Product Description

Topics covered: All published objectives of the Microsoft Networking Essentials exam (70-058), including key local area network (LAN) terminology, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model, cabling, hubs, network interface cards (NICs), protocols, administration procedures, and troubleshooting. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Network training kit review
This book is an older version of the network training kit, however, there's a lot of good learning to be had here. You still can glean a lot of important networking training from this book, apply it to your specific situation, and know enough to then search updated online information for the newer systems. I gave this book a four star rating not because of lack of current information but because it is older. The information is still good, and much of it is still in use today. One can study the older technology, learn how it works, and update theirselves accordingly for a reduced price.

Everythign you need
Superb book for Networking. Pretty much everything you need for architecture planning. You will also need a good tcp/ip book and then you are set.

Somewhat deceptive
This is a good book for beginers; it gives you a good base knowledge for other exams in an understandible manner. But don't by this book with the hopes of getting your MCP certification. The testing for Networking Essentials (70-085) was ended in november. Yet they still call it a MCSE training kit. Also, do a lot of reasearch outside of the book.

Error en pg 362, se repite un párrafo.
El topico 2 del resumen de la Lección 2 del Capítulo 8, se repite dos veces.

Well laid out and informative
I obtained this book to learn about networking, having had experience with computers but limited networking experience.The book was very informative and had alot of basic technical information in it.The third edition is well laid out, with good overviews at the beginning of each chapter, and a helpful summaries and case scenarios.A lot of material is covered, without getting over-detailed in any one section. ... Read more

Product Description
This full-color hands-on guide book has been enhanced to make learning even easier by offering more detailed lab setup instructions, expanded chapter summaries, and new practice exams that will reinforce the skills learned. ... Read more

Product Description
Sybex, the leader in Certification, provides this definitive guide for MCSE candidates preparing for Exam 70-298 (Designing Security for a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network), a core design exam requirement for the MCSE certification. With more in-depth coverage, real-world scenarios, and practice questions that simulate those found on the actual exam, this guide gives you the training and confidence you need to succeed. The accompanying CD includes an advanced testing engine with hundreds of sample exam questions, including complex case study questions, electronic flashcards for PC, Pocket PCs, and Palm handhelds, along with the entire book in PDF. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Better than MS Press Book
For this exam this is better than the the MS Press book.Easy to follow and great information

Effective
This book was my only written resource for the 298 Design exam, I passed.Better hurry if you want the Server2k3 MCSE tho, they are retiring the exams soon.

Nice & Easy !!
What can I say about this order? It was easy to find, easy to order and it arrived quickly to my residence in excellent condition. For books, Amazon is the place to go. I would do it all over if I had too.

Everything I needed
This book had all of the material I needed to pass with a 900+ score on the first try.Very good material.

Covers All of the Exam Objectives and then some!
I read through this book rather quickly as I have plenty of experience with Windows 2000 Security. It answered all of my questions and was the only reading resource I used to prepare for the exam. I found the exam questions spot on with the way the exam and nothing but case study questions! I would have liked to see more non-multiple choice questions on the practice tests but other than that this book is perfect. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Terrible book riddled with errors...
I wish there would have been a review for this book before I bought it, but there wasn't. I bought this book to help with studying for the 70-293 exam. I understand that the book is an exam cram....meaning that it is a more abridged version of the exam topics, but this book leaves a lot out. And further more, the exam cram for the 70-291 exam was great.

I am not too sure where to even start. Most of the exam topics in this book are given from a 500 foot overview. Network load balancing and clustering cover about 3 pages in this book...and that is a big topic on the exam.

And the book doesn't read very well either. It reads more like a bulleted list than a book with paragraphs. Each paragraph is seemingly unrelated to the paragraph before it.

Also, the practice exams at the end of the book are terrible. Each practice exam is comprised of 60 questions, which is good as when I am studying for an exam, the more questions you encounter on the material, the better prepared you are. But not with these questions. Some of them where well written, but others were flat out terrible. One question was trying to get at network troubleshooting. The general gist of the question was "Computer A on subnet A cannot talk to computer B on subnet B". The question then goes on for a page and a half as to elaborate on all the troubleshooting that the admin took. The question is then something like "What would be the best tool to use to figure out where the problem is? and the answer is tracert.exe. Ok, do we really need 1.5 pages of troubleshooting that you did to ask a question about tracert?

Another bone of contention that I had with the practice exams were with the questions again. This time, it seemed like there were 10 questions, all back to back (ie... question 11, question 12, etc) that were all the exact same thing. They were the same word for word, and then one piece was changed at the end to make them "different".They were all DNS questions....I understand that you need to come up with 120 questions, but if you are going to make all the questions the same, and least put them in different spots in the practice exam so we aren't reading the same thing over and over. It makes the exam very boring.

But the final straw for me was practice exam #2. I gave up in the middle of it. There was a question on collision and broadcast domains. Throughout the question, the states that "hubs are used to connect the machines". Then it asks what you would use to form the domains. So you pick your answers, and then check it with the answer guide in the back, and find out that you got it wrong. And the explanation says that switches....yada yada.....So in the question he talks about hubs, but then in the answer he talks about switches. They are not the same thing.

Also, many questions were just flat out wrong. You answer them correctly, and then check the answer to find out the book is wrong. Too many times this happened. I finally put the book down and vowed to never pick it up again. Simply because it is terrible and you can't trust the information in it to be correct. Possibly no technical editor was employed?!?

A much better choice is the 70-293 book by Syngress. It is much more complete, and each topic is given anywhere from 50-80 pages.

