SQL Server 2005 Study Material

Hi,

I am working as a software engineer in India. I usually works on SQL Server 2000 database as we have client using the SQL Server 2000 database and hence get very little chance to discover what is new in SQL server 2005

But now I want to learn everything about SQL Server 2005 PL/SQL programming. Can somebody tell me where I can get good study material (e-books) on SQL server 2005 which will have every new feature described as far as SQL Server 2005 PL/SQL programming (not SSRS, SSAS and SSIS) is concerened.

I have a very good e-book on SQL server 2000 "microsoft_sql_server_2000_programming_by_example.pdf". This books has everything about SQL server 2K.

Is there any such books for SQL 2k5?

Please help!

Thanks!

Sachin :)

Reply:

SQL Server 2005 T-SQL programming examples:

http://www.sqlusa.com/bestpractices2005/

SQL Server 2005 new features:

http://www.sqlusa.com/bestpractices2005/newfeatures/

SQL Server 2005 new features for developers:

http://www.sqlusa.com/articles2005/top10/

Kalman Toth SQL SERVER 2012 & BI TRAINING
New Book: Beginner Database Design & SQL Programming Using Microsoft SQL Server 2012

Edited by Kalman Toth Tuesday, October 16, 2012 11:36 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

PL/SQL isn't that Oracle? Or is it DB2? :-)

There is no reason to stop at SQL 2005, although SQL 2008 and SQL 2012 has not brought the same deluge of new feature as SQL 2005 did.

I recommend that you read Itzik Ben-Gan's Inside SQL Server books. There's two of them: Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2008: T-SQL Querying and Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2008: T-SQL Programming.

He also has a new book out about the new Window functions in SQL 2012, which I'm dying to read myself.

Erland Sommarskog, SQL Server MVP, esquel@sommarskog.se

------------------------------------

how to force visual studio to generate datatable and adaptor code for added table

working on a visual studio 2010 express c# project with CE sql 3.5 and .net 4 framework, I added a new table xyz to the compact editon 3.5 sql server database.

then I dragged the table xyz from the database explorer to an existing dataset and added some queries for xyz.

However I failed to find any datatable like xyz or the added table adapter in the dataset whatever.cs. tried search the solution for xyz partial word and case insensitive

no matter what I did, still can't make vs to generate the required classes for me until I added a new dataset. To it I drag and drop the xyz table from database explorer. Voila the required table adaptor, datatabel and columns could be found in the designer.cs

Starting a new dataset, I can multi-select the sql ce 3.5 tables then drag and drop into design surface of the new dataset. After adding queries did results in datatable and table adpaters generated for all the "dropped" datatables and relevent tableadapters.

Looks like when there is aproblem with a dataset, the only work around is to create a new one.

anyone is most welcomed to share to experience of multi-tables in one single dataset for SQL ce 3.5 with .net 4 and visual studio express...

Changed type fs - ab Saturday, May 12, 2012 10:39 PM
Edited by fs - ab Thursday, May 31, 2012 5:52 AM

OVER PARTITION BY vs GROUP BY

Is the performance of GROUP BY query generally better? Thanks.

The following simple example shows sharp difference in performance.

-- GROUP BY - Relative cost 23%  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=MAX(OrderDate), OrderCount=COUNT(*)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader  GROUP BY VendorID  ORDER BY OrderCount DESC, VendorID;    -- OVER PARTITION BY - Relative cost 77%  ;WITH CTE AS (SELECT VendorID, OrderDate,   OrderCount = COUNT(*) OVER ( PARTITION BY VendorID),   RN = ROW_NUMBER() OVER ( PARTITION BY VendorID    ORDER BY OrderDate DESC)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader)  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=OrderDate, OrderCount   FROM CTE WHERE RN = 1  ORDER BY OrderCount DESC, VendorID;  ------------

Related article: http://www.sqlusa.com/bestpractices2005/overpartitionby/

Kalman Toth SQL SERVER 2012 & BI TRAINING
New Book: Beginner Database Design & SQL Programming Using Microsoft SQL Server 2012

Changed type Kalman Toth Friday, May 11, 2012 11:33 PM
Edited by Kalman Toth Tuesday, October 16, 2012 11:36 PM

Reply:

I am not so sure that this is a fair comparison, but I will give it a look and get back to you. My concern is that the two different OVER clauses will cause two different activities.

EDIT:

My answer is that the performance of GROUP BY is indeed better if you ask questions that are biased to favor a GROUP BY solution rather than an OVER solution -- such as this question. I think the whole point of the OVER clause isn't that it is inherently better than GROUP BY; however, there are many questions that are biased such that the questions favor an OVER solution rather than a GROUP BY solution.

Which tool you choose will depend on the particular question and the bias that the question has toward a given tool.

Edited by Kent Waldrop Friday, May 11, 2012 7:36 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Looking at the query plan the difference seems obvious

Chuck

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hi Kent,

The result sets are identical:

-- Each query returns 86 rows  WITH CTE AS (SELECT VendorID, OrderDate,   OrderCount = COUNT(*) OVER ( PARTITION BY VendorID),   RN = ROW_NUMBER() OVER ( PARTITION BY VendorID    ORDER BY OrderDate DESC)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader)  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=OrderDate, OrderCount   FROM CTE WHERE RN = 1  EXCEPT  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=MAX(OrderDate), OrderCount=COUNT(*)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader  GROUP BY VendorID  -- (0 row(s) affected)

Kalman Toth SQL SERVER & BI TRAINING

Edited by Kalman Toth Friday, May 11, 2012 7:27 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Yes, the results are the same; however, the activities of each query are different. This question is biased toward the GROUP BY solution. I can come up with a question that is biased toward an OVER solution if you want; however, I don't think that is necessary, is it?

Edited by Kent Waldrop Friday, May 11, 2012 7:39 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hi Kent,

I don't think there is bias. The GROUP BY query is pretty mondane, done everyday. Now (starting with SQL Server 2005) it can be done with windowing functions. It is a fair comparison.

The underlying question, is it better to stick with GROUP BY if it can do the job?

Kalman Toth SQL SERVER & BI TRAINING

------------------------------------
Reply:

The underlying question, is it better to stick with GROUP BY if it can do the job?

That is the EXACT verbiage that I was hoping you would use, because the resounding answer to that question is NO. Realize that since you ask if it C A N do the job then if there is any counterexample to the question then the premise is false.

My statement is the same old "it depends." That is, it depends on which is more efficient or to some extent easier to understand / maintain.

EDIT:

A counter example:

-- --------------------------------------------------  -- Suppose that we are processing purchase orders  -- by vendor. Also, suppose that we allow for   -- multiple purchases to a particular vendor on any  -- given day -- it is not what we prefer, but in  -- rate circumstances we do allow it. Further  --  -- What we want to produce is a list of the last  -- purchase that we have for each vendor. We  -- define the last purchase as the record associated  -- with a vendorId that has the highest orderDate.  -- In case there are multiple records with the same  -- highest orderDate, we define the last purchase as  -- the record with the highest OrderDate and the  -- highest purchaseOrderId within the highest order  -- Date.  --  -- ( I am using AdventureWorks2012 )  -- --------------------------------------------------  with cte as  ( select   vendorId,  	purchaseOrderId,   orderDate,  	row_Number() over  	( partition by vendorId  	 order by orderDate desc, purchaseOrderId desc  	) as rn   from purchasing.purchaseOrderHeader  )  select   vendorId,   purchaseOrderId,   orderDate  from cte  where rn = 1;  --except  select   a.vendorId,   max(purchaseOrderId) as purchaseOrderId,   orderDate  from purchasing.purchaseOrderHeader a  join  ( select    vendorId,   max(orderDate) as maxOrderDate   from purchasing.purchaseOrderHeader b   group by vendorId  ) b   on b.vendorId = a.vendorId   and b.maxOrderDate = a.orderDate   group by   a.vendorId,   orderDate   ;

Note that this question is biased toward the OVER clause rather than the GROUP BY clause. Even though we CAN use the GROUP BY query, I probably wouldn't because the GROUP BY query requires a second sort.

What I would say is that GROUP BY queries should not be overlooked as options in favor of queries using an OVER clause. Moreover, I would say that it is not by accident that GROUP BY queries became available well before OVER queries. I have not reason to believe that OVER queries are more useful or get more frequent use than GROUP BY queries.

My "Yes" part toward your original question is that yes, I think that if you get used to writing queries using the OVER clause that you could misuse the OVER clause in situations where a GROUP BY clause is a better choice.

Edited by Kent Waldrop Friday, May 11, 2012 8:57 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Which medicine is better, Loseec or Aspirine?

That is, the question is not meaningful.

Erland Sommarskog, SQL Server MVP, esquel@sommarskog.se

------------------------------------
Reply:

Sure it's better to use GROUP BY for that query you listed - the second query does twice work.

For every expert, there is an equal and opposite expert. - Becker's Law

My blog

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hi Naomi,

You are right. The COUNT more than doubles the cost of the OVER PARTITION BY query, why it adds very little cost to the GROUP BY query:

-- GROUP BY - Relative cost 41% 0.093  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=MAX(OrderDate)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader  GROUP BY VendorID  ORDER BY VendorID;    -- OVER PARTITION BY - Relative cost 59% 0.131  ;WITH CTE AS (SELECT VendorID, OrderDate,   RN = ROW_NUMBER() OVER ( PARTITION BY VendorID    ORDER BY OrderDate DESC)  FROM AdventureWorks2008.Purchasing.PurchaseOrderHeader)  SELECT VendorID, LastOrder=OrderDate  FROM CTE WHERE RN = 1  ORDER BY VendorID;  ------------

Kalman Toth SQL SERVER & BI TRAINING

Edited by Kalman Toth Friday, May 11, 2012 11:48 PM

------------------------------------

How to create electronic library workflow using sharepoint workflow?

Hi!

