As Microsoft continues its push toward new technologies, many legacy certifications and exams are being phased out. This shift is in line with the upcoming release of Windows Server 2016, System Center 2016, and SharePoint 2016, which are expected to arrive throughout 2016. These new versions will naturally render older technologies obsolete, affecting certifications and exams that are aligned with them. For professionals in the IT field, it is essential to understand these changes and prepare accordingly.

Microsoft is constantly innovating and releasing newer versions of its products to meet the evolving needs of businesses and organizations. With this relentless progress, older certifications and technologies tend to lose relevance over time. While this can be challenging for those holding older certifications, it also presents an opportunity to gain expertise in the latest technology and stay ahead of the curve. As Microsoft shifts its focus to newer versions, professionals will need to align their skill sets with these changes to remain competitive in the industry.

Windows Exams: Transitioning to Windows 10

The introduction of Windows 10 has brought about significant changes in the way IT professionals work with Microsoft operating systems. As part of the transition to Windows 10, Microsoft is retiring several exams that were previously tied to the MCSA: Windows 8 certification track. This includes exams such as 70-687 and 70-688, which were crucial for achieving the MCSA: Windows 10 certification. These exams are set to be available until July 2016, after which they will be replaced with new exams focused solely on Windows 10.

This transition highlights the importance of staying updated with the latest versions of Microsoft products. The retirement of exams like 70-689 and 70-692, which were designed to help professionals upgrade their skills from older versions of Windows, such as Windows XP and Windows 7, underscores the move toward Windows 10. Moving forward, these exams will be replaced with new certification exams designed to align with MCSA Windows 10, ensuring that professionals can continue to build their skills with the latest technologies.

For professionals looking to upgrade their certifications, it’s important to act before the retirement dates. Exam preparation resources like Exam Snap offer study materials that can help candidates quickly get up to speed with the new certification paths. These resources ensure that professionals can pass exams with confidence and remain relevant in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Windows Server Exams: Preparing for Server 2016

As Microsoft moves toward the release of Windows Server 2016, many legacy certifications and exams tied to previous versions of the software will be phased out. For instance, the MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, which was based on Windows Server 2012, will no longer be available. This shift reflects the industry’s growing emphasis on managing devices and applications, a trend that will continue with the release of Windows Server 2016.

The planned retirement of exams 70-415 and 70-416, which were crucial for the MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, marks the end of an era. These exams will be replaced with new certifications and exams focused on the modern demands of enterprise device and application management. Professionals aiming to stay ahead in their careers should begin preparing for these changes by pursuing the MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps certification, which will become the new standard for managing devices in enterprise environments.

With Windows Server 2016 expected to launch in mid-2016, professionals should start transitioning to this new version as soon as possible. Certifications such as MCSA: Windows Server 2016 will be critical for those looking to build expertise in the latest server technology. IT professionals can find helpful study resources for this transition on platforms like Exam Snap, which offers a wide range of materials and practice exams to assist in exam preparation.

SharePoint Exams: Moving Beyond SharePoint 2010

The arrival of SharePoint 2016 will render the SharePoint 2010 exams obsolete. SharePoint 2010 certifications, including MCTS and MCITP exams, will be retired by July 31, 2016. This is a natural progression, as SharePoint 2016 introduces new features and capabilities that align with the latest business needs and technological advancements.

For IT professionals who have been working with SharePoint 2010, it’s time to transition to the newer version and begin preparing for certifications related to SharePoint 2016. Exam Snap offers comprehensive study materials for those looking to take these exams and stay relevant in the SharePoint ecosystem. By focusing on the latest exam tracks, professionals can ensure they remain competitive and proficient in the use of SharePoint 2016.

SQL Server Exams: Moving On from SQL Server 2008

Microsoft is also retiring certifications and exams associated with SQL Server 2008. These exams were previously used by IT professionals to upgrade their certifications from SQL Server 2008 to the newer MCSA and MCSE credentials. With SQL Server 2008 now considered a legacy platform, IT professionals will need to seek alternate pathways to upgrade their certifications.