Do yourself a favor, and buy a different book. ... Read more

Product Description

• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Environment Management and Maintenance Study Guide (70290)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Implementation, Management, and Maintenance Study Guide (70291)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure Planning and Maintenance Study Guide (70293)
• MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Planning, Implementation, and Maintenance Study Guide (70294)
• Plus two bonus CDs featuring an evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 and 300 additional practice test questions

Customer Reviews (5)

MCSE Certified
Just the right product and just in time.Finished my cert with the help of this fine product.

The most valuable books to pass MCSA/MCSE on Windows Server 2003 operating system.
a perfect tool to prepair yourself for MCSA/MCSE exam. And, of course, a very powerful written matterial for look-up purposes :)

+1 to authors.

Out of touch
After finishing the 70-290 book in the set and taking the exam, I am shocked at how "out of touch" this book is with the actual exam.Topics that were barely touched upon in the book ended up being huge sections in the test and vice versa.I started buying Sybex cert books because of how well the CCNA book was done and how it actually related to the exam.I'm hoping the other books in this kit are a little more up to par.

Good, but you'll need more to pass the tests...
I'm pretty fond of the Sybex books--They're well written and tend to explain things fairly well, however these books are often lacking in detail.The books don't cover some topics at all (ie: Expect a visual basic question in 70-291, yet it's not covered at all in the book) and the upper level books really rehash some of the earlier topics by a copy and paste methodology.For instance, although some topics in 70-293 overlap 70-291, it focuses on planning, which rehashing the 70-291 material doesn't help with.New topics in 70-293 are barely covered (Just 30 pages for clustering, which deserves much more!)I've taken to reading these books first as an overview, then reading the MS-Press titles for the nitty gritty details.The included questions are weak, expect questions about 5 times as difficult on the actual exams...The 70-294 book is about 420 pages, while the MS Press title for 70-294 is almost twice as thick...Not that MS Press titles are good reading, the assume you already know what they're talking about.The point--I haven't found a silver bullet for these certs, but these are a good start.

Excellent!! A SOLID foundation for a BIG field.
I'm probably unusual, because I bought this kit AND the upgrade book. However, this kit was just indispensible, because there are sooo many topics you need to have understood and integrated in order to become an MCSE: Active Directory --sites, domains, users and computer, replication. IIS, remote desktop, resource management. TCP/IP, routing, DNS, DHCP, IPSec. Clustering, certificates, load balancing....You just can't get that kind of understanding casually, or even just by working with certain parts of the OS...you need a full course. Sybex was recommended to me by an instructor in my first class as having the best reputation and being the bestsellers, and I'm glad he told me. ... Read more

Product Description
This full-color book combines Course Technology's proven Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP Professional content in one volume for those who teach these two popular subjects in a single course. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

NIce guide for your MCSA/E
The book seems a little broad at a first glance; however, it gives you a very nice step by step lab each topic. It has some TIPS for your test on most every page. The explanation which should be understandable for any reader is given and not just some Geek speak. The book comes with a Test generator CD and even with SERVER 2003 Trail version for 180 days. Great book if you ask me to get ready for your Cert or job ... Read more

Product Description
Learn to build a computer from scratch in just 7 days! Get A+ and Microsoft certified in only 3 days! And become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer in only 21 days! The Bestselling Second Edition by computer professional, C.V.Conner, Ph.D. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Too old! For a test that Microsoft doesn't even give anymore!
Four stars for Lulu Press as they took care of me! As for the book, Microsoft discontinued the test for 2000 server and that is what this book is about. They need the one for 2003 or 2008 server to help you out.
So far the new edition of the book is only available on Kindle so don't get this one for anything other than "historic reference". ... Read more

Product Description
This hands-on guidebook is designed to prepare students for the MCSE certification exam and for the challenges they will face as Microsoft networking professionals. Projects and exercises reinforce skills as they are learned and extensive test preparation resources help students get ready for exam day.

Includes 180-day Trial Version of Microsoft Windows Server 2003.Maps completely to the objectives for MCSE Exam #70-290.Updated to include the CoursePrep ExamGuide workbook containing key information and review questions for every exam objective. Reinforces skills as they are learned with extensive Review Questions, hands-on Activities, and Case Projects in each chapter.Includes free CertBlaster and CoursePrep test preparation software on CD-ROM to help students practice for exam day. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

OK but is lacking in areas
This is a good starter book if you are taking your 70-290 exam but it is not enough. I took the exam and there were questions that I needed more detail on than what was mentioned in this book. One of the practice tests is worthless but the other is of pretty good quality (near self test level). Hope this helps. ... Read more

Product Description
Students will master the objectives for the new MCSE exam # 70-298. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

This book is terrible just like the rest ofMCSE Cengage Course Technology books
This book is DISGUSTING in terms of explaining and designing Security for Windows 2003 Server. Each chapter has grammatical errors a great example would be in chapter 3 at the beginning of the chapters it states that stand alone roots CAs cannot use certificate templates but at the end of the chapter FAQ it says that it can. I had to go to the Microsoft Tech Net website to verify this information. Moreover, the chapter review questions found in the CD are ridiculous, some of them are poorly worded that when trying to find the answer in the chapter is either ambiguous or the answer are not in the chapter, I even asked the teacher for explanation for the questions and he is too stupid to give me a straight answer...what an idiot. Each chapter is poorly written and vague,I bought this book because I needed for my Windows Network Security class but I do not recommend this book. Too damn expensive for a crap full of errors. Cengage Course Technology books are TERRIBLE!!!

Somewhat broad in scope
The book itself is precisely what you need in a book on Server 2003 network security. Unfortunately it also covers a lot of material in other security works and thus is overly broad in its scope. There is a great deal of repetition between this book and the general precepts of computer and network security. That said it's an excellent source and I recommend it as a foundation for building ideas on Windows network security using the Server 2003 platform. ... Read more

Product Description
Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-290, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This kit packs the tools and features exam candidates want most—including in-depth, self-paced training; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case studies, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job.

