Becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator

  • Certified Endpoint Administrator
  • Published by: André Hammer on Feb 06, 2024

If you're into IT and aiming to progress in your career, you might consider becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator. This certification proves your skills in handling, setting up, and safeguarding endpoints within a Microsoft 365 setup. With the rising need for capable IT experts, getting this certification can lead to new job prospects and higher pay.

Let's take a closer look at what's involved in becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator and how it can boost your career.

What Is a Certified Endpoint Administrator?

A Certified Endpoint Administrator (CEA) is in charge of keeping endpoint devices secure and compliant in an organisation. This involves managing the setup, deployment, and upkeep of security solutions to defend against malware, unauthorised access, and other threats. The CEA also ensures that operating systems and software are kept up to date and patched to reduce vulnerabilities.

To earn a CEA certification, candidates need experience with Windows and non-Windows operating systems like macOS, iOS, and Android. They should also have an understanding of networking and security basics, along with familiarity with Microsoft 365 services for device management.

The MD-102 exam for the CEA certification covers topics like app, policy, and profile management; co-management planning and implementation; authentication management; and device monitoring. Candidates must have a strong understanding of these topics to pass the exam and become certified.

The Role of Microsoft 365 in Endpoint Management

Microsoft 365 helps manage and secure devices in organizations. It offers tools like mobile device management, endpoint protection, and identity management. Certified Endpoint Administrators use these features to configure, secure, and update devices. This enhances system security and efficiency. To become certified, candidates need to understand Microsoft 365 security, compliance, and deployment, as well as have experience with Windows 10 and non-Windows devices.

The MD-102 exam covers modern device services, device and compliance management, and Windows 10 deployment. Understanding these topics is crucial for certification.

Understanding the Certification Path

Overview of MD-101 and MD-102 Exams

To become a Certified Endpoint Administrator, individuals must follow the certification path. This involves completing the MD-101 and MD-102 exams.

The MD-101 exam covers topics such as deploying and updating operating systems, managing policies and profiles, and managing and protecting devices.

On the other hand, the MD-102 exam focuses on modern desktop deployment, management, and security.

Aspiring candidates should have experience with Microsoft 365 workloads, networking, and secure messaging.

Prerequisites for these exams include a strong understanding of how to secure and manage devices with Microsoft Intune, Azure AD, and related cloud services.

Additionally, individuals should have experience with the Windows operating system and non-Windows technologies.

They should also be able to navigate command-line interfaces and do basic scripting.

Experience with managing identity, access, policies, updates, and apps is also recommended for those preparing for the certification.

Certification Levels: Fundamentals to Associate

Candidates looking to become certified in endpoint management typically start at the fundamental level. From there, they can progress to the associate level certification. The fundamental certification covers basic concepts and skills needed for managing endpoints. The associate level certification requires a deeper understanding of endpoint management and more advanced skills.

To become an Associate in endpoint management certification, individuals need to complete the fundamental certification. Then, they should gain experience in endpoint administration before attempting the associate level exam. Prerequisites for the Certified Endpoint Administrator certification may include a certain number of years of IT experience, completion of specific training courses, and passing a comprehensive exam to show proficiency in endpoint management.

These certification levels are a valuable tool for IT professionals looking to advance their careers and demonstrate their expertise in endpoint management, without needing specific brand-related training or certification.

Roadmap to Becoming an Associate

To become an Associate, you progress through certification levels from Fundamentals to Associate. Each level builds on the previous one, leading to the expertise required for the Associate level.

For the Certified Endpoint Administrator certification, candidates must understand endpoint management, security, and compliance in a Microsoft 365 environment. Prerequisites include a fundamental understanding of Microsoft 365 workloads, networking, and security concepts.

Microsoft 365 plays a key role in endpoint management, providing tools and features to streamline administration and security. Understanding this role is essential for those seeking certification as Certified Endpoint Administrators and progressing through the Associate level.

Prerequisites for Certified Endpoint Administrator Certification

Recommended Experience

Experience in endpoint management, Microsoft 365, and related areas is highly recommended for individuals pursuing the Certified Endpoint Administrator certification.

This includes configuring, managing, and troubleshooting hardware and software issues on endpoint devices like desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. Practical experience in implementing and managing Microsoft 365 services, such as Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Microsoft Teams, can provide valuable insights directly applicable to the topics covered in the certification exam.

Furthermore, experience in related areas like network security and identity management can also enhance an individual's readiness for the certification. Combining practical experience with theoretical knowledge can position candidates for success in the certification process and their future roles as endpoint administrators.

Skills and Knowledge Required

To become a Certified Endpoint Administrator, you need to understand various IT concepts. These include network security, troubleshooting, and system configuration. It's also important to have skills in software installation, data backup and recovery, and endpoint encryption.

