MCSE Windows 2000 Professional Study Guide [With 1]

Since I've had my MSCE since 1997, I really can't comment on this book's value to beginners in the IT world. But I found this book perfect for me to pass the Professional exam the first time around with minimal study. The practice tests were great to identify my weak points, and the text had more than adequate information to improve my knowledge of those weakpoints. I've taken over 15 certification tests - Microsoft, Cisco and Compaq - over the last few years and have developed a standard self-study procedure. I buy the "official" study guide from the vendor (Cisco's are excellent)AND a copy of my favorite 3rd-party study guide. For Microsoft certifications, my favorite has been Sybex for years. Based on my experience with this book, Sybex is still the way to go.

The Windows 2000 Professional MCP exam is the 12th Microsoft exam that I have taken and passed in the last 20 months. In the early days, I tried all the publishers I could find but have always found the Sybex books to be the best overall. While many may not be very well written, they have a test engine that reinforces the text and makes it possible to get a toe hold on this material. And that's where these books shine. Go over the test questions time and again after reading the book and you might begin understanding the subject to some depth. Then you will be ready to tackle more advanced material and thus be ready for the test. Can you pass one of the Microsoft tests on this material alone? If your answer is yes, then you probably didn't need this book anyway. If you're like me and need a great place to start, this is it.

This is a wonderful book to read. The author has a way of presenting the information to you in a way that keeps your interest. In addition, there are many visual depictions of what is being explained. The simulators, flashcards and tests are an invaluable tool to help you prepare for the exam. The simulator will give you the hands-on experience that Microsoft is focusing so heavily on. This is definitely one book that I would recommend to anyone who wishes to start on the road to Windows 2000 MCSE certification. I liked the book so much I ordered the MCSE Windows 2000 Core training kit tool. I'm a picky person when it comes to getting the most bang for my buck, and the books by Sybex definitely deliver.

The previous Sybex MCSE study guides (for NT 4) were very good. I would have given them four stars. The books of the Win2K series which I've read so far, however, are even more clear, accurate, and contain extensive hands-on exercises. Better than before. The CDs include avi files of nearly all of the exercises from the books, and a test engine with a variety of formats, as well as simulations. The Professional book was very helpful for the exam. I haven't taken the Directory Services exam yet, but the DS book is extremely well-written. Hopefully it maps well to the exam. The DS book seemed a bit thin for the price, although I guess the CD contents made up for it. But, nevertheless, I would say EXCELLENT.

One thing that impresses me about Sybex is the way they put together books. They take a subject, in this case Windows 2000 Professional, and cram more information into 850 pages than any one I know and they make sure that the information covers the exam objectives completely.In the 15 chapter book you have complete and detailed coverage of the 70-210 exam and all of the objectives. From the installation and all the ways to make the install work to upgrading and what to look for and what to stay away from, and you have only covered two chapters at this point.Moving to the configuration of the 2000 environment, to managing the desktop and users, to the administration and management of the groups, user and hardware profiles and disks, now you have covered up to chapter 9. Impressed by the amount of information at this point in the book is what made me keep reading.Chapter 10 gives detailed information about file access and permissions. Continuing with the network section and printing and dial-up and remote connectivity. Finally you have optimizing and fine-tuning of the Windows 2000 workstation making this one of the most complete reference manuals I have ever come across. As with all Sybex book, there is a cd-rom included with hundreds of practice questions that will compliment the questions included in the book. Even more impressive is the fact the cd-rom has a complete electronic version of the book and the Best selling "Dictionary of Networking" included. Sybex is tops in the computer/IT certification arena, this book is the perfect example. Costing a mere $49.99, and online you'll find for less, your saving is your opportunity to excel. Don't pass up this book; your money is well invested.