The retirement of exams such as 70-459, 70-460, 70-432, and 70-448 signals the end of SQL Server 2008’s relevance in the certification world. Professionals who wish to remain certified and advance in their careers will need to focus on more recent versions of SQL Server, such as SQL Server 2012 or SQL Server 2014. With the right resources, such as Exam Snap’s extensive exam prep tools, IT professionals can transition seamlessly to the latest SQL Server certifications and ensure their skills remain in demand.

Other Exam Retirements and Transition Opportunities

In addition to the major exams mentioned above, several other certifications are being phased out as part of Microsoft’s ongoing product updates. This includes exams related to Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, Exchange Server 2010, and Lync Server, all of which are being replaced with newer versions of the software. As organizations move toward the latest technologies, professionals must follow suit to stay competitive.

For example, the introduction of Skype for Business Server, which replaced Lync Server, has prompted the retirement of Lync-related exams. Professionals with MCSE: Communication certifications based on Lync Server will need to upgrade to the new certifications focused on Skype for Business. Similarly, the release of Exchange Server 2016 has made Exchange 2010 exams obsolete, requiring professionals to focus on newer Exchange technologies.

Windows Exams: The Shift Toward Windows 10

With the introduction of Windows 10, Microsoft has begun to retire certain exams tied to older operating systems, including the MCSA: Windows 8 certification track. As part of the transition, Microsoft is streamlining its certification paths to better align with the capabilities and demands of the new Windows 10 operating system. This change is significant for IT professionals aiming to stay competitive in the ever-evolving world of technology.

In particular, the exams 70-687 (Configuring Windows 8.1) and 70-688 (Supporting Windows 8.1) will remain available until July 2016, but after this date, these exams will be replaced with a new set of Windows 10-specific exams. These exams will form the foundation for the new MCSA: Windows 10 certification track. This shift marks a clear departure from the Windows 8 certification exams and ensures that professionals can keep their skills current in line with the latest version of Windows.

Transitioning from MCSA Windows 8 to MCSA Windows 10

The transition from Windows 8 to Windows 10 represents a major step in Microsoft’s efforts to consolidate its operating system versions and improve the overall user experience. Windows 10 introduces several new features and improvements over its predecessors, including enhanced security features, more efficient management tools, and better integration with cloud services.

For IT professionals holding the MCSA: Windows 8 certification, this shift presents an opportunity to upgrade their skills and ensure they are proficient in the latest technologies. The exams 70-689 (Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA Windows 8) and 70-692 (Upgrading Your Windows XP Skills to MCSA Windows 8) were originally designed to help professionals upgrade their skills from older operating systems like Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows Server 2003 to the MCSA: Windows 8 certification. However, with the advent of Windows 10, these exams are being retired as well.

Starting from July 31, 2016, professionals will need to take new exams tailored specifically to Windows 10 in order to achieve the MCSA: Windows 10 certification. This change reflects Microsoft’s commitment to ensuring that IT professionals are equipped with the most up-to-date skills for managing and troubleshooting Windows 10 systems, as the operating system continues to play a central role in both personal computing and enterprise environments.

New Windows 10-Specific Exams

The new exams that will replace the retiring Windows 8 exams are designed to test the skills required to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Windows 10 systems in a professional setting. These exams are aimed at ensuring that candidates possess the technical knowledge and hands-on experience to support organizations running Windows 10.

For example, the Exam 70-697 (Configuring Windows 10) and Exam 70-698 (Installing and Configuring Windows 10) are the core exams for achieving the MCSA: Windows 10 certification. These exams assess candidates’ knowledge of Windows 10 features, installation methods, device management, networking, and troubleshooting techniques. These exams are structured to ensure that IT professionals can confidently manage Windows 10 environments, which are increasingly commonplace in organizations worldwide.

Additionally, Microsoft has streamlined the process for upgrading from older certifications. Professionals who already hold the MCSA: Windows 8 certification can still upgrade to the MCSA: Windows 10 certification by taking specific exams designed for this transition. These exams focus on the differences between the two operating systems, ensuring that professionals are fully prepared for the new tools, security features, and management techniques that come with Windows 10.

