If you're going through this material there's a good chance that either you want to get into networking and an MCSE certificate appeals to you, or you could already be in IT and you know that you need a qualification such as MCSE.

When researching MCSE's, you'll come across training providers that short-change you by not providing the latest version from Microsoft. Steer clear of such training providers as you will face problems in the exam. If your knowledge is of the wrong version, it is going to be hugely difficult to get qualified. Don't be pushed into a course for MCSE without the right advice. Look for a training company who will make sure that you're on a well matched program for your requirements.

What is the reason why traditional academic studies are being replaced by more commercial certificates? Corporate based study (to use industry-speak) is more effective in the commercial field. The IT sector has become aware that specialisation is necessary to service the demands of a technologically complex world. CISCO, Adobe, Microsoft and CompTIA are the dominant players. Of course, a certain degree of background detail needs to be covered, but essential specialisation in the required areas gives a vendor trained person a distinct advantage.

If an employer understands what areas they need covered, then they simply need to advertise for the particular skill-set required. Commercial syllabuses all have to conform to the same requirements and aren't allowed to deviate (in the way that degree courses can).

Exam 'guarantees' are sometimes offered as part of a training package - inevitably that means paying for the exams at the very beginning of your studies. However, prior to embracing this so-called guarantee, be aware of the facts:

Obviously it's not free - you're still coughing up for it - the cost has just been rolled into the whole training package. Those who enter their exams one by one, funding them as they go are much better placed to get through first time. They're mindful of their investment and take the necessary steps to be ready for the task.

Take your exams somewhere close to home and look for the very best offer you can at the time. Big margins are made by a number of companies that incorporate exam fees into the cost of the course. Many students don't take them for one reason or another but no refunds are given. Surprising as it sounds, there are companies around that actually bank on it - and that's how they increase their profits. It's worth noting that exam re-takes with training course providers with an 'Exam Guarantee' are always heavily controlled. They'll insist that you take mock exams first till you've proven conclusively that you can pass.

Paying maybe a thousand pounds extra on an 'Exam Guarantee' is short-sighted - when study, commitment and preparing with good quality mock and practice exams is what will really guarantee success.

Don't get hung-up, as many people do, on the training course itself. Training for training's sake is generally pointless; this is about gaining commercial employment. Stay focused on what it is you want to achieve. Avoid becoming one of the unfortunate masses who select a program that on the surface appears interesting - and end up with a certification for a job they hate.

Spend some time thinking about earning potential and whether you're an ambitious person or not. Sometimes, this affects which precise qualifications will be expected and what industry will expect from you in return. Prior to embarking on a particular training program, it makes sense to talk through specific market requirements with an experienced industry advisor, to ensure the learning path covers everything needed.

Talk to almost any proficient consultant and you'll be surprised by their many worrying experiences of how students have been duped by salespeople. Make sure you deal with a professional advisor that digs deep to find out what's appropriate to you - not for their retirement-fund! You must establish an ideal starting-point that fits you. If you've got a strong background, or even a touch of real-world experience (some industry qualifications maybe?) then it's likely your starting point will be quite dissimilar from a student that is completely new to the industry. Starting with a foundation module first can be the best way to commence your computer program, depending on your skill level at the moment.

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