Microsoft offers a full range of certifications for individuals, each providing their own unique edge. Searching for a job in today's market can be rough, and the decision of who to hire is often decided by the resume you hand. Your resume may already be packed with experience and skills, or the text may be sparse on the page. Either way, adding something like Microsoft certification will certainly help you in the job search.

Microsoft certification can benefit you in many ways. The programs offered by Microsoft are constantly being updated with the latest developments so that you have everything you need to serve your employer at your fingertips. Achieving any of the certifications offered shows commitment and the ability to take on changes. With a certification, you also receive access to exclusive resources and a network of skilled professionals that is spread across the world.

The certification exams are offered in multiple languages. They are priced at $125 in the United States, but a group discount is offered in thirty countries to groups of ten or more. There are certification exams offered for everyone, from the beginning computer user to a professional IT worker. You can be certified with their operating system, with specific programs like Microsoft Office or MCSE, with the Microsoft .NET framework, and many other areas as well.

No training is required as a prerequisite by the exams, except the Microsoft Certified Master program. Preparations guides are offered for each certification, which includes a list of experience that will help you pass the test. For current students, Microsoft DreamSpark can help you prepare for your Microsoft certification exams by giving you access to online labs.

Most of the certifications will be valid until the product support for the program being tested is retired by Microsoft. Even after they have been retired, you will be able to list the certifications on your resume with the added note that the exam has been retired. In most cases, Microsoft will offer you away to update your certification to stay relevant to their current products. This is generally in the form of another test that bypasses the newest exams required for a particular credential. The legacy certifications, such as the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator will not expire, although the technology surrounding them may be updated.

In the end, if you can afford to take a Microsoft certification exam, the rewards will be worth it. The certification is a definite way to gain an edge on your competition in the job market as an individual or as a business.