I'm trying to create electronic libraray wrkflow using sharepoint integrating with VS2010 . firstly,How i can use to solve this problem ?Sequential WF of State Machine WF . Secondly, what Diff between flowchart and workflow and which of this good in design and analysis our system ; because i'm beginner in workflow please give you full idea?

Thanks for everyone .

Muslim

If I'd had some set idea of a finish line, don't you think I would have crossed it years ago? << Bill Gates >>

Changed type Mohammed Abdullah Alghori Friday, May 11, 2012 11:55 PM It's need more idea

Exclamation mark and no internet access with internet access

So, booted up the PC and loaded some web sites.

Notice a yellow exclamation mark symbol on the networking icon in the task tray.

Clicking on it brings up the charm that says network: limited.

Opening up network and sharing center shows no network access.

IPv4 & IPv6 connectivity: no network access

Yet I have internet access and everything appears to be working just fine.

Reply:

PC restart fixes the weirdness.

Guessing disable and enable without restart might have as well. Not 100% Florida orange juice sure though.

------------------------------------
Reply:

I have noticed this as well on wired and wireless. I need to run the diagnostics to fix it.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Reproduced also in my installation.

I had several issues with vista, and sometimes the diagnostics tool not find something.

If the problem is just the icon , then might not have problems. In many client installations hide it to avoid disconnections from the network (The disconnection from the internet was done with similar way you disconnect, disable a network device, with ISDN,PSTN lines, and as said old hobbits difficult change ).

P Velachoutakos

------------------------------------

Short answer code questions coming soon!

Source: http://borntolearn.mslearn.net/btl/b/weblog/archive/2012/05/11/short-answer-code-questions-coming-soon.aspx

We are proud to announce that short answer code questions will soon be available in an exam near you. Short answer code questions test your ability to write code that will solve the problem described in the question.

To answer, you will type the necessary code into a free text entry field. Your answer is scored by comparing it to a list of possible correct answers. (And yes, many SMEs were involved in developing and reviewing the list of correct answers.)

Here are some key features about this question type:

The question will specify any necessary information (e.g., table names, field names, variable names, etc.) needed to write the code.
You can check the syntax of your answer to ensure the syntax is correct—this does NOT check to see if your answer is correct, though. It simply checks that the syntax is correct.
Spelling matters, but if the misspelling is related to relevant names/words in the question, the syntax checker will highlight those errors as well. In other words, limited spell-checking is provided in addition to syntax checking.
Usually rely on IntelliSense when writing code? No worries! We are providing a list of key words that will include many commonly used commands that you might use when writing code. And, we'll continue to work through how to make IntelliSense available during exams with these types of questions.

This new question type will come as no surprise to some of you. We talked about it at Microsoft Certified Career Conference in March and blogged about it last October. For those of you who completed the survey associated with that blog post, we sincerely appreciate your participation, because it helped us refine and improve our prototype for this question type. In addition, the subject matter experts who wrote the questions you'll see on your exam provided additional feedback on how to make short answer code questions more real-world and relevant.

We believe that short answer code questions will help distinguish those who are truly fluent at writing code. Candidates who attempt exams without these skills will have a hard time with these questions. Candidates who are qualified will find that these questions are a more real-world and rigorous evaluation of their skills.

Curious about what these questions will look like? Check out this screen shot. We'll provide a demo for you to learn more at a later date. Stay tuned!

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer

Jeff Wharton
MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt), MCT, MCPD, MCSD, MCITP, MCDBA
Blog: Mr. Wharty's Ramblings
Twitter: @Mr_Wharty
MC ID: Microsoft Transcript

Changed type Mr. Wharty Friday, May 11, 2012 11:16 PM

Dual boot FreeDOS with Windows 8 Consumer Preview

Hi, I am trying to dual boot between FreeDOS and Windows 8 consumer preview. For this I followed following steps:

1. I installed Windows 8 on my computers HDD. I deleted the additional system partition and put everything in the same partition.

2. After booting to Windows I ran following commands for FreeDOS

1. bootsect.exe C:\ C:\bootsect.dos

2. bootsect.exe /nt60 C: /Force

3. Created a boot.ini file under the root directory with the following contents:

[boot loader]

timeout=10

default=c:\bootsect.dos

[operating systems]

c:\bootsect.dos=freedos

4. Modifed the BCD file under c:\Boot folder.

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {bootmgr} device boot

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {default} device boot

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {default} osdevice boot

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {memdiag} device boot

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {…} device boot

bcdedit –store c:\boot\bcd –set {…} filedevice boot

5. Then I took the HDD out and copied all the files on the server and created an OS.WIM file.

6. I put my OS.WIM to a FreeDOS directory and downloaded all the files.

7. The system successfully booted too FreeDOS and when I switched from FreeDOS to Windows 8 it showed me the initial screen with the image of fish and the rotating pearls but after that it showed me a black screen with out any error message.

Can anyone tell me if I missed anything here?

Thanks,

Ashvin

Changed type Niki HanModerator Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:31 AM redirect

Reply:

you need to ask this in FreeDOS corresponding community.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Have you considered virtualization instead of multi-booting? You would setup your host operating systems and install a VM application such as VMWare, VirtualBox, Virtual-PC (although virtualpc doesnt support x64 guests). Then run FreeDos on one VM, and Win 8 on another VM.

The three operating systems (host and two guests) will all play nice together. When you are done with your evaluation of your VMs, you just delete them rather than trying to clean-up the mess as you would on a multi-boot system.

Guides and tutorials, visit ITGeared.com.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Or in a usb disk create an on the go windows 8 installation .I agree multi -boot it is always a mess

P Velachoutakos

------------------------------------

A New Era in Microsoft Certification

UPDATE: There's a great Q & A here http://borntolearn.mslearn.net/btl/b/weblog/archive/2012/04/27/your-questions-answered.aspx

Source: http://blog.wharton.com.au/2012/04/11/a-new-era-in-microsoft-certification/

Today Microsoft released details of it's new certification program which is designed to address the growing need for IT Pros and Developers to have skill sets that run both broad and deep.

At first glance it appears that Microsoft has simply reintroduced acronyms used in previous certification streams (such as MCSD ,
MCSA and MCSE) however this isn't so and it's important to understand that these acronyms now represent new certification structures and requirements, not just a renaming of terminology.

So What Has Changed?

As you can see from the diagram below, the new certification program consists of three core levels:

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) / Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Master (MCSM)

You will also notice that Microsoft has introduced recertification as a requirement of MCSD/MCSE level certifications.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Associate level certifications validate the core skills required to work with a technology at a beginners level. They also represent the prerequisite certifications required to obtain Expert level certification.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) & Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

The Expert level is Microsoft's flagship set of certifications validating that skills obtained are relevant in the constantly changing tech environment. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is the destination for established IT Professionals who have expertise working with Microsoft technology solutions. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is the destination for established Developers who have expertise developing solutions with Microsoft tools.

As previously stated, Microsoft has also introduced recertification as a requirement of this certification level.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Master (MCSM)

This certification is for the select few who wish to further differentiate themselves from their peers and achieve the highest level of skills validation.

Offers and Promotions

Microsoft, in conjunction with Prometric, has released the following offer and promotion to assist candidates with achieving MCSA and/or MCSE certification.

Certification SKU Offer

If you purchase a set of exams to achieve MCSA or MCSE certification, you will receive a 15-20% discount (depending on the number of exams in the set) off the purchase price.

Two-for-One Promotion

Purchase and take a full-priced exam before 30 June 2012 and you will receive, at no cost, a voucher valid for a MCSA or MCSE exam in the same technology. More information about this offer can be found here.

Additional Information

Microsoft Certification overview page: http://aka.ms/MSCerts

Microsoft Certification overview video: http://aka.ms/MSCertsVideo

MCSE information page: http://aka.ms/MCSE

MCSE video on YouTube: http://aka.ms/MCSEvideo

MCSE Data Platform: http://aka.ms/MCSEDP

MCSE Business Intelligence: http://aka.ms/MCSEBI

MCSE Private Cloud: http://aka.ms/MCSEpvcloud

Edited by Mr. Wharty Monday, April 30, 2012 10:46 PM

Reply:

The MCSA and MCSE acronyms will create a huge confusion amont non technical people, as still today a lot of project managers and HRs are asking for a MCSE and MCSA certifications.

The MCSM is a successor to todays MCM? So training in Redmond etc?

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hello

I am rather confused about the new programme.

I hold the MCITP: EDST Qualification and am one exam (70-642) away from achieving MCITP: Server Administrator and MCITP: Enterprise Administrator concurrently.

Under the new schemes will I get MCSE Server Administrator and MCSE: Enterprise Administrator or will I still get the 'old' qualification.

If I get the new qualification will I have to re-qualify in 3 years time?

Thanks in advance.

R20

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hello

I am rather confused about the new programme.

I hold the MCITP: EDST Qualification and am one exam (70-642) away from achieving MCITP: Server Administrator and MCITP: Enterprise Administrator concurrently.

Under the new schemes will I get MCSE Server Administrator and MCSE: Enterprise Administrator or will I still get the 'old' qualification.

If I get the new qualification will I have to re-qualify in 3 years time?

Thanks in advance.

R20

This is fairly easy .. you will still hold your certifications. The new MCSE and MCSA are available only for SQL 2012 and System Center 2012 today. Later when new products like Exchange 15, Lync 15, Server 8 etc will be released, new certifications will be available in MCSA and MCSE tracks.

Even today if you will get MCITP: Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 (so you dont have to renew, as you can directly see the version of the product in your cert) http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcitp.aspx#tab2

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Thanks Marek

Good to know my current qualifications will still have been worth the effort. Will there be an upgrade path from MCITP: SA/EA to MCSE Server 8?

TIA

------------------------------------
Reply:

As far as I know this info is not available yet, but I would guess there will be a upgrade path .. always has been with a huge amount of products.

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hello

I am rather confused about the new programme.

