Four (Count-em!) Windows 2000 Certification Vendors to Choose From

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To obtain any of Brainbench certification you’ll have to pass an online exam covering the applicable material. Exams are administered through the Brainbench.com Web site and are free. A score of 4.0 or better on the 5 point scale will qualify you at the Master level. Unlike other certification exams, you’re allowed to use reference materials. But, you’ll have to use them extremely quickly because each question has a short time limit before it will be marked wrong and vanish from your screen. And don’t assume that just because the exam is online it’s easy –- you’ll still have to know your stuff to pass.

Global Knowledge

Global Knowledge Network Corporation offers IT professionals two additional options though its Career Certifications program: Certified Windows 2000 Administrator and Certified Windows 2000 Expert. Unlike the previous choices, Global Knowledge requires candidates to complete specific training courses offered by Global prior to taking the exams. The administrator designation consists of three courses and exams, whereas the expert designation incorporates five courses with associated exams. The course prices range from $1,195 - $2,595 each. Most are available in e-learning and instructor-led formats.

Learning Tree

The fourth (can you believe it!) vendor of Windows 2000 certification is Learning Tree International. As with Global Knowledge, its certification, titled Windows 2000 Systems and Networks Certified Professional, ties required classes and exams together. To earn the designation, you’ll have to complete five instructor-led courses and pass the associated exams. Course titles include “Hands-On Windows 2000,” “Windows 2000 Security: Hands-On,” and similar titles. Courses last four to five days each and cost about $2,110-$2,390 each, or $1,249 each if you buy the “4-Course Passport.”

The quick appearance of third-party certifications covering Microsoft Windows 2000 emphasizes the expanding nature of certification choices IT professionals have today. While it’s nice to have options, it’s more important than ever to choose among them wisely. Start by identifying your personal reasons for pursuing certification, which might be to certify knowledge you already have, gain new knowledge, or gain credentials that will make you stand out in the marketplace. Next, factor in the financial and time commitments you and/or your employer are willing to make. Only then are you ready to choose the certification program that’s right for you.

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