Building Your Team with VMware Certification

The need for talented employees – and not being able to find them – is an issue faced by many IT departments, consulting firms, and others. The official VMware blog points out several statistics regarding the “IT skill gap”, with over half of IT executives and managers reporting concerns about the quality and quantity of IT talent available. Many businesses address this skills gap through retraining, rather than new hires. 57% of employers noted they would retain and retrain workers, rather than make a substantial amount of new hires.

The IT space is one of the most competitive. With so many firms competing for market share, and a lack of qualified IT professionals, the competition for both business and employees can be brutal. In order to compete, employers must be able to keep a talented staff to effectively serve their clients. In a recent survey of 120,000 IT professionals, when asked what their direct manager could do to improve job satisfaction or engagement, the top response (aside from salary, benefits, and promotion) was training opportunities.

One of the most valuable IT certifications, and areas of knowledge, is within that of VMware and virtualization technologies. By offering VMware certification and training to IT talent, businesses are able to retain their most talented IT professionals as well as improving the common knowledge of their firm. Employees win by getting certified in one of the most rapidly growing fields of the IT sector, expanding their knowledge, allowing them to work on more rewarding projects and expand their career opportunities, while employers benefit from having a team well-versed in the high-demand field of virtualization services.

More than 60% of managers say IT teams benefit from staff with certifications, and that those certifications add to the value of the team. The VMware Certified Associate is a great place to start in building this foundation. The cost of a VCA Voucher  for your team members is minimal compared to the value that certification adds to your IT team

If you’re interested in learning more about how VMware Certification benefits your team and your technology professionals, visit the official VMware blog; or visit VMware Certification Marketplace for training materials, practice exams, books, and everything else you need to propel your IT team to success.

VMware Recertification - What You Need To Know

Every professional knows that continuing education is required to excel in his or her field. Everyone, from lawyers to doctors and medical professionals, must stay up to date on the latest developments in order to succeed in their career. This is exceptionally true for the rapidly changing world of information technology, and even more for virtualization technologies. 

In order to address the rapid changes in the world of virtualization, VMware has instituted a recertification policy to ensure that VMware certification holders stay up to date on the latest developments in virtualization technologies. The new recertification policy is designed to give employers confidence that the IT professionals they hire are up to date and have the required skills to manage and implement the most recent, and most effective VMware methodologies.

VMware’s software releases have taken on a faster development cycle, leading to updates and new releases being pushed out faster. This has led VMware to institute their recertification policy. The new policy is similar to that of other IT certifications, such as CompTIA.

From VMware:

“VCP holders must recertify by taking a VCP level exam or advancing to VCAP or VCDX level certification within two years of earning their most recent VCP certification. Prerequisite course requirements are waived, but the exam and exam cost are the same as those required for initial certification. Failure to recertify by the required date will result in revocation of your certification.”

There are several ways to fulfill the requirements and guidelines set forth by the new VMware certification policy. These include:

• Retake the same exam for your current certification - If you have VCP3 certification in the Datacenter virtualization, you can take the VCP5 – Data Center exam to keep your current credentials.
   
• Earn a different certification at the same level – For those holding VCP certification, they can keep their VMware certified status by taking ANY VCP exam and earning that certification. A VCP3 – Data Center certified professional could earn the VCP5-Cloud certification and fulfill recertification requirements.
  
  
• Earn a higher level certification – VMware also allows recertification by earning a more advanced certification. VCP3 holders can get certified at the VMware Advanced Professional or VMware Design Expert level and retain VMware certified status.

You can learn more about the VMware recertification policy from VMware’s site.

No matter which certification path you choose, VMware Certification Marketplace is here to help – with exam vouchers, practice exams, learning resources and everything else you need to stay up to date on the newest VMware programs and procedures!

VMware vs. CompTIA vs. Microsoft – Choosing the Right Virtualization Certification

Currently, the two most prevalent certification organizations are CompTIA and Microsoft. Both organizations offer a wide variety of certifications for different specializations within the technology field, offering certified professionals a variety of career opportunities.

For IT professionals looking for the right certification to take, the choices can be overwhelming. When it comes to the IT subspecialty of virtualization, candidates are faced with several choices. In this article, we’re going to be comparing the three most popular certifications that involve virtualization: Cloud+ from CompTIA, MCSE and its Cloud-focused programs from Microsoft, and the VMware Professional Certification from VMware.

