Book Description
Get in-depth training and practice with the skills measured by the core exams for MCSE certification for Windows Server 2003all in one box! Covering Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, and 70-294, these four, all-new Microsoft study guides pack the tools and features that exam candidates want mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective reviews; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. They also provide real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and experience that you can apply to the job. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Not what was ordered and no replacement availiable...
I ordered this book set and another book at the same time, from Amazon, and got free shipping. This book set came NEW as advertised. However it came with (1) 290 book, (1) 291 book (0) 293 books, and (2) 294 books. A mis-packaged set. I returned it only to find out I couldn't get a replacement - Amazon is out of stock. Now I can place a new order, from someone else, and pay $14.00 more for the same item. Not the bargain I was looking for. Amazon's response was in effect 'Oh well.' Even though I assume the mis-packaged set was not on purpose, the outcome is the same as the old 'bait and switch.' It would have been acceptable to say they would ship it when they received new stock, but that wasn't even offered.

Books Are Good, Practice Exams are Utterly Error-Riddled.
Read the books: they're easy to read and explanatory.

If you're hoping on practice exams buy from another publisher. The ones provided my Measure Up are full of errors. The font size they use is tiny and not resizeable.

When asked about the errata for the practice exam I was told by Measure Up to just look up microsoft kb articles to check the validity of the answer -- when I said I shouldn't need to look up the questions to be able to trust their validity the customer service agent basically told me I'd only need to do that if I was knowledgeable.

I'd really stay away from this if you want it for the practice exams.

Books are great!!! Shipping sucked!!!
The books are very informative. However, I gave this product four stars because Amazon shipped the book set in a large box and it got all banged up. Luckily the CD was still whole.

Good info for a cheap price
This series covers all of what I need to know for MCSE. It comes with a nice price. Well worth it.

This can teach old dogs new tricks
This is a one of a kind Self Pace training course that has taugh this old dog new trick... I am well pleased with the results and indepth and detail of the material...

... Read more

Book Description
Written by the premier author in Windows administration, William Stanek, and addressing the needs of Windows 2003 administrators preparing for the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) exams,MCSE Core Required Exams in a Nutshell is invaluable. With the recent revisions of the MCSE exams including simulations, success is even more difficult.Not only does this book provide the resources administrators need to succeed on the exams, but to succeed in the real world as well. They can think of this book as the notes they would have highlighted and then recorded for every essential nugget of information related to the skills measured in Exams 70-290, 70-291, 70-293, and 70-294 (and by association Exams 70-292 and 70-296).

To begin with, MCSE Core Required Exams in a Nutshell allows readers to see all of the topics expected for mastery in each of the exams. Then, each exam is covered in three parts: Exam Overview, Study Guide, and Test Your Knowledge sections. This makes for easy reference and a great study aid. The Exams covered include:

Customer Reviews (12)

ahh, raging elephant!!
I really got to sit down and read through this thing... I red a chapter or two and found it to be concise and worthwhile. Not its fault, but its current job is holding my coffee table down.

Super as a final review before the test.
This is a very well written book with a lot of very important information in it. I believe that it is the only MCSA/MCSE resource I have come across yet that has a section on WSUS which is lightly tested on 70-290. I used this book as my sole study literature for the 70-290 and passed with a score of 828. Of course I did use testing software, but this was the major source. I found the material for that test to be spot on. Just a few weeks ago I used this book for my final review after studying for the 70-291 (failing with a 678, one question in DNS would have done it) and again found it to be very useful. However, with the depth of the testing done for the 70-291 it is difficult to say this book is sufficient even for a final review of the 70-291. It is true that the book covers the most essential concepts for topics such as DNS, but my experience from my test and from discussing with others (some of whom had taken the test multiple times before passing) is that this test focuses much more on the advanced points of DNS than it does on the essentials. It is simply assumed that you have mastered the fundamentals and I believe the book, as "the notes you should have taken," should focus more on those advanced topics and only outline the basics.

Final verdict:four stars.

70-290: An excellent pretest, final review.

70-291: Adequate to very good in all topics except DNS. I highly recommend Windows Server 2003 Help and Support as well as TechNet for some of the finer points on this. I also highly suggest supplementing lots of labs on WSUS for this test as well. *I passed my 70-291 and there was even more WSUS on the it the second time.*

70-293: Very good review. I do have to disagree with the author's observation that the 293 is the hardest of the core exams. It was certainly easier in my opinion than the 291. The material covered was essential and the final test/labs were very in line with the test.

70-294: This book certainly covers the 290 and 294 the best. I read the MOAC book, used the included test prep software and reviewed with this book and passed. It was all I needed. The coverage it gives for this test is very practical and easy to read and under stand.

I believe this is a very good boook to help you pass the tests and will serve you well as a refresher for any technical interviews.

Extremely informative
This book explains everything dealing with Server 2003, it's a great investment, if you're trying to obtain your certifications, this is a great guide to use.It provides explanations and details of key components needed to know for the tests.Also, there are practice tests at the end of each study guide within the book!

It's truly worth the money!!

Poor Choice
This book is poor.The editing is horrible with lots of confusing language.