Focusing on account and resource management in a Windows Server 2003 environment, this official study guide covers topics such as managing physical and logical devices; users, computers, and groups; access and permissions; the server environment; and disaster recovery services.

Ace your exam preparation and ramp up quickly on Windows Server 2003 by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The Readiness Review Suite on CD, featuring advanced technology from MeasureUp, provides 425 challenging questions for in-depth self-assessment and practice. Choose timed or untimed testing mode, generate random tests, or focus on discrete objectives or chapters, and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers—including pointers to other sources for further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software and a 15 percent exam discount voucher—making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

Helps to get the job done
This book alone covers about 85% of what you need to know to pass the test.I would recommend a cbt or transender on the topic as well.

This book just give you a background of window 2003 feature
I have this book because I purchase MCSE Training kit (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0735619530/ref=pd_rvi_gw_2/102-4874099-2083325?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=283155) in order to prepare to take an MCSE certificate. Currently I just finish reading this book. I didn't review an MCSE training kit because I didn't read the other three books.

In my opinion, this book was building only the background of windows server 2003. All of its topic just introduce you to use the feature that ship with windows 2003 only. If you want to take this book and pass an exam, I recommend you not just reading this book. You should read the other book in addition to collect more knowledge and experience. The other solution that you should do is practic as much as possible from the topic in the book. I didn't take an exam yet but I just only take the test from the 2nd part of the book after I complete reading and pract all of the lesson from the first section. After the test, I found that many question are out of scope of the book explaination. If you do not read additional book to gain more information, I guess that you won't be able to pass an exam. My case a good example, i just read and practic all of topic in this book but after I have the test i only get 50% of the score. This will not pass an exam while Microsoft require 70% to pass an exam. The topic that should have addition reading are:

- Disk storage.
- WMI.
- Back up and restore.
- System recovery.
- Software update service.
- Group polocies.
- File and print server.
- Server performance.
- ...

These topic also write in a separate book in much more detail. I plan to have an exam next and now prepare to read additional documentation to fill up my knowledge.

not a good book, not at all
I would like to give it a zero star if it were there. I read it through but it totally disappointed me. it left so much out, totally uncovered, such as terminal server, which is listed as examinable part. Even the 70-270 book from microsoft press is a total rubbish. The parts covered are not deep enough to help you understand for the exam. For those who work on MSCE, I highly recommend sybex books in stead of Microsoft RUBBISH.

Just the right level
I enjoyed working through this book.It was written in a pleasant administrator to administrator style, and I especially liked the "Why this chapter matters", and "Troubleshooting Labs". Nice touch.

What I especially appreciated, is that the exercises don't take you through every mouse click.They often just say "do this".If you don't know how, you can find out using online help, but it doesn't waste the time of those who (should) know how.

Just the right level for me, coming from Windows 2000 server, and a vast improvement on the Windows 2000 training guide!

Bad, bad and bad
If it would be possible then I would give this book a 'no star' rate.

The reason why I am so hard with my judgment is that the book does not cover the topics deep enough so you will pass the exam. Some of the topics are even completely missing like for example VBScript. The topic Terminal Services is completed with 20 pages which way to less.

If you rely on this book and you will go to the exam you will experience a huge surprise what questions are waiting for you. With this book there is no chance in my opinion that that you pass the exam the first time.

Another reason why I gave this book one star is that it is from the manufacturer of the software itself and it is more than a shame that Microsoft published such a book.

My recommendation is ... don't waste you time with this book ....look some where else. I put this book away and bought one from Syngess and I passed the exam at the first attempt and believe me it was not because I read this book first.
... Read more

Product Description

• This exam (70294) is an MCSE core requirement and an MCSA elective
• Thoroughly revised to cover the new version of the exam, which includes questions on Windows Server 2003 R2 and Windows XP Professional SP2
• Offers improved troubleshooting coverage and more scenarios and case studies
• The CD-ROM features the state-of-the-art WinSim program that enables readers to practice on simulation questions, plus an advanced testing engine, hundreds of sample questions, an e-version of the book, and flashcards

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Helped me for actual work
A caveat: I don't care about the test. I was searching through lots of books for some information about creating a Windows server based network and this book really stood out. (I was setting up my first network and was lost trying to figure out some things.)

I know many or most of you only care about the test, but I am writing this to tell others that if you need a good book about infrastructure I think you may want to get this one.

Must have...
Anyone who is seeking a Microsoft Engineering certification should obtain this book. In fact, the entire Sybex series of books are great.

Some of the Authors were good --- others were not
You could definitely tell when they switched authors. There were two chapters when I could tell the author really didn't know the subject and was merely regurgitating information. I stopped midway through those chapters and skipped onto the next chapter. I later got the info I needed for Certificate Services and High Availability Services from Whitepapers and I also discovered the MS Press book on this test. It was much better. Reading the Sybex book I had very little confidence in the author. Reading the MS Press book I had complete confidence in the author.

For example in the Sybex book, when they were describing High Availability Services, I kept seeing a single point of failure. After a while I got disgusted and looked for better sources of information. I printed out the chapter from the MS Press book from Safari and my issue was addressed within a few pages. My point being is that the author of the MS Press book obviously knew how the brain of an IT person works and was able to answer my questions and concerns as they arose while reading. This was not the case in Sybex.

I would say the MS Press author definitely understood the subject and me (as an IT professional) much better.

Sets you up for a fail.
The book is an easy read, which is good.You'll have an easy time getting through the questions, but when you go to take the test you'll fail.This book is no where a good match for the exam.I suggest this book for people who want to learn about Win2k3 AD, but if you're getting it to prepare for the test you should think twice.Nothing this book discuss could have prepared me for the test.Bummer.