Almost every IT professional is familiar with CompTIA. Designed to provide vendor-neutral information technology certifications, CompTIA certifications focus more on hardware and core IT concepts than individual programs. The Cloud+ certification focuses on the infrastructure that makes virtualization possible – setting up the servers and hardware required for an effective virtualization environment. While CompTIA Cloud+ does touch on software systems and utilizing them for managing virtual machines, datacenters and services; it does not cover the specifics of any one program in great detail, which can lead to knowledge gaps.

Being by far the largest software company in the world, it’s no surprise that Microsoft offers a vast array of certifications, including several which cover various aspects of virtualization. With the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification, professionals can choose from various specialties focused on Microsoft products. Certification specialties include Server Infrastructure (which would be comparable to VCP programs focused on ESXi); Desktop Infrastructure (comparable to VCP-DT – Desktop Virtualization), focusing on network architecture and incorporating some cloud components; Private Cloud, focusing on intranet cloud storage and services at the enterprise level; and individual programs such as SharePoint and Lync managed out of a virtual platform. While providing many options and subspecialties, no one certification pathway provides the full set of knowledge needed to become a virtualization expert. Microsoft’s programs cover a lot of different aspects – making them great for those working with various systems – but outside of Microsoft programs such as Windows Server, SQL Server and SharePoint; there’s not a lot of specialization involved.

VMware Certification only focuses on virtualization and the infrastructure and software needed to effectively run virtualization environments on the VMware platform. Much like Microsoft, there are many sub-specializations available for those seeking the VMware Certified Professional certification such as VCP-DV, focusing on datacenter virtualization; VCP-DT, which focuses on desktop virtualization and delivery of services; and Certified Professional on vSphere 5, which focuses on managing virtualization environments using the vSphere hypervisor. Since these tests focus exclusively on the VMware platform, they cover all aspects of using VMware and give knowledge on utilizing specific programs such as vSphere 5 hypervisor, vApps, and how to integrate programs such as Microsoft SQL Server 2005 into VMware environments. Considering that VMware is the world’s leading virtualization platform, this is typically the certification of choice for those wanting to really drill down into the specialty of virtualization. 

At VMware Certification Marketplace, we aim to help every customer achieve their career goals by earning virtualization certification. Visit our books selection not only for VMware books, but materials which cover all aspects of virtualization. If the VMware certification is right for you, visit us for exam vouchers and everything you need to earn your VMware Certified Professional designation.

Enhancing Your Education with VMware Certification

Many professionals in the field of information technology come from an academic background that focuses on technology skills such as management information systems, computer science, and advanced mathematics. Many IT professionals have also found themselves in the technology field not through their academic background, but through career experience – having become the de-facto technology expert at their company, and building their knowledge through the workplace.

For those who have spent years studying or working with information technology, a certification can still be extremely valuable. Many professionals with previous experience overlook the value of having a certification, believing that their academic and work experiences are sufficient enough to land the job they want. However, for both those just beginning their careers and those with years of experience, a certification provides an immense value that helps them achieve their goals in a number of ways.

• Hiring – Having a VMware certification, or other specialized certification, helps candidates stand out from the rest of the pack. As IT departments expand and systems become more complex, hiring managers and companies look for professionals with specialized skills to manage individual components of their technology infrastructure. Hiring managers are more likely to select those professionals with a certification which matches the job role. For companies looking for a virtualization architect or engineer, they are much more likely to hire those who have a VMware certification confirming that they are specialists in virtualization infrastructure.
  
• Specialization – Beyond just the hiring process, certification allows professionals to build their knowledge in a particular area. A general computer science academic program covers much of the theory of IT and gives professionals the framework they need for career success, but a certification allows them to drill down and assert themselves as an expert in one particular aspect. For example, a computer science graduate – or anyone with a background in IT – understands the concepts and basics of a datacenter. Those who have earned the VMware VCP-510 certification have shown that they not only understand the concepts of a datacenter, but they also know how to implement, design, and manage datacenters on the VMware virtualization platform. Studying for the VCP-510 and earning the certificate allows professionals to build their knowledge base, learn the skills they need, and be recognized for it.
  
  
• Value – The return on investment for those with certifications is incredibly high. For the cost of the exam and training, professionals have the ability to command a much larger salary, often tens of thousands of dollars more than those without certification. A certification provides an unmatched level of negotiating power, job security, and career opportunities because those who are certified have proven that they are a knowledgeable expert in their field.

If you’re an IT professional who works with the VMware virtualization platform, becoming certified as a VMware Certified Professional, Associate, Advanced Professional or Design Expert allows you to open the door to more opportunities and a higher salary while allowing you to be officially recognized by the world’s leading virtualization company as an expert on the VMware platform. Visit VMware Certification Marketplace for study guides, exam vouchers, and everything else you need to establish yourself as an expert in the growing field of virtualization technology.

