Like this article? We recommend
Like this article? We recommend
Like this article? We recommend
VMware
To validate knowledge of their software, VMware offers three levels of certification. The first, VMware Certified Professional (VCP), is an entry-level designation designed for individuals just starting to work with VMware virtualization products. The first step toward achieving VCP certification is completing required instructional courses. Candidates without any prior VMware certifications must choose one course from a list of three (vSphere Install, Configure and Manage, vSPhere Fastrack, or vSphere Troubleshooting) and complete the four to five day course to begin their certification path.
Currently, VCP certification is offered for the latest version of the company’s software, vSphere 4. Professionals certified with version 2 or earlier of vSphere must complete one of the courses listed above in order to move on to the certification exam. For candidates already certified on vSphere 3 or having completed required courses for version 3 of the certification, however, only a two-day course covering the new elements of version 4 is required.
After completing the required coursework, all VCP candidates must pass the VCP 4 Exam to be awarded certification. The exam contains 85 questions that deal with managing ESX/ESXi hardware, the vCenter server, and vSphere. Basic troubleshooting and alarm topics are also covered on the 90-minute exam.
VMware’s intermediate-level certification is VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP). The VCAP designation is available in two specialties: Datacenter Administration and Datacenter Design. The former is targeted at system administrators and engineers and validates knowledge of the management and maintenance of vSphere and vCenter while the latter focuses on the skills needed by system architects to design virtual systems for enterprise environments. Each specialty certification requires candidates to be VCP certified and complete one exam based around the specialty they choose. For more information on the format and scheduling of these exams, visit http://mylearn.vmware.com/mgrReg/plan.cfm?plan=16548&ui=www_cert
At the top of the VMware certification hierarchy is VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX). The certification is designed for experienced professionals with multiple years of experience working in enterprise environments running VMware software. Being awarded VCDX status is an extensive process that begins with gaining VCP certification on vSphere 4. Next, candidates must receive VCAP certification in both specialties (Datacenter Administration and Datacenter Design). The final step of certification is submitting a VCDX application and scheduling a presentation session. At this session, candidates must complete an interview and present and defend a VMware Infrastructure and Design Implementation Plan. The submitted plan may either be an actual project or a fictitious one that the candidate feels most thoroughly demonstrates their knowledge and skills. Every candidate is expected to be able to explain and defend their design decisions, as well as elaborate on the implications of each.
To learn more about all of VMware’s certifications go to http://www.vmware.com/services/.