Good deal!
As a technical trainer, I'm always looking for more information. Once again, Stanek has come through with a book that's chock-full of good information. Perhaps it could have been bettered by the addition of more screen shots, but then that would have made the book thicker. And, remember, this book is a review-type book. If you've already studiedstandard texts dealing with the core exams, then this book is a good after-read. His Hightligter's section is a great idea! ... Read more

Book Description
Fully updated for Windows XP Service Pack 2, this popular kit delivers in-depth preparation for core MCSA/MCSE Exam 70-270, including self-paced training, expert exam tips, full review, 425-question test bank, case studies, trial software, and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

Windows XP 70-270
Typical of the Microsoft Press books, the XP book covers most of what you need to know to be successful passing the 70-270 certification exam.You can't just read it, but should plan on performing all the exercises and make sure you understand what you are doing.If you want to know everything you'll need, then utilize the references identified in the second section.Windows XP is by no means dead as the corporate demand for Vista just isn't there.Anyone working in IT support should know all about Windows XP.Good Luck

XP
The book is in very good condition and I received it much faster than expected.

Helped me pass...
I used this book as my primary study source to successfully pass the Microsoft 70-270 exam. While the book is thorough in some areas, it lacks in others, such as IIS, which is needed for the exam.

If you don't have experience with Windows XP in a domain environment, I suggest an additional source to use with this one. Microsoft exams are tough. The questions are tricky and lengthy. I would recommend everyone join one of the excellent certification forums online as an additional resource.

With that said, the book contains few mistakes. And the Measure Up practice tests that come with the book are very helpful.

Very interesting Book
Well, this book is very interesting and in great detail.100% good for those who want to pass the M70-270 exam

Microsoft MCSA/MCSE Study Reference
Again, Microsoft Press come through with a complete study guide to prepare you for your MCSA/MCSE certification exams.Good reference to prepare with! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Does not have the LabMentor Disk
If you are buying this book for a Server 2003 class, be advised that it does not have the LabMentor disk or the passcodes required to log on to the Course LabMentor site.

Well written, easy to understand.
This is a great resource for understanding the inner workings of Windows Server 2003.It starts with the very basics, but touches on advanced options as well.It is well written and easy to follow.The review questions at the end of each chapter are great for making sure you understand what has been presented.

Ok, but that's about it
I read this book all the way through, did all the problems that I actually had answers for, and, if not for Transcender's exam questions, there is no doubt that I would have failed the 70-290 exam.This book provides questions at the end of each chapter for you to review what you just learned, sadly though, the answers are in the teacher's edition, which you just don't have access to.The section "What You Really Need to Know" does provide answers to the questions, but, some of the answers are wrong, which drove me nuts.As a reference book, this one is great, but as a test prep book, I would have to say find another one.I cannot recommend it for the actual exam.

Great Additional Server 2003 Information
This text is a great initial or supplement to additional texts about Windows Server 2003. The various discussions and hands-on sections at the end of each chapter enhance understanding about the Windows Server network operating system. Clearly conceived and well done. More concise than the first version. ... Read more

Book Description
Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-290, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This kit packs the tools and features that exam candidates want mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and expertise that you can apply to the job. Focusing on account and resource management in a Windows Server 2003 environment, this official study guide covers topics such as managing physical and logical devices; users, computers, and groups; access and permissions; the server environment; and disaster recovery services. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Not a good resource at all for the 70-290
Waste of money if sole intention is for taking the 70-290. You're better off with the Admin companion or inside out 2003 book. Sections on Groups is horrendous. The worst part is how 30% of the practice material is not even covered in the book! Funny how all the practice questions themselves reference the admin companion/technet and not the book. Again, don't waste your money on this "training kit"

Very good information
But don't limit yourself to one book. I've been in the field for some years now and working with Server 2003/AD for about 2 yrs now. MS does an excellent job of prepping you for the test, but to me and my peers here it's a bit "too technical". Thus I combined my studies with the Sybex book and ExamCram series, all available at excellent prices here on Amazon (I usually get all my new tech books here because of lower costs). I'd highly recommend anyone wanting to pursue this MCSA certification to use all 3 books, it all balances out in the end and you get different perspectives on the same subject matter, some explained in a more layman way than technical.

Good MS Knowledge Resource - Not So Much Study Material
I truly found this book to be just average; a good resource of knowledge on the product but not a good resource for learning the product nor preparing for the cert exam.I will definately keep the copy that I have for future reference, however I will not be purchasing more MS Press Material for the purpose of passing MS cert exams.It will only be for my own personal knowledge base.

Great hands on Tutorial
Great hands on tutorial. The book is so big though that you either have great memory, or study on a consistent basis so you'll remember all you has read by the time you get to the end. I got this book for hands on experience, and got the Exam Cram version as a refresher before the test.

