MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294): Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Second Edition

Book Description

Get in-depth training and practice with the skills measured by the core exams for MCSE certification for Windows Server 2003all in one box! Covering Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, and 70-294, these four, all-new Microsoft study guides pack the tools and features that exam candidates want mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective reviews; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. They also provide real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and experience that you can apply to the job.

Customer Reviews:

Good info for a cheap price.......2007-09-27

This series covers all of what I need to know for MCSE. It comes with a nice price. Well worth it.

This can teach old dogs new tricks.......2007-09-02

This is a one of a kind Self Pace training course that has taugh this old dog new trick... I am well pleased with the results and indepth and detail of the material...

Good Product ! excellent training material.......2007-07-29

This kit is a must for everybody who is intrested in getting certified for the first 4 core exams of the MCSE certificate.

Foreigners outside of USA, please keep in mind that your package may be opened by customs en therefore its resealed and its possible that your package will get damaged (like i had). Books & CDs where in good condition but the box which keeps that books in place was damaged.

Besides that this kit will give you a voucher for 15& of discount on all 4 exams which are valid till 2010.

Excellent Condition.......2007-06-27

The study guides I ordered came to me in excellent condition and I paid half the retail cost. I couldn't be happier.

MCSE Here I Come. :0).......2007-05-24

Sofar this Purchase is a great investment to my Career Future.

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exams 70-292 and 70-296): Upgrading Your Certification to Microsoft Windows Server 2003

Average customer rating:

Excellent for real world and exams
Nearly perfect, and surely the best prepguide there is available
Best Comprehensive Book Available but not without faults
Good book
Very boring to read, reads more like a reference book...

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exams 70-292 and 70-296): Upgrading Your Certification to Microsoft Windows Server 2003
Microsoft Corporation , Dan Holme , and Orin Thomas
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSA/MCSE Managing and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Environment Exam Cram 2 (Exam Cram 70-292)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-299): Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Pro-Certification)
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)
MCSA/MCSE: Windows 2003 Upgrade Study Guide (70-292 and 70-296)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-284): Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003

ASIN: 0735619719

Book Description

Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exams 70-292 and 70-296, core exams for IT professionals already certified on Microsoft Windows- 2000 who want to upgrade their credentials for Windows Server 2003. Covering two exams and two certification tracks, this kit provides excellent value. It packs the tools and features exam candidates want most#151;including in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from an expert exam-certified author; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job.Ace your exam preparation by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The flexible, best-of-class test engine on CD-ROM features 425 practice questions and pre- and post-assessment capabilities. Choose timed or untimed testing mode; generate random tests or focus on discrete objectives or chapters; and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers#151;including pointers back to the book for further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software#151;making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent for real world and exams.......2007-03-17

Having achieved NT, 2000, and now 2003 MCSE certification, I've found the Microsoft Press books to be mixed bags. This one, however, is excellent. Weighing in at nearly 1500 pages, it covers a lot of ground. If you read (and re-read) the entire book, as well as ALL of the test questions in the included Measure Up sample test, and follow up on unclear information/answers with the TechNet website, and of course have real-world experience, then you'll have excellent preparation for the exams.

When reading this book, I kept admiring the editing. Most tech books have some serious editing problems - unclear wording, dubious or flat-out incorrect information. With this one, I was continually impressed with how each sentence was written to say precisely what was intended, with not too many or too few words. That's not to say it's pithy - writing "Windows Server 2003" repeatedly takes up space - just that it's very well written.

The glossary and included ebooks are helpful as well. Only bummer is that you can't print from the ebooks, so when you're studying, you'll need to apply pen to paper, or go to TechNet and do some printing.

The Measure Up practice test is not nearly as well written as the book - some dubious wording, typos, and incorrectly scored questions (like the answer is A, you put A, and the test scores it wrong). However, the practice test covers topics not included in the book (!), so it's worthwile to go through it.

Oh, and Microsoft even managed to inject a bit of humor here and there.