I hold the MCITP: EDST Qualification and am one exam (70-642) away from achieving MCITP: Server Administrator and MCITP: Enterprise Administrator concurrently.

Under the new schemes will I get MCSE Server Administrator and MCSE: Enterprise Administrator or will I still get the 'old' qualification.

If I get the new qualification will I have to re-qualify in 3 years time?

Thanks in advance.

R20

This is fairly easy .. you will still hold your certifications. The new MCSE and MCSA are available only for SQL 2012 and System Center 2012 today. Later when new products like Exchange 15, Lync 15, Server 8 etc will be released, new certifications will be available in MCSA and MCSE tracks.

Even today if you will get MCITP: Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 (so you dont have to renew, as you can directly see the version of the product in your cert) http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcitp.aspx#tab2

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

MCSE Private Cloud certification is also available http://aka.ms/MCSEpvcloud

------------------------------------
Reply:

I have a question.

If I already passed required exams of Windows Server 2008 in MCTS era, will I get Solution Associate certification?

or must take a upgrade exam to earn the new Solution Associate certification?

Thank you.

學習不是查個 Google 套個書上的範例就算了，而是去熟悉了解每個程式碼背後的意義，否則就算學個幾百年，它也不會是你的。
＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝
小朱的技術隨手寫：http://www.dotblogs.com.tw/regionbbs/
雲端學堂Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/studyazure

------------------------------------
Reply:

I have a question.

If I already passed required exams of Windows Server 2008 in MCTS era, will I get Solution Associate certification?

or must take a upgrade exam to earn the new Solution Associate certification?

Thank you.

學習不是查個 Google 套個書上的範例就算了，而是去熟悉了解每個程式碼背後的意義，否則就算學個幾百年，它也不會是你的。
＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝
小朱的技術隨手寫：http://www.dotblogs.com.tw/regionbbs/
雲端學堂Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/studyazure

As long as you've completed 70-640, 70-642 and 70-646 you will be awarded MCSA: Windows Server 2008

------------------------------------
Reply:

Thanks for your answer.

I am certified by using upgrade exam of Windows Server 2008 MCTS (70-649), it includes 70-640, 70-642 and 70-643.

I am also certified with 70-646 (MCITP: Server Administrator).

So... I think I can earn MCSA: Windows Server 2008.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hi Jeff

So in that case I will get MCITP: Server Administrator and MCSA: Windows Server 2008 when I pass the 70-642?

Thanks

------------------------------------
Reply:

Think we're going to have a lot of confused people out there.

Few issues I feel have been over looked:

Any previous MCSE/MCSA (as in systems engineer / administrator) has now again automatically got an up to date sounding certification.
The new MCSA (solutions associate) is now made out to be 'entry level' which is very misleading in terms of the technical ability required to pass the 3 required exams. (Why not just call it Microsoft Certified Server Administrator if the desire was to stick with the MCSA name).
The difference between an 'Associate' and 'Expert' to me sounds like complete opposite ends of the ability spectrum, and not 2 exams worth of knowledge.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Think we're going to have a lot of confused people out there.

Few issues I feel have been over looked:

Any previous MCSE/MCSA (as in systems engineer / administrator) has now again automatically got an up to date sounding certification.
The new MCSA (solutions associate) is now made out to be 'entry level' which is very misleading in terms of the technical ability required to pass the 3 required exams. (Why not just call it Microsoft Certified Server Administrator if the desire was to stick with the MCSA name).
The difference between an 'Associate' and 'Expert' to me sounds like complete opposite ends of the ability spectrum, and not 2 exams worth of knowledge.

and also the associate will be confused with this strange and no one knows why released certification http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mta.aspx
I think that Microsoft Learning has created a huge confusion with new certs, this will be a huge mess for someone who just looks for a certified person. Many HRs and IT Managers dont have any idea about the certifications, and I am still getting request to show my MCSA and MCDBA certs ...

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

and also the associate will be confused with this strange and no one knows why released certification http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mta.aspx
I think that Microsoft Learning has created a huge confusion with new certs, this will be a huge mess for someone who just looks for a certified person. Many HRs and IT Managers dont have any idea about the certifications, and I am still getting request to show my MCSA and MCDBA certs ...

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

Agreed - the MTA is for designed for students and is a true entry level cert designed to lead on to higher level MCTS exams... as you said, it's a mess.

------------------------------------
Reply:

1) MCSA/MCSE acronyms will cause confusion.

Yes there may be some confusion however this will reduce over time. Some confusion was also experienced when Microsoft moved to MCTS/MCITP however people now understand these credentials. Furthermore, the full title for the new MCSA & MCSE certification are:

MCSA: SQL Server 2012 or MCSA: Windows Server 2008
MCSE: Data Platform or MCSE: Bussiness Intelligence or MCSE: Private Cloud.

This structure will also be used for future certifications

2) MCSM in Redmond

SQL Server MCSM does not need to be studied in Redmond. It uses the same study methods available to MCM SQL Server 2008.

Can't comment on Windows Server related MCSM.

3) HR/Project Managers will get confused when hiring staff and HR/Project Managers have no idea about certifications.

See (1) above.

There will always be issues with non-IT Professionals hiring IT Professionals, irrespective of the acronyms used. I can't vouch for others however my organisation uses IT Professionals to hire IT Professionals. Using non-IT Proefessionals would be like asking someone working as a car mechanic to hire a receptionist; they may eventually hire someone however it's likely that person won't have the required skills.

4) Will I still get MCTS/MCITP when I pass exams.

SQL Server 2008 certifications (MCTS/MCITP) will retire in July 2013 therefore you will still be awarded a MCTS/MCITP if you pass exams related to these certifications.

i don't know when Windows Server 2008 certifications will expire however the same rules apply i.e. You will get relevant MCTS/MCITP certifications when passing exams.

5) Any previous MCSE/MCSA (as in systems engineer / administrator) has now again automatically got an up to date sounding certification.

They may sound the same however it will be easy to distinguish between the new and old certifications (See 1 above re naming conventions)

6) MCSA level is too difficult

MCSA now reflects what should have been the entry level all along. Having a certification program where someone can read a few chapters in a book, do a couple of labs online, pass an exam and then market themselves as a Technology Specialist is so wrong. i actually think Microsoft should have made the MCSA entry level even harder.

7) MTA certification.

This certification was released to assist School/TAFE/University students move into a career using Microsoft technologies. Students and their representative organisation are well aware of this certification and it has proven to be very popular. I fail to see how this certification is confusing.

------------------------------------
Reply:

1) MCSA/MCSE acronyms will cause confusion.

Yes there may be some confusion however this will reduce over time. Some confusion was also experienced when Microsoft moved to MCTS/MCITP however people now understand these credentials. Furthermore, the full title for the new MCSA & MCSE certification are:

MCSA: SQL Server 2012 or MCSA: Windows Server 2008
MCSE: Data Platform or MCSE: Bussiness Intelligence or MCSE: Private Cloud.

This structure will also be used for future certifications

2) MCSM in Redmond

SQL Server MCSM does not need to be studied in Redmond. It uses the same study methods available to MCM SQL Server 2008.

Can't comment on Windows Server related MCSM.

3) HR/Project Managers will get confused when hiring staff and HR/Project Managers have no idea about certifications.

See (1) above.

There will always be issues with non-IT Professionals hiring IT Professionals, irrespective of the acronyms used. I can't vouch for others however my organisation uses IT Professionals to hire IT Professionals. Using non-IT Proefessionals would be like asking someone working as a car mechanic to hire a receptionist; they may eventually hire someone however it's likely that person won't have the required skills.

4) Will I still get MCTS/MCITP when I pass exams.

SQL Server 2008 certifications (MCTS/MCITP) will retire in July 2013 therefore you will still be awarded a MCTS/MCITP if you pass exams related to these certifications.

i don't know when Windows Server 2008 certifications will expire however the same rules apply i.e. You will get relevant MCTS/MCITP certifications when passing exams.

5) Any previous MCSE/MCSA (as in systems engineer / administrator) has now again automatically got an up to date sounding certification.

They may sound the same however it will be easy to distinguish between the new and old certifications (See 1 above re naming conventions)

6) MCSA level is too difficult

MCSA now reflects what should have been the entry level all along. Having a certification program where someone can read a few chapters in a book, do a couple of labs online, pass an exam and then market themselves as a Technology Specialist is so wrong. i actually think Microsoft should have made the MCSA entry level even harder.

7) MTA certification.

This certification was released to assist School/TAFE/University students move into a career using Microsoft technologies. Students and their representative organisation are well aware of this certification and it has proven to be very popular. I fail to see how this certification is confusing.

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer

Jeff Wharton
MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt), MCT, MCPD, MCSD, MCITP, MCDBA
Blog: Mr. Wharty's Ramblings
Twitter: @Mr_Wharty
MC ID: Microsoft Transcript

1. Its not the same like with MCTS/ITPRO as there is some ambiguity with older acronyms. I agree that after some time things will get more clear, but this could have been avoided. I know that there is a full title for the certification, but more people use acronyms only.

2. Some MCM programs do require the training in Redmond, some do not. We will se in the future how this will be changed with MCSM.

3. Lucky you, I have seen many companies, where non-IT personel are hiring IT personel, you know the result :)

4. good to know

5. see (1)

6. absolutely right !!!

7. In our country I havent heard about students taking this Certification, usually university students go directly for MCTS exams .. there I have to agree with you that its strange to call one technology specialist after passing one exam, sometimes with no real experience. I see the confusion with the name "Associate", try to understand there are a lot of people (again mainly nonIT personel) who dont speak english, they just can recognize a word or acronym, but they have no idea what does it mean.

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

I see the confusion with the name "Associate", try to understand there are a lot of people (again mainly nonIT personel) who dont speak english, they just can recognize a word or acronym, but they have no idea what does it mean.