Impact on IT Professionals

The retirement of the Windows 8 exams and the introduction of Windows 10-specific exams means that IT professionals will need to invest time and resources in upgrading their certifications. However, this shift also presents opportunities for career advancement and skill development.

Staying Relevant in a Changing Market: Windows 10 is the most widely used operating system globally, and many organizations are rapidly transitioning to Windows 10 from previous versions. By obtaining the MCSA: Windows 10 certification, professionals can demonstrate their ability to manage and troubleshoot modern systems, making them more valuable to employers.

 

Increased Career Opportunities: As businesses continue to adopt Windows 10, there will be a growing demand for professionals with expertise in the operating system. Those with the MCSA: Windows 10 certification will be well-positioned to fill roles such as desktop support specialist, systems administrator, or IT consultant. Additionally, the Windows 10 certification is a stepping stone to more advanced certifications, such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or specialized certifications in areas like security and cloud computing.

 

Mastering New Features and Tools: The shift to Windows 10 introduces new features that can benefit businesses, such as better security through Windows Defender, enterprise-grade management tools like Windows Autopilot, and integration with cloud services through Microsoft Azure. The MCSA: Windows 10 exams will help professionals master these tools and stay on the cutting edge of IT management.

 

Cost-Effective Skill Development: Rather than having to pursue a brand new certification track, IT professionals with an existing MCSA: Windows 8 certification can take advantage of Microsoft’s upgrade exams to gain Windows 10 certification quickly. This allows for a more cost-effective and efficient pathway to keeping skills current.

Retiring Exams and Certification Pathway

The exams 70-687 (Configuring Windows 8.1) and 70-688 (Supporting Windows 8.1) were once foundational to the MCSA: Windows 8 certification track. These exams tested the essential skills for configuring and managing Windows 8.1 devices, as well as troubleshooting and resolving issues related to the operating system. However, with the introduction of Windows 10, Microsoft has phased out these exams and introduced new Windows 10-specific exams.

For professionals currently pursuing the MCSA: Windows 8 certification, it’s important to note that the exam 70-689 (Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA Windows 8) and 70-692 (Upgrading Your Windows XP Skills to MCSA Windows 8) are also set to be retired. To remain on track with the latest certifications, IT professionals need to transition to the MCSA: Windows 10 certification exams.

The exams retiring on July 31, 2016, are as follows:

• 70-687: Configuring Windows 8.1 
• 70-688: Supporting Windows 8.1 
• 70-689: Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA Windows 8 
• 70-692: Upgrading Your Windows XP Skills to MCSA Windows 8

These retiring exams impacted those pursuing the MCSA: Windows 8 certification, but the new exams will ensure that future candidates are aligned with Windows 10 technology and its industry-standard practices.

Preparing for the New Exams

The shift to Windows 10 represents an exciting opportunity for IT professionals to build their skill set and prepare for the future. To ensure success in the new MCSA: Windows 10 exams, it’s essential to thoroughly prepare and practice. Examlabs offers a range of practice exams and study materials to help professionals prepare for these certification exams. By taking advantage of these resources, you can ensure that you are well-prepared and confident when it comes time to take the exam.

The comprehensive study materials and practice tests available on Examlabs cover all aspects of Windows 10, including installation, configuration, device management, networking, and security. These resources allow you to master the skills required for the MCSA: Windows 10 certification and gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and techniques used in enterprise IT management.

Windows Server Exams: Transitioning to Server 2016

The world of Windows Server certifications has undergone significant changes as Microsoft shifts its focus from legacy versions to the latest releases. With the introduction of Windows Server 2016, professionals looking to maintain their credentials and skills in the server management domain are now faced with transitioning from older exams to newer certification tracks. Among the most notable changes are the retirements of certain MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert) and MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) certifications, as well as the introduction of new certifications that are more aligned with current industry demands.

One of the key areas of change revolves around the MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, which will be retired along with the associated exams, 70-415 and 70-416. These exams focused on desktop infrastructure and desktop application environments, respectively. As Microsoft shifts its focus toward managing devices and applications, the new MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps certification is emerging as the recommended alternative for professionals who want to specialize in device management and app deployment across enterprise environments.

