Microsoft Postpones The Retirement of SQL Server 2008 Exams, And How You Can Benefit From This
- By
- December 24, 2013
Christmas miracle or not (but definitely a good news), Microsoft has just announced the extension for two SQL Server 2008 exams: 70-450 and 70-451, which were supposed to be retired on 31 January 2014. Yet, the vendor has moved the date towards summer, with the exams retirement date being postponed by 6 months: to July 31, 2014.
This means, you can still earn the certifications associated with these exams, namely MCITP: Database Administrator 2008 and MCITP: Database Developer 2008. So, if you were considering earning these certifications and worried that you’d be out of time, you have another half a year to get it done.
Now we can sense a question many certification beginners would be tempted to ask…
..Why would I look at certification exams that will be retired in 6 month (SQL Server 2008 – related) if there is some newer stuff (SQL Server 2012) out there?
Ok, let’s take a closer look as we believe that you SHOULD earn your SQL Server 2008 cert before you proceed with SQL 2012.
First of all, SQL Server 2008 certifications will continue to be honored by the industry. They’ll still look good on the resume, especially combined with relevant work experience. After all, it’s not just about the certification you hold, but the skills you’ve acquired to support it, right? Moreover, the technology of SQL Server 2008 will remain widely used for quite a while. And the experience you get with 2008 will make it a lot easier for you to move to the SQL Server 2012 technology.
Also, if you hold an SQL Server 2008 cert, you can benefit from a streamlined two-exam upgrade path to the new MCSA: SQL Server 2012. Those holding any SQL Server 2008 certification can take a fast-track exam upgrade path to MCSA: SQL Server 2012. You will have to pass 70-457 and 70-458 exams. Until 31 May 2014, Microsoft gives a special 25% OFF promo for these upgrade exams. In addition, you can benefit from their ‘second chance’ promo with free retakes.
So, you can speed up your preparation to become SQL Server 2008 AND 2012 certified before summer 2014. It does look like a tempting path, doesn’t it? Let’s take a closer look at the 2008 to 2012 SQL Server upgrade exams.
70-457: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 1
This exam is intended for candidates who have already earned any one of the MCTS certifications on SQL Server 2008 and who wish to transition their skills to MCSA: SQL Server 2012. The topics covered include but aren’t limited to:
- Create database objects
- Work with data
- Modify data
- Troubleshoot and optimize queries
- Install and configure SQL Server
- Maintain instances and databases
- Optimize and troubleshoot SQL Server
Get 70-457 exam dumps in VCE here.
70-458: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 2
Topics covered:
- Manage data
- Implement security
- Implement high availability
- Design and implement a data warehouse
- Extract and transform data
- Load data
- Configure and deploy SSIS solutions
- Build Data Quality solutions
From now until May 31, 2014, there is a special promotion of 25% off the cost of these upgrade exams, plus free retakes if needed.
So, if you are not sure as to whether you should rush into your SQL Server 2008 certification and then upgrade to 2012, or start from scratch with SQL Server 2012, we highly recommend that you take a closer look at the MCSA: SQL Server 2012 path and check the upgrade path above. It looks totally worth it, especially with the discounts Microsoft currently offers. And, SQL Server 2008 AND 2012 do look better on your resume than just SQL Server 2012. Now, which path will you take?
- Category: microsoft
- Tags: certification, certification upgrade, discount, exam, exams, free exam, it certification, it certification exam, it certification exams, it certifications, mcsa, mcts, microsoft, promo, promo code, retiring exams, special offers, sql server, sql server 2008, sql server 2012, upgrade, windows server 2008
Interesting posts
5 Easiest Ways to Get CRISC Certification
CRISC Certification – Steps to Triumph Are you ready to stand out in the ever-evolving fields of risk management and information security? Achieving a Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification is more than just adding a prestigious title next to your name — it’s a powerful statement about your expertise in safeguarding… Read More »
Complete VMware Certification Guide 2024
Hello, tech aficionados and IT wizards! Ever thought about propelling your career forward with a VMware certification? If you have, great – you’ve landed in the perfect spot. And if you haven’t, get ready to be captivated. VMware stands at the forefront of virtualization and cloud infrastructure globally, presenting a comprehensive certification program tailored to… Read More »
How Cisco CCNA Certification Can Boost Your IT Career?
Hello, fellow tech aficionados! Are you itching to climb the IT career ladder but find yourself at a bit of a standstill? Maybe it’s time to spice up your resume with some serious certification action. And what better way to do that than with the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification? This little gem is… Read More »
What You Need to Know to Become Certified Information Security Manager?
Curious about the path to Certified Information Security Manager? Imagine embarking on a journey where each step brings you closer to mastering the complex realm of information security management. Picture yourself wielding the prestigious Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, a beacon of expertise administered by the esteemed Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).… Read More »
Introduction In the dynamic realm of IT and cloud computing, where technology swiftly changes and competition is fierce, certifications shine as vital markers of proficiency and dedication. They act as keys to unlocking career potential for ambitious professionals. Within this context, VMware certifications have become a cornerstone for professionals aiming to showcase their expertise in… Read More »
3 Real-World Tasks You’ll Tackle in Google Data Analytics Certification
Introduction In today’s fast-paced digital world, certifications are essential for professionals aiming to showcase their expertise and progress in their careers. Google’s certifications, especially in data analytics, are highly regarded for their emphasis on practical, job-ready skills. The Google Data Analytics Certification, known for its broad skill development in data processing, analysis, and visualization, stands… Read More »
