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Information Security Measures for Remote Employees

When it comes to the option for professionals to work from home via the internet, the current possibilities are better than ever before. These new possibilities also bring new challenges and one of them is the of information security. This is especially the case when comes to sensitive data and employees who are working remotely/off-site for corporations. Then even more important to maintain the company’s data and information security.

  Information Security via Intelligent Password Use

  One basic measure for information security is to protect the computer that stores and processes the business data. In one of our previous blog posts (Safety and Security 

Measures You Should Follow) we have listed several useful password tips. They concern the choice and handling of computer and account passwords to ensure the security of the company computer/mobile device. They also refer to the respective internet accounts (for example email accounts).

  Access and Identity Management by the Employer

  The above mentioned blog post mainly describes security measures to be taken by the individual remote worker. Beyond that, access and identities for cloud-based applications, file storage and corporate networks/intranet can be managed on the corporate side by cloud-based services like the Microsoft Azure Active Directory.

  Company Server Protection

  Firewall

It might seem like a rather basic thing to mention here, but because of its importance for server and information security, it certainly does belong on this list. The Firewall software helps prevent access to the system from unauthorized parties.

VPN-Connections

In comparison to Virtual Private Networks (VPN), WiFi connections are more vulnerable to hacking attacks. It enhances the server security and therefore information security if remote employees/telecommuters sign up via VPN when they need to connect their devices remotely to the company network.

SSL/TLS Certificates

SSL or TLS certificates for the company servers (HTTPS) ensure encrypted communication and verifies the other participant’s identity

You can read more about security measures to protect a server here.

  Separate Business and Private Computers and Mobile Devices

  To be on an even safer side, it makes sense to keep the business and private computer devices strictly separate, and not to use the computer you use for business purposes for any private internet surfing or email use. The reason for this; internet surfing and email attachments are common ways through which viruses and other malware can infect a computer.

Of course, even if a company adapted such a policy for the computers use by their employees, this would be difficult to enforce. That is why it is very important to educate the respective computer users about how to use the internet and its services, as well as, also to make sure that anti-virus programs and system are always up-to-date.

If you are interested in IT certification related to information security, cyber, and computer security, have a look at our training courses!

  Sources:

https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/224241

https://smallbiztrends.com/2018/11/security-measures-for-remote-workers.html

https://www.digitalocean.com/community/tutorials/7-security-measures-to-protect-your-servers

https://www.techsherpas.com/7-donts-for-your-computer-security/

https://www.techsherpas.com/cloud-computing-makes-telecommuting-a-real-possibility/

https://www.techsherpas.com/cloud-computing-microsoft-azure/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/information-security-measures-for-remote-employees/

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What is the Microsoft Azure Active Directory?

The Microsoft Azure Active Directory (in short: “Azure AD”) is a cloud-based service by Microsoft. It is used for the management of identities and respective access rights. These access rights can apply to:

a corporate network/intranet and proprietary applications that are cloud-based

external services/applications by Microsoft like the Azure portal as such and Microsoft Office 365. Azure AD is also used in connection with third party SaaS (Software as a service) applications.

Who uses the Microsoft Azure Active Directory?

  Azure AD users are therefore typically IT administrators, App/software developers, as well as, subscribers to the already mentioned Microsoft Products or third party Saas offers.

  Which kind of licenses are available?

  Currently, there are five different licenses available for the Microsoft Azure Active Directory/Azure AD. They offer several access levels to Azure Active Directory features:

Free

Basic

Premium P1 (includes the features included in “Free” and “Basis” plus additional features like advanced administration and more). Microsoft also offers a free 30-day Azure Active Directory Premium trial to get you started and to “try out” the additional features that go beyond the “Free” and “Basic” options.

Premium P2 (all the features of Free, Basis and Premium 1, plus Azure AD Identity Protection and Privileged Identity Management )

Feature licenses on a “Pay as you go” basis.

  How can I learn more about working with the Microsoft Azure and the Microsoft Azure Active Directory?

  TechSherpas offers several training courses relating to Microsoft Azure and the Microsoft Azure Active Directory. Among these are, for example:

  10993: Integrating on-premises Identity Infrastructure with Microsoft Azure – for IT professionals with already existing knowledge/experience with Microsoft Azure

10992: Integrating On-Premises Core Infrastructure with Microsoft Azure – for professionals in the areas of IT and DevOps (development operations) with a good knowledge of on-premises technologies and at least basic knowledge in the area of cloud technologies

10979: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals On-Demand – for IT professionals (e.g. administrators, developers) with limited knowledge regarding cloud technologies. If you are interested in a more advanced course that requires a better knowledge of Azure and cloud technologies, you might want to consider taking this one first.

  These are just a few selected courses from our course catalog. Do you have any questions about our courses or about which course might be the best for your skill level? Just contact us, we will be happy to help.

  Sources: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/active-directory/fundamentals/active-

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Your Career Chances with an MCSA Certification

Cloud computing has become an integral part of today’s corporate/business world. Therefore, these businesses need qualified staff that can implement and work with cloud computing technology. As one of the major providers of cloud technology products, Microsoft offers the MCSA certification as well as a set of other certifications that serve as credentials for expertise of these products.