The Shift Toward Windows Server 2016

As Windows Server 2012 gradually retires, MCSA: Windows Server 2016 becomes the new certification for those looking to demonstrate expertise in the latest version of Windows Server. This shift represents a significant transition in the IT world, where organizations and businesses are increasingly adopting newer versions of Windows Server for their infrastructure needs. The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 exam is expected to roll out around June-August 2016, marking a key milestone in server administration certifications.

The move from Windows Server 2012 to Windows Server 2016 is designed to reflect the growing demands for cloud computing, security enhancements, and server virtualization within modern IT environments. Professionals looking to stay current in the field need to update their certifications to align with the latest tools and technologies in server administration. These changes also emphasize a more dynamic approach to managing enterprise environments, focusing on capabilities such as cloud integration, virtualization technologies, storage management, and server performance tuning.

Retiring Exams and Certifications

As part of this transition, several certifications and exams are being retired, particularly those related to Windows Server 2012. The MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, for example, will no longer be available, making way for the MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps certification. This new certification is geared towards those involved in managing a variety of devices, from desktop systems to mobile devices, and how these devices interact within a broader enterprise ecosystem.

Exams retiring on January 31, 2016:

70-415: Implementing a Desktop Infrastructure: This exam covered topics related to the deployment, configuration, and management of desktop infrastructure solutions. With the focus now shifting toward enterprise device management, the MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps certification will be the new pathway for IT professionals in this area.

 

70-416: Implementing Desktop Application Environments: Similar to the 70-415 exam, this test focused on the deployment, configuration, and management of application environments on Windows-based desktop systems. The introduction of new certifications ensures that professionals in this area are better equipped to handle modern IT environments, including cloud and mobile computing challenges.

Exams retiring on July 31, 2016:

98-365: Windows Server Administration Fundamentals: A foundational exam for individuals entering the world of Windows Server, this test provided basic knowledge of server administration. With the introduction of MCSA: Windows Server 2016, candidates are expected to have a more comprehensive understanding of modern server environments and configurations.

The MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure certification, along with the MTA: Windows Server Administration, will also be affected by these changes. The MTA (Microsoft Technology Associate) certification is a fundamental certification for beginners in IT, providing a foundation for understanding server administration. However, as the demand for more specialized knowledge in enterprise environments grows, the focus will shift towards certifications that emphasize cloud technologies, device management, and enterprise app management.

Embracing the New Windows Server 2016 Certifications

The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification will replace the previous MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification, aligning IT professionals with the capabilities needed to manage and configure Windows Server 2016 environments. The new certification track will cover a wide range of topics, including:

Server installation and configuration: Ensuring that professionals understand how to properly deploy and configure Windows Server 2016, including configuring storage and networking.

 

Active Directory: The latest version of Active Directory and group policy management, which are central to enterprise networks, will be a key focus of the new exams.

 

Virtualization and cloud technologies: As enterprises continue to integrate cloud solutions and server virtualization, the certification will emphasize tools like Hyper-V and how they integrate with Microsoft’s Azure platform.

 

Security improvements: Windows Server 2016 introduces several key security features, including shielded virtual machines, enhanced authentication, and more robust data protection mechanisms. These will be essential skills for professionals looking to manage a secure enterprise environment.

Preparing for the Transition

For those preparing for the transition to MCSA: Windows Server 2016, it is important to use the right study resources to ensure success. Examlabs offers practice exams, study guides, and training materials specifically designed for the MCSA and MCSE certifications. These resources will help you familiarize yourself with the exam objectives and enhance your understanding of critical topics, such as server administration, network management, and security best practices.

Examlabs’s practice exams provide candidates with a way to simulate the real exam environment, helping them identify areas that need improvement and build confidence. This hands-on practice is invaluable when it comes to mastering the new tools and features in Windows Server 2016.

Why Transition to MCSA: Windows Server 2016?

