    SCVMM Certification

    Similar to other System Center certifications, only one exam is required for the SCVMM certification — Exam 70-403: TS: System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008, Configuring. You can expect a multiple choice or performance based exam.

    Passing this exam will earn you Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Microsoft System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008, Configuration Certification.

    Required Skills

    Candidate expectations are that you have a minimum of 6 months experience with virtualization and more than a year of experience with Windows Server infrastructures.

    70-403 Exam Breakdown

    Installing SCVMM

    • Install SCVMM server components
      • May include but is not limited to: Server prerequisites, database, Windows versions, enabling SAN migration, User Access Control (UAC) issues.
    • Install administrator console
      • May include but is not limited to: Administrator console prerequisites, platform support, firewall settings, Workgroup requirements vs. Domain requirements, custom ports, managed hosts from admin console, enable reporting for admin console.
    • Install self-service portal
      • May include but is not limited to: self-service portal prerequisites, IIS components, compatibility, custom ports, host headers.
    • Install PRO tips
      • May include but is not limited to: Ops manager, management packs, Admin consoles, security.

    Administering SCVMM

    • Configure user roles
      • May include but is not limited to: delegate admin, setting permissions for specific host or host groups, using self-service portal to create test environment, add delegated administrator.
    • Setup self service
      • May include but is not limited to: enabling user or group for self service, setting custom ports for self service, establishing quota, Self-provisioning (templates).
    • Maintain VMM library
      • May include but is not limited to: adding a library, adding additional library shares or servers, moving files to library share, mapping ISOs, types of library files.
    • Configure hosts
      • May include but is not limited to: adding hosts, installing a local agent, adding VMware VC server, configuring a virtual network, creating filters in the console.
    • Monitor jobs
      • May include but is not limited to: verifying specific jobs, recovering from job failure, change tracking, job filtering.

    Maintaining and Monitoring VMs

    • Configure VM hardware
      • May include but is not limited to: NIC configuration, configuring VM drive, configuring memory, configuring CPU.
    • Manage virtual instance checkpoints and patches
      • May include but is not limited to: Checkpoints, creating a checkpoint of a VM, deploying patches.
    • Monitoring and reporting VMs
      • May include but is not limited to: integrating Ops Manager, selecting potential virtualization targets, monitoring utilization.

    Deploying and Migrating VMs

    • Convert from physical or virtual platforms
      • May include but is not limited to: P2V, V2V.
    • Move VMs between hosts
      • May include but is not limited to: migrating a SAN, migration options, intelligent placement.
    • Deploy VMs
      • May include but is not limited to: deploy VM from VHD, deploy VM from template, create template from existing VM, provisioning new machines and applications, intelligent placement.
    • Deploy a High Availability VM
      • May include but is not limited to: configuring host clustering, configuring guest clustering, configuring a VM for high availability, configuring library shares for high availability.

    SCVMM Training

    There is a practice test for this exam, in addition to classroom training and other resources. Here’s what Microsoft recommends:

    Classroom Training:

    • 6331A: Deploying and Managing Microsoft System Center Virtual Machine Manager (3 Days)

    Microsoft E-Learning:

    • 6896AE: Configuring Microsoft System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008 (14 Hours)

    SCVMM Books:

    Online Microsoft Resources:

    • SVCMM Website: The System Center website will offer you more product information on SVCMM, technical resources and the like
    • Microsoft Learning Community: A collection of newsgroups and community forums where you’ll find peers who can offer advice and suggestions on study resources and certifications.
    • TechNet: This site includes the learning community features as well as how-to’s, best practices, downloads, and other technical resources.

    Where to Take the Exam

    All Microsoft exams are scheduled and taken at Prometric Testing Centers.

    Recertification

    According to Microsoft’s website, MCTS, MCITP, or MCPD certifications will only expire when Microsoft discontinues support for the associated tool or technology. If past trends are any indication, support ends about 7 to 10 years after initial product release. So if you certified this year, you might expect to have to recertify, on the replacement technology in a minimum of 7 years.<

    More to Come

    Join me next week as we wrap up the Microsoft System Center certification series with System Center Data Center Manager (SCDCM) certification.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scvmm-exam-70-403-certification-info/feed 1     Microsoft System Center Operations Manager (SCOM Exam 70-400) Certification Guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scom-exam-70-400-certification-info http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scom-exam-70-400-certification-info#comments Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:00:47 +0000 Veronica Henry http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=7458 Related posts:]]> System Center Operations ManagerIn the previous article in this series, we covered SCCM — System Center Configuration Manager certification. Today, we’ll take a more in-depth look at System Center Operations Manager (SCOM).

