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I am frequently asked or come across the question about PowerShell exams and certifications. Typically an IT pro has been learning PowerShell and wants to know if there is a Microsoft exam or certification that will validate their knowledge. I have no secret insights or access to Microsoft exams and certifications, but I can still confidently state, that there will never be a dedicated PowerShell exam or certification from Microsoft. If you stop and think about this for a moment, it makes sense.
There is no dedicated exam or certification for a technology like TCP-IP. But, that is a core operating system technology that you must understand to pass some Microsoft exams, which ultimately lead to certification. In many ways, PowerShell is no different. There is PowerShell content in Microsoft exams, but it is in relationship to the underlying exam topic. If you are taking a Microsoft exam on Microsoft Exchange, then you will most likely encounter a few PowerShell related questions. Instead of answering questions on Format-Table, you’ll need to know how to use Get-Mailbox. The bottom line is that you will be tested on your knowledge of PowerShell as it relates to a specific task product.
Will we ever see certifications for Windows PowerShell? Jeff Hicks doesn’t think so. (Image: Dreamstime)
However, there is one other possible option if you are seeking independent validation of your PowerShell skills. PowerShell.org, which is a non-profit organization devoted to PowerShell, used to offer a Verified Effective exam. This was a private examination that verified your PowerShell skills. Sadly, as with any certification, it only has value if enough of the right people recognize it. While the testing process itself was effective, the program over all never gained traction. Just recently PowerShell.org has announced a discontinuance of the program. However, if you are attending the PowerShell Summit in Charlotte, NC this year, then you still have an opportunity to take the exam. There’s an outside chance the exam will be offered at future events. It is hard to say if the exam has an relevance as far as your manager goes, but if nothing else there is a great deal of personal satisfaction in passing the exam.
According to PowerShell.org, in the long run we may see self-assessments from companies like Smarterer. Or you can use video training courseware like my Pluralsight courses as benchmarks for your PowerShell expertise. In any event, the best way to learn PowerShell and demonstrate proficiency is by using it everyday.
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