What kind of jobs can you get with an MCSA Certification?

An MCSA Certification (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) is considered an entry-level certification and is a great credential if you are still in the early stages of your IT career. When you look up the job offer requirements for positions like

Network Administrator

Network Engineer

Exchange Administrator

Systems Administrator

Desktop Engineer

Web Administrator

IT Project Manager

You will often find “MCSA” among them.

Since there are several similar certifications with different focus areas, the selection of your focus area will of course also influence your fit for specific job descriptions. If you add additional MCSA certifications and additional focus areas, this will enhance your expert profile.

MCSA does not necessarily limit you to entry-level positions: Especially in combination with extensive hands-on work experience and additional qualifications, one or more MCSA certifications can mark the well-rounded profile of IT professionals even in senior positions. If you already have several of these certifications, it might make sense to use these as stepping stones to obtain an MCSE Certification (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert) as well. This will show your qualification to work on and build more complex cloud technology solutions and platforms.

The amount of money you can expect to earn of course depends on several additional factors, but to give you an idea: “Payscale” states 72K as the median annual salary for a Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator,

  Get your certification!

If you want to find out more about how to become an MCSA, you can read more about that in our blog post “MCSA Certification – how to become a certified Microsoft Solutions Associate”. You might also want to have a closer look at our article about the Microsoft Certification Paths, where you can find more information about the requirements and the various focus areas of the MCSA Certification and the MCSE Certification (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert), the next step, which is another part of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification program.

As a Microsoft Gold Partner, TechSherpas professional certified instructor  provide certification training for MCSA as well as MCSE.

  Sources: https://www.itcareerfinder.com/it-certifications/microsoft-certifications/mcsa-2012.html https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=msca&vjk=ba8027abcc0d5981 https://www.techsherpas.com/the-microsoft-certification-paths/

    The post Your Career Chances with an MCSA Certification appeared first on TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions.

from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/career-chances-with-mcsa-certification/

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Work From Home Jobs for IT Professionals

Qualified work from home jobs (or telecommuting/remote jobs) are not that unusual anymore. Instead, the demand for the option to work remotely has become a trend. Modern technology, especially computer, cloud computing and the internet with high-speed connectivity, make that possible. Since information technology provides the means for remote working, the question of whether it is also an option for IT professionals is obvious.

  Which IT-related tasks can be performed from home/remotely?

Technically, most of the everyday IT-utilizing tasks can be performed remotely – provided that necessary hardware is in place and the adequate infrastructure and procedures for authentication and encryption are in place. The latter is especially important to ensure computer, information, and cybersecurity: Remote working opportunities must be secure to not endanger the employer’s business by making it more accessible to hacking and other cyber-attacks.

There are a few exemptions: When physical access to hardware other than the individual’s own is necessary (e.g. server rooms), the respective IT staff of course needs to be on-site or at least be able to directly communicate with somebody on-site.

  Availability of remote/work from home jobs in information technology

If you are looking for work from home/remote jobs as an IT professional, look out for job titles like these – as can currently be found on internet job portals:

Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Analyst

Systems Administrator, Systems Engineer

Cloud Operations Administrator

IT Support

SAP Basis Administrator

Linus Administrator

Cisco Voice Engineer

Azure PAAS Architect

.NET Developer

Network Operations Coordinator

DevOps Engineer

Technical Project Manager

AWS Architect

Database Engineer

Look for job titles like these in combination with typical keywords like:

Telecommuting

Work from home

Remote

Virtual

  Could working from home/remotely be an option for you?

There are various reasons why some people prefer to work from home or – generally – on a remote basis. Maybe you

have a particularly long commute

are a parent who is just re-starting work after parental leave or other leave of absence

need to take care of a child/children at home or are a caregiver otherwise

want to travel extensively or even prefer a nomadic lifestyle

Whatever the reasons, the question if remote working is an option for you in your current job is something your employer needs to decide.

Have you been looking through the above listed job titles and are intrigued, but you find that you are still lacking a particular qualification/certification? TechSherpas offers a wide range of certification training courses, live on-site, virtual, or on-demand, to help you reach your career goals.

  Sources: https://www.itproportal.com/features/technologys-role-in-improving-work-life-balance-for-remote-workers/

https://www.indeed.com

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Land Your Dream Job in IT: Certification vs. Work Experience

You have set your sight on a career in Information Technology (IT), and now you want to land your dream job. As with most dream jobs, you are going to have to meet certain minimum requirements to help you succeed in your search for a position.

Many jobs require a specific college education. While there are various college programs that offer IT-related degrees, a degree is not necessarily a requirement. What actually is a requirement is:

an IT certification

work experience

or

IT certification together with work experience

A certification or work experience: What is more important to land your dream job in IT?

One possible answer regarding what is more important could be to check the IT job offers in the various internet job portals. They will help to give you a general overview about what potential employers expect from their IT staff.

It makes sense to assume that hands-on work experience in IT gets more important with an increasing seniority of the offered position. In contrast, it is rather unlikely that a lot of such work experience is expected or even required, when an employer need to fill an entry-level position.