More books needed
This book will teach you the basics. iT does not prepare you for the test. I read the whole book cover to cover and understood it completely. The test is nowhere as easy as this books questions. It does not go into depth with scenerios that can be helpful. I recommend you get the microsoft books for this test. If you are currently working with 2003 it will help alot. but do not plan to only use this book unless you luck up and get the perfectly tailored test to what this books covers. ... Read more

Product Description
This full-color book combines Course Technology's proven Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP Professional content in one volume for those who teach these two popular subjects in a single course. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Out of stock!!!!!
I didn't get what I had bought because it was out of stock. It shouldn't be posted in the first place!! The good thing is that I got my money back. ... Read more

Product Description
Contains all of the curriculum objectives of the IIS 4 exam 70-087 and serves as a complement to the IIS 4 Exam Prep. Includes two complete, revised, practice exams featuring questions designed to assess the reader's readiness to take the exam, and the answers and explanations that reinforce the reasoning behind the correct answers. Features a new 32-page scenario section designed to prepare the reader for scenario-based questions on the actual exam. Includes updated content that covers all the exam formats. Includes updated content that covers all the exam formats.Amazon.com Review
Looking for a quick brushup on IIS 4? The MCSE IIS 4 ExamCram is a terrific study aid. Part of the publisher's ExamCram series of concise certification books, MCSE IIS 4 is aspeedy read and a nice companion to more detailed classroom- ortext-based study. This guide is mostly explanatory and explores thevarious features of IIS but with only limited hands-on exercises.

Unlike many of the certification tutorials targeted at the 70-087 IIS4 exam, this one strays from the outline of the test itself to provideits own order of topics. However, the order makes sense: the textbegins with an overview of the certification process and the IISproduct and then progresses through increasingly more sophisticatedtopics. Bulleted lists identify the terms and techniques you'll needto get a handle on in each section. The meat of the book consistsmainly of explanatory text and accompanying screen shots or codesnippets. At the end of each chapter, a series of questions(accompanied by explanations) tests your knowledge.

This book isn'tthe only reference you'll need to prepare for the exam; however, thereferences to further reading and electronic sources will help roundout your study efforts. This guide is great for those familiar withIIS who simply need to revisit key areas. --Stephen W. Plain ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

This is a good book but review Microsoft's exam guidelines!
This book plus the Transcenders testing software is a good combination to pass. Those two with a little hands-on and you should pass this test. I got an 854 out of 1000 on the test without too much effort. DO read up on ODBC error messages (SQL) as it was heavily tested. This book does not delve into much depth on that subject. Otherwise a good buy, especially used.

Pretty thorough but check out the exam criteria on Microsoft
I passed the test with an 854 out of 1000 using only this book and the Transcenders plus some hands-on time in IIS 4.0 . My best EXTRA piece of advice is to go to Microsoft's web site and look at what the exam will test on. I got a lot (3 or 4 out of 55 questions) of ODBC error messages questions (SQL) on the version of the test that I took (non-adaptive version) and this book did not delve very much into this area. Other than that, it was very good.

Lots of Sample Questions, Missing necessary depth
After successfully passing 4 of 6 exams, I was wondering which exam to hold for last...After purchasing this book purely by Amazon's readers recomendations it's pretty clear that IIS will be that last and final exam for me.As I will need to find additional study material for the IIS4 exam - this book has lots of sample questions but the explanations are too simple and quick.

Thicker books may be the way to for further and more applicable study in conjunction with this book.Use additional material to index and explain a concept or question in depth with this cram guide.Questions are great but without much detail in explaining a particular set of questions, this will not be your only study guide to successfully pass the IIS 4 exam.

At the time of my purchase of this book, it was rated above 4 stars - I hope to justify lowering that review a tad.

Could have been better
Not a bad book but it could have gone into more detail. A bit disappointing for one of the Exam Cram series.

Good for revision but not for beginners
I use this book solely to study for about a month and pass the exam!However, there are so many simulation questions in the exam that I think the examples in the book are not enough. Therefore this book is best suited for revision BUT NOT FOR BEGINNERS. ... Read more

Product Description
This Review Exam is a CD and book designed for professionals who need to determine if they are ready for the real Certified System Engineer exam. A test delivery engine on the CD-ROM randomly tests candidates. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Error en respuesta de la pregunta 04.02.007 C
A T connector should have infinite resistance between the center conductor and the CENTER (o would be outer) conductor?

Good enough to get you through the actual exam...
...but don't expect it to test you on everything that will be on the exam.I had drag-and-drop questions on the actual exam, which were not in this book's CD-ROM.Those questions weren't too much of a problem.However, this book is the best out there to make sure you are ready for the actual exam.

Mcse Readiness Review 70-58
After taking a course and studing with test prep programs I took the test. I failed by 133 points.After the test I went to the book store and looked thought every review book the store had to offer.This book had thequestions that the real test had asked.After reviewing this guide I tookthe test again and passed with well over 800.

This is the one.
I used this book in conjunction with Microsoft's self-paced study kit for 70-058 Networking Essentials. Passed with 900. This is THE combo in my opinion.Also looked at the New Riders book, Transcender tests and various web resources and they did not come as close to the actual tone and contentof the test. I felt that the book helped not only in reviewing what I knewbut how to apply that knowledge. This was especially helpful for thosescenario questions. Format of placing questions and answers on front andback of each page was good. Additionally, aside from passing the test, Ibelive I have a better understanding of the material which is the wholepoint of the certification process. Well worth the dollars spent.