Great product & support CD's
I was very impressed with this training manual for the Microsoft 70-290 exams.Features prac & theory but best of all it includes an evaluation version of Server 2003 which is a must for the practical exercises.Overall extremely happy with this purchase. ... Read more

Book Description

• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Environment Management and Maintenance Study Guide (70290)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Implementation, Management, and Maintenance Study Guide (70291)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Planning and Maintenance Study Guide (70293)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Planning, Implementation, and Maintenance Study Guide (70294)
• Plus two bonus CDs featuring an evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 and 300 additional practice test questions

Customer Reviews (4)

The most valuable books to pass MCSA/MCSE on Windows Server 2003 operating system.
a perfect tool to prepair yourself for MCSA/MCSE exam. And, of course, a very powerful written matterial for look-up purposes :)

+1 to authors.

Out of touch
After finishing the 70-290 book in the set and taking the exam, I am shocked at how "out of touch" this book is with the actual exam.Topics that were barely touched upon in the book ended up being huge sections in the test and vice versa.I started buying Sybex cert books because of how well the CCNA book was done and how it actually related to the exam.I'm hoping the other books in this kit are a little more up to par.

Good, but you'll need more to pass the tests...
I'm pretty fond of the Sybex books--They're well written and tend to explain things fairly well, however these books are often lacking in detail.The books don't cover some topics at all (ie: Expect a visual basic question in 70-291, yet it's not covered at all in the book) and the upper level books really rehash some of the earlier topics by a copy and paste methodology.For instance, although some topics in 70-293 overlap 70-291, it focuses on planning, which rehashing the 70-291 material doesn't help with.New topics in 70-293 are barely covered (Just 30 pages for clustering, which deserves much more!)I've taken to reading these books first as an overview, then reading the MS-Press titles for the nitty gritty details.The included questions are weak, expect questions about 5 times as difficult on the actual exams...The 70-294 book is about 420 pages, while the MS Press title for 70-294 is almost twice as thick...Not that MS Press titles are good reading, the assume you already know what they're talking about.The point--I haven't found a silver bullet for these certs, but these are a good start.

Excellent!! A SOLID foundation for a BIG field.
I'm probably unusual, because I bought this kit AND the upgrade book. However, this kit was just indispensible, because there are sooo many topics you need to have understood and integrated in order to become an MCSE: Active Directory --sites, domains, users and computer, replication. IIS, remote desktop, resource management. TCP/IP, routing, DNS, DHCP, IPSec. Clustering, certificates, load balancing....You just can't get that kind of understanding casually, or even just by working with certain parts of the OS...you need a full course. Sybex was recommended to me by an instructor in my first class as having the best reputation and being the bestsellers, and I'm glad he told me. ... Read more

Book Description
This full-color hands-on guide book has been enhanced to make learning even easier by offering more detailed lab setup instructions, expanded chapter summaries, and new practice exams that will reinforce the skills learned. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

70-294: MCSE Guide to Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory, Enhanced
I would recommend this book to anyone who is trying to obtain your MCSE or just needs a book for a good reference. ... Read more

Book Description
Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exams 70-292 and 70-296, core exams for IT professionals already certified on Microsoft Windows- 2000 who want to upgrade their credentials for Windows Server 2003. Covering two exams and two certification tracks, this kit provides excellent value. It packs the tools and features exam candidates want most#151;including in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from an expert exam-certified author; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job.Ace your exam preparation by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The flexible, best-of-class test engine on CD-ROM features 425 practice questions and pre- and post-assessment capabilities. Choose timed or untimed testing mode; generate random tests or focus on discrete objectives or chapters; and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers#151;including pointers back to the book for further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software#151;making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Excellent for real world and exams
Having achieved NT, 2000, and now 2003 MCSE certification, I've found the Microsoft Press books to be mixed bags. This one, however, is excellent. Weighing in at nearly 1500 pages, it covers a lot of ground. If you read (and re-read) the entire book, as well as ALL of the test questions in the included Measure Up sample test, and follow up on unclear information/answers with the TechNet website, and of course have real-world experience, then you'll have excellent preparation for the exams.

When reading this book, I kept admiring the editing. Most tech books have some serious editing problems - unclear wording, dubious or flat-out incorrect information. With this one, I was continually impressed with how each sentence was written to say precisely what was intended, with not too many or too few words. That's not to say it's pithy - writing "Windows Server 2003" repeatedly takes up space - just that it's very well written.

The glossary and included ebooks are helpful as well. Only bummer is that you can't print from the ebooks, so when you're studying, you'll need to apply pen to paper, or go to TechNet and do some printing.

The Measure Up practice test is not nearly as well written as the book - some dubious wording, typos, and incorrectly scored questions (like the answer is A, you put A, and the test scores it wrong). However, the practice test covers topics not included in the book (!), so it's worthwile to go through it.

Oh, and Microsoft even managed to inject a bit of humor here and there.

If Microsoft Press continues publishing books like this, they'll be a strong alternative to Sybex and others.

Nearly perfect, and surely the best prepguidethere is available
I've used two preparation guides, this one and the one from Sybex. MSPress is definitely the best of these two books. Covers it all, the sybex version is too superficial and just does not cover it all, it actually lacks some important material.

This book contains lots of exercises, so you get hands on experience with all kinds of tools. Believe me, you are going to need it! The actual exam contains several simulations, so just reading about the available tools, options and functions is just not enough.

