exam. This is now the elite-level certification in Windows Server 2012 R2.
How Do You Become Certified on Windows Server 2012 R2?
Attaining Microsoft certification has always been a challenge. In the past, students have been able to acquire detailed exam information – even most of the exam questions – from online “brain dumps” and third-party “cram” books or software products. For the new generation of exams, this is simply not the case.
Microsoft has taken strong steps to protect the security and integrity of its new certification tracks. Now prospective candidates must complete a course of study that develops detailed knowledge about a wide range of topics. It supplies them with the true skills needed, derived from working with the technology being tested.
The new generations of Microsoft certification programs are heavily weighted toward hands-on skills and experience. It is recommended that candidates have troubleshooting skills acquired through hands-on experience and working knowledge.
Fortunately, if you are willing to dedicate the time and effort to learn Windows Server 2012 R2, you can prepare yourself well for the exam by using the proper tools. By working through this book, you can successfully meet the requirements to pass the Windows Server 2012 R2 exams.
MCSA Exam Requirements
Candidates for MCSA certification on Windows Server 2012 R2 must pass at least the following three Windows Server 2012 R2 exams:
■ 70-410: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012 R2
■ 70-411: Administering Windows Server 2012 R2
■ 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 R2 Services
MCITP Exam Requirements
Candidates for MCITP certification on Windows Server 2012 R2 must pass one Windows Server 2012 R2 exams. This book will help you get ready for the 70-411: Administering Windows Server 2012 R2 exam.
Microsoft provides exam objectives to give you a general overview of possible areas of coverage on the Microsoft exams. Keep in mind, however, that exam objectives are subject to change at any time without prior notice and at Microsoft’s sole discretion. Visit the Microsoft Learning website (www.microsoft.com/learning) for the most current listing of exam objectives. The published objectives and how they map to this book are listed later in this Introduction.
Microsoft provides exam objectives to give you a general overview of possible areas of coverage on the Microsoft exams. Keep in mind, however, that exam objectives are subject to change at any time without prior notice and at Microsoft’s sole discretion. Visit the Microsoft Learning website (www.microsoft.com/learning) for the most current listing of exam objectives. The published objectives and how they map to this book are listed later in this introduction.
Tips for Taking the Windows Server 2012 R2 Exams
Here are some general tips for achieving success on your certification exam:
■ Arrive early at the exam center so that you can relax and review your study materials. During this final review, you can look over tables and lists of exam-related information.
■ Read the questions carefully. Do not be tempted to jump to an early conclusion. Make sure that you know exactly what the question is asking.
■ Answer all questions. If you are unsure about a question, mark it for review and come back to it at a later time.
■ On simulations, do not change settings that are not directly related to the question. Also, assume the default settings if the question does not specify or imply which settings are used.
■ For questions about which you’re unsure, use a process of elimination to get rid of the obviously incorrect answers first. This improves your odds of selecting the correct answer when you need to make an educated guess.
Exam Registration
At the time this book was released, Microsoft exams are given using Prometric testing centers (800-755-EXAM [800-755-3926]). As of December 31, 2014, Microsoft will be ending its relationship with Prometric and all exams will be delivered through the more than 1,000 Authorized VUE Testing Centers around the world. For the location of a testing center near you, go to VUE’s website at www.vue.com. If you are outside of the United States and Canada, contact your local VUE registration center.
Find out the number of the exam that you want to take and then register with the Prometric registration center nearest to you. At this point, you will be asked for advance payment for the exam. The exams are $125 each, and you must take them within one year of payment. You can schedule exams up to six weeks in advance, or as late as one working day prior to the date of the exam. You can cancel or reschedule your exam if you contact the center at least two working days prior to the exam. Same-day registration is available in some locations, subject to space availability. Where same-day registration is available, you must register a minimum of two hours before test time.
When you schedule the exam, you will be provided with instructions regarding appointment and cancellation procedures, ID requirements, and information about the testing center location. In addition, you will receive a registration and payment confirmation letter from Prometric.
Microsoft requires certification candidates to accept the terms of a nondisclosure agreement before taking certification exams.
Who Should Read This Book?
This book is intended for individuals who want to earn their MCSA: Windows Server 2012 R2 certification.
Not only will this book help anyone who is looking to pass the Microsoft exams, it will also help anyone who wants to learn the real ins and outs of the Windows Server 2012 R2 operating system.
What’s Inside?
Here is a glance at what’s in each chapter:
Chapter 1: Install Windows Server 2012 R2 The first chapter explains the requirements and steps required to install and configure Windows Server 2012 R2.
Chapter 2: Configure Network Services This chapter shows you how to install and configure DNS. It also explains the different types of DNS records and DNS zone types.
Chapter 3: Plan and Install Active Directory This chapter takes you through the advantages and benefits of Windows Server 2012 R2 Active Directory.
Chapter
