Certification Advice

Experience is more important.

I would concentrate on the Microsoft Exams rather than a A+. The A+ is a beginners exam for people trying to get into the industry. As you already have a degree and a couple of years experience, you don't need the A+. Try to specialise in something as this is of more value than a jack of all trades who know a little about a lot.

IE: Databases or Mail. SQL or Exchange.

I agree with mike, the a+ is for entry level support work on pc hardware/operating systems and you are alerady doing that, if you want to further your career you need to decide what path you want to follow. Networking/programming/management all have there own paths and benefits. Networking and Microsoft certs are probably the best fit if you've enjoyed what you're doing so far as well as the cisco certifications. If you feel you want a career change but still want to be in IT, programming has its' rewards too. Go to whatever path you like and enjoy, it's more important to like the work you do and to be challenged. Good Luck!

I certainly don't think taking the A+ would be a bad decision, but it may not be necessary. It depends on the irection you want to go with your career. If you're hoping to be a bech tech (reapiring PCs) then definitely take the A+ (and follow it up with Server+ and Net+). If you want to get into LAN/WAN or system support, then I would recommend deciding the areas that interest you most and following the appropriate path. You already have passed one MS exam...perhaps the MCSA would be a good option? I'd also look at the CCNA if routing and switching interests you. I started with my CNA and CNE, but things look pretty dire for Novell these days....

Good luck...hope this helps!

Are the Comptia Server+ and Net+ more recognised than Microsoft certification? Would it be better to obtain the Comptia certification as they don't expire, whereas the Microsoft certifications will be out of date as soon as they release a newer product e.g. NT - W2K - Windows .NET 2003 ?