    System Center Operations Manager (SCOM) 2007

    Network operations range from the routine, to the complex. No matter the task, System Center Operations Manager 2007 is focused on automation. Reporting, system and performance monitoring can consume a significant portion of a system administrator’s day. These are the folks that would benefit from the consolidation offered by this tool. It uses role based security and integrates Active Directory in order to simplify monitoring, device configuration and deployment in complex environments.

    SCOM Certification

    You only need to pass one exam to obtain the SCOM certification: Exam 70-400: TS: Microsoft System Center Operations Manager 2007, Configuring. Microsoft is sometimes quiet about exam formats, but they are typically multiple choice and performance based.

    By passing the 70-400 exam will earn the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): System Center Operations Manager 2007, Configuration Certification.


    You will also earn credit toward these certifications:

    • Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server 2003
    • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003

    Certification Required Skills

    Before pursuing the SCOM certification, you should have at least one year of experience using Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM) or System Center Operations Manager 2007 in a fairly large organization setting.

    70-400 Exam Breakdown

    Configuring System Center Operations Manager 2007 (15%)

    • Configure notification
    • Manage roles
    • Configure System Center Operations Manager options
    • Discover and deploy agents within a trusted Active Directory forest
    • Discover and deploy agents to systems not using Active Directory

    Deploying and Configuring Management Packs (28%)

    • Import a Management Pack
    • Configure overrides
    • Create a self-tuning threshold
    • Migrate a Microsoft Operations Manager 2005 Management Pack to System Center Operations Manager 2007
    • Configure diagnostics and recoveries for a rule or a monitor

    Building and Deploying Custom Management Packs (21%)

    • Configure security options
    • Configure discovery for Management Packs
    • Create monitors and rules
    • Create a distributed application
    • Create a synthetic transaction

    Maintaining System Center Operations Manager (23%)

    • Maintain a System Center Operations Manager infrastructure
    • Create views
    • Create tasks
    • Fail over from Root Management Server (RMS)
    • Back up and restore System Center Operations Manager
    • Manage and maintain reports

    Configuring Client Monitoring (13 percent)

    • Configure Audit Collection Service (ACS)
    • Configure Agentless Exception Monitoring (AEM)
    • Configure Collective Client Monitoring (CCM)
    • Configure Business Critical Client Monitoring (BCCM)

    SCOM Training

    Currently there are no practice tests for this exam. But don’t despair, there’s plenty of training, books and resources to aid in your exam preparation:

    System Center Operations Manager Video Training

    Train Signal’s brand new SCOM training provides complete coverage for the 70-400 SCCM exam and is also available through instant access, a new feature that Train Signal has recently added.

    And like all Train Signal courses, the SCOM training includes iPod video and Mp3 audio files that allow you train on the go.

    Scott Lowe is your instructor, walking you through SCOM features and hands-on exercises so that you can get some real world experience with SCOM as you prepare for your exam.

    To learn more and watch a demo from the course, visit this link.

    Classroom Training:

    There is one in-classroom training option available for SCOM:

    • 50028D: Installing and Configuring System Center Operations Manager 2007 R2 (5 Days)

    Microsoft E-Learning:

    The E-Learning class is a collection of 5 courses that can be completed anywhere:

    • 3386AE: Implementing Microsoft System Center Operations Manager 2007 (10 Hours)

    SCOM Books:

    If you prefer to learn by reading, there are a number of books available that cover SCOM in detail:

    Online Microsoft Resources:

    SCOM website has product information along with a free 180 day evaluation of SCOM, which can come in handy when you need to get some hands on experience with SCOM.

    Microsoft Learning Community: A collection of newsgroups and community forums where you’ll find peers who can offer advice and suggestions on study resources and certification.

    TechNet: This site includes the learning community features as well as how-to’s, best practices, downloads, and other technical resources.

    Where to Take the Exam

    All Microsoft exams are scheduled and taken at Prometric Testing Centers, locations are worldwide.