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

I understand and this is probably one of the things that made it very difficult for Microsoft to come up with a set of acronyms which represent IT Pro, Developer and Business Intelligence certifications

------------------------------------
Reply:

I am an MCITP Enterprise Admin in w2k8. I am now willing to do Exchange Admin certification, any changes in this too.?

Thanks and Regards Mohamed

------------------------------------
Reply:

Thanks for your answer.

I am certified by using upgrade exam of Windows Server 2008 MCTS (70-649), it includes 70-640, 70-642 and 70-643.

I am also certified with 70-646 (MCITP: Server Administrator).

So... I think I can earn MCSA: Windows Server 2008.

學習不是查個 Google 套個書上的範例就算了，而是去熟悉了解每個程式碼背後的意義，否則就算學個幾百年，它也不會是你的。
＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝
小朱的技術隨手寫：http://www.dotblogs.com.tw/regionbbs/
雲端學堂Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/studyazure

Hi,

I have the same question. I achieved my MCITP: Server Administrator on Windows Server 2008 (and Enterprise Administrator) via a MCSE 2003 and the upgrade exam 70-649. This combination served as the equivalent of 70-640, 642, and 646.

I just got off the phone with the Australian Certification Call Center and they informed me that unlike the requirements for the MCITP, which are currently identical to the MCSA 2008, I would have to take the three individual exams to obtain the MSCA, before I could get the new MCSE! This result is absurd as it requires me to take three exams on material I have already been tested on, not to mention material that is about to be superseded by Windows Server 8 exams!

Has anyone received a different response? Does anyone have contact details for anyone that actually has some authority in this matter?

Thanks,

David Stanton MCSE, MCITP, Partner

Perth, Australia

------------------------------------
Reply:

Information on MCSE 2003 is still on Microsoft's website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse-previous.aspx

This information can also be reached via the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab2

------------------------------------
Reply:

I would also be interested in a response to D Stanton's question. Are people really being told that they have to sit teh same 3 exams again to get the new qualification???

------------------------------------
Reply:

I would also be interested in a response to D Stanton's question. Are people really being told that they have to sit teh same 3 exams again to get the new qualification???

I have escalated Mr Stanton's question to Microsoft for comment.

------------------------------------
Reply:

For those seeking certification in the W2k8 areas, should I disregard the MCITP: Enterprise Admin path (70-640, 642, 643, 647), and focus on the new MCSA path(70-640, 642, 646)? Or is there still some significance in continuing to pursue the MCITP cert?

------------------------------------
Reply:

The MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification is still a worthwile path to go down as the MCITP on Windows Server 2008 certification requires a skill set that differs from the skill set needed for the new MCSA and MCSE certifications.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Thank you for looking into this.

This morning I received what appears to be an automated congratulation from mswwprog@microsoft.com, congratulating me on my new certification. I followed the link to the mcp site and even though it does not list a new certs on the opening screen (my experience is that it only lists single exam certs on the opening summary screen), after examining my actual transcript I find I now have the MCSA certification for Windows 2008.

It appears one of the many Microsoft hands does not know what the other is doing, but they actually got it right.

In summary: It appears that the MCSA Certification is being given to those who pass the three current exams listed in the announcement AND to those who obtained the MCITP in Server 2008 Administration via a MCSE 2003 and the upgrade exam 70-649 (70-649 is being counted as equivalent to 70-640 and 70-642). In even shorter summary, if you have the MCITP: Server Administrator on Windows Server 2008, Microsoft appears to be giving you the the new MCSA certification.

Thanks again,

David Stanton MCSE, MCITP, Partner

Perth, Australia

------------------------------------
Reply:

Just a note to point out that Microsoft is not currently even using the acronyms in their transcripts Note no abreviation for Microcrosoft Certified Solution Associate below. MCITP and MCTS abreviations are included for recent certs; however, older certs do not use the MCSE and MCSA abreviations on the transcript either .

David Stanton MCSE, MCITP, Partner

Perth, Australia

------------------------------------
Reply:

That makes perfect sense.

------------------------------------
Reply:

This is a terrible change on Microsoft's part for the following reasons:

1)
Job postings still request MCSE candidates even though it doesn't even
exist anymore. Now it exists again, but it means something else! So
when someone posts for an MCSE 2008, are they really asking for an
MCITP: EA (which I am), or a new MCSE private cloud cert? This
confusion will damage the already diminishing respect for Microsoft
certifications.

2) They are damaging the credibility of those who
have acheived an MCITP: EA by giving us only an MCSA cert. If they
wanted to revert to the more sought after MCSE acronym, they should have
just renamed the MCITP: EA cert to MCSE 2008 and then introduced a new
MCSE private cloud cert. Instead they have alienated those of us who
invested time and money into acheiving an MCITP: EA cert. Those who
simply acheived an MCITP: SA cert were also awarded MCSA certs today.
So did I waste my time and money?

3) The recertification
requirement is ubsurd. They should have simply maintained the model of
indication the OS you are certified in OR introduced an continuing
education program like CISSP does. That is more relevant than requiring
a paid test every 3 years.

I have read several other forums and it appears that everyone who
currently holds a Microsoft cert is having a similar reaction to me. I
hope Microsoft is listening and I hope they correct this poor decision
shortly.

------------------------------------
Reply:

This is a terrible change on Microsoft's part for the following reasons:

1)
Job postings still request MCSE candidates even though it doesn't even
exist anymore. Now it exists again, but it means something else! So
when someone posts for an MCSE 2008, are they really asking for an
MCITP: EA (which I am), or a new MCSE private cloud cert? This
confusion will damage the already diminishing respect for Microsoft
certifications.

2) They are damaging the credibility of those who
have acheived an MCITP: EA by giving us only an MCSA cert. If they
wanted to revert to the more sought after MCSE acronym, they should have
just renamed the MCITP: EA cert to MCSE 2008 and then introduced a new
MCSE private cloud cert. Instead they have alienated those of us who
invested time and money into acheiving an MCITP: EA cert. Those who
simply acheived an MCITP: SA cert were also awarded MCSA certs today.
So did I waste my time and money?

3) The recertification
requirement is ubsurd. They should have simply maintained the model of
indication the OS you are certified in OR introduced an continuing
education program like CISSP does. That is more relevant than requiring
a paid test every 3 years.
I have read several other forums and it appears that everyone who
currently holds a Microsoft cert is having a similar reaction to me. I
hope Microsoft is listening and I hope they correct this poor decision
shortly.

1) MCSE still exists so not sure where you're getting your information from.

Information on MCSE 2003 is still on Microsoft's website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse-previous.aspx

This information can also be reached via the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab2

MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology.

The diminishing respect for Microsoft certifications mostly relates to the fact that some certifications are far too easy to obtain and people who hold certifications aren't required to undertake recertification. MCITP: EA and MCITP: SA certifications are perfect examples of this as people who got their certification prior to the release of R2 can't be differentiated from people who got there certification after the release of R2. Yes MS could have released new certifications for R2 however people with MCITP: EA or MCITP: SA certifications would probably complain about having to update (recertify) their old certification.

2) They're only giving you MCSA as nothing else exists at the moment. Very difficult to award a certification if no certification exists!

3) Disagree. There are way too many certified people who market themselves as IT Professionals in a given technology when they're clearly not. Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 is a perfect example of this. People with MCITP: SA or MCITP: EA are marketing themselves as R2 specialists however they have no certification to prove it.

Recertification should have been introduced when Microsoft moved to MCITP and MCTS. Given the rate of change in the technology sector, recertification should occur yearly. I'm pretty sure you'd be horrified if you discovered that the pilot flying a plane you were on hadn't been retrainined for 3yrs.

With regards to your comment on "paying" for an exam every 3yrs, are you seriously insinuating that you can't afford to do this? As an IT Professional, you should be renewing your skills far more frequently than every 3yrs.

4) Like you I have read many post on various forums however unlike you, these posts have been praising the changes, especially in relation to recertification. The only people who seem to be complaining about these changes are those people not prepared to invest time and money into keeping their certifications up to date.

Edited by Mr. Wharty Wednesday, April 18, 2012 3:51 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

This is a terrible change on Microsoft's part for the following reasons:

1)
Job postings still request MCSE candidates even though it doesn't even
exist anymore. Now it exists again, but it means something else! So
when someone posts for an MCSE 2008, are they really asking for an
MCITP: EA (which I am), or a new MCSE private cloud cert? This
confusion will damage the already diminishing respect for Microsoft
certifications.

2) They are damaging the credibility of those who
have acheived an MCITP: EA by giving us only an MCSA cert. If they
wanted to revert to the more sought after MCSE acronym, they should have
just renamed the MCITP: EA cert to MCSE 2008 and then introduced a new
MCSE private cloud cert. Instead they have alienated those of us who
invested time and money into acheiving an MCITP: EA cert. Those who
simply acheived an MCITP: SA cert were also awarded MCSA certs today.
So did I waste my time and money?

3) The recertification
requirement is ubsurd. They should have simply maintained the model of
indication the OS you are certified in OR introduced an continuing
education program like CISSP does. That is more relevant than requiring
a paid test every 3 years.
I have read several other forums and it appears that everyone who
currently holds a Microsoft cert is having a similar reaction to me. I
hope Microsoft is listening and I hope they correct this poor decision
shortly.

1) MCSE still exists so not sure where you're getting your information from.

Information on MCSE 2003 is still on Microsoft's website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse-previous.aspx

This information can also be reached via the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab2

MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology.

The diminishing respect for Microsoft certifications mostly relates to the fact that some certifications are far too easy to obtain and people who hold certifications aren't required to undertake recertification. MCITP: EA and MCITP: SA certifications are perfect examples of this as people who got their certification prior to the release of R2 can't be differentiated from people who got there certification after the release of R2. Yes MS could have released new certifications for R2 however people with MCITP: EA or MCITP: SA certifications would probably complain about having to update (recertify) their old certification.

2) They're only giving you MCSA as nothing else exists at the moment. Very difficult to award a certification if no certification exists!