Futhermore every chapter ends with a small case study with some questions all of course regarding to stuff outlined in the chapter.

Without this book I would not have passed, both exams.

Best Comprehensive Book Available but not without faults
I used this book as a primary study guide for the 2003 upgrade exams and although it doesn't cover all the material, it is an excellent book and in my humble opinion the single best source of prepartion.

From what I've gathered, the exams changed sometime in late 2005 and some of the content is dated. That however is not the fault of the authors and unlike many of the "Microsoft Press" books, I found this an enjoyable and easy read.

The book is not indended to deeply review the "Core MCSE Curriculum". Its' audience is expected to be familiar with Windows 2000 engineering and administrative principles as well as a practicing administrator. The text will present content that is now covered under the exam (ie: high availibility services and certificate services)and features that are differential to the old product line. So do not expect this to be your sole source for content, at best it covers 80% of the exam's breadth. If you feel in the learch, I can only suggest brushing up on your 2000 or 2003 core infrastructure notes especially dealing with the subjects of GPOs and Site design\ AD-replication.

Subjects that are missing from the book that require research are EMS (in-band\ out of band services), Role Separation for Cerificate services and WIFI GPO administrative practices. A list of references to supportive documentation can be found in the study notes at [...] . The webpage's host has done an admirable job of putting them together.

In final preparation for the exam, I can only suggest Transcenders as a simulation software...accept no other. CBT nuggets has some great multi-media presentations available through their website to aid in reviewing the material and their content is first class.


Good Luck

Good book
This book covers the essentials skills to upgrade to your certification to Windows Server 2003.However, it does cover many topics that you already knew from your Windows 2000 experience, which sometimes are topics you don't want to read about because for the most part, you expected to read only about the improvements and changes from Windows 2000 to Windows 2003.In spite of this, it is a GREAT source of information for people with little experience with Windows 2000.

Be Warned
If you are taking the 70-292 then do not use this text as your primary source of information. While the text is large is fails to cover all of the material covered in the exam. You will need to widely supplement your reading to pass this exam. ... Read more

Book Description
Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-291, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This kit packs the tools and features wanted mostincluding in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for skills and expertise that you can apply to the job. Focusing on network infrastructure management for Windows Server 2003, this official study guide covers topics such as implementing, managing, and maintaining IP addressing, name resolution, network security measures, routing and remote access, and monitoring and troubleshooting network infrastructure. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Perfect Guide To Pass 70-291
Before I started on my MCSA path, I had basically zero hands on experience with server.I picked up this book along with the book for the 70-290 test and these are ALL I used to pass both the tests.

Just read and make sure you UNDERSTAND what you are reading and do all the exercises and practice quizzes/tests.You really need 2 computers to do all the exercises.

Not for the faint of heart
Excellent prep for the exam, but you definitely need a multi computer lab environment. W2003 Server(32 and 64bit) will run on an old machines with only 512Mb memory. Useful to also upgrade old servers via W2000 and various service patches, change and kill old domains etc. Trivial problems can sometimes take a long time to resolve, but you learn a lot in the process.

Great if you have a home computer lab.
Well, I'm impressed.For starters, I got a valuable education from this book, not to mention a 980 on the exam.This book is a thorough course and will prepare you as much for the real world as it will the exam, but it requires a practice network of at least 2 computers (I recommend 3), and a lot of time - 250 to 300 hours.This isn't the kind of book that you read in bed or on the couch.The book is approx. 25% reading, 75% hands on lab work.

I give my money to Microsoft reluctantly, especially on products that depend on solid communication skills, but since the book came with a trial version of Server 2003, I plugged my nose and bought it. I expected a litany of typos, endless ambiguity and the "good enough" quality standards that their software has accustomed me to, but that wasn't the case at all.The book was 98% accurate.The practice exam software was an asset, and like I said, it was thorough.It's only shortcoming was in the topic area of "Windows Software Update Service".I should add that I had two years of experience within an Active Directory environment under my belt.

Good foundation, but not quite enough to pass the exam
This book lays a very good foundation for the 70-291 exam and is thorough in its explanation of DNS, DHCP and RRAS.The section on security was informative as well. The only reason I am giving it 4 stars is it does not always cover every topic in depth that is tested in the exam.

Taking practice tests with the accompanying CD is a must.I have found that these tests are an essential part of the learning process and really prepare you for the real exam.Some of the questions can be difficult because they may not have been fully covered in the book.Make sure you check out the explanations to these questions and get more information on those topics from TechNet on Microsoft's website, it will really help you pass on your first try.

All in all, I really think the book does a good job in getting you read for the exam.

Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure
I found this book to be a great resource and a good foundational book. I goes into enough detail to get a good understanding of the principals of Windows 2003 Network Infrastructure. While I am not sure you can pass the MSCSE 70-291 test with just reading this book it is a great foundation to compliment a good purchased sample test. ... Read more

Book Description
Here's the book you need to prepare for the Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional exam (70-270). This Study Guide was developed to meet the exacting requirements of today's certification candidates. In addition to the consistent and accessible instructional approach that made Sybex the preferred choice for certification exam candidates, this book provides:

• Practical information on installing, configuring, and administering Windows XP Professional
• Updated and expanded information on key exam topics, including new Service Pack 2 enhancements
• Leading-edge exam preparation software, including a testing engine, electronic flashcards, and simulation software

Customer Reviews (8)

SO FAR SO GOOD...
i purchased this book after careful research into the available options for preparation for the 70-270 exam.DO NOT BY THE BOOK FROM MS PUBLISHER.IT IS FULL OF TYPOS.this book however seems to be the perfect study guide.make sure you read the whole book though.just because you've done this before doesn't mean there aren't any minor details that you may need to know for the examination.i am currently on chapter 4 and have no complaints so far.i love the way the chapters are set up.i love the summaries at the end of each chapter.there are notes through out the reading that indicate important things to consider.i also love the questions at the end of each chapter, they're nice and thorough.from what i can tell i am on the road to aceing this 70-270 exam, thanks to this book.enjoy.

This'll do it...
The MS 70-270 exam covers a *lot* of material, and so this Sybex book is broken down rather appropriately into logical, easy-to-digest sections that include step-by-step exercises and screen shots to show you how it should look.This book spoon-feeds you digestible chunks so as to build confidence and knowledge, through text and the accompanying CD-ROM, which includes self-testing software and a .PDF copy of the book itself.A good buy, and definitely worth the money I paid.

.Steven L. Hildebrand.

Good book, but you'll need more
This book is very easy to read and covers all the main topics.I just passed the exam with a score of about 800.I found the questions on the actual test much more difficult than what are in the book and on the CD.I also used a Transcender software prep guide.Without Transcender, I would not have passed.
Maybe my test was harder than others.I've read that some people felt that the Transcender questions were more difficult than what was on the exam.But I found the exam questions just as difficult as the Transcender ones (if not more so).
Most people recommend this over the Microsoft Press book.I haven't used the other one, but I do think this one is a wise buy.It's just rather basic in many areas and the tests don't challenge you as much as you will need to pass the test.
Good luck!

Does the Trick!
This is an excellent text for the 70-270 exam.I originally bought the Microsoft XP Professional training kit (written by Microsoft)and getting through it resembled eating an Elephant. I bought this study guide by Sybex and it was much easier to study and understand.It is written, organized, and presented very well. The questions and information on the CD mapped very well with the questions on the 70-270 exam.The nice part is that I passed the exam easily.

Great service
I never received the item, BUT it was MY fault for having it shipped to my old address. Amazon gracefully gave me a timely refund. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
This full-color hands-on guide book has been enhanced to make learning even easier by offering more detailed lab setup instructions, expanded chapter summaries, and new practice exams that will reinforce the skills learned. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Not worth it
I have passed the 70-290 exam using the sister book to this one (didn't like it), and since I already had this one from school, I gave it a go.I did not fair too well on the test, as I scored just under passing.I purchased the Microsoft 70-291 guide and it is so much better it is unreal.If you plan on taking the test, do not use this book as your only source of information.As a reference, it's pretty good, but not much else.

All you need....
as long as you have taken Active Directory...etc all the basics that are required over all this is a good book ... Read more

Book Description
This full-color hands-on guide book has been enhanced to make learning even easier by offering more detailed lab setup instructions, expanded chapter summaries, and new practice exams that will reinforce the skills learned.It will empower students to successfully pass the MCSE/MCSA certification exam while preparing them to face the real-world challenges of a Microsoft networking professional.The book includes a CD-ROM featuring CoursePrep ExamGuide content as well as CoursePrep test preparation software from MeasureUp, a company approved by Microsoft to develop MCP Exam test prep software offering demos and practice exams. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Good book, yes; but not so good !
I got this book from my training center.
As the previous reviewer mentions, it seems that it is a draft instead of "An Enhanced Second Edition." You are going to find a LOT OF MISTAKES. It seems that the editorial forgot to assigned the right people to revise this book. If the authors (and editors) would dedicated a little more time and effort on it, this book could be an excellent one; and I said EXCELLENT. I like the activities included through the chapters and in the Lab Manual. I am in chapter 5, and I have found a lot of incongruencies (errors). You may get lost in some of the labs because the authors jump steps without telling you.
I haven't taken the exam, so I can't tell you if the objectives in this book are the ones set for the 70-270 exam, but if the book shows so much errors, it seems that it could be the case. So, I decided to get Sybex's MCSA/MCSE Windows Professional. I have read four chapters from Sybex's book and I can said this one is a very good book, but this is just for the exam preparation not for learning Windows XP Pro.

I would recommend you to get another book. Thompson Course Technology has good books, but this one is not the case.

Poor quality, no LabMentor CD bunded with Amazon
Its not Amazon's fault that this book isn't really good. The information contained inside it is out of date, written during the time of XP's release.

The major drawback is this book does not contain the LabMentor Online Lab disk, which prevents me from completing most of the course work for me class.

Lousy book!!
This book is awful,asks questions in chapter reviews that are either not in the book or in another chapter. I wasted untold hours of my life in this book.I have strongly recomended that the school I attend stop using this worthless piece of trash.

