Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification

A Firebrand Training

5

Day Course

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - Overview

The Technology Specialist certifications enable professionals to target specific technologies and distinguish themselves by demonstrating in-depth knowledge of and expertise in the technologies with which they work. Microsoft Technology Specialists are consistently capable of implementing, building, troubleshooting, and debugging a particular Microsoft technology..

The goal of our 5 day accelerated Microsoft SQL Server 2005 certification is to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement and administer Microsoft SQL Server 2005 databases. This is an accelerated, fully immersed course, designed upon the job-related tasks of a DBA.

The course is appropriate for individuals who derive physical database designs, develop logical data models, create physical databases, create data services by using Transact-SQL, manage and maintain databases, configure and manage security, monitor and optimize databases, and install and configure SQL Server.

The SQL Server 2005 Course is Appropriate for:

Database administrator
Database analysts
Database developers

Firebrand Training is unlike any other "boot camp". With Firebrand Training, you will learn more. We offer accelerated training courses that ensure professionals will emerge with thorough knowledge of the products in the shortest possible time.

Instructors are available at all times to provide individual and group attention, lead lab exercises and practice sessions, and ensure the students' success. Our attention to detail shows in our unsurpassed instruction and customer service, our classroom and testing facilities, and our individual and corporate success stories.

From the skilful crafting of our unique curriculum and careful selection of courseware to every detail of your training comfort, Firebrand Training is the best way to obtain SQL 2005 skills. Other training providers cannot match our commitment to quality instruction-led training and top-notch educational facilities.

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - Benefits

So what makes SQL Server 2005 compelling? The following short list highlights some

Enhanced features

T-SQL enhancement
Performance improvements
Backup enhancements
Online-maintenance operations
Business-intelligence enhancements
Management-GUI enhancements
Security enhancements
Increased memory usage with
Standard Edition
XML enhancements
SSIS enhancements (formerly DTS)
Better e-mail handling
64-bit support

New features

Common Language Runtime (CLR)
Service Broker
New product versions
High-availability features
Data encryption
Database Tuning Advisor
Dedicated administrator connection

So now that you have decided to upgrade to or deploy SQL Server 2005 - why educate?

As SQL Server continues to mature, more and more features are added to the base product. This is both good and bad. The plus side is that you get more than just a database engine. The down side is that you have a lot more to learn. The days of being of being an expert on every aspect of SQL Server are over -- but this doesn't mean that you can't still use these new features. If you are only using the product's base functionality you are missing out on a wealth of functions. Case in point: Analysis Services, SQL Server's business analysis tools. This product has been available for several years and most people that use SQL Server have never taken advantage or know little about it.

What are the benefits of certification?

For IT managers, certification is particularly important because it allows them to more easily identify the skills that an individual possesses. When a company has employees that possess certain skills, it can garner a competitive advantage when seeking to attract customers. Certification can also contribute to increased productivity, because studies have shown that certified individuals are generally quicker to implement and design new technologies. And of course by knowing that their employees are certified, IT managers can feel more confident about their ability to implement and support a network infrastructure.

Individuals

Overwhelmingly, individuals with Microsoft certifications have an advanced level of knowledge, expertise and skill, and command more professional credibility.
The MCDBA certification is recognized as a particularly elite indication of an database administrator's prowess and skill level, and these professionals are highly sought by employers.
Individual students may receive college credits to utilize tuition reimbursement programs for their IT training or to complete college coursework.

Human Resources

Employer-funded training and certification programs are a key to retaining skilled IT staff. Career development and advancement opportunities are shown to significantly reduce rates of employee turnover.
Certification Training Programs provide benchmarks for hiring and promotion decisions by accurately assessing technical skills.
For-certification training programs maximize educational investments through immediate validation of skills.

Microsoft certification affords special membership benefits

Technical information, product information and exclusive discounts on products and services through a secured section of the Microsoft website.
Microsoft logos and certificate for your personal promotion to clients or potential employers.
Invitations to Microsoft conferences and other educational opportunities.
Access to the secure Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine Online website.

Other accelerated training providers rely heavily on lecture and independent self-testing and study.

Effective technical instruction must be highly varied and interactive to keep attention levels high, promote camaraderie and teamwork between the students and instructor, and solidify knowledge through hands-on learning.

Firebrand Training provides instruction to meet every learning need, including

Intensive group instruction
One-on-one instruction attention
Hands-on labs
Lab partner and group exercises
Question and answer drills
Independent study

This information has been provided as a helpful tool for candidates considering certification. Benefits of certification determined through studies do not guarantee any particular personal successes. Firebrand Training provides a guarantee of obtaining certification at the camp, but does not make any guarantees about personal successes or benefits of obtaining certification.

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - Curriculum

Firebrand Training provides thorough instructor-led training to ensure that you learn the fundamentals and obtain hands-on skills. You will emerge able to immediately apply your new knowledge in your career environment.

