Microsoft's Controversial MCSE Certification Changes

The MCSE Certification: A Benchmark for IT Professionals

The MCSE certification was once a prestigious title that IT professionals aspired to achieve. It required passing a series of six exams, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of Microsoft's systems and products. The certification served as a benchmark for employers to gauge the qualifications of system administrators and IT staff.

The Value of MCSE Certification

• Industry Recognition: MCSEs were often considered more qualified than their peers with similar experience.
• Proof of Expertise: The certification was a testament to an individual's knowledge and ability to work with Microsoft products.

Resistance to Forced Upgrades

Microsoft's push for users to transition from Windows NT 4.0 to Windows 2000 met with resistance due to the significant changes required in network configurations and the need for user retraining. The timing of the release, coinciding with the Year 2000 bug expenditures, left many companies without the necessary funds or manpower to upgrade.

The Impact of Certification Retirement

• Decertification: On December 31, 2001, all MCSEs who had not upgraded their certifications to Windows 2000 were required to remove their MCSE designation.
• Industry Discontent: Many professionals felt that Microsoft's policy was a tactic to boost their bottom line through continuous system upgrades.

The Challenge of Keeping Up

The transition from Windows NT to Windows 2000 was not straightforward, and the introduction of Windows XP certifications added to the burden. IT professionals were expected to upgrade their certifications rapidly, often while managing demanding work schedules.

Statistics on Certification Upgrades

• Lagging Behind: It is estimated that at least 400,000 MCSEs would become invalid within five months of the policy change.
• Work-Life Balance: Many IT professionals struggled to find time for certification upgrades due to long work hours and personal commitments.

The Debate Over Microsoft's Motives

Critics argued that Microsoft's certification policies were driven by profit motives rather than a genuine desire to improve product knowledge among IT staff. The forced upgrade cycle was seen as a way to compel companies to purchase new software licenses and certifications.

Alternative Certification Models

Some have suggested that instead of invalidating previous certifications, Microsoft could append the operating system version to the MCSE title (e.g., MCSE Win4.0, MCSE Win2000), providing clearer information to employers about an individual's specific expertise.

Looking Beyond Microsoft

The frustration with Microsoft's policies has led some IT professionals to explore alternatives to Windows and Office. While many are committed to updating their certifications, they are also considering other platforms that may offer more stability and less frequent mandatory upgrades.

Exploring Alternatives

• Diverse Platforms: IT professionals are increasingly interested in Unix, Linux, and other operating systems as potential alternatives to Microsoft products.
• Long-Term Reliability: Some reminisce about the stability of older systems like VAX machines, which required less frequent upgrades and maintenance.

Conclusion

Microsoft's MCSE policy change has had a profound impact on the IT industry, prompting discussions about the value of certifications and the pressures of keeping up with technological advancements. As the industry continues to evolve, the balance between certification, practical experience, and work-life balance remains a critical consideration for IT professionals.

Further Reading

• The Certification Debate: A comprehensive look at the pros and cons of professional certifications in the tech industry.
• Microsoft's Licensing Model: An analysis of Microsoft's licensing practices and their implications for users and businesses.
• What's Up With Microsoft?: Insights into Microsoft's stock performance and strategic decisions in the year 2000.