    Recertification

    As I mentioned in my previous article, Microsoft’s website states that MCTS, MCITP, or MCPD certifications will only expire when Microsoft discontinues support for the associated tool or technology. If past trends are any indication, support ends about 7 to 10 years after initial product release. So if you certified this year, you might expect to have to recertify, on the replacement technology in a minimum of 7 years.

    More to Come!

    Join me for the next article in this series, as we take a look at the System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM) certification.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/scom-exam-70-400-certification-info/feed 0     Microsoft Systems Center Configuration Manager (SCCM Exam 70-401) Certification Guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/sccm-exam-70-401-certification-info http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/sccm-exam-70-401-certification-info#comments Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:00:04 +0000 Veronica Henry http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=7443 Related posts:]]> Systems Center Configuration ManagerAs we continue our look at Microsoft’s System Center Certifications, we’ll take a deep dive into System Center Configuration Manager. SCCM is a tool for IT Managers looking for a solution that consolidates management of multiple computing environments.

    System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)

    Consolidation and simplification are the hallmarks of SCCM. Assess, deploy, and update your servers, clients, and devices — across not only physical, but virtual, distributed, and mobile platforms. Processes that may have been previously managed under multiple products, can now be controlled under one dashboard.

    Required Skills

    Those interested in the SCCM certification should have at least one year of experience using Systems Management Server (SMS) or Configuration Manager 2007. Candidates should also have experience using Active Directory and the Windows server system.

    SCCM Certification

    Exam 70-401: TS: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 measures configuring and using System Center Configuration Manager 2007 to deploy and manage software and perform asset management. Exams are typically multiple choice and performance based.

    By passing the 70-401 exam you will earn the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): System Center Configuration Manager 2007, Configuration Certification.

    You will also earn credit toward these certifications:

    • Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server 2003
    • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003

    70-401 Exam Breakdown

    Deploying a System Center Configuration Manager 2007 (SCCM) Server (9%)

    • Set up and configure an Active Directory schema
    • Migrate from an SMS 2003 hierarchy to SCCM 2007
    • Configure an SCCM hierarchy
    • Set up and configure security accounts

    Configuring an SCCM Infrastructure (19%)

    • Configure client agents
    • Configure site boundaries
    • Configure core site system roles
    • Configure discovery methods
    • Configure client installation
    • Configure SCCM infrastructure for Internet-based client management

    Managing Resources (14%)

    • Build an SCCM collection by using queries
    • Meter software usage
    • Manage assets
    • Manage inventory flow
    • Manage client agents

    Distributing Applications (17%)

    • Manage packages
    • Manage programs
    • Manage advertisements
    • Schedule distribution
    • Track success and failure rates for distribution
    • Manage distribution points

    Deploying Operating Systems (13%)

    • Capture a reference computer image
    • Manage task sequences
    • Configure site system roles related to deploying operating systems
    • Deploy operating system packages
    • Customize user state migration
    • Deliver applications

    Securing a Network Infrastructure (13%)

    • Configure Network Access Protection (NAP)
    • Maintain NAP
    • Migrate from Inventory Tool for Microsoft Update (ITMU) to Windows Software Update Services (WSUS)
    • Deploy software updates
    • Manage vulnerability compliance

    Managing and Maintaining an SCCM Infrastructure (15%)

    • Manage system health
    • Configure automatic maintenance tasks
    • Create custom reports
    • Maintain clients
    • Manage systems by using configuration management
    • Manage Wake on LAN

    SCCM Training

    Although there are no practice tests for this exam, there are plenty of resources to aid in your exam preparation.

    System Center Configuration Manager Video Training

    System Center Configuration Manager TrainingTrain Signal’s SCCM training provides complete coverage for the 70-401 SCCM exam and includes iPod video and Mp3 audio files so you can take the training with you on the road.

    Your instructor, Scott Lowe, has tons of experience and is able to present even the most complex concepts in an easy to understand way. Plus he’ll make you do plenty of hands-on work to make sure you get some experience with SCCM, not just study for the exam.

    More info and a demo of the SCCM training is available here.

    Classroom Training:

    • 6451B: Planning, Deploying, and Managing Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 (5 Days)
    • 6451A: Planning, Deploying and Managing Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 (5 Days)

    SCCM Books:

    There’s a number of books available for SCCM, here are a couple of good choices:

    Online Microsoft Resources:

    Microsoft Learning Community: A collection of newsgroups and community forums where you’ll find peers who can offer advice and suggestions on study resources and certification.