If you are aiming for an entry-level position and do not have any or only little related work experience to offer, then a qualifying IT certification becomes of major importance. On the other hand, for senior positions keep in mind: the more skill, responsibility and complexity a position in IT involves, the more employers will look at the qualification (i.e. up-to-date and relevant certifications) of their potential candidates.

In other words, work experience and certification can both add significant value to your application and CV.

Benefits of certification and work experience

If you are in the lucky situation and able to add a current IT certification as well as related work-experience to your qualifications – congratulations! That should get you quite a head-start above other applicants that want to land a dream job as well.

If that is not the case, an IT certification can be obtained much quicker than work experience that will actually count. Techsherpas offers a range of certification training as Boot Camp Courses. This means they provide their students with qualified hands-on training and the knowledge they need to pass a certification exam within just a few days.

That means that if you already have IT related work experience but find out during your job search that the respective official certification is one potential requirement, then you can take care of that within a relatively short time.

Gaining a certain amount of work experience naturally takes its time, but it does have benefits: If you already have work experience, it shows your potential employer that your skills have already been tried and tested in an actual work environment. It also means you have been able to put your theoretical knowledge to practical use.

Even if you already have extensive work experience, you might still want to consider rounding it off and updating it with a current IT certification to land your dream job. IT professionals work in an area that is constantly evolving, so knowledge and skills need to be up-to-date. For that reason, there may even be a chance that your employer is willing to cover the tuition costs.

If you have your certification but no work experience yet, do not worry: Everybody needs to start somewhere, and be it with an entry-level or junior position. That might not quite be your dream job, but at least you will have your certification to get your proverbial foot in the door.

  Sources/further reading:

http://blog.skillset.com/career-building/decide-earn-work-experience-get-certification/

https://blog.mettl.com/assessment-technology/do-certifications-matter-more-than-work-experience

https://www.techsherpas.com/certifications/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/land-your-dream-job-in-it/

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Switching Careers? How to Become an IT Professional

In case you are wondering: Switching careers, even at a later point in life, is not that unusual anymore. One reason for that is probably the fact that due to modern technologies, further education and training is far more readily available and accessible than it used to be.

Computer and information technology (IT) can be found everywhere, in our business as well as private lives. Therefore, the idea of putting their IT affinity to professional use does not seem a huge leap for many people.

What to consider when it comes to switching careers to IT

Area of expertise: information technology is a vast field, so carefully consider which area you feel most at home, for example computer hardware and periphery, network design and administration, cyber and computer security, programming and coding.

Job market: Enter the respective keywords into search engines and job portals to get an idea about the corresponding job titles/descriptions as well as requirements for applicants.

Credentials/experience: Does your current job, professional training or past work experience provide you with any experience or credentials that you could apply towards a new career as an IT professional and would look good in your updated CV?

Professional training/practical experience: Depending on which kind of future position you have set your sights on, you might need to be able to present proper credentials, practical experience or both. While an internship might offer first practical experience, professional IT training and even certification will probably be your most important step towards switching careers to become an IT professional.

Education, training, and certification

There are various college programs available to help you achieve a degree in the field of information technology and related areas. When you consider switching careers though, you might not be in the position to invest that much time (and money) into your education and training. This is where IT certification courses come in. They allow you to achieve a professional, industry-acknowledged IT certification within a comparatively short period of time. For example, a TechSherpas Boot Camp Certification Course prepares you for a certification exam with a time investment of just a few days. TechSherpas also offers you virtual learning solutions and learning on-demand, so that you can get educated and achieve your first certification without having to quit your current job. It also allows you to get a deeper knowledge and familiarize yourself with the work of an IT professional before having to make any major career-changing decisions.

Many open IT positions do not require an IT college degree, and with the TechSherpas learning solutions you can quickly achieve industry-recognized credentials and work on making your dream of switching careers a reality. To learn more about these available opportunities, have a look at our blog post “3 of the Best Entry Level IT Certifications to Boost Your Career”.

  Sources and further reading:

https://www.techsherpas.com/3-of-the-best-entry-level-it-certifications/

https://www.techsherpas.com/2-additional-technology-jobs-in-demand/

https://www.techsherpas.com/technology-jobs-and-how-to-qualify/

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/too-late-career-change-ask-vicki-quora-0417

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/how-do-you-restart-career-later-in-life-quora-vicki-salemi

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/switching-careers-become-an-it-professional/

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Great System Administrator Certifications to Boost Your Career

System Administrator Certifications

More and more businesses and organizations depend on complex IT systems for their daily communications and workflow; therefore, professionals who hold a System Administrator Certification know how to manage and maintain these systems are in high demand. This demand is not likely to change any time soon. In order to keep up with the new developments in IT technology, it is important for professionals to keep themselves educated and to keep up with the current IT certifications as credentials for their expertise. This is an overview of several great system administrator certifications that will give your IT career a boost:

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

The MCSE or “Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert” certification is part of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) program. It offers the following five focus areas with different key technologies:

MCSE: Business Applications (focusing on Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Dynamics 365)

MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure (Microsoft Azure and Windows Server Virtualization)

MCSE: Data Management and Analytics (Microsoft SQL Server with SQL administration, on-site as well as cloud-based data solutions)

MCSE: Mobility (Windows System Center)

MCSE: Productivity (Microsoft Office/Microsoft Office 365)

TechSherpas offers several options for MCSE certification training. Find out more about them here.

  CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Server+ is a vendor-neutral certification that ranks high among the system administrator certifications as well. Here at TechSherpas we offers a variety of different CompTIA learning solutions for different levels.

If you are an entry-level computer support professional looking for a career as a network administrator, then CompTIA Network+ might be a good choice for you. You should possess basic Windows end-user computer skills to successfully participate in this course.

  CompTIA Linux+

Powered by LPI

TechSherpas CompTIA training course, CompTIA Linux+

Powered by LPI prepares you to become a CompTIA Linux+

Certified Professional. When taking this course, you should at least possess a user-level knowledge/experience with the Linux operating system.

TechSherpas also offers several courses that you can take to be prepared:

UNIX and Linux: Fundamentals

UNIX and Linux: Advanced User

CompTIA A+: A Comprehensive Approach (a helpful addition, but not required)

  C)VDE Certified Virtual Desktop Engineer

If you are already experienced with VMware vSphere (2+ years) but new to the VMware Horizon Suite, the C)VDE Certified Virtual Desktop Engineer training course will familiarize you with the installation and configuration of Horizon View, as well as, the components. The successful completion will put you above the level of VCP-DT.

  For more information on which training course is best for you, or for any other related questions, simply send us a message or give us a call!

  Sources: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/mcse-certification.aspx https://www.techsherpas.com/technology/comptia/ https://certification.comptia.org/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/system-administrator-certifications-to-boost-your-career/

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The Best Cybersecurity and Information Security Certifications

Let’s begin with “Information Security” and “Cybersecurity”.  There are two expressions that people often use somewhat interchangeably. They are not quite the same though, as we have already explained in one or our previous blog posts. In any case, both have – naturally – the security aspect in common. This means, that if you are planning for a professional career in this field, not only are your knowledge and skill set of particular importance, but also are your reputable credentials, such as, Cybersecurity and Information Security Certifications.

Let us have a look at some of the best information security certifications to boost your career as an information security professional.

  Information Security Certifications

Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (C)PTE)

The Certified Penetration Testing Engineer certification constitutes an upgrade to the Certified Ethical Hacker/CEH. The Techsherpas certification course is based on proven, hands-on penetration testing methods and the Five Key Elements of Pen Testing:

Information Gathering

Scanning

Enumeration

Exploitation

Reporting

CISM: Certified Information Security Manager

The certification as a CISM/Certified Information Security Manager demonstrates your proficient knowledge and skill set in the field of Information Security Management, such as:

Threat analysis and risks

Risk and incident management

IS security strategy/frameworks

Security programs and CISO roles

Creation of policies for audit and risk management, compliance and awareness

DR and BCP development/deployment/maintenance

  CompTIA Security+

With Information Security Certifications like CompTIA Security+ you demonstrate the necessary computer security skills to successfully perform your duties in a wide range of IT security-related roles. Such skills are, for example:

Identification of the fundamental computer security concepts

Identification of (potential) security threats

Data management and application

Host security management

Network security implementation

Identification/implementation of access control

Identification/implementation of account management security measures

Identification/implementation of compliance and operational security measures

Certificate and risk management

Troubleshooting and management of security incidents.

Business continuity and disaster recovery planning

  CISSO: Certified Information Systems Security Officer

A Certified Information Systems Security Officer (CISSO) demonstrates proficiency in the knowledge and skill set (including industry best practices) that characterize the work of a security manager/security officer, such as:

Expertise regarding the in-depth theory of core security concepts, practices, monitoring and compliance

Use of a risk-based approach

Ability to implement and maintain cost-effective security controls

The CISSO certification training also covers the exam objectives of the CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional

  C)IHE: Certified Incident Handling Engineer

The Certified Incident Handling Engineer (C)IHE) is directed toward IT professionals, such as incident handlers, system administrators and general security engineers. The training, which also covers the GCIH- GIAC Certified Incident Handler, teaches students:

Planning, creation and utilization of systems for attack prevention, detection and response

Step-by-step approaches as used by hackers worldwide

Identification of the latest attack vectors and implementation of safeguarding measures

Incident handling procedures

Strategies for each type of attack

Recovery measures after an attack

  Have a look at our public training schedule to find out more about how we can support you to achieve the Cybersecurity and Information Security Certification that is best for your career plans.

      Sources: https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10708-information-security-certifications.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_computer_security_certifications https://www.darkreading.com/risk/10-security-certifications-to-boost-your-career/d/d-id/1322449?image_number=3 https://www.techsherpas.com/shop/cyber-security/cihe-certified-incident-handling-engineer-on-demand/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/best-information-security-certifications/

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What Are The Best Project Management Certifications?

As one of the largest providers for project management certification training, TechSherpas offers a variety of training courses to become a professionally certified project manager. A project management certification can be a great addition to your CV and can polish your credentials as an information technology professional.