Buy something else
Badly organized and practice questions are compatible with the material.One minute, the author is talking about one subject, then the next, the author changes the subject.Then later in the book the author will bring up a separate section aimed and explaining more of the first topic that was being discussed earlier in the book.

The questions on the end of the chapter are mostly based on interpretation of material rather than understanding.When you search the book for answers, you wont find the exact answer within the reading, you'll find material about the answer, then its up to you on how well you'll interpret it to come up with the right answer.The author also seems to contradict himself/herself, or purposely confuse you.When discussing SYSPREP, one minute the author says that its a system imaging program, and the next the author says that SYSPREP not and that SYSPREP requires third-party imaging programs.

It seems as if the author also wants you to do extra in-depth research on material, because some of the answers to the questions you don't get unless you experiment with it.

Worth avoiding
MS Windows' worst critics consider the OS to be a series series of poorly executed upgrades and patches to the original release. Whether or not it is the case with the software, it is particularly true of this book. Obviously starting life as an MSCSE manual for an earlier OS, the Guide reads like it has been undergoing a series of fragmentary, ad hoc rewrites in an effort to keep it relevant at the lowest possible cost to the publisher. There are many sections where the book gives in-depth coverage to outdated technologies and glosses over (or ignores) essential current topics. The writing is uninspired to say the least; it reads like an old IBM COBOL manual from the 70's. The writer is constantly falling into a maddeningly passive voice and ignoring many other rules of technical writing style. In spite of the copious errata files available for download from the publisher, there are still a disconcerting number of typos, errors and omissions. The book is clearly aimed at an audience intent on memorizing facts needed to pass an exam rather than helping the reader understand the OS. If you're a student and see this book on a syllabus, try to find another class. For the price, the Microsoft Press book is a far better value. ... Read more

Book Description
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 administrators preparing forMicrosoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) core exam 70-270, and core exams 70-297, and 70-298, this book is invaluable.Not only does it provide the resources you need to succeed on the exams, but to succeed in the real world as well. Think of this book as the notes you would have taken if you were to capture every essential nugget of information related to the skills measured in the core elective exams.

To begin with, MCSE Core Elective Exams in a Nutshell allows you to see all of the topics expected for mastery in each of the exams. Each exam is covered in three parts: Exam Overview, Study Guide and Test Your Knowledge sections. This makes for easy reference and a great study aid.

Book Description

MCSA/MCSE 70-294 Exam Cram, Second Edition is the #1-selling quick-study guide to help you pass the 70-294 exam from Microsoft, which is one of the four core exams in the MCSE 2003 and MCSA 2003 certification programs. This new edition covers all exam objectives, including how to implement and manage an active directory service forest and domain structure, plan effective user and group administration policies, configure user environments, and troubleshoot active directory. It also incorporates two full practice exams, and has been updated against Microsoft's official courseware (MOC) that corresponds to this exam, as well as changes made to Windows Server 2003 R2. Test-taking strategies, time-saving study tips, a special Cram Sheet, tips, acronyms, and memory joggers not available anywhere else comes with this, and all, Exam Cram books.

Customer Reviews (1)

Everything you need to study for the test
As it says in the introduction, this book does not teach you everything you need to know about a topic, it is aimed strictly at test preparation and review. The authors have studied the test and put together a guide that if diligently worked will almost certainly enable you to pass the test. 70-294 is one of the core exams that everyone gaining an MCSE must pass.

This book contains a number of parts that are designed to provide information on the test. The first thing in the book is a Cram Sheet that provides key facts about the exam. This is a brief document, but covers the general areas with which you should be familiar. This is followed by the main part of the book, broken down into nine chapters. The chapters concentrate on a major area of the test and are followed by a short examination. Following this are the two complete practice examinations and their answers. [...] ... Read more

Product Description
MCSE SPTK EXAM 70-297 DESIGN WIN SVR 2003 AD/NI ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Passed exam with 910
The book was not extremely useful for this exam, basically its just a recap of the materials learnt in all other exams. The book did however provide a great refresh of this information and the practice questions on the simulator included prepare you for the exam well.

Good summary but missing specific details
Overall this book was a great review and summary of some of the information covered on the 70-297 vendor exam. However, it was missing some specific details about material that was covered on the vendor exam. The case studies did a great job of preparing you for the type of format you will see on the exam but the content was not nearly as in-depth or challenging as on the vendor exam. IF you are looking for the quintessential book to prepare for the vendor exam, this is not it. However, as a review of major concepts it is right on.

Not the right information for the exam.
This MS Press book does a poor job in preparing the reader for exam 70-297. Not to say it doesn't include useful information, but it doesn't focus on the same information the exam appears to consider useful. For example, I'd estimate the real exam has 20% of its questions directly related to domain upgrade/migration procedures. This book's material on the same: 2 pages.

I do appreciate other MS Press books. ISBN 0735618992 (Exchange 2003, 70-284), and ISBN 0735615772 (AD for 2003 Technical Reference) are both great. By the way, I used the latter to fill in for some of the shortcomings of this book.

Good place to start your study for the 70-297
Overall this book is a good place to start your 70-297 study.