Desktop vs. Datacenter - The Right VCP5 Certification for You

Like Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and other organizations which grant IT certifications, VMware offers a variety of different certificate programs; each of which focus on a different skillset and specialty within the world of virtualization. There are several levels of VMware Certification – Associate/Professional and Advanced.

The VMware Certified Professional designation recognizes those who already have previous experience working with virtualization systems and are looking to establish themselves as knowledgeable professionals within the sphere of virtual systems. However, there are several subspecialties available when earning the VMware Certified Professional designation. Two of the most commonly pursued certifications at the professional level include VCP5-DCV – Data Center Virtualization and VCP5-DT Desktop. While both are recognized as VMware professionals, each certification has different requirements and topics covered, preparing the professional for a different role within the IT field.

The VMware Certified Professional 5 – Desktop (VCP5-DT) Exam certification is for individuals just beginning their virtualization careers or for analysts and technicians who work with individual users at the desktop level. This specialization focuses more on the end-user experience when working with VMware, making programs and data accessible to users, and working with the VMware View management system. To earn this VMware certification, professionals must either first attend a qualifying VMware course OR currently hold VCP5-DV Data Center Virtualization or VCP-Cloud Certification credentials. Candidates must be able to configure the vSphere environment, possess a deep understanding of VMware core components and their relation to storage and networking, and be proficient in datacenter design methodologies.

VMware Certified Professional 5 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP5-DV) Exam is for individuals who already have experience with VMware systems and those who work on wide-scale, enterprise-level virtualization environments. This certification focuses more heavily on design, planning, and implementation, rather than focusing on the end-user. VCP5-DV certification is available to those who have a minimum of six months of experience working with VMware and complete the required course or currently have VCP-DT certification. For those who already have VCP4 training and have completed a qualifying course, the VCP5-DV exam is available after completing a “What’s New in VCP5” course. VCP-DV certification confirms that you have the education needed to successfully install, deploy, scale, and manage VMware vSphere environments.

Which certification is right for you? There are several options available to you based on your job function, experience with VMware, and your career goals. VMware offers comprehensive information about the VCP5-DV and VCP5-DT certifications on their website. When you’re ready to take the next step and earn your certification, visit us at VMware Certification Marketplace for books, study guides, practice tests, exam vouchers and everything you need to earn your virtualization certification. 

VMware Partner Exchange 2014

The VMware Partner Exchange 2014 has taken place in beautiful San Francisco, CA; running from February 10th to the14th. Throughout the year, VMware has several partner exchanges allowing professionals of the virtualization world to get together and explore the latest concepts in virtualization technology.

VMware offers insider information about new products and services, as well as boot camps, keynotes, networking events and more. The Solutions Exchange features 93 sponsors and exhibitors showcasing the latest virtualization consulting, design and administration services as well as VMware platform hardware. The VMware Partner Exchange also features VMware Design Expert defenses, where those looking to obtain the highest level of virtualization certification present revolutionary concepts in virtualization and must defend their projects to a panel of the world’s foremost VMware experts.

Among the topics highlighted at the February Partner Exchange is the use of Software Defined Datacenter technologies on the VMware platform. VMware’s new Virtual SAN technology allows service providers to accommodate the $30 billion enterprise storage market, allowing providers to expand storage and offer a lower ownership cost to customers. VMware service providers can expand their footprint in existing customer environments, and offer more complete data storage and disaster recovery solutions through the use of VMware toolsets.

Other topics of interest at the February 2014 Partner Exchange include:

• Hybrid Cloud - Combing VMware’s SAN services with traditional on-site data storage solutions to create effective enterprise data storage architectures. This includes the new vCloud Hybrid Service, offering powerful data management tools and a new level of security with better data recovery procedures.
  
• Public Cloud - Exploring how academic institutions, government departments and public companies can utilize cloud technologies to share data and applications more seamlessly with the use of the VMware platform
   
• Desktop-As-A-Service - Those with VMware certification already know the abilities of VMware to deliver applications and data from a cloud server to the desktop. VMware now offers the ability to run desktop-as-a-service technology, offering additional user control and better application reliability.

VMware Partner Exchange offers virtualization professionals the change to converge, network, and share knowledge while learning the latest in VMware technologies and techniques several times per year. If you’re interested in learning about this Partner Exchange or upcoming Exchanges, visit VMware Partner Exchange Blog for more information.

