The Microsoft Exam 70-270 focuses on installing, configuring and administering Windows XP Professional. All aspects of Windows XP Professional are covered on the exam. Skills covered in the exam can be used in many businesses, especially as an IT technician or help desk support. Upon successfully completing Microsoft Exam 70-270, you'll earn the Microsoft Certified Professional certification.
Install Windows XP Professional or find another computer with Windows XP Professional installed. Hands-on tutorials are easier to study with the operating system in front of you. Before you start studying, learn how to study. Use a combination of hands-on tutorials, classes and study guides. Books are available which focus on the 70-270 exam along with other Microsoft exams, and can be purchased in many bookstores. Takes classes either online or at a local community college if possible. Microsoft offers multiple classes online covering different aspects of the exam. MSDN, part of the Microsoft network of sites, also offers training in the form of virtual labs.
Study for at least one month before registering for the exam. Study at least three hours per day, alternating between methods. Take two to three days off from studying each week and then review what you studied last to ensure you're grasping the concepts fully.
Study and practice all aspects of working with Windows XP Professional. Review installing Windows XP Professional in both an attended and unattended environment. Upgrading and post-installation activation and troubleshooting are also covered under the installation section of the exam. Study file and user permissions, file and printer sharing and creating and changing users. The 70-270 exam covers troubleshooting, installing and managing devices on Windows XP Professional, such as disk drives, printer, modems, network adapters, USB devices and keyboards.
The exam requires you to understand all networking capabilities of Windows XP Professional and be able to troubleshoot any possible issues. This includes Internet connections, Internet Information Services, Remote Desktop, VPN connections and the Internet Connection Firewall.
Register for your exam when you feel you're ready. Set the date that works best for you. Microsoft exams can be taken at Prometric and New Horizons locations. Depending on the exam, other locations may be available. Check the Microsoft website for updated locations. You may also call or visit local testing centers in your area for more information about registering for an exam.
If you don't pass your exam the first time, you can retake it after twenty-four hours. After the second try, you must wait fourteen days before taking the exam again.