The move from Windows Server 2012 to Windows Server 2016 brings several significant benefits, both for IT professionals and for the organizations they serve. The new features in Windows Server 2016 are designed to address the increasing need for cloud integration, security, and virtualization. By transitioning to the MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification, professionals can ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving field and gain the necessary skills to manage complex, modern IT infrastructures.

The transition to MCSA: Windows Server 2016 is not just about obtaining a certification, but also about staying ahead of the curve in an industry that is increasingly reliant on cloud computing and virtualized environments. By embracing the latest technology and aligning with current industry standards, you’ll position yourself as a skilled professional capable of managing enterprise-level IT infrastructures.

SharePoint Exams: Moving Beyond SharePoint 2010 – What’s Next for Certification Holders?

As technology continues to evolve, Microsoft SharePoint, the popular collaboration and document management platform, also evolves to meet the demands of modern businesses. With the arrival of SharePoint 2016 and the increasing adoption of SharePoint 2013 and SharePoint Online, older versions of SharePoint, such as SharePoint 2010, are gradually being phased out. This includes the retirement of SharePoint 2010-related certifications, including the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) and Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) exams.

Although SharePoint 2010 certifications were originally scheduled to retire on January 31, 2016, they will now be available until July 31, 2016. This extension allows candidates a bit more time to complete these exams and maintain their certifications. However, the clock is ticking, and businesses and professionals need to prepare for the transition to newer versions of SharePoint and the corresponding certifications.

Exam Retirements and What It Means for Certification Holders

SharePoint 2010 certifications played a significant role in validating the skills of IT professionals who managed, configured, and developed SharePoint environments. These certifications provided recognition for professionals in roles such as SharePoint administrators, developers, and consultants. However, as Microsoft shifts its focus to newer versions, these exams are being retired to make way for SharePoint 2016-related certifications and new offerings that align with the current landscape of collaboration technologies.

The exams affected by this retirement include:

70-573: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Application Development

 

70-576: PRO: Designing and Developing Microsoft SharePoint 2010 Applications

 

70-667: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Configuring

 

70-668: PRO: Microsoft SharePoint 2010 Administrator

These exams, which are integral to the MCTS and MCITP certifications, will no longer be available after July 31, 2016. If you are planning to earn or renew these certifications, you must complete the required exams before this deadline. Once the exams are retired, they will no longer count toward certification renewal, and professionals will need to pursue newer certifications to stay competitive in the marketplace.

The Transition to SharePoint 2016

With SharePoint 2016 on the horizon, it is essential for IT professionals to familiarize themselves with the changes introduced in this version. SharePoint 2016 brings several improvements over its predecessors, including enhanced hybrid features for integrating with SharePoint Online, improved document management capabilities, and a more modern user experience. These updates reflect the increasing importance of cloud technologies, and Microsoft is positioning SharePoint 2016 to cater to businesses that are moving toward hybrid environments or fully embracing cloud-based solutions.

In preparation for SharePoint 2016 and beyond, Microsoft has released new certifications that focus on the skills needed to manage and deploy SharePoint in modern enterprise environments. These certifications include:

MCSA: SharePoint 2016

 

MCSE: Productivity (with a focus on SharePoint)

The MCSA: SharePoint 2016 certification validates your skills in deploying and managing SharePoint Server 2016, while the MCSE: Productivity certification is more advanced, focusing on managing enterprise-level productivity solutions, including SharePoint 2016, Office 365, and Exchange Server. These new certifications reflect the growing complexity of SharePoint environments and the increasing demand for professionals who can integrate SharePoint with other Microsoft tools.

Why You Should Transition to SharePoint 2016 Certifications

For those currently holding SharePoint 2010 certifications, transitioning to SharePoint 2016 certifications is crucial to stay relevant in the evolving job market. Here are a few reasons why upgrading to SharePoint 2016 certifications should be a priority:

Future-Proofing Your Skills
As businesses adopt newer versions of SharePoint and hybrid cloud environments, there will be a greater demand for professionals who have expertise in the latest versions of SharePoint. Having up-to-date certifications shows employers that you are equipped to handle the challenges of modern IT environments and ready to support SharePoint’s continued evolution.

