Microsoft certificationsprovide a popular way for IT professionals to validate their skills in using various Microsoft productssuch as Windows, Office 365, SQL Server and Azure. These certifications are of different levels with the basicone being MTA (Microsoft Technology Associate) which validates foundational technology skills. The middle certification level is MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) which is designed for new IT professionals and those who are about to start off their careers. High-level certifications are MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert) and MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer) which are designed to validate an individual's expert skills in creating complex solutions using a combination of various Microsoft products and services.
MCSA is the most popular certification level among IT professionals. This is because it is a key to considerably fast career growth in addition to beinga prerequisite foreхpert-level MCSE. One of the credentials in this popular certification level is MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 which validates the individual's capabilities in database development and analysis. For you to obtain this certification, you are required to pass three tests which are 70-461, 70-462 and 70-463.In this article, we will focus on exam 70-462, its details and preparation options.
70-462 exam
Exam 70-462 is intended for database professionals who perform the tasks related to installation, maintenance, and configuration in addition to administering security constraints. The exam is available in 6 different languages which are English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese and Portuguese. 70-462 test covers various topics shown below:
1. Installation and configuration
In this topic, you will be assessed for your skills in planning an installation, installation of SQL Server and related services, implementation of a migration strategy, configuration of additional SQL Server components and management of SQL server agent.
2. Maintenance of instances and databases
In this section, you will find questions about managing and configuring databases and SQL Server instances, implementing a SQL Server clustered instance and managing SQL Server instances.
3. Optimization and troubleshooting
Here you will be assessed on how you identify and resolve concurrency problems, analyze and collect troubleshooting data and audit the instances of SQL Server.
4. Data management
Assessment involves configuring and maintaining a back-up strategy, restoring databases, importing/exporting data and implementing and maintaining indexes.
5. Security implementation
You will be assessed in managing server roles and logins, managing database security, managing users and database roles, and troubleshooting security.
6. High availability implementation
In this section, you need to prove that you know how to implement AlwaysOn and replication.
The questions come in different formats and you should make sure that you understand which format of the answer is required. Generally, you will find the following question formats in exam 70-462:
- Questions that demand to perform a simple drag-and-drop.
- Active screen - here questions appear in a dialogue box and you will be required to answer them by using the provided simulate controls.
- Case study - these will give you a business case and then ask you questions about it.
- Hot area - these are questions in which graphical answers are required.
- Short answer - questions that may provide keywords you should use in your answers.
Passing any exam starts from the moment you start preparing and exam 70-462 is not an exception. You will have to prepare effectively to ensure that you grasp everything you need to pass this exam and qualify for MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification. Here are some useful preparation options:
1. Enrolling in an instructor-led training
There are two options for instructor-led training. The first option is to learn online at your own pace during the three-month access period that you will be given. The second option is to enroll in classroom training which will last for five days. You will be assigned a qualified instructor to help you with your preparations.
2. Watching exam 70-462 prep videos
You can find the link to these videoson the official Microsoft website in the "Preparation options" section. When you watch these videos, you will have the chance of getting tips from certified Microsoft experts. These tips will actually be very helpful inthe journey to your certification.
3. Taking an official practice test
When you feel that you are ready to take the real exam, it is advisable to do an official practice test for exam 70-462. This will help you know where you stand and help you to plan your studies. You will also have a chance of familiarizing yourself with the exam pattern and environment.
You can also use practice tests from third-party resources. Some websites have quality practice tests which can contain questions you may meet in the real exam.These materials areincredibly helpful, butonly when obtained from a trusted source. For dependable resources, you can visit some reputable websites such as Prepaway. This platform contains up-to-date practice tests made and uploaded by experienced test takers. On Prepaway, you will also find a link to the exam testing engine that will help you to conduct practice exams. All Prepaway materials are compatible with the testing engine, so you can take as many practice tests as you want and pass your exam with confidence.
4. Using trusted books
Such available book is the Training Kit (Exam 70-462): Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases which can be bought from the Microsoft Press Store. The edition contains a series of lessons and practical exercises that willhelp you to monitor your progress.
Conclusion
The necessity of passing 70-462 and other exams cannot be overlooked if you want to get MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification. This guide contains useful information that will help you pass 70-462 test with ease. Follow the tips provided, don't forget to visit the Prepaway platform, pass your exam, and set yourself on the path to career growth. Good luck!
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