GET THIS BOOK!
Ok, this book has tons of sample MCSE questions that follow Microsoft's objectives, then an interactive CD with those same exact questions presented to you in a test format.What I did was take the CD test when I felt comfortable with the material, then reference the book for why myanswers are right or wrong.At least four or five questions (out of 30 onmy test) from the exam were almost IDENTICAL to ones in this book.Ipassed Networking Essentials with a 900 of 1000 (766 to pass) and I usedthis book for my practice exam, Ace It Networking Essentials for my mainguide, and O'Reilly's MCSE Exams in a Nutshell for my secondary guide.Isubsequently bought all other Microsoft Readiness guides to help me passthe other exams.GET THIS BOOK! ... Read more

Product Description
This book covers Exam 200-14 in great detail, digging into some of the most important details involved in locking down Windows systems and networks and taking a systemic approach to keeping Windows networks and systems secured.
Boasting a one-of-a-kind integration of text, DVD-quality instructor-led training, and Web-based exam simulation and remediation, this study guide & DVD training system gives students 100% coverage of official Microsoft MCSA exam objectives plus realistic test prep.
The System package consists of:
1) MCSE Implementing and Administering Security in a Windows 2000 Network Study Guide: Syngress's 1 million study guide users will find tried-and-true features and exciting new enhancements; included are step-by-step exercises plus end-of-chapter bulleted objectives reviews, FAQs, and realistic test prep questions in the same format as those on the actual exam.
2) Security DVD: A full hour of instructor-led training, complete with on-screen configurations and networking schematics, demystifying the toughest exam topics.
3) Security from solutions@syngress.com. Accompanying Web site provides students with authentic interactive exam-simulation software that grades their results and automatically links to e-book study guide for instant review of answer concepts.

Covers Critical Security Exam. This exam was created to meet the demand for a security-based examination which verifies an administrator's ability to implement and maintain secure Windows 2000 network.
Fast growing certification gains in popularity. The new MCSE certification launched in March and already there are 17,000 MCSA-certified professionals (data as of May, 31, 2002, Microsoft Corp.). This exam also serves as an elective for MCP status and other certifications.
Best selling author with over 150,000 copies in print. Tom Shinder's books have over 150,000 copies in print and he's a regular speaker at the security industry's leading Black Hat Briefings. His Configuring ISA Server 2000, has sold over 45,000 units worldwide in a year.
First in-depth security exam from Microsoft. As Microsoft certification guru Ed Tittell points out, "this is the first real, nuts-and-bolts security exam in the MCP line-up. This exam is the first MCP test to really dig into some of the most important details involved in locking down Windows systems and networks in the first place, and to step systematically through the processes involved in keeping Windows networks and systems secured thereafter."
$2,000 worth of training wrapped in a $60 book/DVD/Web-enhanced training system. Certification Magazine's 2001 reader survey revealed that the average certification costs nearly $2,000. So our low-priced study package delivers unsurpassed value for cost-conscious IT departments and trainees. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Worth the Money
Sometimes you buy a study guide and while it seems worth the money while you're standing there reading it before you check out, you get it home and upon closer inspection you determine that the book is a dud.Not so with this title.It goes into great detail without bogging down the reader in useless minutiae.
There was very little that I did not like about the book but I especially enjoyed Chapters 2,4,6,7,8,9.BTW I bought it for my own amusement, not because I was studying for the 70-214 exam.

Not enough info for the exam- save your money
I am an MCSE (4 & 2000)and a practicing Sys Admin with several years of experience.I had just passed the Security + and decided to add the 70-214 exam so I can upgrade to an MCSE + Security. I bought this book because of the extra features such as web-based exams and the DVD.Using this book and building on the security + info (I am also a CCNP and CCNA), I thought I would be prepared.I read the chapters, did the exercises, did the tests, and failed the exam.Several test items were never mentioned in this book.The author went into great detail about many non-exam related items which is great for real-world just not good for your $125 test investment.

I picked up Roberta Bragg's ExamCram 2 after failing and learned more reading her cheat sheet (2 pages) than I did reading this book.The difference in level of details was striking!I highly recommend her book if you want the certification.After using her prep material, I kicked butt on the exam.Poorer but wiser.

Excellent book - passed the first time
This was the only 214 study guide available at the time I started my studies.Though I normally use Sybex/Exam Cram guides, I opted to give Syngress a try.

I found this book to be highly readable and that it provided excellent coverage of the exam objectives.Though I experimented with various security settings on a 2000 server and spent some hours reading related TechNet articles, this book served as the foundation of my 214 studies.

I agree with all of previous reviewers about the excellence of this book.

An Excellent Security Certification Read.
This book is one of the easiest reads for a security certification book on the market.First, I hate to read.Second, I hate to read security books because they are boring and poorly explain important concepts.This is not that book.This gets right to the core of what is necessary to pass the test the fist time!It gives you more than that though, because although the DVD skims over all of the areas of the exam, it works as a way to review the information that you need to know, lets say the night before the exam.

There are enough pictures so that you do not have to refer to the real thing, but at the same time, it is most helpful if you are already familiar with these interfaces because it will allow you to review some topics, while providing you with the needed configuration details on others.The chapter summaries are accurate, powerful and make concepts come together, as the author weaves detail after detail, so that you are confident in the subject matter.

Most of the time I will dabble in a practice exam or two, I didn't waste time on the practice test because I felt that after reviewing the book and reviewing the DVD the night before the exam I was well prepared for it.Bottom line is that if you are going to do the 70-214 Implementing & Administering Security in a Windows 2000 Network, you need this book (Period)!

Layout Summary:

Head of the class gives you the needed edge on concepts that everyone talks about.

Notes from the underground is the behind the scenes of what happening in the security world on topic.

Damage and Defense was a way for the author to convey the finer points of network access and how to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Note and Test Day Tips you should take as the advice from an elder because these are the golden eggs that will help you achieve your goal.