3) Disagree. There are way too many certified people who market themselves as IT Professionals in a given technology when they're clearly not. Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 is a perfect example of this. People with MCITP: SA or MCITP: EA are marketing themselves as R2 specialists however they have no certification to prove it.

Recertification should have been introduced when Microsoft moved to MCITP and MCTS. Given the rate of change in the technology sector, recertification should occur yearly. I'm pretty sure you'd be horrified if you discovered that the pilot flying a plane you were on hadn't been retrainined for 3yrs.

With regards to your comment on "paying" for an exam every 3yrs, are you seriously insinuating that you can't afford to do this? As an IT Professional, you should be renewing your skills far more frequently than every 3yrs.

4) Like you I have read many post on various forums however unlike you, these posts have been praising the changes, especially in relation to recertification. The only people who seem to be complaining about these changes are those people not prepared to invest time and money into keeping their certifications up to date.

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer

Jeff Wharton
MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt), MCT, MCPD, MCSD, MCITP, MCDBA
Blog: Mr. Wharty's Ramblings
Twitter: @Mr_Wharty
MC ID: Microsoft Transcript

3. cannot agree more, the recertification should have been around much sooner. There is absolutely no reason, why IT professional should not renew the certification!!! Maybe yearly is to frequent, but at least with every R2 edition there should be a recertification.

Marek Chmel, WBI Systems (MCTS, MCITP, MCT, CCNA)
Please Mark As Answer if my post solves your problem or Vote As Helpful if a post has been helpful for you.

------------------------------------
Reply:

If those who only did the R1 material like D Stanton are automatically being awarded the MCSA 2008 qualification as well as those who did the R2 material then how exactly does the new scheme address this?

------------------------------------
Reply:

3) Disagree. There are way too many certified people who market themselves as IT Professionals in a given technology when they're clearly not. Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 is a perfect example of this. People with MCITP: SA or MCITP: EA are marketing themselves as R2 specialists however they have no certification to prove it.

If those who only did the R1 material like D Stanton are automatically being awarded the MCSA 2008 qualification as well as those who did the R2 material then how exactly does the new scheme address this?

I don't agree that people with MCITP: EA or MCITP: SA should automatically be awarded MCSA: Windows Server 2008. They should have been made to do an upgrade exam. This is one of the few complaints I have with the new certification program.

------------------------------------
Reply:

This is a terrible change on Microsoft's part for the following reasons:

1)
Job postings still request MCSE candidates even though it doesn't even
exist anymore. Now it exists again, but it means something else! So
when someone posts for an MCSE 2008, are they really asking for an
MCITP: EA (which I am), or a new MCSE private cloud cert? This
confusion will damage the already diminishing respect for Microsoft
certifications.

1) MCSE still exists so not sure where you're getting your information from.

Information on MCSE 2003 is still on Microsoft's website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse-previous.aspx

This information can also be reached via the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab2

MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology.

Actually, it is a large problem, even for so called "professional recruiters". At least 50% of job ads ask for credentials that do not exist. This counts for Microsoft certs as well as other supplier certs. Especially when the primary spoken language is not English, things get worse.

So brushing it away and saying "MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology." does not actually help customers get the IT Pro's they need for the job at hand. The reality is that most recruiters and customers have absolutely no idea on what a credential means, but because every recruiter in the market wants the best fit, they ask for the best credentials they have heard of, whether it exists or not!

Edited by Garry Sollis Wednesday, April 18, 2012 9:39 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

This is a terrible change on Microsoft's part for the following reasons:

1)
Job postings still request MCSE candidates even though it doesn't even
exist anymore. Now it exists again, but it means something else! So
when someone posts for an MCSE 2008, are they really asking for an
MCITP: EA (which I am), or a new MCSE private cloud cert? This
confusion will damage the already diminishing respect for Microsoft
certifications.

1) MCSE still exists so not sure where you're getting your information from.

Information on MCSE 2003 is still on Microsoft's website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse-previous.aspx

This information can also be reached via the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab2

MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology.

Actually, it is a large problem, even for so called "professional recruiters". At least 50% of job ads ask for credentials that do not exist. This counts for Microsoft certs as well as other supplier certs. Especially when the primary spoken language is not English, things get worse.

So brushing it away and saying "MCSE 2008 doesn't exist so if someone is advertising for a specialist with this certification, they probably have no idea about technology." does not actually help customers get the IT Pro's they need for the job at hand. The reality is that most recruiters and customers have absolutely no idea on what a credential means, but because every recruiter in the market wants the best fit, they ask for the best credentials they have heard of, whether it exists or not!

It's not Microsoft's fault that companies and recruiters don't understand certifications (especially considering that there's a plethora of information about certifications available) and these sorts of "hiring" issues will occur irrespective of what Microsoft does because the wrong people are hiring staff. Customers need to take responsibility for their actions and blaming Microsoft for the hiring of "unqualified" staff is just a cop-out. As I stated above, would you get a motor mechanic to hire a receptionist?

Edited by Mr. Wharty Wednesday, April 18, 2012 9:48 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

I dont see what the big deal is with whatever MS choose to name certifications. Keep up to date with certifications will prevent people from not meeting non technical HR certification requirements. When you have your interview you can educate the people interviewing you on the new current certifications.

I agree they should have waited to release the new certifications using exams based on the new platform soon to be released. I cannot wait until the new MCSE certifications start rolling out with the new platforms soon to be release.

I dont understand why people are always looking at something to pick about. YES recertification is a requirement now :) Either recertifiy are get left behind. Having said that i know that certification is not everything, but it sure helps when you have the years of experience and the certification when seeking employment. I have unfortunately worked with people that have 10+ years of experience and no certification and sadly they have all been pretty crappy at what they do, unfortunately they are the only ones that dont realise it.

Edited by Jamie132 Wednesday, April 18, 2012 9:07 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Back in the "bad old days" - microsoft caught a lot of static from certain quarters for the use of the term "Engineer", as in MCSE = Microsoft Certififed System Engineer. Those with University degrees felt Microsoft was usrping the title.

Personally, I assumed that was one of the reasons the current MCITP came about - as a transition so Microsoft could rename the certification - substituting Expert (much more generic - less controvrsy). I Think Checkpoint did much the same in changing their CCSA and CCSE to mean Expert too.

Also, just o keep mining the "Bad old days" - there was a minor firestorm when Microsoft sought to institute a retroactive re-certification requirement on the old MCSE/MCSA certitication, and finally relented after many techs revolted.

HR staff, as mentioned do not seem to understand what MCITP means, which explains why so many skill request/requirments still ask for MCSE/MCSA. After spending all those years establishing the MCSE/MCSA 'brand' as the premier certification for Microsoft certifications, I never could see why they wanted to toss in in the dust bin anyway?

Now its been revived and all the old issues are being addressed with a new name and with the new requirments to renew periodically. Seems they cleaned everything thing up in one fell swoop... should be another "Cash Cow" for Team Microsoft..

Yes, ... that Beoweolf

------------------------------------
Reply:

It appears that Microsoft is awarding MCSA: Windows Server 2008 to people with the MCITP: EA certification.

------------------------------------
Reply:

One question

Is Microsoft going to run both certification programs (Microsoft Certifications and Microsoft Cloud-built Certifications) in parallel?

Or they are going to drop MCITP slowly like what happened with MCSE/MCSA 2003 when MCITP was introduced?

The reason for this question is, Microsoft called the new certificate program as "Cloud built certifications", does it mean only the cloud related technologies will be added to this certification program? Say when the Windows 8 certifications come out, is it going to be Microsoft Certifications or Microsoft Cloud-built Certifications?

------------------------------------
Reply:

Microsoft will be releasing new certifications based around MCSA/MCSE just as they have with SQL Server 2012.

------------------------------------
Reply:

What About MCSE 2003 ??? Expired or not ???

------------------------------------
Reply:

As stated above, this certification is still valid

------------------------------------
Reply:

Any word on the release date of the remaining exams? Do you think they will release that information before or after they release Server 8?

Curious because like many other's i'm currently working towards an MCITP: EA, if they end up rolling that into the MCSA then i'm not going to waste my time taking the extra exams required for the MCITP: EA.

I have a feeling once the release date of the server OS comes closer they will outline what they are going to do with the MCITP: EA, just curious if you've heard of anything.

------------------------------------
Reply:

For the 2 for 1 promotion could i pay for the 70-640 exam and take the 70-647 for free?

------------------------------------
Reply:

I believe the 2 for 1 promotion is just for new certifications. So you can take either the 70-640 or 70-647 exams but that will only get you a free voucher for the server 2012 private cloud.

So it's 2 for 1, but the free exam is limited to either Windows 8, Server 2012 private cloud, SQL 2012 or Visual studio 2012.

http://social.microsoft.com/Forums/en/CertGeneral/thread/af47ead1-1525-4f64-9916-142e6990c350

------------------------------------
Reply:

I believe the 2 for 1 promotion is just for new certifications. So you can take either the 70-640 or 70-647 exams but that will only get you a free voucher for the server 2012 private cloud.

So it's 2 for 1, but the free exam is limited to either Windows 8, Server 2012 private cloud, SQL 2012 or Visual studio 2012.

http://social.microsoft.com/Forums/en/CertGeneral/thread/af47ead1-1525-4f64-9916-142e6990c350

Correct

------------------------------------
Reply:

Any word on the release date of the remaining exams? Do you think they will release that information before or after they release Server 8?

Curious because like many other's i'm currently working towards an MCITP: EA, if they end up rolling that into the MCSA then i'm not going to waste my time taking the extra exams required for the MCITP: EA.

I have a feeling once the release date of the server OS comes closer they will outline what they are going to do with the MCITP: EA, just curious if you've heard of anything.

MCITP: EA won't be rolled up into MCSA as MCSA is an entry level certification.

Not sure what other exams Microsoft has planned or when they'll e released.

