Windows 8 Training and Certification

Learn about free and fee-based training opportunities available from Microsoft to help you strengthen your knowledge and skills around Windows 8 deployment and management, including related technologies, and prepare for Microsoft Certification.

Springboard Series Spotlight

Windows 8 Jump Start Training

Take advantage of free, online, fast-paced training courses designed specifically for experienced IT professionals with jobs that demand that they know how to best leverage the emerging features and technologies in Windows 8.

Tips and Tricks for IT Pros See what's new in Windows 8 for the IT professional from keyboard shortcuts to the Windows App Store. Access to Windows Explore virtualization scenarios for Windows 8 such as Windows To Go and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. Windows Apps Learn how to deploy applications in Windows 8, sideload apps, and centrally manage apps once deployed.

Windows 8 Deployment Learn how to simplify planning and deployment, and ease migration from earlier versions of Windows. Anywhere Productivity Find out how to provide a consistent Windows 8 user experience across devices and desktops. Recovery and Security Learn how to better control, secure, and manage Windows 8 PCs with BitLocker, UEFI, Secure Boot, and more.

Microsoft Virtual Academy

Improve your IT skill set and help advance your career with this free online learning experience. Microsoft Virtual Academy offers a variety of online training materials and self-assessment exams. Learn at your own pace and collect points for community recognition.

Want to learn more? Read the Getting Started Guide and explore frequently asked questions, then visit the Microsoft Virtual Academy home page to sign up.

Current Windows 8 Tracks

• Exploring Windows 8
  Find out what's new in Windows 8 and get an overview of key features for IT professionals.
• Planning and Preparing for Windows 8
  Learn how to inventory apps and hardware, assess compatibility, and conduct a successful pilot deployment of Windows 8.
• Deploying Windows 8
  Receive guidance and tools to help you prepare to deploy Windows 8 using proven best practices and the free tools in the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit.
• Operating and Managing a Secure Windows 8 Environment
  Explore the security and privacy options in Windows 8 and learn how to manage a secure Windows 8 environment.

Windows Client Certification

Microsoft Certifications are designed to provide the recognition you need to help you excel in your career and provide employers with validation of your skills. Getting certified on the Windows operating system can help you prove to customers and employers that you have the technical skills necessary to do the job, and do it well.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Certification

MCSA: Windows 8
Prove you have the expertise to configure, manage, and maintain a Windows 8 enterprise system.

Step 1: Configuring Windows 8

• Required exam - Exam 70-687: Configuring Windows 8
• Training materials - Course 20687A: Configuring Windows 8 and Training Guide: Configuring Windows 8

Step 2: Managing and Maintaining Windows 8

• Required exam - Exam 70-688: Managing and Maintaining Windows 8
• Training materials - Course 20688A: Managing and Maintaining Windows 8 and Exam Ref 70-688: Managing and Maintaining Windows 8

Note: Already have a Windows 7 Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certification? Upgrade to the latest MCSA: Windows 8 certification by taking a single exam, Exam 70-689: Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA Windows 8.