1. Get connected through the Microsoft Virtualization On-Ramp: Sign up for “Virtualization” at http://www.microsoft.com/infrastructure/partners, and you’ll receive the latest information on exclusive webcasts, how to get the right training, how to earn the Virtualization Specialization, and any local offers for virtualization partners. Partners that fulfill the readiness element of the specialization (described below) will be recognized on the customer-facing site, www.microsoft.com/virtualization.
2. Understand the requirements for the Virtualization Specialization:
To qualify, your organization must employ or contract with two selected Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCPs) who have achieved the advanced certifications: MCSE on Microsoft Windows Server 2003, or MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. In addition, both qualifying MCPs must pass both of the following Microsoft exams:
- Exam 70-652: Configuring Windows Server Virtualization (Click here for preparation guide) English, French, German and Japanese
- Exam 70-403: Configuring System Center Virtual Machine Manager (available in Fall 2008) English, French, German and Japanese
3. Other virtualization exams (FYI)
- 70 - 656: MDOP: English only
- 70 – 643: WS Applications Infrastructure: Korean, Spanish, German, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Russian
4. Get trained
· There are many ways to prepare your staff, including Microsoft Official Curriculum (course 6422, available in September 2008), as well as the core curriculum listed below:
- Sales Training
- Core IO University (ILT & Online), September 2008 (partner link)
- Server Virtualization, Growing Your Virtualization Practice (www.msptr.com , #5507) – available today, update available in September 2008
- Technical Training - Core Curriculum at www.msptr.com . Ask your local PAM or Channel Partner for Learning Services - CPLS, about when these will be offered as Instructor-Led Training in your area.
- Server Virtualization In a Day – 1 day, 200-level, (#5449), available 28-Jul
- Server Virtualization In-Depth – 2 days, 300 level, (#5494), available 1-Aug
- Server Virtualization for VMware Experts – 2 days, 300 level (#5495), 8-Aug
- Partner Academy Live Series for On-Ramp partners
5. Check out these additional resources available today – Stay up-to -date, and find the specific URL’s by visiting http://partner.microsoft.com/virtualization.
· Virtualization Training on the Partner Learning Center - Review virtualization classes available on the Partner Learning Center. Learn how to optimize configuration and deployment, how to engage with customers, and how to deploy System Center Virtual Machine Manager.
· Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Started with Hyper-V - This guide outlines Hyper-V requirements and discusses how to install the Hyper-V role in Windows Server 2008, how to create and set up a virtual machine, and how to install the operating system and integration services.
· Presales Technical Training: Windows Server 2008 and Virtualization - Prepare for engagements by learning how Windows Server 2008 can increase availability and reduce total cost of ownership with comprehensive virtualization.