But what kind of certifications for project management are there, and which is the right one for you? Keep reading – we have compiled an overview of some of the best project manager certifications.

Project Management Certification: Project Management Professional (PMP)

As we have already discussed in one of our previous blog posts, the Product Management Professional/PMP certification is issued by the Project Management Institute (or: “PMI”). Techsherpas offers Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preparation on a live In-Classroom Learning (ICL) basis, as well as, online as a Virtual Live Training (VTL). We also have an add-on option for an On-Demand (ODL) training video.  This can be added to the purchase of a live class or study that is completely online, at your own pace, with the ODL training. Additional requirements are at least a high school diploma, associate or corresponding secondary degree, as well as, a minimum amount of project management experience.

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

CAPM is an entry-level project management certification that the PMI issues as well, but without the additional requirements of the PMP for the certification candidates. You can become a Certified Associate in Project Management with little or even without prior project management experience. The Techsherpas CAPM preparation course is delivered entirely on an On-Demand Learning basis, which allows you to study at your own pace with a schedule that fits your personal requirements. In addition, this allows you to save on those expenses, such as time and travel, that would normally be associated with a course led by a live instructor. 

Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Like the CAPM preparation training, the Certified Scrum Master (CSM) training course from TechSherpas is available for On-Demand Learning. This means you have a library of training videos with content that includes the following:

the Agile Manifesto Principles

Scrum Roles Overview

Scrum Master and Stake Holders

and more

PRINCE2 Practitioner

In order to become a registered PRINCE2 Practitioner, you will need to successfully complete two examination Project Management Training Courses. TechSherpas offers both of them On-Demand:

PRINCE2 Foundation On-Demand

PRINCE2 Practitioner On-Demand

CompTIA Project+

CompTIA, one of the leading IT industry’s trade associations issues a vendor-neutral professional certification. Our CompTIA Project+ training classes have a duration of five days, and you can participate either in the classroom or online/virtually, both of these would be with a live instructor.

Six Sigma

The Six Sigma methodology is also known as “DMAIC”, which stands for

Define

Measure

Analyze

Improve

Control

TechSherpas offers two different On-Demand Learning classes for Six Sigma:

Six Sigma Black Belt On-Demand

Six Sigma Green Belt On Demand

Any further questions about Project Management Certifications? Do you need assistance or further information to enroll in one of our classes? Are you interested in a Customized Onsite Training for your organization? Simply contact us.

  Sources: https://www.techsherpas.com/technology/project-management/ https://www.techsherpas.com/technology/project-management/pmpcapm/ https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/certifications/project-management-professional-handbook.pdf

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/best-project-management-certification/

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How Can a Microsoft Azure Certification Boost Your Career?

More and more businesses are using cloud-computing technology. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for people that possess the required skills better known as a Microsoft Azure Certification. One reason this technology has become popular is its ability to help saving on company investment of server space. Another reason for its popularity is because employees increasingly need to be able to access their files from somewhere else other than their stationary office work space. If you need to show that you possess cloud-computing skills and know how to apply them, a Microsoft Azure Certification provides you with just the right advantage over the job-seeking competition.

Microsoft Azure and the Microsoft Azure Certification

In our recent blog post, we have already elaborated on the six different Microsoft Certification Paths and the Microsoft Certification Map: The MCSA Certification (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) with 17 different focus area certifications that form the stepping stones to achieving that goal.

one of the five MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) certifications

or the MCSD certification, which stands for “Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer.”

Depending on which focus areas and key technologies you focus on while achieving your MCSA Certification, you can set the path towards a Microsoft Azure related MCSE/MCSD certification.

  Why invest into obtaining an official certification?

It is true: Nowadays, there are many ways to achieve knowledge and to hone one’s skills. One can read books, subscribe to podcasts and newsletters, watch Youtube videos and much more. Theoretically, you might be able to work with Microsoft Azure without any specific certification in that area.

If you have chosen information technology and cloud computing as your actual career fields, then these kinds of self-taught skills are probably not enough to get ahead. Anyone can claim they possess the skills and practical experience, but if you want to make a sustainable career out of those, you are going to need to show corresponding credentials as a recognizable proof of your expertise.

When you are looking for a new job, your CV usually is the first source of information for your potential future employer, and they probably have to decide between a multitude of applicants. A convincing CV is extremely important, because this phase of the application-process is the first hurdle you need to master in order to make it to a personal interview. An official and industry-recognized Microsoft Azure Certification in your CV documents that you have participated in a structured education and made it successfully through the required exams is important. This does not only show your personal dedication, but also provides a certain security for the future employer, that they will be able to rely on you having received your education and certifications by a reputable and recognized provider.

See also: https://www.techsherpas.com/azure-skills-initiative-and-special-offers/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/microsoft-azure-certification-for-your-career/

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The Microsoft Certification Paths and the Microsoft Certification Map

In our last blog post we discussed two Microsoft certifications – MCSA and MCSE – as entry-level and mid-level IT certifications to boost your career as an IT professional. Today we would like to take a closer look at the six Microsoft certification paths for the certifications of MCSA, MCSE and MCSD: the Microsoft Certification Map.