    TechNet: This site includes the learning community features as well as how-to’s, best practices, downloads, and other technical resources.

    SCCM Team Blog: The official blog of the SCCM product group at Microsoft, this will serve as a great resource as you learn and work with SCCM.

    Where to Take the Exam

    All Microsoft exams are scheduled and taken at Prometric Testing Centers.

    Recertification

    According to Microsoft’s website, MCTS, MCITP, or MCPD certifications will only expire when Microsoft discontinues support for the associated tool or technology. If past trends are any indication, support ends about 7 to 10 years after initial product release. So if you certify this year, you might expect to have to recertify, on the replacement technology in a minimum of 7 years.

    More to Come!

    Join me for the next article in this series, as we take a deeper look at the System Center Operations Manager (SCOM) certification.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/sccm-exam-70-401-certification-info/feed 2     Microsoft Systems Center Certification Overview http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/systems-center-certification-overview http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/systems-center-certification-overview#comments Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:00:40 +0000 Veronica Henry http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=7436 Related posts:]]> Today’s enterprise computing environments are more complex than their predecessors. Internet connectivity, smartphones and the mobile workforce make managing these corporate networks a challenge for even the most seasoned IT professional.

    In response, a new crop of software solutions have been developed to help simplify systems management. Microsoft’s solution center is one such application. It consolidates physical and virtual management of data centers, client/server and other devices under one umbrella.

    Microsoft Systems CenterThe result is a solution that not only helps save time, but improves productivity. And increased productivity ultimately means reduced costs.

    In order to demonstrate expertise in this space, Microsoft has developed the Microsoft System Center Certification.

    This article, the first in a series about the Microsoft System Center certifications, will provide an overview of the four System Center certification exams.

    Microsoft’s Certification Series

    I can remember when the MCSE and MCP were the sole certifications in Microsoft’s arsenal. However, as new technologies have been introduced, those programs have been joined by others and grouped together based on job roles.

    The specialist series are for newer IT pros, while the professional and master series are for the more experienced.

     

    System Center Technologies

    Microsoft System Center certifications exist under the The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) series of specialist certifications. These focus on assessing skills and knowledge of a Microsoft product or technology.

    There are four key System Center technologies:

    • Configuration Manager
    • Operations Manager
    • Virtual Machine Manager
    • Data Protection Manager

     

    Microsoft System Center Certification Exams

    • System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) Exam 70-401

     
    mscconfigIf you’ve ever used SMS (System Management Server) to manage your systems, you’ll appreciate SSCM’s ability to greatly simply controlling your IT systems. Using a customizable dashboard, you can assess, deploy, configure, and update your servers, clients, and devices—across physical, virtual, distributed, and mobile environments.

    Exam 70-401: TS: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007, Configuring measures configuring and using System Center Configuration Manager 2007 to deploy and manage software and perform asset management.

    Passing this exam will earn this certification: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): System Center Configuration Manager 2007, Configuration. You will also earn credit toward these certifications:

    • Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server 2003
    • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003
    • System Center Operations Manager (SCOM) Exam 70-400

     
    mscopsSCOM is the systems monitoring arm of Systems Center. Here you’ll be able to monitor your systems and build reports that provide detail on things like security and infrastructure changes.

    Exam 70-400: TS: Microsoft System Center Operations Manager 2007, Configuring, measures your ability to configure the software, management packs and client services and monitoring.

    Passing this exam will earn this certification: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): System Center Operations Manager 2007, Configuration. You will also earn credit toward these certifications:

    • Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) on Windows Server 2003
    • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003
    • System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM) Exam 70-403

     
    mscvirtualSCVMM is designed to manage virtual environments. It is a multi-vendor management solution that enables centralized administration of physical and virtual assets. It can help you increase server utilization, and provide dynamic resource optimization of virtual IT infrastructure.

    Exam 70-403: TS: System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008, Configuring measures your ability to deploy and administer SCVMM, in addition to maintaining and deploying virtual machines.

    Passing this exam will earn this certification: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Microsoft System Center Virtual Machine Manager 2008, Configuration.

    • System Center Data Protection Manager (SCDPM) Exam 70-658

     
    mscdataSCDPM enables reliable and rapid backup, recovery, and continuous data protection for SharePoint technologies, Exchange Server, SQL Server, Virtual Machines, and file shares.