Knowledge in operating systems, virtualization, and cloud computing is also necessary for the certification. While prior experience in endpoint management or IT administration isn't mandatory, it can be helpful. Familiarity with security protocols and industry standards is also beneficial.

By combining practical skills and theoretical knowledge, individuals can prepare to effectively manage and secure endpoint devices in an organization.

Exam Details for Certified Endpoint Administrator

MD-102 Exam Structure

The MD-102 exam structure for the certified Endpoint Administrator certification consists of multiple-choice questions and performance-based tasks. The exam assesses knowledge and skills in endpoint management, including deployment, configuration, management, and maintenance of Windows 10 and non-Windows devices.

Topics covered include operating system deployment, updates and policies, application management, device enrollment and management, and configuration profiles. The scoring and results are based on the candidate's ability to demonstrate their understanding of core concepts and perform specific tasks related to endpoint administration.

Candidates receive a detailed score report that provides an overview of their performance in different exam areas, allowing them to identify strengths and areas for improvement. This exam structure ensures that certified Endpoint Administrators possess the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and secure organizational endpoints.

Topics Covered in the MD-102 Exam

The MD-102 Exam is for Certified Endpoint Administrator certification. It covers topics like Windows deployment, configuration, security, maintenance, and management. It also includes understanding Windows 10 features, Microsoft 365 services, policies, and application management.

The exam delves into the implementation of modern management and co-management strategies. Candidates are expected to have knowledge of Microsoft Intune, Azure AD, and Azure AD Connect.

Regarding Microsoft 365, the exam covers topics such as configuring and managing identity and access, implementing and managing threat protection, and monitoring and reporting in Microsoft 365.

The MD-102 Exam requires candidates to have a good understanding of networking, Active Directory, and mobile device management. It is recommended that candidates have at least one year of experience in endpoint management in an enterprise environment before taking the exam. This includes working with Microsoft 365 workloads and using critical thinking and decision-making across a broad spectrum of endpoint devices.

Scoring and Results

The Certified Endpoint Administrator certification exam uses a scoring system. It's based on how well candidates perform in the tasks and questions.

The MD-102 exam results determine if a candidate passes the Certified Endpoint Administrator certification.

The pass mark for the MD-102 exam is set to show that candidates have the right knowledge and skills for endpoint administration.

Meeting this pass mark means the candidate is certified as an Endpoint Administrator.

Preparing for the Certified Endpoint Administrator Certification

To get the Certified Endpoint Administrator Certification, candidates need to know about Microsoft 365 workloads. They should be good at deploying, configuring, securing, managing, and monitoring devices and client applications in a business.

The MD-102 exam, part of the certification, covers topics like deploying and updating operating systems, managing policies and profiles, protecting devices, and managing apps and data.

It's best if candidates have at least one year of experience with Microsoft 365 workloads and strong IT skills. They should be good with Windows PowerShell and other command-line tools. Also, they should know about networking, IT security, and device management principles.

This helps them show they can manage and secure devices and applications in a business.

Wrapping up

Becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator means gaining skills to manage and secure endpoints in a Microsoft 365 environment. This certification shows expertise in tasks like implementing, managing, and securing endpoints. It also involves responding to threats and managing compliance within the organization. Getting this certification can open up better job opportunities and enhance credibility in the field of IT.

Readynez offers a 5-day Microsoft 365 Certified Endpoint Administrator Course and Certification Program, providing you with all the learning and support you need to successfully prepare for the exam and certification. The Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator course, and all our other Microsoft courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Microsoft Training offer, where you can attend the Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator and 60+ other Microsoft courses for just €199 per month, the most flexible and affordable way to get your Microsoft Certifications.

Please reach out to us with any questions or if you would like a chat about your opportunity with the Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator certification and how you best achieve it. 

FAQ

What are the requirements to become a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator?

To become a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator, you must pass exam MS-101: Microsoft 365 Mobility and Security. You also need hands-on experience with Intune, Azure Active Directory, and security compliance.

What is the exam format for Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator certification?

The exam format for Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator certification typically includes multiple-choice questions, case studies, and interactive items. For example, you may be asked to troubleshoot a simulated endpoint management scenario.

What topics are covered in the Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator exam?

The Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator exam covers topics such as managing identity, access, policies, and updates for devices within an organization. It also includes security and threat protection, as well as monitoring and reporting on the overall endpoint environment.

How can I prepare for the Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator exam?

You can prepare for the Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator exam by studying official Microsoft learning materials, practicing with hands-on labs, and taking practice exams. Additionally, joining study groups or seeking guidance from experienced professionals can also be helpful.

What are the benefits of becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator?

Becoming a Microsoft Certified Endpoint Administrator can lead to career advancement, increased job opportunities, and higher earning potential. Employers value this certification as it demonstrates a deep understanding of managing and securing devices in a corporate environment.

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