What do the Microsoft Certification Paths show?

There are six different Microsoft Certification paths as part of the Microsoft Certification Map: 5 MCSEs and 17 MCSA focus areas. The Microsoft Certification Map shows how you can combine these focus areas to stepping-stones towards achieving the desired MCSE or MCSD certification.

While MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) is an entry-level certification that can stand on its own, it is also part of the certification path (or track) to an MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) or MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer) certification.

The 17 MCSA focus areas are (in alphabetical order):

BI Reporting

Cloud Platform

Data Engineering with Azure

Linux on Azure

Machine Learning

Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations

Office 365

SQL 2016 BI Development

SQL 2016 Database Administration

SQL 2016 Database Development

SQL Server 2012/2014

Universal Windows Platform

Web Applications

Windows 10

Windows Server 2012

Windows Server 2016

  Microsoft Certification Map

  The Microsoft Certification Map explained

The Certification Map with its six Microsoft Certification Paths shows you, which of the different MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) focus area certifications form the path to each of the five MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) certifications and the MCSD certification.

The five MCSE certifications/focus areas with their different key technologies are:

Business Applications

Cloud Platform and Infrastructure

Productivity

Data Management and Analytics

Mobility

In addition, there is one MCSD certification path (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer) within the focus area.

App Builder with the key technologies: Azure, C#. SharePoint. Office Client, Visual Studio, .Net and HTML5

The have already mentioned stepping-stones for each of these six certification paths which are:

combinations of the above mentioned 17 MCSA focus areas

PLUS one passed exam from an elective exam pool

These exam pools are periodically updated, and so it is important for you to always consider the current version of the Microsoft Certification Paths.

You can find our most current version of the certification (road-)map here, or by clicking on the image above. This will lead you to not only an enlarged version of the map, but also to a more detailed info graphic for each of the certification paths.

  Sources: https://www.techsherpas.com/microsoft-certification-map/ https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/browse-all-certifications.aspx?technology=windows%20server

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/the-microsoft-certification-paths/

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3 of the Best Entry Level IT Certifications to Boost Your Career

If you want to make yourself a career in the field of information technology, you should consider achieving one of the well-established, entry level IT certifications as a credential for your IT skills.

Why are Entry Level IT Certifications important?

Many people are nowadays interested in computer and IT subjects, which is a continually changing and evolving career path.  An IT Certification serves as a standardized tool to help potential employers or customers to assess your knowledge and skill set and make an informed decision about hiring you.

Which of the Entry Level IT Certifications is right for you?

CompTIA A+

A CompTIA A+ certification provides a starting point and foundation for your IT career as an entry level IT technician. A CompTIA A + technician offers technical and operational IT support and maintains, troubleshoots and repairs PCs, mobile devices, operating systems and peripheral equipment.

TechSherpas CompTIA A+ training course provides qualified training and preparation for your CompTIA A+ certification for participants who already possess basic computer skills.

  Cisco Certified Entry Level Technicial (CCENT) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

For aspiring network technicians, a Cisco Certification as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and/or Cisco Certified Entry Level Technician (CCENT) as a stepping-stone to becoming an associate is the way to go. Typical job titles for professionals with such a CCNA certification are “Systems Administrator,” “Network Administrator” or “Network Engineer.”

  Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is an entry level IT certification and a stepping-stone to becoming a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE). Both certifications are part of the Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCP) program.

There are 17 different focus areas for an MCSA, among them:

BI Reporting

Cloud Platform

Office 365

Windows 10

SQL 2016 Database Administration

Depending on which area or areas you want to focus on, you can select the particular MCSA accordingly. You can also group several of these focus area certifications (as illustrated in our Microsoft Certification Map). This enables you to achieve the mid-level Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certification.

TechSherpas is a Microsoft Gold Partner and as such specially certified by Microsoft to provide training and certifications for MCSA and MCSE. Have a look at our course catalog to get a better overview about the various training courses and learning solutions that help you to get your IT career started or better yet, take it to the next level.

  Sources: https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/blog/5-it-certifications-to-get-your-foot-in-the-door/ https://certification.comptia.org/certifications https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/entry.html

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/3-of-the-best-entry-level-it-certifications/

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Which of our Virtual Learning Solutions Works Best for You?

If you have already looked at our course cataloge and various learning methods and solutions, you will have come across two different virtual learning solutions that we offer:

Virtual Live Training (VLT)

On-Demand Learning (ODL)

Both methods allow you to participate in our IT learning courses remotely: from the comfort of your own computer at home, or alternatively at the office. This means that you can save time as well as costs, because you do not have to travel to any particular training location.

Virtual Live Training: Virtual Learning with a Classroom Experience

The main difference between the two methods lies in the scheduling of your study time:

As the name indicates, the student’s participation in the “Virtual Live Training” (or short “VLT”) takes place live, i.e. in real time. The students are part of the same class that is being held at one of the various TechSherpas training facilities on that particular date. The Virtual Live Training participants attend remotely via VOIP technology, and can still benefit from the experience of a classroom environment:

Interaction: The students can listen, as well as, ask the instructor questions, just like in a regular class. If necessary, the instructor can even view and take control of the distant desktop with the help of remote desktop software.