If Microsoft Press continues publishing books like this, they'll be a strong alternative to Sybex and others.

Nearly perfect, and surely the best prepguide there is available.......2006-09-30

I've used two preparation guides, this one and the one from Sybex. MSPress is definitely the best of these two books. Covers it all, the sybex version is too superficial and just does not cover it all, it actually lacks some important material.

This book contains lots of exercises, so you get hands on experience with all kinds of tools. Believe me, you are going to need it! The actual exam contains several simulations, so just reading about the available tools, options and functions is just not enough.

Futhermore every chapter ends with a small case study with some questions all of course regarding to stuff outlined in the chapter.

Without this book I would not have passed, both exams.

Best Comprehensive Book Available but not without faults.......2006-08-31

I used this book as a primary study guide for the 2003 upgrade exams and although it doesn't cover all the material, it is an excellent book and in my humble opinion the single best source of prepartion.

From what I've gathered, the exams changed sometime in late 2005 and some of the content is dated. That however is not the fault of the authors and unlike many of the "Microsoft Press" books, I found this an enjoyable and easy read.

The book is not indended to deeply review the "Core MCSE Curriculum". Its' audience is expected to be familiar with Windows 2000 engineering and administrative principles as well as a practicing administrator. The text will present content that is now covered under the exam (ie: high availibility services and certificate services)and features that are differential to the old product line. So do not expect this to be your sole source for content, at best it covers 80% of the exam's breadth. If you feel in the learch, I can only suggest brushing up on your 2000 or 2003 core infrastructure notes especially dealing with the subjects of GPOs and Site design\ AD-replication.

Subjects that are missing from the book that require research are EMS (in-band\ out of band services), Role Separation for Cerificate services and WIFI GPO administrative practices. A list of references to supportive documentation can be found in the study notes at [...] . The webpage's host has done an admirable job of putting them together.

In final preparation for the exam, I can only suggest Transcenders as a simulation software...accept no other. CBT nuggets has some great multi-media presentations available through their website to aid in reviewing the material and their content is first class.

Good Luck

Good book.......2006-06-30

This book covers the essentials skills to upgrade to your certification to Windows Server 2003. However, it does cover many topics that you already knew from your Windows 2000 experience, which sometimes are topics you don't want to read about because for the most part, you expected to read only about the improvements and changes from Windows 2000 to Windows 2003. In spite of this, it is a GREAT source of information for people with little experience with Windows 2000.

Very boring to read, reads more like a reference book..........2006-05-31

There are not many pictures, and the content is brought out in a very slow way. In other words, the material is mostly there, but you fall asleep reading all the fluff before getting to what you actually need to know. I love reading, but the format of this book makes the content difficult to swallow. I would suggest to get a different book.

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)

Average customer rating:

Excellent Content
Deja Vu
Why not ALT
A must...
Horrible

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)
Roberta Bragg
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-299): Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Pro-Certification)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-270): Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294): Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Second Edition
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-284): Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003

ASIN: 0735619697

Product Description

This all-new MCSE TRAINING KIT is designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-298, one of two core MCSE design exams. Written by well-known IT security consultant, columnist, and speaker Roberta Bragg, this kit packs the tools and features exam

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Content.......2006-11-06

This book has great cases to help you lean and implement MS secured network with practical scenarios.

Deja Vu.......2006-10-26

Very repetative. Chapter after Chapter, the same thing, analyze ... determine ... design ... analyze ... determine ... design ... I'm feeling an overwelming sense of deja vu...

Very repetative. Chapter after Chapter, the same thing, analyze ... determine ... design ... analyze ... determine ... design ... I'm feeling an overwelming sense of deja vu...

However, it is a good reminder of checklists for the processes...

However, it is a good reminder of checklists for the processes...

Why not ALT.......2006-08-25

I suppose this is a good book. Typical Microsoft white paper with discussion related only to MS.
I've opted to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam instead (it can be used in place of 70-298).