------------------------------------
Reply:

So I understand that MCSE 2003 is still valid if you already have it. What if you are only one test away. Can you still obtain it? or should I not bother. I know it's an old cert, but It would be more of a personal acomplisment.

Nate

------------------------------------
Reply:

So I understand that MCSE 2003 is still valid if you already have it. What if you are only one test away. Can you still obtain it? or should I not bother. I know it's an old cert, but It would be more of a personal acomplisment.

Nate

Which exam do you still need to do?

------------------------------------
Reply:

So I understand that MCSE 2003 is still valid if you already have it. What if you are only one test away. Can you still obtain it? or should I not bother. I know it's an old cert, but It would be more of a personal acomplisment.

Nate

Which exam do you still need to do?

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer

Jeff Wharton
MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt), MCT, MCPD, MCSD, MCITP, MCDBA
Blog: Mr. Wharty's Ramblings
Twitter: @Mr_Wharty
MC ID: Microsoft Transcript

70-293

Nate

------------------------------------
Reply:

So I understand that MCSE 2003 is still valid if you already have it. What if you are only one test away. Can you still obtain it? or should I not bother. I know it's an old cert, but It would be more of a personal acomplisment.

Nate

Which exam do you still need to do?

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer

Jeff Wharton
MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt), MCT, MCPD, MCSD, MCITP, MCDBA
Blog: Mr. Wharty's Ramblings
Twitter: @Mr_Wharty
MC ID: Microsoft Transcript

70-293

Nate

This exam is still available so I'd recommend sitting it as soon as you can.

------------------------------------
Reply:

There's a great Q & A here http://borntolearn.mslearn.net/btl/b/weblog/archive/2012/04/27/your-questions-answered.aspx

------------------------------------
Reply:

Some more clarification on MCSA 2003

Microsoft has advised that MCSA 2003 is still available as per the following link:

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcsa-previous.aspx#tab2

Note: Many of the exams in this certification track are retired. If a required exam is retired and you have not yet passed that exam, you cannot complete the certification track. You must fulfill all listed requirements to earn the certification. If you passed a required exam before it retired, it can be applied toward certification.

Microsoft has also advised that the following Q&A found in the FAQ at http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcsa.aspx is incorrect and will be removed:

Q. What is the difference between the new Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certifications and the previous Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator certifications?

A. The new Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) credential focuses on the ability to design and build technology solutions. The previous Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator certification focused on a specific job role and can no longer be earned.

I hope this clarifies some of the confusion surrounding the old MCSA 2003 certification

------------------------------------

AD CS on 2008 R2 DC requires clients to be members of Users built-in group

Hello,

I have the following setup:

2008 R2 DC (clean install/dcpromo)
AD CS Enteprise on the same machine

Some default group memberships changed and some mentioned just to be clearer as follows:

Pre-Windows 2000 Compatible Access = empty
Certificate Services DCOM Access = Authenticated Users
Windows Authorization Access Group = empty
Distributed COM Users = empty
Users = Domain Users

DCOM permissions (machine wide as well as the CertSvc Request) NOT changed from default.

With this setup, Domain Computers cannot enroll over DCOM for certificates with "RPC server unavailable", when I look into Netmon trace, the internal error is Access Denied when trying to launch the CertSvc interface.

The resolution for this is to add the member server/computer into the DC's built-in Users group and the enrollment succeeds.

I was trying to troubleshoot the connection, but cannot see any errors in the DC's log. Actually, what I see means that the remote computer:
a) authenticates (logon event, logon type 3) successfully
b) no error on the DC's wide DCOM security settings (no error in event log from DCOM)
c) the request does not launch the CertSvc Request server and is returned as Access Denied

so I consider this a bug. There is the Certificate Services DCOM access group that should be sufficient to grant the AD CS remote access and no other groups should be required.

ondrej.

Changed type Bruce-Liu Tuesday, June 7, 2011 5:58 AM

Reply:

further investigation:

I have used the Process Monitor tool and found out that the processing is terminating with Access Denied error on the HKCR\CLSID\{D99E6E74-FC88-11D0-B498-00A0C90312F3} key which needs to be read under the remote client's identity. This is the CertSrv Request key in the CLSID registry, not in the APPID node that can be configured by the Component Services snap-in.

So the resolution to this bug is to:

a) open Regedit and navigate to the HKCR\CLSID\{D99E6E74-FC88-11D0-B498-00A0C90312F3} key

b) right-click Permissions and take ownership of the key and REPLACE OWNER ON ALL SUBKEYS as well

c) grant the Certificate Services DCOM Access group the READ permission to the key and all subkeys

and the AD CS clients do not need to be members of the Users group anymore.

I still consider this a bug report with request to changing the default security settings for the registry key.

ondrej.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Ondrej,

I was in the same situation as you regarding a CA on a DC. Unfortunately your registry permissions fix doesnt not resolve the issues for me. Adding the computer to Users did however fix the issue. Is there something else I need to do to get this to go? I tried restarting the Certificate service but no dice. Does the entire server need a reboot to restart the DCOM service?

Thanks,

Rob

------------------------------------
Reply:

Ondrej,

After running through ProcMon I found there was another registry key that needed read access by DCOM Access Group.

HKCR\AppID\{D99E6E74-FC88-11D0-B498-00A0C90312F3}

After that I was able to successfully request a certificate. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

Rob

------------------------------------
Reply:

To be honest, default permissions have been changed. Normally, Authenticated Users (which includes computers) has the required permissions

Brian

------------------------------------

are you serious? is this new shell really an upgrade from xp?

Ever since Bill left the company, Windows Explorer as a file manager and as a shell is going nowhere. First it was the disastruous Vista, then the patched seven, and now this 8 is trying to recover but does not impress me much.

Can I have the new goodies (kernel, task manager, resource monitor) along with the GOOD OLD XP explorer features, please?

Changed type Nicholas LiModerator Monday, May 28, 2012 6:11 AM

Reply:

or this:

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_8-desktop/when-microsoft-is-going-to-fix-this-vertical/050c45ac-fe0f-44ef-ae78-72b7bd24d76d?tm=1335607580632

Edited by costinel1 Wednesday, May 9, 2012 10:34 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

http://connect.microsoft.com/WindowsServerFeedback/feedback/details/313066/explorer-should-expand-folder-tree-the-windows-xp-way

------------------------------------
Reply:

http://connect.microsoft.com/WindowsServerFeedback/feedback/details/621426/bug-when-expanding-folders-in-explorer-server-2008-r2-and-windows-7#tabs

------------------------------------
Reply:

ah, and the stupid start menu moved to metro, really, what is in your head, microsoft? how do you expect people who never heard of "classic shell" program to be able to use the new start menu?

------------------------------------
Reply:

Not detachable toolbars is an issue since Windows 7. Update to Vista if you want this feature. With Vista you get updates till 2017.

"A programmer is just a tool which converts caffeine into code"

------------------------------------
Reply:

Your screenshot is incorrect when it says "xp user trying the new windows 8". You are not trying out W8 but some other program running on W8. This program is not part of Windows. All the issues in the screenshot have nothing to do with Windows 8.

Thanks,
Bobby Cannon
BobbyCannon.com

Edited by Bobby J Cannon Wednesday, May 9, 2012 7:24 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Generally speaking Windows 8 provides a new viewing and operating style. Several users, especially users who did not use Windows Vista and Windows 7, may not adapt. Currently we are paying attention to collect feedback from users.

Please remember to click "Mark as Answer" on the post that helps you, and to click "Unmark as Answer" if a marked post does not actually answer your question. This can be beneficial to other community members reading the thread. "

Edited by Arthur XieModerator Thursday, May 10, 2012 6:59 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

Not detachable toolbars is an issue since Windows 7. Update to Vista if you want this feature. With Vista you get updates till 2017.

"update to vista", that was funny :) assuming you read my entire post, especially the "disastruous Vista" part :) (you obviously fail to see that vista internally is 6.0, seven is 6.1 and with 8cp being 6.2 they are basically all the same. seriously, 8cp should be treated as service pack 5 of vista - compare nt4 service packs differences and you'll agree)

------------------------------------
Reply:

Your screenshot is incorrect when it says "xp user trying the new windows 8". You are not trying out W8 but some other program running on W8. This program is not part of Windows. All the issues in the screenshot have nothing to do with Windows 8.

could you please point out what *exactly* third party specific features am I POINTING THE ARROW TO in the screenshot?

"You are not trying out W8 but some other program running on W8" - SERIOUSLY? w8 IS AN OPERATING SYSTEM. I can run whatever application that uses documented windows API to make screenshots. Please refer to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_system for more information. I could even make the screenshot without "classic start menu" and right click on "command prompt window" instead of putty and the screenshot would be the same.

------------------------------------
Reply:

Generally speaking Windows 8 provides a new viewing and operating style. Several users, especially users who did not use Windows Vista and Windows 7, may not adapt. Currently we are paying attention to collect feedback from users.

This is not "Several users". This is one user out of four: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usage_share_of_operating_systems

Particularly of WINDOWS users, this is almost a HALF of your userbase: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Windows#Usage_share

"Currently we are paying attention to collect feedback from users" - thank god you're finally doing it!
Does this mean are also going to act and bring back EVERY good working feature of xp (even as options - keep your defaults, thanks!), or just sit there and wait for April 2014, when instead of upgrade we will have many more choices than we had on 24 Aug 1995?

------------------------------------
Reply:

"You are not trying out W8 but some other program running on W8" - SERIOUSLY? w8 IS AN OPERATING SYSTEM. I can run whatever application that uses documented windows API to make screenshots. Please refer to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_system for more information.

Woah, I'm sorry. I missed understood you. You should probable calm down. And if you are not upset the I apologize also for MISINTERPRETING YOUR ALL UPPER CASE STATEMENTS.