Best study guide of my 15 study guides
In the past year of purchased and read 15 study guides.I rate this one the highest for organization, clarity, relevance, and usefulness as a reference. The practice questions in the book were ecelent and gave good explnations. It would have been nice if the additional practice questions were included in the CDROM instead of having to register online.The tutorial on line was very general and rather boring, but good for those times when you don't want to read. ... Read more

Product Description
Announcing an all-new MCSE TRAINING KIT designed to help maximize your performance on Exam 70-294, a core exam for the new Windows Server 2003 certification. This TRAINING KIT packs the tools and features exam candidates want most—including in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from expert, exam-certified authors; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case studies, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job.

Focusing on Windows Server 2003 Active Directory infrastructure, this official study guide covers topics such as planning, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Active Directory infrastructure; planning user, computer, and group strategies; and planning, implementing, and managing Group Policy.

Ace your exam preparation and ramp up quickly on Windows Server 2003 by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The Readiness Review Suite on CD, featuring advanced technology from MeasureUp, provides 425 challenging questions for in-depth self-assessment and practice.Choose timed or untimed testing mode, generate random tests, or focus on discrete objectives or chapters, and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers—including pointers back to the book for further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software and a 15 percent exam discount voucher—making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Good book for passing the exam
This was my primary resource in preparations for the exam, which I passed easily. Material is well presented, although I have found several mistakes and there are a lot of superfluous "lesson reviews" and "lesson summaries" at the end of each lesson.
In my opinion, the best parts of this book are practices and troubleshooting labs. I have set up a little virtual network on my PC (using Virtual PC and Virtual Server), and have done all of them. They really help you gain some practice using Active Directory tools under Windows. I had 2 questions on my exam in which one had to demonstrate practical knowledge of using these tools, and I have heard that Microsoft will add them more.

Technically very clear and to the point, but lacks all the info
This book is pretty good along the lines of technical manuals. It keeps the information clear and lays it out in a way that makes it easy to understand with no fillers added. The activities at the end of the book are a little much, so I mostly ignored them. Unfortunately one thing this book lacks is ALL the information you might be tested for on the exam. For example, the book does not go into detail on the Authorization Manager. The new revisions might but check the ones you buy for it. Mine did not have it, however the software that came with the book asked questions on these different utilities that weren't covered in the book at all. It was a little suprising to be honest. But overall it was a good book.

Far too many technical inaccuracies
I'm sick of reading reviews about how a particular study guide is a good book for beginers.The title says exam 70-294, but this book falls a bit short.It gives basic coverage of active directory concepts and is technically inacurate in many areas.If your going to spend the time trying to learn this stuff, learn it right.A much better book on the subject matter is the active directory technical reference for windows server 2003, also by MS Press.In fact save some time and money...Just buy the technical reference. It will prepare you for both the 70-294 and 70-297 exams.Belive me, the only reason I read this book (70-294 self paced study guide)after reading the technical reference is because I was forced to teach a course from it.

RT
MCT, MCSE, MCDBA, Master Instructor MS Office

Excellent book for those new to AD
The authors and editors of this book deserve a pat on the back for a job well done. Anyone who is new (and some people not so new) to Active Directory can benefit from reading this book. From the start the book comes out strong. No worthless filler here; just logically organized, to the point text, diagrams and screen shots that help the reader understand AD from top to bottom. I like this book so well that I regularly purchase it for my consulting clients in need of a better understanding of AD. This book is a winner and a valuable resource even for those not studying for the exam.

Morons
OK, for the 2 of you above you complain about the lack of ISA info etc to help you through 70-291.. READ THE TITLE OF THIS BOOK!!!!! IT IS FOR 70-294!!!! Anyway, great book, covers all the topics.. and yes, I would say you need a little more then foundational knowledge to pass ANY of the exams... ... Read more

Product Description
Announcing an all-new MCSA/MCSE Training Kit designed to help maximize your performance on Exams 70-292 and 70-296, core exams for IT professionals already certified on Microsoft Windows® 2000 who want to upgrade their credentials for Windows Server 2003. Covering two exams and two certification tracks, this kit provides excellent value. It packs the tools and features exam candidates want most—including in-depth, self-paced training based on final exam content; rigorous, objective-by-objective review; exam tips from an expert exam-certified author; and a robust testing suite. It also provides real-world scenarios, case study examples, and troubleshooting labs for the skills and expertise you can apply to the job.

Ace your exam preparation by working at your own pace through the lessons, hands-on exercises, and practice tests. The flexible, best-of-class test engine on CD-ROM features 425 practice questions and pre- and post-assessment capabilities. Choose timed or untimed testing mode; generate random tests or focus on discrete objectives or chapters; and get detailed explanations for right and wrong answers—including pointers back to the book for further study. You also get a 180-day evaluation version of Windows Server 2003 software—making this kit an exceptional value and a great career investment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

a good book which gets the job done
I bought this book as it had good reviews. And I must say every bit of it is true.
The book is written clearly for everybody to understand. Allthough I haven't taken the exam yet I'm pretty sure I'll pass thanks to this book.

Very dry manual
This book was kind of helpful, but in the end I just studied on my own.The book was so dry it was very hard to keep motivated to keep studying.Between other review programs, and just plain old working in the field, this book was only marginally helpful for passing my MCSE upgrade.

Great Book To Upgrade the MCSA Certificate
Good training book to upgrade the MCSA or MCSE 2003 certificate. Easy to use and comprehensible. I recommend this book to prepare for the MCSA or MCSE Upgrade

Excellent for real world and exams
Having achieved NT, 2000, and now 2003 MCSE certification, I've found the Microsoft Press books to be mixed bags. This one, however, is excellent. Weighing in at nearly 1500 pages, it covers a lot of ground. If you read (and re-read) the entire book, as well as ALL of the test questions in the included Measure Up sample test, and follow up on unclear information/answers with the TechNet website, and of course have real-world experience, then you'll have excellent preparation for the exams.