A must..........2006-08-21

I haven't read this yet. I'm still going through the XP book, but if this one is even close, this book is a must. An easy read and well laid out. The accompanying CDs are very beneficial also.

Horrible.......2005-07-27

Of the thousands of pages read preparing for one certification for another --- this is the worst book I have come across. Frankly I am so disapointed I may well not purchase another book from this publisher.

I am half way throught the 2nd section. I see no reason to continue...

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-299): Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Pro-Certification)

Average customer rating:

The BEST TRAINING KIT.
A must...
Excellent guide
Best study guide I've read yet
Did I read the same book as these other reviewers?

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-299): Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Pro-Certification)
Tony Northrup , and Orin Thomas
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294): Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-350): Implementing Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration Server 2004 (Pro-Certification)

ASIN: 073562061X

Book Description

Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-299, one of two core exams for the MCSE: Security specialization and an elective for MCSA and MCSE. This kit packs the tools and features exam candidates want most#151;including in-depth, self-paced training based on exam content; exam tips from an expert, exam-certified author; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job. Focusing on implementing and administering network security in a Windows Server 2003 environment, the official study guide covers implementing, managing, and troubleshooting security policies, patch management infrastructure, security features for network communications, and planning, configuring, and troubleshooting authentication, authorization, and PKI.Ace your exam preparation by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The flexible, best-of-class testing suite features a test engine on CD with 325 practice questions. Choose timed or untimed testing mode, generate random tests or focus on discrete objectives or chapters, and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers#151;including a customized learning path to enhance further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software#151;making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment.

Customer Reviews:

The BEST TRAINING KIT........2007-03-20

People interested in buying this book must know it is out of date. It was released in the age of Windows Server 2003, without service pack one. So it does not cover WSUS, but SUS. It also does not contain information about SP1 improvements and now SP2, however, it is a book about planning and implementing security strategies, which makes it a book above the time.
If you have money and are interest in security, or if you are intended to pass the exam, buy this book.
The text is clear and comprehensive. The content is pretty amazing which demonstrates de knowledgement of the author about what he writes. Such knowledgement is provenient from his experience working with Windows in exposed environments.
This is not only a theoretical guide of security, but also a practical one. The excercises hep you to understand and record it in your mind.
Finally, buy this book.

A must..........2006-08-21

I haven't read this yet. I'm still going through the XP book, but if this one is even close, this book is a must. An easy read and well laid out. The accompanying CDs are very beneficial also.

Excellent guide.......2006-02-14

Any book from Tony is probably going to be good. This book is no exception. It is very well written and organized. It covers all aspects of Windows Server 2003 security. It is not quite comprehensive as you'll need the earlier 2003 Server books (or know those topics well enough) to fully cover the test. It includes good chapter summaries and practice labs. This book will also be useful to you as a reference after you have passed the exam.

Best study guide I've read yet.......2005-08-10

This book is an excellent resource and preparation for the 70-299 exam. I've read through a lot of exam books over the years and this is the one that prepared me the best. Upon finishing this book, you feel as though you really understand the material, rather than feeling that you still have holes in your understanding, as you often do with other books. This book is comprehensive, well-laid out, and has a lot of good practice questions in the book and on CD. Microsoft Training Kit CDs are often quite meaty, and this is no exception. I highly recommend this book.

Did I read the same book as these other reviewers?.......2005-07-13

This book offers good coverage in some areas and fairly weak coverage in others. I agree with some of the other reviewers that this book should have been marketed as a study guide and not a training kit. It does contain some good to know nuggets of info, however it is far from being a complete guide on security, or preperation for the exam. I bought the book based on the reviews I read on this site and will be returning it. I can only guess that the previous reviewers work for MS Press.

On the 13th page of this book the author mentions how important the steps of kerberos authentication are, after giving an incorrect explanation of them and telling you to memorize them for the exam. (steps 1-3 are incorrect. check pg.245 of the Active Directory Technical Reference for an accurate description) Like most of the self-paced training kits from MS Press there is a certain lack of depth to the information in this book. There is alot of pertinent security information missing from this book both for the exam, and more importantly for securing a network in real life. The book seemed more like a conglomeration of useful facts for the exam than a "training guide".