Firebrand Training has an aggressive educational schedule that thoroughly covers all essential elements necessary to become skilled as an SQL Server 2005 professional.

Day 1 Using Transact-SQL to retrieve data from SQL Server 2005
Day 2 Implementing a Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Database
Day 3 Maintaining a Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Database
Day 4 Introduction to SQL Server Services
Day 5 Exam - 70-431
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 - Implementation and Maintenance

Firebrand Training is a Microsoft Certified Partner : Learning Solutions (formerly CTEC). We specially select Microsoft Press or MOC Courseware for the highest-standard training of SQL Server 2005.

Through lecture, group discussion and hands-on lab work, you will learn how to:

Use the Development Tools provided with SQL Server 2005
Use Transact-SQL enhancements to perform database development tasks
Develop XML-based Solutions using SQL Server 2005
Build Message-Based Services with the Service Broker
Implement Web Services using Native HTTP Endpoints
Build Notification Services Applications
Implement Database Functionality with Managed (.NET) Code
Build Client Applications with the .NET Framework
Build Administrative Applications with SQL Management Objects (SMO)
Describe the components of SQL Server 2005
Describe new and enhanced features for administrators in SQL Server 2005
Plan a SQL Server 2005 installation
Install SQL Server 2005
Maintain a SQL Server 2005 installation
Choose the appropriate tool or utility to perform an administrative task
Use SQL Server Management Studio to manage databases
Use SQL Server Computer Manager to manage a server
Use the sqlcmd utility to execute Transact-SQL from the command prompt
Use SQL Management Objects to script common administrative tasks
Use SQL Profiler to monitor SQL Server 2005
Use DDL triggers to respond to DDL events
Use event notifications to respond to database events
Query SQL Server metadata
Maintain indexes in a SQL Server 2005 database
Use the Database Tuning Advisor to assist with database design
Maintain SQL Server 2005 databases
Describe the security architecture of SQL Server 2005
Manage securables and principals
Manage permissions
Use certificates in SQL Server 2005
Describe common disaster recovery enhancements in SQL Server 2005
Use database snapshots
Perform backup and restore operations
Describe the data availability technologies included in SQL Server 2005
Describe the concepts of database mirroring
Configure database mirroring
Describe the enhancements to replication functionality in SQL Server 2005
Describe the new types of replication available in SQL Server 2005
Configure replication using SQL Server 2005.

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - Exam Track

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist on SQL Server 2005 candidates are required to pass Exam 70-431.

Skills Being Measured

The 70-431 certification exam measures your ability to implement and maintain a SQL Server 2005 database. This program shall prepare students in the job skills listed in the following matrix:

Installing and Configuring SQL Server 2005
Configure SQL Server 2005 instances and databases
Configure SQL Server security
Configure linked servers by using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
Implementing High Availability and Disaster Recovery
Implement database mirroring
Implement log shipping
Manage database snapshots
Supporting Data Consumers
Retrieve data to support ad hoc and recurring queries
Manipulate relational data
Manage XML data
Implement an HTTP endpoint
Implement Service Broker components
Import and export data from a file
Manage replication
Maintaining Databases
Implement and maintain SQL Server Agent jobs
Manage databases by using Transact-SQL
Back up a database
Restore a database
Move a database between servers
Monitoring and Troubleshooting SQL Server Performance
Gather performance and optimization data by using the SQL Server Profiler
Gather performance and optimization data by using the Database Engine Tuning Advisor.
Monitor and resolve blocks and deadlocks
Diagnose and resolve database server errors
Monitor SQL Server Agent job history
Gather performance and optimization data by using DMVs
Creating and Implementing Database Objects
Implement a table
Implement a view
Implement triggers
Implement functions
Implement stored procedures
Implement constraints
Implement indexes
Create user-defined types
Implement a full-text search
Implement partitions.

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - What's Included

Microsoft courseware

Our accelerated program includes the most comprehensive industry courseware available - which serves as excellent post-class reference material. In addition, students receive access to our online pre-class study materials immediately upon program registration.

Firebrand Training offers top-quality technical education and certification training in an all-inclusive course package specifically designed for the needs and ease of our students. We attend to every detail so our students can focus solely on their studies and certification goals.

Our Certification Programs includes:

Intensive Hands-on Training Utilising our (Lecture | Lab | Review)^™ Delivery
Comprehensive Study Materials, Program Courseware and Self-Testing Software
Fully instructor-led program with 24 hour lab access
Examination Voucher & On-site Certification Testing
All Meals; Unlimited Beverages, Snacks and Tea/Coffee
Transportation to/from designated local railway stations
Examination Passing Policy

Our instructors teach to accommodate every student's learning needs through individualised instruction, hands-on labs, lab partner and group exercises, independent study, self-testing, and question/answer drills.