    Exam 70-658: TS: System Center Data Protection Manager 2007, Configuring, measures your ability to install DPM, manage media and workloads, and processes like server recovery.

    Passing this exam will earn this certification: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: System Center Data Protection Manager, Configuration.

     

    System Center Testing

    All test are done through Prometric.

    Testing labs are small, with not more than 16 workstations. Questions are multiple choice and performance based. You will receive your score immediately after finishing the exam.

    Microsoft is currently running a special exam retake offer — if you don’t pass the first time, you can retake the test for free, but both must be done before June 30, 2010.

     

    Recertification

    According to Microsoft’s website, MCTS, MCITP, or MCPD certifications will only expire when Microsoft discontinues support for the associated tool or technology.

    If past trends are any indication, support ends about 7 to 10 years after initial product release. So if you certified this year, you might expect to have to recertify, on the replacement technology in a minimum of 7 years.

     

    Next in The Series

    Think you might be interested in pursuing one of the System Center certifications? Want more information?

    This was just a brief introduction, so be sure to join me for the next and future articles in this series as we take an in depth look at each certification exam.

    Next up: the System Center Configuration Manager Certification.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/systems-center-certification-overview/feed 3     A Guide to Upgrading to SCCM 2007 R2 http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/a-guide-to-upgrading-to-sccm-2007-r2 http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/a-guide-to-upgrading-to-sccm-2007-r2#comments Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:42:04 +0000 Lisa Szpunar http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=6059 Related posts:]]> Last time I walked you through installing System Center Configuration Manager 2007 SP1. However, there are some invaluable new features in SCCM R2 that you will miss out on unless you upgrade. After a quick overview of the new features I will show you the steps for upgrading to R2.

    System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2 New Features

    Application Virtualization Management – Now the machines you are managing don’t need to actually have the Configuration Manager client software installed on them. SCCM now supports running virtual application packages on clients with XP or above.  Here is some more information if you are interested. Get on board – application virtualization is the way of the future.

    Forefront Client Security Integration – Use Configuration Manager to monitor Microsoft ForeFront Client Security configuration on the applicable clients. Here is a cute little scenario from Microsoft to give you an idea of how to use ForeFront with SCCM.

    SQL Reporting Services Reporting – Seamlessly use the advanced reporting capabilities of SQL Reporting services from Configuration Manager. There are now exciting wealth of reports at your disposal! More info.

    Client Status Reporting – Keep tabs on the health of your client machines. Get reports on clients who are not responding, are offline, and more.

    Operating System Deployment – Create operating system images and deploy them out to systems. You can even deploy operating systems to several systems at once.

    Upgrade Steps

    First: Download and run the R2 upgrade file named SPLASH.HTA. See the link below to get your evaluation copy.

    Start Screen: Click Configuration Manager 2007 R2 under the Install heading from the start screen. Remember this is an upgrade so you must already have Configuration Manager 2007 SP1 installed on this server.
    Start Screen

    Welcome Screen: Click Next on the welcome screen.
    Welcome Screen

    License Agreement: Read the lovely license, accept it, and click Next.
    License Agreement

    Registration Information: Enter your information and your product key. Then click Next.
    Registration Information

    Installation: What a pointless step!
    Installation

    Installation Process: Wait and watch as all the little blue guys fill up the line…
    Installation Process

    Setup Complete: When the Setup Complete screen displays – and I hope it does – click Finish.
    Setup Complete

    That was possibly the most painless install ever. Now go play with all the new features!

    Want to Play Along?

    So if you want to give this a try here are links to the evaluation copies of Configuration Manager 2007 SP1 and the R2 up grade

    Now that you have SCCM installed and upgraded take the next step: Learn how to manage updates, deploy software/operating systems, and more with System Center Configuration Manager Training.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/a-guide-to-upgrading-to-sccm-2007-r2/feed 1     A Guide to Installing SCCM 2007 SP1 in Mixed Mode http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-installation-guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-installation-guide#comments Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:22:13 +0000 Lisa Szpunar http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=5923 Related posts:]]> Do you want or need to install Configuration Manager System Center 2007 SP1? Here is a guided tour:

    Here is an outline of the small lab environment that was used for this SCCM install. Pay special attention to the listed components that are either prerequisites for installing SCCM or are needed later to use the different SCCM roles. (Please note that later versions of any element will work too) Here is a complete list of what roles use what components. I also found a neat installation checklist you may want to check out before getting started.

