Top 10 Exchange Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for exchange engineers in the job market because they provide a way for employers to easily evaluate an engineer’s technical skill level. Certification programs provide an objective measure of a person’s knowledge and competency in a specific field. By obtaining certifications, an exchange engineer can demonstrate to potential employers that he or she has the necessary skills and experience to succeed in the role. Certifications also indicate that the engineer is committed to professional development and staying up-to-date on industry best practices and emerging technologies. This helps employers feel more confident when hiring an exchange engineer, as they know they are getting someone who is qualified and ready to hit the ground running.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Exchange Engineers and explains how they can help advance an exchange engineer's career.

What are Exchange Engineer Certifications?

Exchange engineer certification is a specialized certification program designed for experienced IT professionals who want to become an expert in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Microsoft Exchange Server. This certification provides a comprehensive knowledge base that covers the fundamentals of Microsoft Exchange architecture, including server roles, messaging systems, client access services, transport services, and high availability. The certification also covers topics such as security, troubleshooting, scripting and automation.

The benefit of having this certification is that it helps demonstrate to employers that one is knowledgeable in the field of Microsoft Exchange Server. With this certification you can prove your skills and gain credibility among peers. Additionally, this certification will help you advance your career by giving you an edge over other IT professionals who are not certified in exchange engineering. It will also help open up more job opportunities by providing potential employers with evidence of your experience and knowledge in the area. Finally, it may also lead to higher pay since certified engineers tend to be more sought after than non-certified ones.

Pro Tip: When preparing for an exchange engineer certification exam, focus on learning the fundamentals of the technology and understanding how to apply them in different scenarios. Make sure to review any documentation or training materials you have access to, as well as practice questions and sample exams. Finally, don’t forget to take breaks during your studying sessions—your brain needs time to process and store new information!

Related: What does an Exchange Engineer do?

Top 10 Exchange Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Exchange Engineers today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Messaging

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Messaging is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in messaging solutions based on Microsoft technologies. It focuses on the design, implementation, management, and troubleshooting of messaging solutions for Microsoft Exchange Server 2016, Office 365, and hybrid environments.

It typically takes around three months to study for the MCSE: Messaging exam. This time frame can vary depending on the individual's experience level. To get the certification, individuals must pass one core exam (70-345) and two elective exams (70-341 & 70-342).

The cost of the exams varies by country but typically ranges from $165 - $200 per exam. The total cost to get the MCSE: Messaging certification is approximately $600-$800 USD.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in network technologies. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. CompTIA Network+ covers topics such as network architecture, virtualization, cloud computing, security, and more.

The exam for CompTIA Network+ typically takes 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on the testing center but usually ranges from $320-$350 USD.

To get certified in CompTIA Network+, you must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher out of 900 points. You can prepare for the exam by studying from textbooks or online courses that cover the topics listed on the official CompTIA website. Additionally, there are practice tests available online that can help you identify areas where you need additional study.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Office 365

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Office 365 is an entry-level certification that validates the skills and knowledge necessary to configure, deploy, manage, and support Office 365 services. The MCSA: Office 365 certification requires candidates to pass two exams: Exam 70-346: Managing Office 365 Identities and Requirements and Exam 70-347: Enabling Office 365 Services.

The MCSA: Office 365 certification typically takes around 3 months to complete depending on the individual's level of study and experience. To get this certification, you must first pass both the required exams. You can purchase exam vouchers from Microsoft or from a third-party vendor. The cost of each exam voucher varies depending on the vendor but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your MCSA: Office 365 certification.

4. Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N)

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program offered by Citrix Systems, Inc. It is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of networking and virtualization. The CCP-N certification validates an individual's ability to design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, and manage networks using Citrix products and technologies.

The CCP-N certification requires passing two exams: 1Z0-1050: Citrix Networking Assessment and 1Y0-311: Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops 7 Administration. Both exams must be passed within one year of each other in order to receive the certification.

In order to obtain the CCP-N certification, you must first register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of each exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD per exam. You can also purchase practice tests from third party vendors such as MeasureUp or Transcender to help prepare for the exams.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive a certificate from Citrix that confirms your CCP-N status. You will also be added to the list of certified professionals on their website which allows employers to verify your credentials online.

Overall, it typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the entire process of becoming a CCP-N certified professional depending on how much time you are able to dedicate towards studying for the exams.

5. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in deploying, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting VMware NSX virtual networks. It is the highest level of certification available for VMware NSX.

To obtain the VCP6-NV certification, you must first pass the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam. Once that is completed, you must attend a two-day VMware authorized training course on NSX and then pass the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) exam.

The cost of the VCP6-NV certification depends on the type of training you choose. There are various types of training available from different vendors at different prices. The cost can range anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the type of training selected.

In total, it takes approximately four weeks to complete all requirements for VCP6-NV certification: two weeks to study for and pass the VCP6-DCV exam; one week to attend a two-day VMware authorized training course; and one week to study for and pass the VCP6-NV exam.

6. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching is a certification program designed by Cisco Systems to validate the skills of networking professionals in installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is an entry-level certification that validates a person’s ability to work with Cisco technologies.

The CCNA Routing and Switching certification requires passing one exam: either 200-125 CCNA or 100-105 ICND1 plus 200-105 ICND2. The exam covers a variety of topics including IP addressing, routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, and more. Depending on the individual's experience level and knowledge base, it may take anywhere from two weeks to several months to prepare for the exam.

