Duties of a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), for which nearly every network out there requires at least one, include the installation, configuration and maintenance of PCs, networking equipment and network operating systems. As well, an MCP must deal with patching systems where necessary as well as locking down systems so that only authorized personal can access and use them. Microsoft network administration is a rather highly technical role. 

A good understanding of Microsoft Windows network operating systems, network equipment and networking protocols is essential, as well as a basic ability to program scripts and batch files. However, relatively strong interpersonal skills are also important, as the MCP must understand the networking needs and problems of users and be able to address those issues in a timely fashion. Lastly, an MCP must be diligent at documenting the network as well as be proficient at troubleshooting problems, often under tense situations. This includes knowing when to give up trying to be the hero when solving a problem and having the humility to go to outside sources for help.

Implementing and Administering a Microsoft Windows 2000 Directory Services Infrastructure (Exam 70-217)

Audience Profile

Candidates for this exam operate in medium to very large computing environments that use the Windows 2000 network operating system. They have a minimum of one year's experience implementing and administering network operating systems in environments that have the following characteristics:

·    Supported users range from 200-26,000+.

·    Physical locations range from 5-150+.

·    Typical network services and applications include file and print, database, messaging, proxy server or firewall, dial-in server, desktop management, and Web hosting.

·    Connectivity needs include connecting individual offices and users at remote locations to the corporate network and connecting corporate networks to the Internet.

Credit Toward Certification

When you pass the Implementing and Administering a Microsoft Windows® 2000 Directory Services Infrastructure exam, you achieve Microsoft Certified Professional status. You also earn credit toward the following certifications:

·     Core credit toward Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer on Microsoft Windows 2000 certification

Skills Being Measured

This certification exam measures your ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot the Windows 2000 Active Directory™ components, DNS for Active Directory, and Active Directory security solutions. In addition, this test measures the skills required to manage, monitor, and optimise the desktop environment by using Group Policy. Before taking the exam, you should be proficient in the job skills listed below.

• Installing and Configuring Active Directory
• Installing, Configuring, Managing, Monitoring, and Troubleshooting DNS for Active Directory
• Configuring, Managing, Monitoring, Optimising, and Troubleshooting Change and Configuration Management
• Managing, Monitoring, and Optimising the Components of Active Directory
• Configuring, Managing, Monitoring, and Troubleshooting Security in a Directory Services Infrastructure