    My Lab

    SCCM1 – You guessed it. This is where we will install SCCM

    Windows Server 2003 R2, 32bit

    • .Net Framework 2.0
    • Internet Information Services  6.0 (IIS)
    • Active Server Pages
    • Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning ( WebDAV)
    • Background Intelligent Transfer Service 2.0 (BITS)
    • Microsoft Management Console 3.0 (MMC)
    • Windows Remote Management 1.1 (WinRM)
    • Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) – Administrator Console Only

    SQL Server 2005 SP2

    • Database Services
    • Workstation Components

    DC1 – An active directory domain controller.

    Windows Server 2003 R2, 32bit

    System Center Configuration Manager Installation Steps

    1. Extend the Active Directory Schema

    Log on to your Domain Controller as  the all powerful admin and run the schema extension tool. If you are doing this in a production environment there are some additional precautions you should take before touching the schema.  You can see the suggested procedure here. But in my lab why not rush ahead and risk a catastrophe. Isn’t that half the fun? The tool is named ExtADSch.exe and can be found on the SCCM installation disc at \SMSSETUP\BIN\I386.

    2. Run the Prerequisite Checker

    Go to the server you want to install SCCM (SCCM1 in my case) and pop in the installation disc. Run SPLASH.HTA if it doesn’t start automatically.

    Click Run the Prerequisite Checker.

    This is the first installation of Configuration Manager on this network so choose the Primary site radio button. Enter the server name where your SQL Server lives in the first box. In the second box enter the server name that has WSUS SDK on it. The last box is for the name of the server that will be your management point. This time you will need the fully qualified domain name. Your environment may be different then mine so adjust accordingly. That’s it for this page. Click OK.
    Installation Prerequisite Check Options

    Now that you have told the prereq check where to look it will see what you are missing. Double click any item to get details about how to fix the problem. After you have fixed the issues run the prereq checker again to make sure they have cleared.
    Prerequisite Checker

    3. Configure the Active Directory System Container so that the SCCM site server has full control rights.

    Back on the Domain Controller open up Active Directory Users and Computers. Make sure you have the advance view turned on. Right click on the System Container and go to Security tab in Properties. Click Add. Make a computers object with the name and location of your Configuration Manager  machine and click OK.
    Give SCCM1 Full Rights

    In the Advanced Settings make sure your SCCM object and all its child objects have full control.
    Advanced Settings

    4. Install!!

    Run SPLASH.HTA again and click Configuration Manger 2007 SP1 under the Install heading. Click Next on the first induction screen.

    Available Setup Options:   On the second screen choose Install a Confutation Manger site server. There are not very many options available if this is your first SCCM installation.
    Available Setup Options

    Microsoft Software License Terms:  Read every last word of the license terms. You can even print it and read it over and over just for fun. When you are done, mark the checkbox that says I accept these license terms. Don’t forget your friend the Next button.
    Microsoft Software License Terms

    Installation Settings: Choose Custom settings and then click Next. You could just choose Simple settings, but where is the fun in that?
    Installation Settings

    Site Type: The next screen is asking if this is the primary site or a secondary site. This is the first instance of SCCM on this network so of course we go with Primary site.
    Site Type

    Customer Experience Improvement Program Configuration: Yeah! You are invited…to let Microsoft watch your every move. Just kidding. I don’t think Microsoft will get anything useful from this temporary lab so I chose No this time.
    Customer Experience Improvement Program Configuration

    Product Key:  Insert your product key and click Next.
    Product Key

    Destination Folder: On the next screen provide a destination Folder where SCCM will be installed. Oh just leave the default and click Next.
    Destination Folder

    Site Settings: Now you have to make an actual choice! It is an arbitrary one but a choice none the less. What will your Site code be? As it explains on the screen- a site code is a 3 character unique identifier for this SCCM site. You can’t change it so choose wisely! The second box is for an unofficial nickname for your site. Fill in these two boxes and…yawn…click Next.
    Site Settings

    Site Mode: As stated in the title of this article we are using Mixed Mode. Here is some more information about the scarier but more secure Native Mode.
    Site Mode

    Client Agent Selection: Next you get to choose which client agents you will be able to use.  The agent names are pretty self explanatory but if you want more information here is an article on client agents by Brian Tucker. The more of them you click the more you get to play with!
    Client Agent Selection

