Get Ahead with the New Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification and the Associated MD-102 Exam

In today’s world of rapidly evolving technology and cybersecurity threats, IT professionals must stay up-to-date with the latest certifications and training to remain competitive in their careers. Microsoft is no exception, constantly updating its certification programs to keep pace with changing industry demands. One of its latest offerings is the Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate certification and the corresponding MD-102 exam. Let’s take a closer look at what this certification entails and how it can benefit IT professionals.

What is the Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification?

The Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals responsible for managing, monitoring, and securing Microsoft 365 endpoints. This includes devices such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, as well as the Microsoft 365 suite of applications and services. The certification validates an individual’s skills in configuring, deploying, and managing Microsoft 365 services, as well as identifying and mitigating security threats.

What’s New about the Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification?

First of all, Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate has been renamed from Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate. According to Microsoft experts, the new certification name better reflects the focus for professionals in this role, since the term endpoint more accurately describes the range of applicable devices used in solutions they manage.

Previously, the candidates needed to pass two exams to earn the Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate certification: Exam MS-100: Microsoft 365 Identity and Services and Exam MD-101: Managing Modern Desktops. However, Microsoft has recently announced that the new Exam MD-102: Endpoint Administrator will replace both tests retiring in July 2023. The new version of the exam will be available in beta in May 2023.

By consolidating the material from the MD-100 and MD-101 exams into the MD-102 test, Microsoft aims to provide a more streamlined and comprehensive certification path for endpoint administrators. The retirement of the MD-100 and MD-101 exams and the introduction of the MD-102 test reflects the evolution of the modern workplace and the need for endpoint administrators to adapt and manage a variety of devices and platforms. This change in certification will help to ensure that endpoint administrators are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required to succeed in their roles.

Overview of the Exam MD-102: Endpoint Administrator

Endpoint management is an essential task for modern organizations as their employees increasingly work remotely and use various devices to access corporate resources. Organizations need IT professionals who can efficiently manage endpoints and ensure that their data and networks are secure. The new MD-102 exam is Microsoft’s latest response to this need.

The MD-102 test is a new addition to the Microsoft certification program, aimed at IT professionals seeking to validate their skills in managing and securing endpoints within a Microsoft 365 environment. The exam focuses on modern desktop deployment, device management, and app management, as well as security and compliance.

The exam is designed to test the candidates’ abilities in configuring, deploying, and managing Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 services, as well as securing endpoints against threats such as malware, phishing, and social engineering attacks. The candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of endpoint management tools, deployment methods, and configuration options, as well as their ability to troubleshoot common issues.

To prepare for the MD-102 test, IT professionals should have experience with endpoint management technologies, such as Microsoft Intune, and Windows 10 administration. Microsoft recommends that the candidates have at least one year of experience managing endpoints and deploying and managing devices and apps in a cloud-based environment.

What are the Benefits of the Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification and the MD-102 Exam?

The Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate certification and the MD-102 exam provide a range of benefits for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers. By earning this certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in managing and securing Microsoft 365 endpoints, which are increasingly important in today’s remote work environment.

The certification can also help IT professionals stand out in a competitive job market, as well as potentially lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, the skills and knowledge gained through the certification and exam can help individuals better protect their organization’s data and infrastructure, reducing the risk of cybersecurity threats.

Conclusion

In today’s ever-changing IT landscape, staying up-to-date with the latest certifications and training is essential for career success. The Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate certification and the MD-102 exam provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage and secure Microsoft 365 endpoints, while also providing a competitive edge in the job market. Whether you are an experienced IT professional or just starting your career, consider pursuing this certification to boost your skills and advance your career goals.