A much better book in this arena is "Microsoft Windows Server 2003 PKI and Certificate Security" by Brian Komar with the Microsoft PKI Team -MS Press

I would also recommend the Windows Server 2003 Active Directory technical Reference. -MS Press

The two of these books combined will give you a complete and accurate base of information to pass this exam, and several others.

RT
MCT, MCSE, MCDBA, MCSA, Master Instructor MS Office

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure, Second Edition

Average customer rating:

Excellent book from MSPress
Great Read/Great Detail
Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure
Well written and accurate

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure, Second Edition
Jill Spealman , Kurt Hudson , Melissa Craft , and Content Master
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-293): Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, Second Edition
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-291): Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, Second Edition
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-290): Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)

ASIN: 0735622868

Book Description

Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-294, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This kit packs the tools and features that exam candidates want mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and expertise that you can apply to the job. Focusing on Windows Server 2003 Active Directory infrastructure, this official study guide covers topics such as planning, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Active Directory infrastructure; planning user, computer, and group strategies; and more.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent book from MSPress.......2007-05-23

The 70-294 Self-Paced Training Kit does an outstanding job in teaching the objectives of the exam. Especially useful are the practice activities at the end of each lesson/chapter. Getting hands-on experience with Active Directory is a must to pass this exam, and this books makes getting that hands-on experience a breeze.

Of all the MSPress books I have bought, this one is the best.

Great Read/Great Detail.......2007-04-05

Although this book is larger than most of the other MS exam books, it provides great detail and enabled me to pass the exam the first time and with flying colors. I've had some "issues" with some of the other MS exam books, however, this one MS actually did a good job with.

Piece of Advice for the Exam - Study and KNOW the GPO sections, OU sections (especially design and managment), and RRAS sections. Very little is covered outside of those things, believe it or not.

Good Luck!

Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure .......2007-03-10

I found this book to be a great resource and a good foundational book. I goes into enough detail to get a good understanding of the principals of Active Directory. While I am not sure you can pass the MSCSE 70-294 test with just reading this book it is a great foundation to compliment a good purchased sample test.

Well written and accurate.......2006-07-09

This is another excellent book from Microsoft Press. I'm not a native English speaker but the books from Microsoft Press are pretty good to read because Microsoft uses clear technical languages that is easy to understand. The questions, practices and troubleshooting labs are good resources to prepare for Exam.

I would like to recommend this book for any Windows Admins who is going to take the 70-294 exam.

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-293): Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, Second Edition

Average customer rating:

"Two thumbs down."
Not comprehensive, but definitely worthwhile

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-293): Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, Second Edition
Craig Zacker , Anthony Steven , and Content Master
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure, Second Edition
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-291): Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure, Second Edition
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-290): Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure

ASIN: 0735622876

Book Description

Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-293, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This kit packs the tools and features that exam candidates want mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and expertise that you can apply to the job.

Customer Reviews:

"Two thumbs down.".......2006-12-15

Generally, MS-Press Self Paced Second Edition books are good. Especially they did a great job on 290 and 291. This book, however, is an exception. This book does not cover many exam areas at all, and I am not talking nuances. There is no mentioning in this book about PKI certificate archival (new feature in Server 2003 family, well tested on 293 exam), or the GC placement, and several other areas. Those subjects that are covered in the book, are not covered in depths, in fact, they look like poor summaries and will not prep you for the exam in any way, nor will they prepare you for real life situations. Author jumps around same topics and is not able to clearly explain most of them. Practices are not worth installing a fresh copy of Server. There are no good "Exam Tips", like in other MS-Press books. I doubt that Craig actually took this exam.
I understand that no exam preparation book alone is enough to prepare for the exam, but those that I read so far, did a pretty good job on it. I was able to ACE several Microsoft exams using Self Paced guides and Testout videos.
This book tried to trick me into thinking that 293 exam was peace-of-cake. It is not! Do not be fooled. Exam is probably as hard as 291. It may seem easier after taking 291, but without that preparation 293 would be close to impossible to pass for the first time. Yes, it is in some ways similar to 291, but it covers whole bunch of different topics, and focuses on a different agenda. This book will not help you pass the exam. Book is a joke.