When I study for exams I us a combination of book study and practice tests such as the readiness review CD included with this title. My personal favorite testing software for Microsoft exams is the SelfTest Software products (who also writes the offical Microsoft testing materials). Based on my current experience with the 70-297 Selftest program, most of the question reference are based on the Windows Server Deployment Reource Kit - a hefty collection of books that go indepth on all the various aspects of deploying windows.

Bottom line is that you might want to cut out the middle man (ie. the MS 70-297 training kit) and invest in the Windows Server Deployment Reource Kit instead.

The worst part about the kit is that the Readiness review test is flawed when it comes to taking a test in the Certification mode - this mode is supposed to simulate a real test environment, however the 30 minute time limit to answer 90 questions is extremely unrealistic. That works out to 3 questions/min in a scenario based test environment. Last time I checked the real tests were aloted 2 hours for the test. ... Read more

Book Description

MCSA/MCSE 70-291 Exam Cram, Second Edition is the #1 quick-study guide to passing the MCSA/MCSE 70-291 exam. This book covers all exam objectives, including how to maintain a DHCP server, manage name resolution with DNS, secure networks using IPSec, troubleshoot network and Internet connectivity, and monitor network traffic. This new edition also includes two full practice exams and has been updated against Microsoft's official courseware (MOC) that corresponds to this exam.

This book will provide a refresher on important concepts and help you build on a solid foundation of knowledge on exam topics and objectives. The book also features test-taking strategies, time-saving study tips, and a special Cram Sheet that includes tips, acronyms, and memory joggers not available anywhere else.

Customer Reviews (6)

Not sufficient enough alone.
I used this book and read it cover to cover. I got to the point where I was able to answer all practice exam questions correctly and even took the measure up test and scored a 98% on that. Then I took the REAL exam and found that this book did not prepare me well enough. Almost, but not quite. I scored a 551, just shy of the 700 I needed to pass. If you are thinking about using this book, it is good enough to teach you enough to know what Microsoft is talking about in the questions on the real test, but it will not teach you exactly what the right answer is. I felt that it was not in depth enough...no examples didn't help matters much. I wouldn't recommend it unless you are using more material as well. Unless you do Active Directory, SUS, configure RRAS & VPNS, DHCP, and DNS every day for your job, you pry won't pass just using this book. Good luck!

Great study guide
I found that the book is a great study guide. I would not recommend it for someone who does not have any experience with the server software, but I found it beneficial as a refresher course and to help me in some of my weaker areas. Several people noted that the unique registration code is expired, mine was too, but all I had to do was send an e-mail to MeasureUp support andjust explain the situation and they unlocked the code for me.

What! The registration code has expired!
I was a little disappointed to discover the unique registration code had expired 8 days before I had received the book.

This book is more of an outline and review of the materials covered on the 70-291 exam.I believe this book would only be beneficial to individuals who have experience with managing a Windows Server 2003 network and who need a quick review prior to taking the exam.

If you are inexperienced with managing DNS, DHCP, or RRAS, this book would be of little value: It is not a reference book.

Another compliant I have is the practice questions in this book are not similar to the questions on the exam.The questions on the exam are much more difficult.

The only positive comment I have about this book is it's format is well organized. Each objective is laid out by chapter. This book is definately better organized than the MSCA Self Paced Training Kit from Microsoft Publishing.

Overall, I am giving this book a rating of 3 stars.

Practice Exams?
The practice exams are just printed in the back of the book. There is no CD or download, all you get is a registration code for their website that has already expired; but, their website will gladly sell you the practice exams. This is inexcusable. The book is okay on it's own, but I don't see anyone passing 70-291 with just this guide.

An Exam Cram, Not a Reference Book
As the title of the book says, this is an Exam Cram book. Its intent, it's sole intent, is to teach you how to pass the Exam 70-291 test on Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure. It is probably best suited for a person with some experience running Server 2003 already but who wants to pick up all the messy little details that are going to be asked on the exam.

To help you along, there are two practice exams, with answers and explanations. The book also has a Registration Key so you can go on line to MeasureUp and go through their on line questions as well. If you then want to take their test on line, there is a 20% discount off of the price.

Don't start here if you've never worked with Server before, it isn't enough of reference book to do that, it's purely an exam cram, just like it says. ... Read more

Book Description
The only classroom-based integrated study system for professional certification has been fully redesigned throughout--find out not only what to study, but how to study. You’ll get 100% complete coverage of all objectives for exam 70-291, hundreds of practice exam questions, and hands-on exercises. The CD-ROM features full practice exam software with interactive tutorials and lab simulations, plus an adaptive test engine. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Step-by-Step Exercises Invaluable
I am a system administrator, and I have recently taken the 70-291 exam.Now these days there's a lot of practical simulation oriented questions, and I found that this book's step-by-step exercises for various technologies to be immensely useful.And predominantly for this reason, I am rather well disposed towards this book.