Face-to-Face experience: With the help of webcams, the students can look at their instructor, as well as, at other students who are attending the class on-site.

Benefiting from the “live” format means that you have to choose among various predetermined dates and adhere to a fixed schedule. This might mean less flexibility regarding your time planning, but the benefit of added flexibility when it comes to class interaction and the option of asking the instructor direct questions.

On-Demand Learning: Virtual Learning when it suits you best

The option of On-Demand Learning offers the greatest flexibility in respect to your learning schedule. This can be a major advantage to those students who need to fit their continuing education into their busy workweek, around family obligations – or both.

The classes consist of prerecorded videos plus exercises. Therefore, there is no instructor present in real-time to answer any questions, but this method allows the participants to set their own study pace. They can pause the videos and take the next lesson when it suits them best.

This scheduling flexibility is probably the deciding criteria when it comes to choosing which of the two remote, virtual learning methods is the best for you. However, if the option of instructor interaction is of particular importance to you, you might want to “test-drive” our On-Demand Learning offer first: Simply send us an email to ondemand@techsherpas.com, and we will send you a special Course Demo Code so you can give it a try.

Sources and further reading:

https://www.techsherpas.com/learning-methods/virtual-live-training/ https://www.techsherpas.com/on-demand/ https://www.techsherpas.com/on-demand-bundles/ https://www.techsherpas.com/on-demand-unlimited/

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/our-virtual-learning-solutions/

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Overview: Microsoft Office 365 Services and Applications (Part 2)

This is the second part of our overview of the different plans for Microsoft Office 365 and the Office 365 applications and services that are included in those plans. Our emphasis this time is on the Office 365 services, which focus on collaboration, organization and communication among different users (e.g. team members), especially for business purposes.

Collaboration and Communication with the Office 365 Services

OneDrive

OneDrive is a cloud-based file-hosting service.

Skype/Skype for Business

Skype is a communication software providing the possibility of video and voice calls/messaging, as well as instant messaging/text chats and the exchange of files between the users. It also allows for making calls to regular telephones

Skype for Business includes the already mentioned features, but with advanced functionalities especially in the area of call handling (routing, forwarding). In contrast to the basic Skype version, Skype for Business could manage the tasks of a corporate/enterprise phone system.

SharePoint

SharePoint is an online platform for the storage and management of documents. It features functionalities to enable collaboration within teams/organizations (intranet, wikis, process management), as well as, options for customization/configuration.

Exchange

Exchange is a service for “business class email and calendaring”. Additional add-ins provide the option for further extension and customization of the service,

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams provides the function of a hub for teamwork and collaboration in Office 365.

Office 365 Applications: Access and Publisher

There are also two more Microsoft applications included in some of the Office 365 plans (though only available for PC, not for Mac). They have both been part of the Microsoft Office Suite for decades as well (i.e. the early 1990’s).

Access:

Microsoft Access is a well-known software tool to create databases. It allows you to collect, organize, store and access information electronically.

Publisher:

Microsoft Publisher is a desktop-publishing application that allows for word processing tasks with an emphasis on design and layout.

Mastering Microsoft Office 365 with TechSherpas

We at TechSherpas are your competent partner for IT certification and learning solutions. As a Microsoft Gold Partner we are specifically certified to provide instruction for Microsoft products. If you want to enhance your skill set by achieving in-depth knowledge about the various Microsoft Office 365 applications and features, you can find a variety of Microsoft Office 365 certification and training courses in our course catalogue.

If you have any further questions – just let us know!

  Sources:

https://www.tecfac.net/2015/10/29/skype-for-business/the-difference-between-skype-and-skype-for-business/

https://products.office.com/en-us/compare-all-microsoft-office-products?tab=2&OCID=AID717974_SEM_RsukckXV&lnkd=Google_O365SMB_NI

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/overview-microsoft-office-365-services/

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The Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services – an Overview (Part 1)

In last week’s post, we have already given you a first overview of the various Microsoft Office 365 plans and the Office 365 applications and services that are included in those plans.

Below you will find a few more details about the use and the benefits of the different applications and services, so you can make an even better informed choice.

Available Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services

These are the different applications and services available for Microsoft Office 365 and part of the Office 365 plans. Depending on the particular plan, the variation of the included applications and services differs. In addition, some of the applications are only available for PC, not for Mac.

Applications:

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook

OneNote

Access (only available for PC)

Publisher (only available for PC)

Services:

OneDrive

Skype

Skype for Business

SharePoint

Exchange

Microsoft Teams

A Closer Look at the Different Office 365 Applications

Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Word (for word processing tasks), Excel (spreadsheets for calculation, graphing tools and pivot tables, and PowerPoint (for the creation of presentation slides) are probably the best-known Microsoft Applications. They have been around in various versions since the 1990’s (PowerPoint) and even 1980’s (Word and Excel).