Now that I've apologized continue with your ranting about the missing XP features in W8. :)

Thanks,
Bobby Cannon
BobbyCannon.com

------------------------------------
Reply:

Vista is a great OS, MUCH, MUCH better than Windows XP ever was or will ever be ;)

"A programmer is just a tool which converts caffeine into code"

------------------------------------

Outlook 2010 will not open in Windows 7 after BCM install

Oulook will not open after I installed Business Contact Manager. Initially everything worked fine and I set up my email addresses and imported my BCM Database from my old computer.

Now after a restart Outlook starts to load then reduces to only a shortcut on the talk bar. I have tried a repair using the install and nothing changed.

Running Windows 7 on a Samsung Series 7, new computer.

Changed type Cloud_TS Thursday, May 24, 2012 3:20 AM

Reply:

Since you're talking about an Outlook problem, I suggest you to ask this question in the Office Answers Forum at the following address

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/office/forum/outlook

Bye.

Luigi Bruno - Microsoft Community Contributor 2011 Award

------------------------------------

Need to Help

Hello everyone ! i need to help, example i have one computer that can use internet and other people open my pc and use web browser they can go to any where(on web) but when they want to download all file that have extension .exe when they click download or save to pc it's alert message put the password . Please give me the method .

Changed type Cloud_TS Thursday, May 24, 2012 3:22 AM wrong forum

Reply:

We need a lot more information to be able to troubleshoot this issues.....

Is this computer on a domain?

What are the OS details?

Ect ect....

------------------------------------
Reply:

My computer don't joined domain , and the OS is window xp !

------------------------------------
Reply:

You are in the wrong forum then. Please re-post this thread in the appropriate forum.

------------------------------------

Try Catch in Windows Work Flows 4.0

Hi All,

I have developed the Windows work flow service 4.0. The client using this service is ordinary ASP.NET application.

I want to send back the errors (in the form of error message) occurred while running the work service to client.

PLZ suggest the feasible solution for this.

Note: For this I have used TRY CATCH Block in work flow service and trying to add a send activity in the catch block. i am able to build the service successfully. I have given below code in the service intentionally to check the return message to the client.

stringstr = null; stringstr1 = str.ToString();

Getting below error in the browser

"System.ServiceModel.FaultException`1 was unhandled by user code
Message=Endpoint with Name='<not specified>' and ServiceContract '<not specified>' has a null or empty Uri property. A Uri for this Endpoint must be provided."

Thx, Vinay

Edited by Vinay Angajala Friday, May 11, 2012 7:29 AM
Changed type William Zhou CHN Wednesday, May 23, 2012 8:13 AM Off-topic

Reply:

You need to ask in a different forum, probably Visual Studio.

Please tell us why you chose this forum. This forum now gets so many Visual Studio questions.

-- Paul Herber, Sandrila Ltd. Engineering and software shapes for Visio - http://www.sandrila.co.uk/

------------------------------------
Reply:

Paul,

Probably because of the Group name: "Visio General Questions and Answers for IT Professionals" Someone reads "Visio" as "Visual" and tacks on the "IT" association.

Maybe truncate the name to just "Visio General Questions and Answers"? Especially because the Q&A content extends beyond just IT apps.

Or even "MS Office Visio General Questions and Answers"for greater discrimination.

Who wields that administrative hammer?

Steve Mack

------------------------------------
Reply:

Bingo!

-- Paul Herber, Sandrila Ltd. Engineering and software shapes for Visio - http://www.sandrila.co.uk/

------------------------------------

Is anyone else having problems with something deployed for Internet Explorer 8 just in the last 2-3 weeks?

We use a learning management system for elearning and our courses are no longer displaying properly; but only in IE8 all of a sudden.

Reply:

Specifically, the issue with courses not displaying properly is captured in this screenr

http://www.articulate.com/support/contact/screencast.php?screencastid=d74d39dbbd8d4007866d2ea4baeb7983

------------------------------------
Reply:

Post error messages here.

Rob^_^

------------------------------------
Reply:

This was the error message that appeared in the LMS, albeit the course will still display; just dysfunctionally....

0:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - Trying to create MSXML2.XMLHTTP in VBScript

1:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - intReCheckLoadedInterval=250

2:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - intReCheckAttemptsBeforeTimeout=240

3:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - IFrameLoaded

4:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - In GetAICCURL

5:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - GetQueryStringValue Element 'AICC_URL' Not Found, Returning: empty string

6:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - Querystring value =

7:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - GetAICCURL returning:

8:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - In DetectPreferredCommMethod, checking XMLHTTP

9:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - Checking IFrame

10:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - blnCanUseXMLHTTP=true

11:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - AICCComm - blnCanUseIFrame=true

12:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - ----------------------------------------

13:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - ----------------------------------------

14:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - In Start - Version: 3.3 Last Modified=11/11/2011 16:02:40

15:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - Browser Info (Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 (compatible; MSIE 8.0; Windows NT 6.1; Trident/4.0; GTB7.3; SLCC2; .NET CLR 2.0.50727; .NET CLR 3.5.30729; .NET CLR 3.0.30729; Media Center PC 6.0; .NET4.0C; InfoPath.3; Tablet PC 2.0))

16:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - URL: https://isysed.absorbtraining.com/courses/clients/444/CarpalTunnelSyndromeandWorkersCompensationImplications/index_lms.html

17:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - ----------------------------------------

18:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - ----------------------------------------

19:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - In ClearErrorInfo

20:Wed May 2 14:01:59 PDT 2012 - GetQueryStringValue Element 'StandAlone' Not Found, Returning: empty string

alysha calderon

------------------------------------
Reply:

Your browser has a corrupted userAgent string

go to http://enhanceie.com/ua.aspx to diagnose and fix.

Rob^_^

------------------------------------
Reply:

Unfortunately, it is not just my browser. We have replicated the dysfunctional behavior here at our office, at home on different computers, and at our LMS vendor server site in Canada, which is how we came to discover the issue only exists when we view the courses in IE8, and only since approximately 3 weeks ago (prior to that they were functioning fine and nothing has changed on our end). Our LMS provider was able to isolate the issue and concluded Microsoft must have deployed something that impacted only IE8 within the last 4 weeks (maybe a security setting-??). See this screenr to further explain:

http://www.articulate.com/support/contact/screencast.php?screencastid=2167672e8d3349f795ffff7ccf2569d2

Based on this screenr, do you have any suggestions? We have learners that purchase online courses and obviously it is a big problem when they now log in and cannot get past a certain point in the course if they have IE8....

alysha calderon

------------------------------------
Reply:

Hi,

Please try thoes two KB articles.

You cannot view a secure Web site in Internet Explorer 8
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/968089

You cannot log in to or connect to secured Web sites in Internet Explorer
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/813444

Meanwhile, you can add the https site into Trust sites for a test. If you have any feedback, please let me know.

Niki Han

TechNet Community Support

------------------------------------
Reply:

Thanks for trying to help, but I don't think these address the issue. We are not having trouble viewing or logging into the secure site. With IE8, as shown in the screenr, we are able to log in and view the content; the content display, however, has bugs. Specifically, certain pages that should show images, do not display the images; only text, while others do.

alysha calderon

------------------------------------
Reply:

try

Tools>Internet Options>Advanced tab, uncheck "Dont save encrypted files to disk"

use a protocol-less uri for the address of the swf files.

the usual design pattern for web sites is to use https protocol only for login and account maintenance screens where you do not wont the users password or details to be interceptable (viz it is encrypted when passed down the wire).

access to pages with paid-for content is only allowed to users who are logged in...there is no need to encrypt these pages with the https protocol.

Rob^_^

Edited by 网游 - wang'you Thursday, May 10, 2012 11:58 PM

------------------------------------
Reply:

This may be helpful. I'm going to discuss with our web developer and LMS vendor and let you know if this fixes. Thx!

alysha calderon

------------------------------------

How do I find out which database is current sharepoint services 3.0 is using?

In my SQL Server Expression 2008 R2, there are several sharepoint databases named Sharepoint, Sharepoint_AdminContent_XXX, Sharepoint_AdminContent_YYY, and Sharepoint_Config, WSS_Search_servername. This could be done due to several failed tries to setup configuration database.

Now, I need a clean up. How do I find out which database is currently in used by my sharepoint services? Thanks.

Thang Mo

Reply:

One way would be to try and delete them -- the ones that won't delete because they're in use are likely the ones SharePoint needs ;)

A better approach than deleting would be to look at the active connections and see which databases are in use.

You can also look up the databases using Central Administration:

The servers in farm page (Operation Management -> Servers in Farm) lists the configuration database name
The content database page (Application Management -> Content databases) will list the content databases used by each web application (you'll have to check each web application)
I forget off hand how to get the database name for spsearch. I think editing the service or stopping and restarting will list it.

The easiest approach is to perform a backup (Operations -> Perform a backup). During the backup wizard steps is a page that will list all of the components in the farm, including database name.

Jason Warren

Infrastructure Specialist

Habanero Consulting Group

habaneroconsulting.com/blog

------------------------------------

2003 32bit to 2008 64bit my humble migration solution

1. Read this from top to bottom 20 times. Seriously, 20 times:
http://blogs.technet.com/b/askperf/archive/2012/04/03/migrating-print-queues-quickly-using-printbrm-configuration-files-and-the-generic-text-only-driver.aspx

The following is just how I found this to work the best. Clearly cirumstances will vary. I had a LOT print queues on three different servers that I

needed to migrate to from 2003 32bit to 2008r2 64bit. Best of luck, it took me a month to figure out what you'll read in 5 minutes.

2. Prop up a migration 2008 R2 server. You'll download x64 drivers that you may need and so on onto this server, so it will be a launching pad for all of

the migrations in your environment.

I found it best to use printbrm.exe from the 2008r2 server for the export function and the print management snapin for the import. Whatever, you decide

for yourself.

3. Get a list of your printer drivers on the 2003 server:
$strComputer = "."

$colItems = get-wmiobject -class "Win32_PrinterDriver" -namespace "root\CIMV2" `
-computername $strComputer

foreach ($objItem in $colItems) {
write-host "Name: " $objItem.Name
write-host
}

That worked for me, I'm sure there are better ways. Just get the list of drivers.