Not comprehensive, but definitely worthwhile.......2006-11-08

I currently have my MCSA with relatively little experience(comparatively speaking). Therefore, I knew I needed to be thorough with my reading for this particular test. A lot of what's in here is stuff I've never dealt with hands on(ie Clusters, NLB, RRAS, and CA). That said, I figured the most comprehensive route would be LearnKey training videos coupled with a cover to cover reading of this book. I've heard the second edition of these books are much better. While this book does do a very good job covering all the exam topics, it's fatal flaw is that it mentions nearely nothing about dealing with legacy systems within a AD Infrastructure. I was horrified to discover about 10-15% of the questions(and even a simulation) that require you to maintain support for NT4 and Windows 98 clients while simultaneously requiring you to meet the requirements for security or GPO assignments. The book only mentions these OS's in passing really, and says nothing regarding how you handle these scenarios. Needless to say, I was very unprepared for these questions despite a good solid month and a half of comprehensive preparation. However, I did pass with a 775, and if you can find something else to make up for this lapse in coverage(be it experience or another book), you can ace the exam with a thorough reading of this book. Just don't skip the practice questions at the end! They may be tedious and not be anything like the actual exam questions, but they actually do a very good job focusing you on the things you should know for the exam.

MCSE: Windows Server 2003 Certification Kit (70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294)

Average customer rating:

Out of touch
Good, but you'll need more to pass the tests...
Excellent!! A SOLID foundation for a BIG field.

MCSE: Windows Server 2003 Certification Kit (70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294)
James Chellis
Manufacturer: Sybex
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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MCSE: Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure Design Study Guide (70-297)
MCSA/MCSE Windows XP Professional Study Guide (70-270), 3rd Ed.
MCSE: Windows(r) Server 2003 Network Security Design Study Guide (70-298)
MCSE: Exchange Server 2003 Implementation and Management Study Guide (70-284)
MCSA/MCSE Windows XP Professional Study Guide, Second Edition (70-270)

ASIN: 0782144535

Book Description

MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Environment Management and Maintenance Study Guide (70290)
MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Implementation, Management, and Maintenance Study Guide (70291)
MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Planning and Maintenance Study Guide (70293)
MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Planning, Implementation, and Maintenance Study Guide (70294)
Plus two bonus CDs featuring an evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 and 300 additional practice test questions

Customer Reviews:

Out of touch.......2004-08-15

After finishing the 70-290 book in the set and taking the exam, I am shocked at how "out of touch" this book is with the actual exam. Topics that were barely touched upon in the book ended up being huge sections in the test and vice versa. I started buying Sybex cert books because of how well the CCNA book was done and how it actually related to the exam. I'm hoping the other books in this kit are a little more up to par.

Good, but you'll need more to pass the tests..........2004-02-19

I'm pretty fond of the Sybex books--They're well written and tend to explain things fairly well, however these books are often lacking in detail. The books don't cover some topics at all (ie: Expect a visual basic question in 70-291, yet it's not covered at all in the book) and the upper level books really rehash some of the earlier topics by a copy and paste methodology. For instance, although some topics in 70-293 overlap 70-291, it focuses on planning, which rehashing the 70-291 material doesn't help with. New topics in 70-293 are barely covered (Just 30 pages for clustering, which deserves much more!) I've taken to reading these books first as an overview, then reading the MS-Press titles for the nitty gritty details. The included questions are weak, expect questions about 5 times as difficult on the actual exams... The 70-294 book is about 420 pages, while the MS Press title for 70-294 is almost twice as thick... Not that MS Press titles are good reading, the assume you already know what they're talking about. The point--I haven't found a silver bullet for these certs, but these are a good start.