When reading this book, I kept admiring the editing. Most tech books have some serious editing problems - unclear wording, dubious or flat-out incorrect information. With this one, I was continually impressed with how each sentence was written to say precisely what was intended, with not too many or too few words. That's not to say it's pithy - writing "Windows Server 2003" repeatedly takes up space - just that it's very well written.

The glossary and included ebooks are helpful as well. Only bummer is that you can't print from the ebooks, so when you're studying, you'll need to apply pen to paper, or go to TechNet and do some printing.

The Measure Up practice test is not nearly as well written as the book - some dubious wording, typos, and incorrectly scored questions (like the answer is A, you put A, and the test scores it wrong). However, the practice test covers topics not included in the book (!), so it's worthwile to go through it.

Oh, and Microsoft even managed to inject a bit of humor here and there.

If Microsoft Press continues publishing books like this, they'll be a strong alternative to Sybex and others.

Nearly perfect, and surely the best prepguidethere is available
I've used two preparation guides, this one and the one from Sybex. MSPress is definitely the best of these two books. Covers it all, the sybex version is too superficial and just does not cover it all, it actually lacks some important material.

This book contains lots of exercises, so you get hands on experience with all kinds of tools. Believe me, you are going to need it! The actual exam contains several simulations, so just reading about the available tools, options and functions is just not enough.

Futhermore every chapter ends with a small case study with some questions all of course regarding to stuff outlined in the chapter.

Without this book I would not have passed, both exams. ... Read more

Product Description
With this official MCSE TRAINING KIT, IT professionals learn how to install, administer, and troubleshoot Microsoft Windows XP Professional-the next edition of the Windows 2000 Professional operating system. As they build these essential system-support skills, they're also getting in-depth preparation for one of the new core exams on the Windows MCSE certification track. Topics map directly to the objectives measured by the exam; students learn through an integrated system of lessons, hands-on exercises, and self-assessment. An economical alternative to classroom instruction, this kit enables working professionals to set their own pace and learn by doing! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

book review - MCSE Training Kit Exam 70-270
I like the book. I took a training class, which didn't cover most of the topics in the book.We spent time in the class, but the explanation was for only certain topics.The book fills in the gaps, where the class had failed.I am going chapter by chapter practicing and it is helping me study for my certification.I am almost regretting paying for the class, now.Based on the fact the information was so lacking.I want to pass my test with the knowledge of knowing my craft.Not just studying to pass the test. This is the conversation I had with the salesperson at the school.

You Can't Pass the Exam with this Book
A little backgound about me, I graduated in Telecommunication field, i am a Cisco certified, and working in the networking field, and it is happened that my job now require me more Micosoft and Redhat Linux certified.

all i can say about this book is Useless and Disappointed. i can not express how disappointed i am with this microsoftpress book. it is such a wast of money and time.

the book is hard to read, each concept is not explained well at all, not deepth. especially the review questions in the book,each chapter has about 3-6 review questions, the question are decided just for kids, really... the questions in the book are very easy and not enuf they r no point and stupid.i am sure in the real exam, there will not b any questions simply ask "group policy is ______?" or "you can share _______ connection in home or small office by using ICS-Internet Connection Sharing" (asnwer=Internet). can u see how simple and stupid the questions are, and turely it just ask like this in the book.

I decided to stop and look for other resources, stop now, better than wasting my time (which i already wast my money for the book itself).

i strongly don't recommend this book to anyone, easpecialy who is preparing for exam, this book won't bring u to anywhere close.

if you want to donate your money, better make it somewhere else, not Bill's pocket, he is surely alot far richer than u, u should know that.

Disappointed --- Shall i buy MicrosoftPress' product again?

The Exam does not work
Per Microsoft Press, due to a recent update for a security fix.
KB840315
The exam that comes with this book on the CD does not work.

How did I find out?I bought the book. I tried the exam. I wrote to Microsoft Press and they told me this.

One of the best Study Guide!
After reading only few chapters I am convinced that this is one of the best books about XP. (I have 4 of them including ExamCram2) I can definitely recommend this book to any one who is seriously preparing for the MCSA/MCSE 70-270 exam. I found answers to my questions easily and I suggest to people criticizing this book that they should read "About this Book" section, where you can find the chapter and lesson related to any exam objective. The writing style is excellent and easier to read. The book was written in 2001 so for added features and improvement in XP you have to consult "Windows XP Help"(highly recommended) and MSDN (this is expected when you study for an exam). I would keep this book as my primary source for MS 70-270.

This book is a POS!!
This Book is the biggest POS I have ever had for a MCSE book. The cd is such a joke the testing software sucks so bad it does not even test you chapter by chapter. I went and took the 70-270 test and I was not ready for it at all. I went out and bought the sybex 70-270 book and its safe to say I will be so ready for the test now. The software on the sybex book lets you test yourself chapter by chapter and overall the book it set up much better. ... Read more

Product Description

The MCSE 70-270 Exam Cram 2: Windows XP Professional, Second Edition is an efficient, effective and concise guide that gives you exactly what you need to know to pass one of the most popular exams in the MCSE program. Organized according to the exam objectives, you will be able to quickly and easily assess your understanding of the key exam topics. You will find test-taking strategies and timesaving tips that will help you score better on the test, and the popular Cram Sheet tearcard is include for last-minute review on exam day. Also included are over 200 practice questions with detailed answers and an innovative test-engine on CD from MeasureUp. With all of these great features and proven study methods, MCSE 70-270 Exam Cram 2: Windows XP Professional, Second Edition is your smartest way to get certified.

Customer Reviews (31)

A must have for certification!
All that you need to know and only what you need to know for passing an exam. Ive achieved many certifications with just this series combined with either the Microsoft press and/or Sybex certification series of books. You dont need to spend thousands on a course, just buy this book for learning the theory and the Microsoft or Sybex books for practice. Use the Microsoft or Sybex book first to get the practice then the exam cram book to learn what you need to know for the exam.