Official VCP Practice Test from MeasureUp

If you’re looking to prepare for the next step in your virtualization career, VMware certification is a great way to set yourself apart – and ahead – of the competition. VMware certified professionals have demonstrated competence in the maintenance, administration, and deployment of the world’s most popular primary virtualization platform.

Becoming VMware certified requires not only textbook knowledge of how virtualization systems are implemented and used, but also requires the ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios across multiple hardware and software platforms. Certification exams cover various aspects of VMware administration and various platform types including data center and desktop deployment.

When preparing for technology certification exams, professionals trust the experience of MeasureUp’s practice exams. The Official VCP5 Practice Exam from MeasureUp, for the VCP5- DCV data center certification; combines MeasureUp’s experience in providing effective practice exams with VMware’s extensive virtualization knowledge and experience. This digital practice test includes real-world VCP test questions, with references and explanations, to ensure you fully understand the meaning behind the questions and answers. The practice exam can be taken as a timed exam, or in study mode,; offering you the flexibility to review questions in depth or take a practice run for the real exam. And, a test-pass guarantee ensures that you meet your goals – or receive your money back!


This extensive VCP practice test covers all the topics of the VCP5-DCV certification exam incluiding vSphere Networking, vSphere storage, vApps; and troubleshooting vSphere and ESXi configurations. Instant score reports allow you to track your progress and make sure that you’re ready to take the next step.

VMware Certification Marketplace offers a full line of VMware certification learning materials and practice tests, including the Official VCP5 Practice Exam from MeasureUp. Browse our selection today to begin preparing for the next step in your virtualization career. 

The Right VMware Certification for You

Technology is an incredibly fast-moving industry – parts of which didn’t even exist 20 years ago. While conventional IT concepts like server deployment, desktop troubleshooting, and networking have been around for well over a decade, virtualization has only became a major force in the IT world within the last 10 years. Unlike Microsoft, one of the industry leaders in software which has existed since the 1980s; and Cisco, the industry leader in networking technologies which has existed since 1984; VMware, the leader in virtualization services, only came into existence in 1998.

Despite its short history, VMware is one of the most rapidly growing companies in the IT industry. As companies look to manage more data across more devices, many of which are mobile, cloud computing is a skill that more businesses need at every level, from small shops to enterprise level corporations. Much like businesses that look for Microsoft Certified Professionals to manage their software; a growing number of companies are looking for VMware Certified individuals when hiring professionals to design, manage, and troubleshoot their virtualization systems.

Similar to how CompTIA, Microsoft, and Cisco have different classes of certifications, VMware offers several different levels of certification for individuals seeking to become VMware Certified:

• VMware Certified Associate (VCA) is the first level of VMware certification. IT professionals with this level of certification have demonstrated familiarity with VMware environments and virtualization concepts, and have the abilities needed to design, manage and troubleshoot basic desktop and server virtualization environments. This certification is available in specialties of Cloud Infrastructure (Cloud), Workforce Mobility (WM), and Data Center Virtualization (DCV).
   
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP5) - This industry-recognized certification requires completion of a VMware-authorized training course and hands-on experience with VMware technologies. The latest version of the VCP is the VCP5, introduced in July of 2011. The VCP5, like all previous versions of the VCP, is focused on evaluating a candidate’s ability to install, configure, and manage VMware’s virtualization platform; including skills like installation of ESXi hosts, use of VMware vCenter Server, networking, security, and configuration of high-availability. VCP Certification is available in specialties of Data Center Virtualization (DCV), Desktop Design (DTD), and Cloud Infrastructure (Cloud).
   
• VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) is VMware’s intermediate level exam. Available in Datacenter Administration (DCA), Datacenter Design (DCD), Desktop Design (DTD), Cloud Infrastructure Administration (CIA), and Cloud Infrastructure Design (CID), this program is designed for those who already have obtained VCP5 certification and are ready to prove their competency in working with more advanced virtualization environments including enterprise-level virtualization server and desktop installations.
   
• VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX) is the highest level of virtualization certification offered by VMware. The elite group of IT professionals with this certification have proven enterprise-level skills in VMware Solution design and implementation. designing, deploying and maintaining virtualization environments across a variety of devices at the enterprise level. Available in specialties of Cloud Infrastructure (Cloud) and Data Center Virtualization (DVC).

No matter what level you’re at in your IT career, VMware Certification Marketplace offers learning materials for all VMware Certification exams as well as exam vouchers for all VMware certification exams. Get your VMware Certification today and build your career – there’s real opportunity and real money to be made with virtualization!