    Database Server: On this screen you need to provide the server location of your SQL Server. The second box is the site database name. There is a naming convention you need to be aware of. Use the letters SMS then an underscore then your site code. Even though SCCM is not longer called SMS that is still the naming convention we use here.
    Database Server

    SMS Provider Settings: The SMS Provider should live on the same server as your SQL Server.  It communicates with the database. So enter the name and then click Next.
    SMS Provider Settings

    Management Point: You have to have at least one Management Point to communication with clients so why not add it to the Configuration Manager Site System. This time you will need a fully qualified domain name.
    Management Point

    Port Settings: just use the default unless your production environment requires different. HTTPS is grayed out because it only works with Native Mode.
    Port Settings

    Updated Prerequisite Components: Hasn’t you mama always told you to do your updates? Leave the Check for updates and download newer versions to an alternate path chosen then click Next.
    Updated Prerequisite Components

    Updated Prerequisite Component Path: Make a folder for your new updates and then enter its path here. The wizard will not accept a path that does not exist. After you click Next there may be some updates that download. This could take several minutes. When it is done a popup box will tell you, “Successfully downloaded all prerequisite components.” Click OK here and then it’s time for the next screen. 
    Updated Prerequisite Component Path

    Settings Summary: This is a review of everything you choose throughout the wizard. If you need to change something you need to click the back button until you get back to the corresponding screen. After you click Next the Prerequisite Checker will run itself one more time.
    Settings Summary

    Resolve any errors and read any warnings to make sure they aren’t deal breakers. Then click the big button that says Begin Install!
    Prerequisite Checker Again
    Setup Action Status Monitoring: Here you will see actions go from Not Started to In Process to Competed. Yeah!
    Setup Action Status Monitoring

    Eventually you will get a screen that informs you that the setup completes successfully (I hope). Click Finish and you’re done!
    Done!

    Join me next time for a step by step guide to upgrading this install to System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2. I will talk a little about the new features available in R2 as well.

    Oh and if you want to learn more about System Center Configuration manager check out our training course that is now available.

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-installation-guide/feed 6     System Center Configuration Manager 70-401 Certification Guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/microsoft-sccm-70-401-certification-guide http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/microsoft-sccm-70-401-certification-guide#comments Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:32:31 +0000 Lisa Szpunar http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=5770 Related posts:]]> SCCM-MCTSIf your workplace uses System Center (or soon will) you may be thinking about taking a System Center certification exam such as 70-401: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007, Configuring. Passing 70-40 will make you a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS).

    System Center exams including Configuration Manager are an option for the IT-Pro who already has some Windows Server 2003 or 2008 certifications and wants to expand their knowledge and marketability.

    Don’t forget that the 70-401 exam counts as credit toward the Server 2003 MCSA and MCSE certifications too.

    Configuration Manager Exam Topics

    Here is a breakdown of the exam objectives arranged from most tested to least tested. Go to the SCCM Microsoft Learning page for a more detailed breakdown of the topics.

    • Configuring an SCCM Infrastructure – 19%
    • Distributing Applications – 17%
    • Managing and Maintaining an SCCM Infrastructure – 15%
    • Managing Resources – 14%
    • Deploying Operating Systems – 13%
    • Securing a Network Infrastructure – 13%
    • Deploying a System Center Configuration Manager 2007 Server – 9%

    Exam Details

    The last I heard, this is how the 70-401 exam plays out. (Please let me know about any changes if you have taken the exam more recently.)

    • 50 questions
    • 1000 points possible
    • Passing score of 700
    • No simulation questions – boo hiss

    Are you Ready to take the Exam?

    The word on the street is that someone with Configuration Manager experience – maybe about 6 months or more – should be able to tackle this test easily. Even with experience I would never go into a test blind. I suggest going over the topic list and doing some quizzes at the least. Configuration Manager can do so much neat stuff so I am sure you will learn at least something new along the way.

    Even without formal experience this test is still passable. In this case you will need something more robust like our Train Signal training course (not boring) or a big fat book (boring) to get you up to speed.

    With or without System Center Configuration Manager experience you will defiantly need a familiarity with Active Directory and other basic Windows Server technologies.

    Oh,  just in case you were wondering, the Operations Manager exam 70-400 is not a prerequisite to taking the 70-401 exam.

    Study Resources

    I have found several online resources below to help you learn and study. No brain dumps please!