ExamCram for IT Certification studies
So far Ive passed several entry level IT certifications using ExamCram products (A+, Network+, and Security+ (used ExamCram exclusively); this review is a placeholder of the results after I take my test at the end of this month (Jan2010, if not feb2010).Lets put it this way, I have just recently (3 months ago) crossed over to the IT career field, so yes, im a "N00B"), just got the MS 70-270 book, and just put the typical ExamCram Study Guide and Practice Exam books on order through Amazon to complement it.Of course, as simple as Windows XP sounds (its been out all these years, you'd think anyone would pass it 1st shot), but they dont call this exam "the beast" for no reason, and I would rather not want to go through the process of getting the wind taken out of my sails by going through a failure.Lets see how it goes!

Not delivered with everything
Well, first of all, it took forever for the delivery. Then the book doesn't come with the CD! I'm a visual learner and I was hoping the book came with everything because the Ad didn't say it was being delivered without the CD. In other words, someone lost the CD and sold the book without it. That should have been advertised! See below:

"The accompanying CD features PrepLogic(tm) Practice Tests, Preview Edition. This product includes one complete PrepLogic Practice Test with approximately the same number of questions found on the actual vendor exam. Each question contains full, detailed explanations of the correct and incorrect answers. The engine offers two study modes, Practice Test and Flash Review, full exam customization, and a detailed score report."

I'm glad I didn't lose that much moey but in this economy, good money is good money.

Good review before test day!
I would recommend this book to anybody that is about to take 70-270. I would say a word of caution though about this book. It is truly intended to be a suppliment to actual training from either a interactive self-paced class like Test Out or Prep Logic. If you try to pass the 70-270 with this book alone you may run in to difficulty. Also, I would recommend exam insurance from Microsoft if your testing center allows it.

A good start for 26 bucks
This book provides a real good start with less than 500 pages.But you will never pass the test just from the material in this book.Taking the advice of others before me, I obtained all the info I needed from this book, plus the Windows XP resource kit (available free online or in paperback) and "Changes to Functionality in Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2" (Also an online microsoft resource). ... Read more

Product Description

MCAD/MCSD/MCSE Training Guide (70-229): SQL Server 2000 Database Design and Implementation is the perfect study guide to help you pass the 70-229 exam, which is an elective for the MCSD, MCAD, MCDBA, and MCSE programs.The book follows the exam objectives and features numerous exercises to give you hands-on opportunities, exam tips that give you advice for test day, and warnings that alert you to possible mistakes. The Fast Facts section condenses the most important information for last-minute review, and the practice exam is representative of the actual exam.

Each book in the Training Guide series is published under the direction of Series Editor Ed Tittel, the leading authority on IT certification. This book has been subjected to rigorous technical review by a team of industry experts, ensuring content is superior in both coverage and technical accuracy, and has earned the distinction of Cramsession™ Approved Study Material.

The CD features PrepLogic™ Practice Tests, Preview Edition. This product includes one complete PrepLogic Practice Test with approximately the same number of questions found on the actual vendor exam. Each question contains full, detailed explanations of the correct and incorrect answers. The engine offers two study modes, Practice Test and Flash Review, full exam customization, and a detailed score report.

Customer Reviews (18)

rich99man
The book covers the practical training side of this rather broad topic quite well. Having no business experience in this area, I was looking for a vehicle to get this SQL Server thing down for my own use and as preparation for certification. I found the explanations of the subject areas were well-written, thorough, and helpful. Other sources such as Books Online and some of the more reference oriented texts are quite valuable supplements.

Having taken certification exams in the past, it was clear that the task of exam preparation is a separate animal and overpromised here.There is the ExamCram2 series that picks through this material and goes a long way to addressing that objective. Having certified with this pair, maybe there is a new job somewhere.

The book could use a reedit, but overall it is quite coherent.

MCDBA, MCSE, MCSD, MCAD Training Guide
The book met the requirements of the course it was being used for... it was how ever a little bit lax on the code portion...when it came to doing the project it left a bit to be desired in clarity of how to build a data base in SQL...

Horrible!!
Why can't authors ever flow through a book in an ordely manner?What is the point of jumping from chapter to chapter?For example, many times through out this book references are being made to up coming chapters about specific topics in chapters that don't belong there.Why do you tell the reader about an up coming topic in a chapter that doesn't belong there and then ask a question about it in the chapter test.Why even make a chapter about that specific topic if your going to include it in a chapter that doesn't belong there?Thats a little redundent!!Also the author likes to give you examples on how to do certain things the right way, and then tests you on something he never covered in the chapter.If the topic has nothing to do with the chapter, do not include in the chapter.If you do include it into a chapter in which it doesn' belong, don't include it into the chapter test.How do you expect the reader to completely understand and answer the question if he or she knows nothing about it?Unless, your wanting the reader to stop what there doing, flip to the chapter and read it, then go back to the previous chapter your testing on just for that one little question that doesn't belong.Rediculous!!

Good, but not as dead on as others in the series
I just passed the 70-229 exam this morning with an 862. My study strategy involved reading this book cover to cover over a 2 week period and taking some uCertify practice exams.

While I have absolutely LOVED the other books for the MCAD (by Amit Kalani) I feel this book was not nearly as effective. It had a lot of focus on items that the exam didn't touch (and neither did the 4 practice exams I took) and it actually didn't touch on some items that were on the exam.

I would, however, still recommend the book. It was easy to read and had good flow and descriptions; it is an excellent base to add to with exams or other cram style books. I would say that this book got me to 60% and the practice exams got me the remaining 26% of my score.

great book
not only it prepared me for the exam, but also gave me quite insight in practical enviornment. ... Read more