I want to take the Active Directory Configuration exam in 1 month. I have worked in Active Directory for just under a year now. But mostly performing password resets, workstation name assignments and user addition to groups. I have used GPO Editor in an academic environment but never implemented changes in a working environment. This is the extent of my AD/Server 2008 knowledge. I am however a fast learner and I have a student copy of Server 2008 to expirament with and I work in the Users and Workstations Tool everyday.
So my question is what book should I purchase. I have two in mind but based on the reviews I am skeptical.
The Training Kit provided by MS seems like a no brainer, but got some negative reviews for grammatical errors and command syntax errors. However, it comes with a 15% off voucher, 300 practice questions and an electronic copy of the book on CD.
LINK: http://www.amazon.com/MCTS-Self-Paced-Training-Exam-70-640/dp/0735625131
The second book I’ve looked at is the Resource Kit (as opposed to Training Kit). I don’t think this book is as comprehensive. I need theory and application. But it got good reviews, although reviewers were using it for day to day operations rather than exam prep.
LINK: http://www.amazon.com/Windows-Server-Active-Directory-Resource/dp/0735625158/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241112351&sr=1-1
The third resource I am considering is practice exams through Ucertify.com (not a brain dump right?) for $70 with a money back pass-guarantee.
What do you suggest? What are your experiences with these study materials or this exam? I have a feeling I should get the Training Kit (first one I mentioned) and ignore the errors and double check any commands I’m learning for accuracy.
I know 1 month is a short period but I spend roughly 40hrs/wk working in AD environment and another 20 minimum studying and expiramenting. And its very necessary for me to get this cert ASAP.
I want to keep my study aid expense in the $50-100 range max.