Formal Server 2003/XP Pro training?

[MrHunters]

i love the mentality of the higher ups that think technology is just something you can poke a stick at and it should work.

tell em to get you proper training or you can't be held responsible for anything pertaining to your network. you could try this angle....
the amount of time it takes you (the untrained guy) is probably 4 to 5 probably more (no offense) times longer than a guy with a few classes behind their belt. they will make their money back in a couple months in productivity!!

couple things about training... ITS EXPENSIVE! 8 -12 week microsoft class can cost you around 15K! I know this because that is what I paid. If you do take the classes make sure you interview your teacher/school and find out what kind of real world experience he or she has had.

google. "paper mcse's"

Microsoft classes are based of the exam's. Make sure if you are planning on taking a test or two you do it right after the class... those suckers ain't easy.

If you are doing hardware and network troubleshooting... I highly reccomend you take a class in that.. they usually pair them together..you can find ton's of practice test online for the A+ and Net +.

I was under par for the most part in school as well but when you have to pay $125 per test non refundable...It kind of motivates you to do a touch better
hope that helps a little.
good luck bob.

[JohnR]

Bob - this is an interesting problem. Because of the nature of the information you work with, security is of the essence too. If it is not set up and managed correctly, someone could "breach" that security and really eff things up.

Not trying to complicate this dilemma even more for you but you need to get them to understand that:

Without any training you could easily muck up the works

With proper training and no experience you could still potentially muck up the works

With time & proper training you could do the work but there is still a minimal chance the works could get mucked up...

Shoot me a PM if you want to talk morew and I'll give you my #

Raven - I'm about to send you a PM too