Excellent!! A SOLID foundation for a BIG field........2004-01-24

I'm probably unusual, because I bought this kit AND the upgrade book. However, this kit was just indispensible, because there are sooo many topics you need to have understood and integrated in order to become an MCSE: Active Directory --sites, domains, users and computer, replication. IIS, remote desktop, resource management. TCP/IP, routing, DNS, DHCP, IPSec. Clustering, certificates, load balancing....You just can't get that kind of understanding casually, or even just by working with certain parts of the OS...you need a full course. Sybex was recommended to me by an instructor in my first class as having the best reputation and being the bestsellers, and I'm glad he told me.

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-290): Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment

Average customer rating:

Helps to get the job done
This book just give you a background of window 2003 feature
not a good book, not at all
Just the right level
Bad, bad and bad

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-290): Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment
Dan Holme , and Orin Thomas
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-291): Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network Infrastructure (MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-270): Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-284): Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-299): Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Pro-Certification)

ASIN: 0735614377

Product Description

Microsoft - MCSA/MCSE Self Paced Training Kit Mana

Customer Reviews:

Helps to get the job done.......2006-08-01

This book alone covers about 85% of what you need to know to pass the test. I would recommend a cbt or transender on the topic as well.

This book just give you a background of window 2003 feature.......2006-05-21

I have this book because I purchase MCSE Training kit (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0735619530/ref=pd_rvi_gw_2/102-4874099-2083325?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=283155) in order to prepare to take an MCSE certificate. Currently I just finish reading this book. I didn't review an MCSE training kit because I didn't read the other three books.

In my opinion, this book was building only the background of windows server 2003. All of its topic just introduce you to use the feature that ship with windows 2003 only. If you want to take this book and pass an exam, I recommend you not just reading this book. You should read the other book in addition to collect more knowledge and experience. The other solution that you should do is practic as much as possible from the topic in the book. I didn't take an exam yet but I just only take the test from the 2nd part of the book after I complete reading and pract all of the lesson from the first section. After the test, I found that many question are out of scope of the book explaination. If you do not read additional book to gain more information, I guess that you won't be able to pass an exam. My case a good example, i just read and practic all of topic in this book but after I have the test i only get 50% of the score. This will not pass an exam while Microsoft require 70% to pass an exam. The topic that should have addition reading are:

- Disk storage.
- WMI.
- Back up and restore.
- System recovery.
- Software update service.
- Group polocies.
- File and print server.
- Server performance.
- ...

These topic also write in a separate book in much more detail. I plan to have an exam next and now prepare to read additional documentation to fill up my knowledge.

not a good book, not at all.......2006-03-17

I would like to give it a zero star if it were there. I read it through but it totally disappointed me. it left so much out, totally uncovered, such as terminal server, which is listed as examinable part. Even the 70-270 book from microsoft press is a total rubbish. The parts covered are not deep enough to help you understand for the exam. For those who work on MSCE, I highly recommend sybex books in stead of Microsoft RUBBISH.

Just the right level.......2006-03-12

I enjoyed working through this book. It was written in a pleasant administrator to administrator style, and I especially liked the "Why this chapter matters", and "Troubleshooting Labs". Nice touch.

What I especially appreciated, is that the exercises don't take you through every mouse click. They often just say "do this". If you don't know how, you can find out using online help, but it doesn't waste the time of those who (should) know how.

Just the right level for me, coming from Windows 2000 server, and a vast improvement on the Windows 2000 training guide!

Bad, bad and bad.......2006-03-01

If it would be possible then I would give this book a 'no star' rate.

The reason why I am so hard with my judgment is that the book does not cover the topics deep enough so you will pass the exam. Some of the topics are even completely missing like for example VBScript. The topic Terminal Services is completed with 20 pages which way to less.

If you rely on this book and you will go to the exam you will experience a huge surprise what questions are waiting for you. With this book there is no chance in my opinion that that you pass the exam the first time.

