Customer Reviews

MCSA/MCSE Exam 70-291 Study Guide and Training System: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure

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I was certified on NT, but never got my W2k certification. So, it had been a while since I sat for an MS exam. I was obviouly aware that both the exams and the OS are very different from the NT days, so when I began my studies I was really looking to use the most thorough books I could find. I'm also studying on a tight budget (who isn't these days?), so I also wanted to be sure that I could get just one book for each exam, instead of having to buy several to fill in the gaps. I spent a lof of time looking through all of the available books at a local book store before actually buying from Amazon. It didn't teke me long to realize just how much better this book is from the competition. There's just no comparison between the depth of coverage in this book vs. the others. The DVD is also really helpful as well. I found the best way was to read a chapter, try the practice questions, and then watch that chatper on DVD. I was completely confident going into the exam that I would pass based on my work experience and my preparation with this book, and I did.

The book is written in a good style with the ususal volume of screenshots.
But it is published in 2003 and in the mean time in the MS certification world things have changed dramatically.
Not only is SUS called WSUS today but also some fundamental changes are introduced with the release of SP1 for Windows Server 2003.
Also the exams have changed: The introduction of the simulator and the exam is more demanding.

Mainly based on this book I did the exam and failed. Not big time, but who cares.
So I ordered the 4 volume core requirements 2nd edition from Microsoft Press. There was a lot of detail I missed in this book. Still studying but feel confident the MS Press set will help me pass the exam.

Well and the DVD..... I said it all in the title. The female presentor (Certified MS instructor as well) is good looking, but it's not even enough material for a last minute recap.

Not a recommendation this book.

Like most successful certification seekers, I'm on a schedule. A delay of even a week or two puts off that final test. I gladly ordered this brand new from Amazon with two-day shipping. When it arrived, it was without it's included DVD.

In all the time I've purchased products from Amazon I have never been burned, until now.

Shame on you Amazon.