Outlook

Outlook is another classic among the Microsoft Office Applications. Microsoft released the first version in the early 90’s. Outlook is widely known as an email application, but it also features a calendar, contact organizing and note taking function.

OneNote

We have already written more extensively about the benefits and use of Microsoft OneNote in one of our previous blog posts. One of its main purposes is the organization of notes, but users can also embed various other files (audio, video, graphics etc.), create free-hand drawings and record audio. In addition, it allows the sharing of the so-called “workbooks” with other users, which makes OneNote a great tool for team collaborations.

How to Master Microsoft Office 365

We will continue this overview of the different Office 365 applications and services in our next post.

In the meantime, have a look at our trainings and certification courses for Microsoft Office 365 to find out how to make the most of its features. TechSherpas are certified Microsoft Gold Partners and provide you with competent and professional instructors, for in-house learning as well as learning solutions on-demand and live/online.

  Sources:

https://products.office.com/en-us/compare-all-microsoft-office-products?tab=2&OCID=AID717974_SEM_RsukckXV&lnkd=Google_O365SMB_NI

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/the-microsoft-office-365-applications-and-services-part-1/

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Which of the Microsoft Office 365 Plans Is Right For Me?

To decide, which of the available Microsoft Office 365 Plans is the right one for your requirements, let us go through the various selection criteria to point you into the right direction.

Microsoft Office 365 Plans for Home and Business

First of all, there is the option for home use:

Office 365 Home

Office 365 Personal

with a special version

Office Home and Students 2016 for PC

For business purposes, you have the choice between three different options:

Office 365 Business

Office 365 Premium Business

Office 365 Business Essentials

Microsoft Office 365 is available for PC and Mac. The Homes and Students version (only for PC) can be purchased for a one-time payment. All other versions are paid for on a monthly basis, with a minimum commitment of one year.

Which of the Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services do you need?

Depending on which of the Microsoft Office 365 plans you select, an array of different Microsoft applications and services is included in the plan.

Applications:

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

OneNote

Outlook

Publisher (only for PC)

Access (only for PC)

All of these applications are included in Office 365 Home and Office 365 Personal, as well as (except Publisher) in Office 365 Business and Office 365 Premium Business.

The Office Home and Students 2016 for PC plan includes a limited selection:

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

OneNote

The Office 365 Business Essentials plan does not include any application.

Services:

OneDrive

Skype/Skype for Business

Exchange

SharePoint

Microsoft Teams

Office Home and Students 2016 for PC does not include any service.

For the other plans, a differing selection applies:

OneDrive is included in each of the plans (except Office Home and Students 2016 for PC). Apart from Office 365 Business (and the student version), Skype or Skype for Business are part of all plans. Office 365 Premium Business and Office 365 Business Essentials both also include SharePoint and Microsoft Teams.

Getting the best use out of Microsoft Office 365

Finding the right Microsoft Office 365 plan is only the first step though. We, at TechSherpas, are certified Microsoft Gold Partners. In order to get the best use out of the selected plans and its individual features for home and business, have a look at our various Microsoft Office 365 trainings, certification courses and boot camps.

  Sources:

https://products.office.com/en-us/compare-all-microsoft-office-products?tab=2&OCID=AID717974_SEM_RsukckXV&lnkd=Google_O365SMB_NI

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/help-me-choose-office

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from TechSherpas IT Training & Solutions https://www.techsherpas.com/which-of-the-microsoft-office-365-plans-is-right/

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IT Learning Solutions with TechSherpas – an Overview

A real IT expert needs constant learning and upkeep – we at TechSherpas offer you a set of different IT learning solutions that fit your organizational needs:

In-Classroom or Virtual IT Learning Solutions

You can participate in certification training and other IT classes either on campus or virtually from your own computer at home or the office. If you prefer the live in-classroom experience with like-minded fellow students, you can choose our facility here in Tampa, Florida, or one of our other training locations all over the United States.

Look out for the “ICL”-marker for “In-Classroom Learning” within our course descriptions.

If you are not local to one of our training locations you have the choice between two different ways of course participation on a virtual/remote basis:

Remotely and live, with our Virtual Live Training (VLT)

Remote On-Demand Learning (ODL)

Beyond these options, we also offer customized on-site training at your own facility or location of your choice. If you are interested in further details or have any questions, please contact us.

On-Demand Learning

Our on-demand IT learning solutions give you the opportunity to build your training around your personal schedule. With prerecorded multimedia training units and a modular course structure, you can learn online at those times that work best for you. You can also choose your own study pace, and have the option to bundle courses.

Boot Camp Certification Courses

We provide many of our certification courses that prepare you for various IT certifications  in a “boot camp” format. This means an intensive training for several consecutive days. This means, you can prepare for a potentially career-boosting IT certification within a comparatively short time. With this learning solution you do not need to commit yourself to a training that might take several months, but can instead take a few vacation days off your usual occupation to reach your training goal. Our certified instructors offer you professional, hands-on instruction. Depending on the subject, our boot camp certification courses have a duration between five to nine days.

Further Course Information

Have a look at our current catalog of boot camp certification courses, on-demand training options and more. This will give you can get a better idea of your options. If you have any further questions – let us know!

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