There was a lot of emphasis on TCP/IP math, but in actual practice, at least for my exam, I never had any specific math question.There was only one DHCP question that did require one to know how many hosts a given the bit-mask would allow for, and also the corresponding valid IP ranges.So I am grateful that I pushed myself to get into the mindset transforming bit-masks into quantity of sub-nets & hosts and also valid IP ranges, or else I might have missed that question (or maybe I did :)...

Overall, I think reading the text material and doing the exercises with and actual Windows 2003 Server and Windows clients, will prepare you for the exam.

In combining through the first two chapters, I did found some potential mistakes:

(1) In instructing on sub-netting on page 24, they say to "subtract 2 subnets", essentially the first and last subnets.But this conflicts with the self test answer #3 (page 37), which doesn't subtract 2 subnets.From this, I couldn't understand whether the instruction or the self-test was correct, which is disturbing (especially before the exam)

(2) The self test answer to #14 (page 100) states that "you must know the name and MAC address of the DHCP client."However, in real world application, I found this not to be the case.You canuse whatever for "Reservation Name", and in fact DHCP service has no support for using the client name (Linux/Unix DHCP services can utilize that with ISC DHCP server).This makes me wonder about the author's in-depth knowledge at least in this area.

I didn't get enough to comb through this tomb completely, but I will delve deeper.Despite this, this is a worthwhile starting point.

Good Study Companion
A great, well formatted book. A lot of exercises and well thought out labs. Quite a lot of spelling and grammatical errors but that doesn't distract from the content. A word of warning, don't use this book as your sole study guide as there are areas that are out of date. Especially in the areas of SUS and some of the improved areas surrounding Service Pack 1.
A good book overall. Well worth the money!

Great Study Material for the Exam!
This book has great coverage of the key points of the exam.The book is laid out in an easy-to-read fashion that calls attention to key points on the exam.The accompanying CD is also a bonus, providing simulation labs, an electronic version of the book, and training videos.Hundreds of images and screen shots make for easy reading.The practice exam has questions that are similar to the questions you will find on the actual exam.I'd call this a well-rounded study guide for the exam.If you're planning to take the exam, you should have a copy of this book.It's much more complete than the Microsoft Press book and isn't chock full of mistakes (like the Microsoft Press book is). ... Read more

Product Description
MCSE SP TRAIN KIT EXAM 70-298 DESIGN SEC WIN SVR ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

A "Must-HAVE" for MCSE Certification
MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-298): Designing Security for a Microsoft® Windows Server(TM) 2003 Network (Training Kit)

This is the ultimate resource for training for your certification and for reference after you are certified.I recommend this to all those who want to understand the complex process of designing network security.

Excellent Content
This book has great cases to help you lean and implement MS secured network with practical scenarios.

Deja Vu
Very repetative. Chapter after Chapter, the same thing, analyze ... determine ... design ... analyze ... determine ... design ... I'm feeling an overwelming sense of deja vu...

Very repetative. Chapter after Chapter, the same thing, analyze ... determine ... design ... analyze ... determine ... design ... I'm feeling an overwelming sense of deja vu...

However, it is a good reminder of checklists for the processes...

However, it is a good reminder of checklists for the processes...

Why not ALT
I suppose this is a good book.Typical Microsoft white paper with discussion related only to MS.
I've opted to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam instead (it can be used in place of 70-298).

A must...
I haven't read this yet. I'm still going through the XP book, but if this one is even close, this book is a must. An easy read and well laid out. The accompanying CDs are very beneficial also. ... Read more

Product Description
Microsoft Windows 2000 Core Requirements - MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit - Ed. 2 - self-training course - CD ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Technical but still Good!
I found these books to be Good to Excellent.They are fairly technical but they also cover a lot of the details that you can expect to find on the exams.I have passed 5 of 7 MCSE tests using these books and practice questions from Transcenders.These questions are helpful because of the long winded, detailed answers.Also, if you really want to learn networking, try the lab videos at trainsignal, www.trainsignal.com, they pick up where the books and questions leave off.

15% coupon expired
The listing promises a coupon for 15% off the testing fee, but when the books arrived yesterday, Feb 5th, 2004, the coupon had expired on December 31, 2003.

Find Another Place to start
Unless you have the two plus years of experience, or your own Win 2K lab, I would start with the "Jump Start" guides, and the inside scoop for Windows 2000 Pro.The MCSE is an undertaking for the new be, and using these books alone is like tying to learn how to drive a car by opening the glove box and reading the owners manual.

Intermediate/advanced level Books
This set of books are written for people who have some experience in the IT field. If you have never worked in the IT field this set of books are useless unless you have live instruction with them. These books are written in what you might call micronese as opposed to easy to read and understand laymans lauguage. The labs in the books assume you have some understanding of MSDOS(CMD). Almost all chapters reference other chapters taking you on a confusing tour of total confusion. I have replaced my set with the Sybex books which takes you step by step through all labs with full easy to understand lauguage.

Attained MCSA !!
Along with purchasing the 70-218 book, I used this kit, hands-on experience, and a commercial assessment tool and attained MCSA status.It's Microsoft who offers the certifications, why not use their books?Know your stuff + know what they want you to know = PASS !!For the price of the bundle and the accuracy of the information, you can't go wrong. ... Read more