 

Expanded Job Opportunities
The demand for SharePoint 2016 experts is on the rise, particularly for businesses migrating from earlier versions to the newer iteration. As SharePoint 2016 brings significant changes, employers will seek certified professionals who can help with planning, deployment, and maintenance. Earning the MCSA or MCSE certification opens up a range of job opportunities in both small businesses and large enterprises.

 

Integration with Modern Tools
SharePoint 2016 integrates seamlessly with Office 365 and other cloud services, making it essential for professionals to learn how to work in hybrid environments. SharePoint 2016 certifications will help you stay current with these changes and better support businesses transitioning to cloud-based solutions.

 

Boosting Your Salary Potential
Certified professionals often command higher salaries compared to their non-certified peers. With SharePoint 2016 certifications, you will demonstrate that you have the expertise needed to manage complex environments, making you a more valuable asset to your organization and increasing your earning potential.

Preparing for SharePoint 2016 Certifications

To prepare for SharePoint 2016 certifications, it is essential to invest in the right resources and study materials. Several options are available to help you prepare for SharePoint 2016 exams, including official Microsoft training, online courses, and practice exams. Examlabs is an excellent resource for practice exams and study guides, providing realistic, exam-style questions that help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and test your knowledge.

For those transitioning from SharePoint 2010, there are also a few areas where the technology has changed significantly, and it’s important to focus on:

Hybrid Cloud Solutions: SharePoint 2016 includes new hybrid capabilities that integrate SharePoint with Office 365, allowing for a more seamless experience across on-premises and cloud environments.

 

Upgraded User Interface: The user experience in SharePoint 2016 has been enhanced, providing a more modern and intuitive interface. Understanding how to manage and customize these features is critical for success in the new certification exams.

 

Advanced Security Features: SharePoint 2016 introduces stronger security and compliance features, such as data loss prevention (DLP) and multi-factor authentication, which are important to understand as part of the certification process.

SQL Server Exams: Moving Away from SQL Server 2008

As SQL Server 2008 fades into history, exams related to this platform will no longer be available. IT professionals looking to upgrade their SQL Server 2008 certifications to MCSA or MCSE will need to take a new route.

Exams retiring on January 31, 2016:

• 70-459: Transition Your MCITP: Database Administrator 2008 or MCITP: Database Developer 2008 to MCSE: Data Platform 
• 70-460: Transition Your MCITP: Business Intelligence Developer 2008 to MCSE: Business Intelligence

Exams retiring on July 31, 2016:

• 70-432: Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Implementation and Maintenance 
• 70-448: Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Business Intelligence Development and Maintenance 
• 70-457: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 1 
• 70-458: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 2

Certifications impacted:

• MCITP Database Administrator – SQL Server 2008 
• MCITP Business Intelligence Developer – SQL Server 2008 
• Upgrade to MCSA SQL Server

Microsoft Dynamics Exams: Retiring Legacy CRM 2011 Exams

With the arrival of Dynamics CRM 2016, Microsoft is retiring the last exams associated with Dynamics CRM 2011.

Exams retiring on January 31, 2016:

• MB2-866: Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Customization and Configuration 
• MB2-867: Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Installation and Deployment 
• MB2-868: Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Applications 
• MB2-876: Extending Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011

Certifications impacted:

• Dynamics CRM 2011 
• Dynamics CRM 2011 Online 
• Dynamics CRM Developer 2011

Exchange and Exchange Server Exams: Moving to Exchange 2016

With the release of Exchange Server 2016 in late 2015, exams tied to Exchange Server 2010 will be retired.

Exams retiring on January 31, 2016:

70-662: TS: Microsoft Exchange Server 2010, Configuring

 

70-663: PRO: Designing and Deploying Messaging Solutions with Microsoft Exchange

Certifications impacted:

MCITP Enterprise Messaging Administrator

 

MCTS Exchange Server 2010

Lync Exams: Transition to Skype for Business

The transition from Lync Server to Skype for Business Server has led to the retirement of Lync-related exams.