4. Start downloading. I know, I know, it's a HUGE pain. It's the part that nobody at Mircosoft or anywhere really wants to talk about, but you are just

going to have to download a lot of 64 bit drivers. One of the best sites to get the drivers from though seems to be the Microsoft Update Catalog site. If

you do get them from the MUC site use PowerArchiver to unzip them. Just trust me. If you're lucky you can start using Universal print drivers. One HP

UPD on the new server replaced like 20 on the old server for me.

5. Add the drivers via the print management snapin. I added them to the new and old server just to be safe. Because you are using the new server as just

a jump point you wont have to download the same driver on whatever number of servers you are looking to replace.

6. Probably the most important part is now. This will save you a ton of headaches. Run the PrintCleanup_MSDT-Portable_2003_2008 tool on the 2003 source

server. It is CUP heavy so I'd pick off hours to do it. This got rid of all of my 0x8007blah errors when running the printbrm.exe. If you can't find the tool ask Microsoft for it.

7. Which brings me to runnning the printbrm.exe. printbrm.exe is located in the %systemroot%\System32\Spool\Tools folder on Windows Vista and later

operating systems and run as PRINTBRM -b -s \\server_name -f file_name options.

8. use the print management snapin to import the file into the 2008r2 server. Check the event viewer for any failures, there are sure to be a few. Clean

them up, figure out why they failed and run it again until you have them all.

9. Once you have it the way you want it, do step 7 again and save the file to the network somewhere. Then build your real replacement 2008r2 server and

do the import again.

10. At this point you could shut down the old server and give the new 2008r2 server the same name and IP as the old one. That way your clients should be

good and not have to remap.

11. Go back to your 2008r2 launching pad server and using the printer managment snapin, remove the old 2003 server you just did and add the next one you

need to migrate. Hopefully things will move a little faster because you have a lot of drivers already installed in this server now.

Hope this helps somebody.

Reply:

Hi,

Thanks for your sharing! It's great!

Best Regards

Elytis Cheng

TechNet Community Support

------------------------------------
Reply:

http://www.isbgroup.com/PrinterAudit/

An absolutly great tool to help you get a handle on your print environment. I found on one print server 120 or 20% of the queues out there didnt respond to ping and were no longer valid! It also gives you the driver names and much, much more........for free!!!

Happy migrating!

------------------------------------

Hardware recommendations for compact 16GB+ RAM Non-production Hyper-V "server"

I want to retire my current multiple test systems and declutter. I need a machine to do test domains with a few servers and workstations running in Hyper-V. At first I was looking at buying a Dell PowerEdge T110 II tower. They list at only $399, plus the cost of updating RAM to up to 16GB. If you upgrade to a Xeon, processor, you can upgrade it to up to 32GB RAM.

Since I will be using it at home, I decided I don't want another eyesore with noisy fans.

I want to get either something that looks very nice (more like an iMac rather than Alienware gamer-type box look) or preferably, something with a very small form factor and quiet fans so you don't even see it in a cabinet..

I thought of a 17" laptop (just close the lid it and stick in a drawer out of site when not used), but laptops that support even 16GB RAM and the hardware requirements for Hyper-V are super expensive $3000+.

Any suggestions?

Edited by MyGposts Thursday, May 10, 2012 2:04 AM
Changed type Vincent Hu Thursday, May 10, 2012 2:21 AM discussion

Reply:

Check out the specs on this custom rig:

http://www.expta.com/2012/01/blistering-fast-windows-server-parts.html

It's designed by an exchange MVP to run Server 8 Hyper-V and is super quiet. I built the same system part for part for under $1k and you can't even hear it when it's running a full System Center 2012 eval environment. Everyone I show it to can't believe how quiet it is. And it's a beast. With the SSD drive, boot time for R2 is about 15 seconds.

I can't recommend this enough...

------------------------------------
Reply:

Lately a few people have recommended these small shuttles- http://uk.shuttle.com/products/productsDetail?productId=1567 , personally I have a larger shuttle from the same and I am very happy with it 16GB, i5 Proc, fanless etc

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" - Leonardo DaVinci

------------------------------------
Reply:

Lately a few people have recommended these small shuttles- http://uk.shuttle.com/products/productsDetail?productId=1567 , personally I have a larger shuttle from the same and I am very happy with it 16GB, i5 Proc, fanless etc

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" - Leonardo DaVinci

I think the Shuttle looks good. I think 16GB RAM will probably be all I ever need, but it would be nice if it supported 32 so I could run more or bigger VMs later without having to add a second box. This can handle up to 32GB RAM but it's larger http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856101129

I like that the one you linked to can be mounted behind a flat panel TV and also plug into the TV HDMI so I can get rid of extra dedicated monitors. As long as there is a neat way to deal with cables, it would be pretty hidden. I could get a wireless keyboard and mouse and/or do RDP from a laptop.

I want to make sure I get something that will support all Windows 8 Server Hyper-V requirements so I won't need to replace it anytime soon. Will that smaller shuttle work? Does is support SLAT and any other new required features?

Edited by MyGposts Thursday, May 10, 2012 4:07 AM

------------------------------------
Reply:

I think this should work. It has no DVD (I should be able to load everything from USB) and it's Sandy Bridge and not Ivy Bridge, but it appears to me fully compatible with Windows 8 Hyper-V Server and will be under $750. I wonder if it's worth waiting for an Ivy Bridge compatible version?

I think the Shuttles don't require you to install a third party heat sink when you drop in the CPU so these are the parts I'll order.

2 Corsair 8GB XMS3 (1x 8GB) DDR3 SDRAM 1333MHz 240-Pin 8 Not a kit (Single) (PC3 10600) CMX8GX3M1A1333C9 - Corsair

1 Crucial 256 GB m4 2.5-Inch Solid State Drive SATA 6Gb/s CT256M4SSD2 - Crucial Technology

1 Intel Core i5-2400S Processor 2.50 GHz 6 MB Cache Socket LGA1155 - Intel

1 SHUTTLE Motherboard Intel H61 Mini ITX DDR3 1333 Intel - LGA 1155 Motherboard XH61 - SHUTTLE
In Stock

Subtotal: $712.96

------------------------------------
Reply:

What about storage? Are you going to keep all your VMs on that little SSD?

------------------------------------
Reply:

What about storage? Are you going to keep all your VMs on that little SSD?

I might not need alot of storage on the test environments. I chose SSD because that smallest form factor only holds 2.5 inch drives and a standard non-SSD laptop drive might be super slow for Hyper-V.

I suppose I could try to find a fast 7200RPM or faster laptop 750GB HDD and maybe bump the processor up to i7 from i5 if that PC supports i7s. 5 or 6 VMs sharing an i5 might be too much.

------------------------------------
Reply:

For your VMs, the bottleneck is going to be Disk I/O or Memory before processor. On the setup I have above, I am running 8 R2 systems w/ SQL 2008 R2 on 7 of them for the System Center 2012 eval. The processor (i5) barely blips. For what you are doing, the extra money for the i7 would be better spent on a faster HD.

------------------------------------
Reply:

OK, so then an SSD would be best other than cost for capacity when restricted to 2.5" drives or would something like a Western Digital Scorpio Black have decent performance?

------------------------------------
Reply:

Is it important for Hyper-V server to have the ability to use more than a single network card?

If so, the smallest Shuttle I wanted to buy only has a single NIC and I don't think there is any way to add a second NIC since there are no expansion slots.

------------------------------------
Reply:

You could always rack it, stick it in an inconspicuous place, and bridge your switch to your home Wireless N network ... Sort of like this:

------------------------------------

Trying to upload a wav file to the Auto Attendant

I get the following message:

--------------------------------------------------------
Microsoft Exchange Error
--------------------------------------------------------
The following error(s) occurred while saving changes:

Auto Attendant
Failed
Error:
The Import-UMPrompt cmdlet couldn't be run to upload the specified audio file because the Windows Desktop Experience role is missing from server SDOEXOWA1-08E.SCCCD.NET. Please install the Windows Desktop Experience role using the Server Manager.

--------------------------------------------------------
OK
--------------------------------------------------------

Martin Spurrier

Reply:

Is the Desktop Experience role (it is actually a feature) installed on that server?

------------------------------------

SMS notification scom 2012 doesn't work

I tried to configure SMS notification in SCOM 2012 but doesn't work. But i can successfully send SMS notification via command prompt. So i am sure the synatic is correct.

The setting in SCOM 2012

Create Command Notification

Example:

Full path of the command file:

C:\script\sms.exe

Command line parameters:

server FQDN @SMSCOM account sms_test

Startup folder for the command line:

C:\script

Reply:

I tried to trouble shoot the problem refer to http://blogs.technet.com/b/operationsmgr/archive/2010/08/11/alert-notification-troubleshooting-in-system-center-operations-manager-2007.aspx

But still no luck.

Even receiving the alerts in the Operations Manager console but the commnad notification seem not work. Pls advice. Thx !!

------------------------------------

How to display a node from input message and File name from Schema in BAM in Biztalk?

Hi All,

I want to display a node named InvoiceNumber from input message.

And output file name in which that invoice number is present in BAM.

output file name we are assiging in BRE Schema.

we have called BRE in orchestration.

so i m using BAM for that,anyone can explain how to create BAM activity for that in Biztalk?

I dont want to perform any aggregations like max,min, etc.

Any help will be really apprecited....

Pooja Jagtap

Reply:

I guess it is similar thread of this. Please check the original thread for the response.

HTH,
Naushad Alam

When you see answers and helpful posts, please click Vote As Helpful, Propose As Answer, and/or Mark As Answer
alamnaushad.wordpress.com
My new TechNet Wiki "BizTalk Server: Performance Tuning & Optimization"

------------------------------------

Ms Support forum

Sunday, February 27, 2022