    Good Luck!

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/microsoft-sccm-70-401-certification-guide/feed 0     System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2: Information, Training, Certification, and Resources http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-configuration-manager-2007-r2-information-training-certification-resources http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-configuration-manager-2007-r2-information-training-certification-resources#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:02:25 +0000 Lisa Szpunar http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=5711 Related posts:]]> SCCM!My new BFF is SCCM!

    Here at Train Signal I am working on a training course about Microsoft’s System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2. As Gosia mentioned in a previous article, Configuration Manager is just one part of System Center. The knowledge that I sap up while polishing instructor Scott Lowe’s Configuration Manager videos has been my first taste of the System Center line. Let me tell you I am really liking it. I can see its potential to make life easier for IT pros at medium to large sized businesses.

    Configuration Manager Can …

    In case you aren’t familiar with its repertoire SCCM allows you to manage all sorts of tasks from within one program. No more Remote Desktop-ing in or – heaven forbid - walking over to a machine.

    Here are a few things that System Center Configuration Manager can do:

    • Deploy operating systems (even servers!)
    • Software distribution, management, and updates
    • Manage security, support, updates, and more for mobile users
    • Very, very detailed and expansive reporting
    • Total Asset Intelligence – know what software and hardware you have where, how it is configured, and how often it is used
    • Desired Configuration Management – set a baseline for desired configurations and SCCM will let you know what doesn’t comply

    SCCM Certification Exam

    Whenever you decide to tackle another Microsoft technology, one thing to consider is certification. You guessed it – Microsoft offers a SCCM certification. It is called Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007, Configuring.

    The exam number is Exam 70-401. If you would like more information here is the Microsoft Learning page on the 70-401 exam. One neat thing about the 401 exam is that it can be used as an elective requirement for the MCSA or MCSE 2003 certifications.

    Links to Configuration Manager Resources

    I just know you can’t wait for Train Signal to release the SCCM training. To tide you over until then here are some resources.

    Blogs to Bookmark

    Training and Learning

    Related posts:

    ]]>     http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/system-center-configuration-manager-2007-r2-information-training-certification-resources/feed 6     What’s Microsoft System Center? Anyone!? http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/what-is-system-center http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/what-is-system-center#comments Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:00:23 +0000 Gosia Grabowska http://windowsserver.trainsignal.com/?p=4610 Related posts:]]> Microsoft System CenterHave you heard of Microsoft’s System Center? Know what it does? I didn’t either …

    I got this package from Microsoft the other day, and on the bottom it says Microsoft System Center. 

    After opening it I realized that it was evaluation software for Virtual Machine Manager and Operations Manager (sent because I went to the getVIRTUALnow conference last year), but I wasn’t sure what these products were for.

    I decided to Google it and found out that there are 5 core products making up the System Center:

    • Configuration Manager 2007 R2
    • Operations Manager 2007
    • Data Protection Manager 2007
    • Virtual Machine Manager 2008
    • Essentials 2007

    I was able to find out that all these products were created by Microsoft to help us, the Microsoft shops, with efficiency, optimization, enhancement, and protection of our servers and data.

    • Configuration Manager 2007 R2

    Configuration Manager is designed to help you assess, deploy and update your servers, workstations, and other devices (both physical and virtual devices).

    • Operations Manager 2007

    Operations Manager (that’s one of the products I got) can help you increase efficiency in your organization and provide much greater control over your IT environment.

    • Data Protection Manager 2007

    Data Protection Manager assists with rapid and reliable backup and recovery of your data as well as provide continuous data protection for all Microsoft application and file servers.

    • Virtual Machine Manger 2008

    Virtual Machine Manger (VMM – this is the second evaluation software that appeared at my desk) helps configure and deploy virtual machines.  Once they are deployed it centrally manages the physical and virtual infrastructure.  The 2008 version of VMM provides multi-vendor virtualization platform support, enhanced support of “high availability” host clusters, as well as a few other very appealing new features.

    Microsoft System Center products

    • Essentials 2007

    As for the Essentials product, it is designed for businesses with up to 500 workstation and 30 servers and it provides unified management of IT environment with increased efficiency.

    To find out more about all these core products as well as other System Center products visit the Microsoft System Center page.

    Have you used the System Center products?  I would love to hear about it.  Did you like it?  Do you think it’s worth the investment?  Let me know!

    Related posts:

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