Exams retiring on March 30, 2016:

74-335: Lync Network Readiness Assessment

 

74-338: Lync 2013 Depth Support Engineer

 

70-336: Core Solutions of Microsoft Lync Server 2013

 

70-337: Enterprise Voice & Online Services with Microsoft Lync Server 2013

Certifications affected:

MCSE: Communication (Lync Server)

Visual Studio and .NET Exams: Saying Goodbye to .NET 4

As Microsoft moves away from .NET 4.5 and newer versions take over, several exams aligned with .NET 4 will retire.

Exams retiring on July 31, 2016:

70-490: Recertification for MCSD: Windows Store Apps Using HTML5

 

70-491: Recertification for MCSD: Windows Store Apps Using C#

 

70-511: TS: Windows Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4

 

70-513: TS: Windows Communication Foundation Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4

 

70-515: TS: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4

 

70-516: TS: Accessing Data with Microsoft .NET Framework 4

 

98-379: Software Testing Fundamentals

Certifications impacted:

MCTS: Microsoft .NET Framework 4, Windows Applications

 

MCTS: Microsoft .NET Framework 4, Web Applications

 

MCTS: Microsoft .NET Framework 4, Service Communication Applications

 

MCTS: Microsoft .NET Framework 4, Data Access

 

MTA Software Testing Fundamentals

Other Exam Retirements

Exams retiring on July 31, 2016:

70-673: TS: Designing, Assessing, and Optimizing Software Asset Management (SAM)

As the IT industry evolves, it’s essential for professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and certifications. If you’re planning to upgrade or renew your certifications, make sure to act before the listed retirement dates to ensure your credentials remain valid.

Conclusion: 

The upcoming retirements of various Microsoft exams represent a significant shift in the IT certification landscape. As Microsoft continues to innovate and release new technologies, professionals must adapt by upgrading their skills and certifications. This is essential not only to remain competitive in the job market but also to ensure that IT professionals have the expertise required to manage and support the latest technologies effectively.

To stay ahead of these changes, IT professionals can leverage resources such as Exam Snap, which offers high-quality study materials and practice exams to help candidates prepare for the latest certifications. By investing time and effort into upgrading their skills and certifications, professionals can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing technological environment. The key to thriving in the future lies in embracing new technologies and certifications, ensuring that professionals are always prepared for the next big shift in the IT world.

The transition from Windows 8 to Windows 10 represents a natural evolution in the world of IT certifications. The MCSA: Windows 10 certification ensures that professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to manage the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. As the global workforce continues to adopt Windows 10, there is a growing demand for professionals who can manage and troubleshoot these systems.

For IT professionals with an existing MCSA: Windows 8 certification, upgrading to the MCSA: Windows 10 certification through the new exams is a vital step in staying competitive and relevant in the fast-changing IT landscape. By preparing with the resources available on Examlabs, professionals can confidently transition to the new certification track and continue their career growth.

The retirement of exams such as 70-415 and 70-416, along with the introduction of the MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification, marks a significant shift in the world of Windows Server certifications. As organizations continue to migrate to newer technologies, it’s essential for IT professionals to stay updated with the latest tools and best practices. With Examlabs’s study resources, including practice exams and training materials, professionals can successfully navigate this transition and ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges of managing modern IT environments.

By earning the MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification, you’ll not only stay current with industry trends but also enhance your career prospects by demonstrating expertise in managing the latest Windows Server technologies.

As SharePoint 2010 certifications retire, it’s important to prepare for the transition to newer technologies and certifications. SharePoint 2016 presents exciting opportunities for professionals to enhance their skills and contribute to modern IT environments. With the new MCSA and MCSE certifications, IT professionals can demonstrate their expertise in deploying and managing SharePoint 2016, while also positioning themselves for future career growth in the field of enterprise collaboration and cloud computing.

For those already holding SharePoint 2010 certifications, taking the necessary steps to update to SharePoint 2016 certifications before the retirement of older exams is crucial. With the right study materials and resources, such as those offered by Examlabs, professionals can successfully navigate this transition and ensure that their skills remain competitive in the ever-evolving field of Microsoft technologies.