In order to get the CCNA Routing and Switching certification, individuals must pass the required exam(s). The exams are offered at Pearson VUE testing centers around the world. The cost of each exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD per exam.

Overall, obtaining the CCNA Routing and Switching certification can be a great way for IT professionals to demonstrate their knowledge of networking principles and increase their job prospects in the industry.

7. Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010 Certification

Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010 Certification is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are responsible for deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s ability to work with the latest version of Exchange server.

In order to obtain this certification, individuals must pass two exams: Exam 70-345: Designing and Deploying Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010 and Exam 70-341: Core Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010. The exams cover topics such as planning, designing, deploying, configuring, administering, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2013/2010.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for these exams. Individuals can use online resources such as practice tests and study guides to help them prepare for the exams. Additionally, there are several training courses available from Microsoft or third-party vendors that can help individuals prepare for the exams.

The cost of obtaining the certification depends on how you choose to pursue it. If you choose to take the two required exams separately, each exam costs $165 USD. If you choose to take a combined exam (which covers both Exam 70-345 and Exam 70-341), it will cost $330 USD. Additionally, if you choose to enroll in a training course offered by a third-party vendor or Microsoft itself, there may be additional fees associated with it.

8. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT security professionals. It is designed to demonstrate competency in areas such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, and cryptography.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 90 minutes or less. Candidates must score a minimum of 750 out of 900 points to pass the exam.

To get CompTIA Security+, you must first register for the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of the exam varies by country but generally ranges from $320–$330 USD. After passing the exam, you will receive your official CompTIA Security+ certification which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

9. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Specialist (JNCIS-ENT)

The Juniper Networks Certified Internet Specialist (JNCIS-ENT) is an advanced-level certification that validates a professional’s ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Juniper networks. It is designed for networking professionals who have experience with Juniper products and technologies and want to demonstrate their skills in the field.

To get the JNCIS-ENT certification, you must first pass the JN0-348 exam. This exam covers topics such as routing protocols, security, network management, and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and has a passing score of 70%.

In order to take the JN0-348 exam, you must register with Pearson VUE and pay an exam fee of $200 USD. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded the JNCIS-ENT certification. The certification is valid for three years from the date of completion. After three years, you must recertify by passing another qualifying exam or attending a Juniper Networks training course.

Overall, obtaining the JNCIS-ENT certification requires passing a single 90 minute long exam which costs $200 USD.

10. Microsoft Technology Associate: Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals is an entry-level certification that validates a person’s understanding of core database concepts and skills. It is designed to help individuals who are new to the field of databases gain the necessary skills to work with data in a professional environment.

The MTA Database Fundamentals exam covers topics such as relational database design, SQL query language, database security and administration, and data manipulation. It also covers topics related to cloud computing, big data, and NoSQL technologies.

The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40-60 multiple choice questions. The passing score for the exam is 70%.

To get the MTA Database Fundamentals certification, you need to register for the exam through Microsoft Learning or Pearson VUE. The cost of the exam is $127 USD.

Do You Really Need a Exchange Engineer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is, it depends. Exchange Engineer certification can be beneficial for those who want to pursue a career in the IT field that involves the administration of Microsoft Exchange Server. This certification shows employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage an organization's email system, ensuring that emails are sent and received securely and efficiently.

However, there are some cases where Exchange Engineer Certification is not necessary. If you already have experience working with Microsoft Exchange Server or other related programs, then you may not need to obtain a certificate. Additionally, if your current employer does not require certification as part of their hiring process, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain one either.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get an Exchange Engineer Certificate will depend on your individual situation. If you feel as though acquiring this certification would benefit your career prospects, then it may be worth pursuing. On the other hand, if obtaining a certificate is not feasible for you at this time due to cost or time constraints, then it might be best to wait until a later date when you are able to do so.

Related: Exchange Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Exchange Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is an Exchange Engineer Certification?

A1. Exchange Engineer Certification is a certification program that validates the skills and expertise of IT professionals in designing, deploying, maintaining, and troubleshooting Microsoft Exchange Server solutions.

Q2. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an Exchange Engineer Certification?

A2. Yes, there is a fee associated with taking the exam needed to receive the certification. The fee varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking.

Q3. How long does it take to get an Exchange Engineer Certification?

A3. The length of time it takes to obtain an Exchange Engineer Certification depends on how much time you spend studying and preparing for the exam, as well as your existing knowledge and experience with Microsoft Exchange Server solutions. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for and pass the exam.

Q4. What are some of the topics covered in an Exchange Engineer Certification exam?

A4. Typically, topics covered in an Exchange Engineer Certification exam include: planning and design; installation and configuration; management; security; troubleshooting; migration; backup and recovery; messaging services; client access services; high availability and scalability; performance tuning; monitoring and auditing; automation using Windows PowerShell scripts; directory synchronization using Azure Active Directory Connect (Azure AD Connect); hybrid deployment scenarios using Office 365 services such as Outlook Web App (OWA), Skype for Business Online (SfBO), SharePoint Online (SPO), etc.; disaster recovery strategies for on-premises deployments of Microsoft Exchange Server solutions.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my Exchange Engineer Certification?

A5. You must renew your certification every three years by taking a recertification exam or completing continuing education courses related to Microsoft Exchange Server technologies offered by authorized training partners or providers such as Microsoft Learning Partners (MLPs).