www.e-skillsnto.org.uk/qualify guide for individuals 

MCSE NT4 track vs Customer Systems Support Level 3 NVQ/SVQ

This analysis covers the 'NT 4 track MCSE', a comparison of the Windows 2000 track MCSE is also available.

These two qualifications relate to people working in installation and maintenance of software/hardware platforms. The Microsoft Certified System Engineer proves you have knowledge of how to plan, implement and support information systems in a wide range of computing environments using the Microsoft Windows NT Server and BackOffice integrated family of products. The Customer Systems Support Level 3 NVQ/SVQ proves that you work successfully as a system support engineering. Together these two qualifications will show that you have successfully worked in an environment employing these Microsoft products.

They overlap in the area of technical knowledge. If you already have the Microsoft qualification then this will count against some of the knowledge requirements of the SVQ or NVQ.

In summary:

• MCSE proves a candidate has a current and sound knowledge base in the architecture and deployment of key Microsoft operating systems and networking methods
• NVQ proves a candidate possesses a range of real world experiences in the installation and repair of systems, and competence in managing the systems employed in his/her organisation or customer environment
• A candidate with both will have proven knowledge and competence in maintaining, installing and repairing MS and competitive products in a working environment.

Both qualifications serve useful purposes but together they provide a uniquely effective method of measuring a candidate's performance and potential.

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