Mastering the Cloud: Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert Certification and the MS-102 Exam

The world of technology is ever-changing, and Microsoft is at the forefront of innovation. As businesses continue to adopt Microsoft 365, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage its complex infrastructure is increasing. To meet this need, Microsoft has decided to rename the current Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert certification and introduced a new one, the Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert, and an associated exam, MS-102. This certification from Microsoft is a valuable credential for IT professionals who manage Microsoft 365 services offering them numerous benefits, including demonstrating expertise, career advancement, higher pay, access to Microsoft resources, and improved job performance.

The Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert: What’s New?

Microsoft renamed the Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert certification to Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert certification to reflect a broader range of skills required for modern workplace administration. The new certification covers various administrative tasks in Microsoft 365, including security and compliance, deployment, device management, and identity and access management. By renaming the certification, Microsoft emphasizes the importance of an administrator’s role in managing a Microsoft 365 environment, which includes various Microsoft products and services such as Office 365, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobility + Security. Additionally, the new certification aligns with Microsoft’s modernization efforts and highlights the need for administrators to have a deep understanding of the entire Microsoft 365 suite.

Previously, the candidates for the Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert certification needed to pass two exams: Exam MS-100: Microsoft 365 Identity and Services and Exam MS-101: Microsoft 365 Mobility and Security. Both these tests will retire on July 31, 2023 and will be replaced by the unified Exam MS-102: Microsoft 365 Administrator. The new version of the certification exam is available on 3rd of May 2023.

Who Is the Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert Certification Intended for?

The Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required to manage Microsoft 365 services. This certification is aimed at experienced IT professionals who are responsible for administering and managing Microsoft 365 services, including identity and access, security and compliance, and device management. The candidates for this certification should have a deep understanding of the Microsoft 365 environment, as well as a solid foundation in related technologies.

To earn the Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert certification, the candidates must pass the MS-102 test. The exam will consist of multiple-choice and performance-based questions that require the applicants to demonstrate their ability to solve real-world problems. The test-takers will be required to perform tasks such as configuring Microsoft 365 services, managing user identities, implementing security and compliance policies, and managing devices.

The MS-102 exam is designed for experienced IT professionals with a deep understanding of the Microsoft 365 environment. The applicants should have at least two years of experience managing Microsoft 365 services and related technologies. In addition, the candidates should have a solid foundation in Active Directory, Exchange, and SharePoint, as well as knowledge of Microsoft Azure and Microsoft Intune.

What Are the Benefits of Earning the Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert Certification?

Earning the Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert certification can lead to a variety of career opportunities, including roles such as Microsoft 365 Administrator, IT Manager, and Systems Administrator. This certification can also help IT professionals stay up to date with the latest technologies and best practices in the industry, which can be invaluable in today’s fast-paced technology landscape. Here are some other benefits of this certification:

1. Demonstrates expertise: Earning the Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing Microsoft 365 services. This certification shows that the individual has the expertise to manage and administer Microsoft 365 services effectively.
2. Career advancement: The certification can open up new career opportunities for IT professionals. Employers often seek certified professionals to manage their Microsoft 365 services, and having this certification can help individuals advance their careers in the IT industry.
3. Higher pay: Certified professionals often receive higher pay than their non-certified counterparts. According to PayScale, the average salary for a Microsoft 365 administrator is around $68,000 per year, and having the Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert certification can increase earning potential.
4. Access to Microsoft resources: Certified professionals have access to a wide range of Microsoft resources, including online training, technical support, and community forums. These resources can help individuals stay up-to-date with the latest Microsoft 365 technologies and best practices.
5. Improved job performance: The certification provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and administer Microsoft 365 services. This can improve job performance, as individuals are better equipped to troubleshoot issues, implement security measures, and optimize Microsoft 365 services for their organization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert certification and the MS-102 test are valuable additions to the Microsoft certification portfolio. As more businesses adopt Microsoft 365, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage its complex infrastructure is increasing. The Microsoft 365 Certified Administrator Expert certification is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their skills and knowledge in managing Microsoft 365 services, and can lead to exciting career opportunities in the field.