Another reason why I gave this book one star is that it is from the manufacturer of the software itself and it is more than a shame that Microsoft published such a book.

My recommendation is ... don't waste you time with this book ....look some where else. I put this book away and bought one from Syngess and I passed the exam at the first attempt and believe me it was not because I read this book first.

Average customer rating:

Good book for passing the exam
Technically very clear and to the point, but lacks all the info
Far too many technical inaccuracies
Excellent book for those new to AD
Morons

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure
Jill Spealman , Kurt Hudson , Melissa Craft , and Microsoft Corporation
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-291): Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network Infrastructure (MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-290): Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-284): Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003

ASIN: 0735614385

Product Description

The all-new MCSE Training Kit is designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-294, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This Training Kit packs the tools and features exam candidates want most - including in-depth, self-pace

Customer Reviews:

Good book for passing the exam.......2005-11-04

This was my primary resource in preparations for the exam, which I passed easily. Material is well presented, although I have found several mistakes and there are a lot of superfluous "lesson reviews" and "lesson summaries" at the end of each lesson.
In my opinion, the best parts of this book are practices and troubleshooting labs. I have set up a little virtual network on my PC (using Virtual PC and Virtual Server), and have done all of them. They really help you gain some practice using Active Directory tools under Windows. I had 2 questions on my exam in which one had to demonstrate practical knowledge of using these tools, and I have heard that Microsoft will add them more.

Technically very clear and to the point, but lacks all the info.......2005-07-31

This book is pretty good along the lines of technical manuals. It keeps the information clear and lays it out in a way that makes it easy to understand with no fillers added. The activities at the end of the book are a little much, so I mostly ignored them. Unfortunately one thing this book lacks is ALL the information you might be tested for on the exam. For example, the book does not go into detail on the Authorization Manager. The new revisions might but check the ones you buy for it. Mine did not have it, however the software that came with the book asked questions on these different utilities that weren't covered in the book at all. It was a little suprising to be honest. But overall it was a good book.

Far too many technical inaccuracies.......2005-06-30

I'm sick of reading reviews about how a particular study guide is a good book for beginers. The title says exam 70-294, but this book falls a bit short. It gives basic coverage of active directory concepts and is technically inacurate in many areas. If your going to spend the time trying to learn this stuff, learn it right. A much better book on the subject matter is the active directory technical reference for windows server 2003, also by MS Press. In fact save some time and money... Just buy the technical reference. It will prepare you for both the 70-294 and 70-297 exams. Belive me, the only reason I read this book (70-294 self paced study guide)after reading the technical reference is because I was forced to teach a course from it.

RT
MCT, MCSE, MCDBA, Master Instructor MS Office

Excellent book for those new to AD.......2005-04-17

The authors and editors of this book deserve a pat on the back for a job well done. Anyone who is new (and some people not so new) to Active Directory can benefit from reading this book. From the start the book comes out strong. No worthless filler here; just logically organized, to the point text, diagrams and screen shots that help the reader understand AD from top to bottom. I like this book so well that I regularly purchase it for my consulting clients in need of a better understanding of AD. This book is a winner and a valuable resource even for those not studying for the exam.

Morons.......2005-03-16

OK, for the 2 of you above you complain about the lack of ISA info etc to help you through 70-291.. READ THE TITLE OF THIS BOOK!!!!! IT IS FOR 70-294!!!! Anyway, great book, covers all the topics.. and yes, I would say you need a little more then foundational knowledge to pass ANY of the exams...

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294

Average customer rating:

Uhhh....
Redundancy at it's best.. If you have 70-291 and 70-298, you have just about the whole 70-293
GET IT TOGETHER AMAZON.
Excellent content
Ok, but needs a lot of work to be a real test prep guide.

MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294
Dan Holme , Orin Thomas , Zacler. Craig , J.C. MacKin , Ian McLean , and Microsoft Corporation
Manufacturer: Microsoft Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-270): Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Second Edition
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-297): Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure
MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-284): Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-294): Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure

ASIN: 0735619530

Product Description

MCSE S/P KIT WINDOWS SVR 2003 CORE REQUIREMENTS

Amazon.com

In the certification craze of 1999-2001, tens of thousands of people earned their Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) ratings. Those certifications are expiring now, just as Microsoft is coming out with Windows Server 2003 to replace the Windows 2000 family of operating systems. There may be a real opportunity for those who earn the Windows Server 2003 certification--and that's where MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements comes in. This four-book set (which comes with quiz software and a 180-day laboratory version of Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition, plus a coupon for 15 percent off the cost of each of the four exams), combined with some hands-on practical work, should be all you need to earn the new MCSE rating or the Microsoft Certified System Administrator (MCSA) certification.

Each of the four books (each with a separate author) covers the published requirements of a single exam. Coverage tends to be text-heavy--even procedures rely mostly on text and use few screen shots. This goes to reinforce the fact that these are serious books for people with a pretty good idea of what they're doing already. Chapters typically begin with conceptual coverage of their subjects (using diagrams to illustrate the relationships among network entities in many cases) and move on to illustrative procedures to try. Chapters then conclude with carefully considered discussion questions. The answers to the questions appear in an appendix, complete with explanations of why the correct answers are what they are. --David Wall

Topics covered: The published exam requirements for the MCSE/MCSA core exams: "Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows 2003 Server Environment" (70-290), "Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure" (70-294), "Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure" (70-291), and "Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure" (70-293).

Customer Reviews:

Uhhh...........2007-08-08

I'm still trying to get through the first book 2 years later. But what's the hurry? I can always start my training tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow...

Seriously, though, these books look a lot like the ones I used to study for my first MCSE, on NT4. Full of most of what you need to pass the exam, plus a lot of junk you don't. I think they're an attempt to trick/force you into learning enough to be more than a paper MCSE while soaking up enough info to pass the test.

The "knowledge" contained herein is no substitute for real world experience, but is daunting to tackle even for a seasoned professional. If you really know computers, and just want test info, I'd recommend something like the Transcender exams instead.

Redundancy at it's best.. If you have 70-291 and 70-298, you have just about the whole 70-293.......2007-04-28

I have just gone through the 70-291 and 70-298 books, and went through this one ..... and was gravely dissapointed.. I felt like I was reading the same material as I just finished.. So with that said, I believe if you are going for tests, and you already own 70-291 and 70-298 there is no reason to go out and get the MSPress of 70-293 since the material would have already been covered...

GET IT TOGETHER AMAZON. .......2007-02-23

I got a copy of the MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Core Requirements, Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, 70-294.I was very upset when I noticed that one of the books had a huge tear on the back cover. When you pay $200.00 for brand new books, in a sealed state they should be new when you take them out of the box , not dirty and beat up. Get it together Amazon.

Excellent content.......2007-01-12

All you need to know to sort out the 90% of the Administration issues in the every day administrator's life. Must have.

Ok, but needs a lot of work to be a real test prep guide........2006-12-12

One would think that a Microsoft Press book would be better edited; more technically detailed and have more thogrough explanations. But one would be wrong if they thought so. Microsoft, it seems to this reader, slapped together this study guide to make a couple of extra bucks or to just keep the writers busy. The level of user experience listed in the guides as a prerequisite for taking the MCSE exams is greater than the level that the books are geared for. If one has the prerequisite level of experience recommended in the guides then these books will be well below your experience level. However if you are very new to Active Directory and server environments this study guide will give you a fair introduction.
I will say this about Planning and Maintaining Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure by Craig Zacker, Mr. Zacker does not have any MS certifications which does not induce a lot of confidence of the author, and omits lots of really important technical information that is very relevant to planning a network, especially his descriptions of TCP/IP planning and sub netting. I noticed several typos and even some incorrect lab answers in each of the books.
All of the labs and diagnostic procedures are done the Microsoft way, which occasionally is not the way that things are done in the real world.
Trancender tests are ok, but Testking prep tests are way better.

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