Firebrand Training has dedicated, well-equipped educational facilities where you will attend instruction and labs and have access to comfortable study and lounging rooms. Our students consistently say our facilities are second-to-none.

Examination Passing Policy

Should a student complete a Firebrand Training Program without having successfully passed all vendor examinations, the student may re-attend that program for a period of one year. Students will only be responsible for accommodations and vendor exam fees.

Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification - Prerequisites

Students who are successful in accelerated SQL 2005 certification training may possess

Basic knowledge of the Microsoft Windows operating system and its core functionality
Working knowledge of Transact-SQL
Working knowledge of relational databases
Experience with database design

Firebrand Training staff interview all potential students regarding their technical background, degrees and certifications held, and personal fortitude. This screening process ensures a successful match between the customer and Firebrand Training toward accelerated training and certification.

Firebrand Training is an aggressive training environment. You must have an attitude aimed for success. The above prerequisites are guidelines, but many students with less experience have other background or traits that have enabled their success in accelerated training through Firebrand Training.

MCTS SQL Server 2005 Certification Testimonials

"They do exactly what you expect, Teach, Train & Communicate the materials and infomation you need for both the course itself and real world examples of Best Practice. "
Alasdair Thomson, Voice Marketing Ltd.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"Firebrand* centre has a highly focused, learning culture which delivered the goods."
Stuart Green, International Power.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"Firebrand* was a 100% accelerated learning experience. There were no distractions, the food and staff are great. The instructors are very knowledgable about their subject in both theory and the real world. I would strongly recommend this type of learning to anyone who is considering a certifcation path. Without Firebrand* I wouldn't have acheived my SQL 2005 70-431 exam. I started the course as complete novice, and only just failed the course. The following week 5 days later I re-sat the exam and passed. Firebrand* gave me the potential to succeed. Thank You All."
Terry Price, Easymatics Ltd.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (26/2/2007 to 2/3/2007)

"The experience at Firebrand* is one for all IT Professionals no matter your background. It is tough but the reward is great if you give a good effort you get a good result. Don't expect to sleep. Enjoy! "
William Relf, P&O Ferries .
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"Excellent Instructor, excellent facilities, excellent course.. one exam Passed!"
P.B., Maginus Software Solutions.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007)

"I found the course very intensive and extremely hard work. Even though I was certain that I wasn't going to pass the exam, I managed to get through with a grade much higher than I expected. Maybe this proves that this full-on method of training works."
Andy Heissig, Skandia Life.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (26/2/2007 to 2/3/2007)

"This is the third time I have attended a Firebrand* course and I have a 100% success rate!"
David le Quesne, Hornbill.com.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"Excellent Environment, Focussed training. I wouldnt have passed the exam in such a short space of time without this course...but be prepared to work! Accelerated training requires focus and dedication."
PW, COA Solutions.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007)

"This is the third time I have attended a Firebrand* course and I have a 100% success rate!"
David le Quesne, Hornbill.com.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"The Firebrand training experience was one that I would wholeheartedly recommend to others wishing to immerse themselves in a particular subject. Their teaching methods ensured that my tiny little mind was filled optimally."
Steve Martin, Sequence Collective Ltd.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007)

"Although I have experience with Microsoft exams through self-study, there is absolutely no way I could have prepared for the exam in this timeframe without the focused environment. The instructor was amazing at driving through concepts, many of which were new at the time, and yet pulling it together in review sessions."
Ewald Cress, About to start job with Lifestyle Services Group.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (2/7/2007 to 6/7/2007)

"The course was well paced and piFirebrand*hed at an appropriate level for both pupils and the timescale available. I would recommend this type of learning to students of varying expertise in the subject."
Russell Bird, TS Technology Services.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (15/1/2007 to 19/1/2007)

"I completed my SQL course at Firebrand* and they provided everything I needed to get a pass of 91%. I was short of time and the experience allowed me to get my certification I would never normally have had time to do."
Marcus Webster, MWM Systems Limited.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (9/4/2007 to 13/4/2007)

"I spend months trying to learn for this exam myself. It took only 5 days to clear this millstone."
Ashley Bill, Tower software.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007)

"Without doubt, the course was hard work, and if you think you can coast through like on some other courses you will be in for a bit of a shock. However, if you are serious about getting a qualification, and learning something you can genuinely use in your daily worklife, I think that this type of training, delivered by a really excellent instructor, in the context of a very professional setup that works hard to minimise any distractions, is a fantastic way to gain knowledge in a very short timeframe."
Jeremy Baynham, British Seafood.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007)

"The course was well laid out with an incredibly knowledgable, helpful and approachable instructor who taught the course in a manner that was easy to follow and understand. The facilities were great and the workload throughout the week intense. Despite long hours and a lack of sleep, I managed to get my MCTS on my first attempt - I doubt I would have managed that with the efforts of my instructor and the environment of the training centre."
Mark Beeken, Olympus Automation Ltd.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"Im pleased to say that Firebrand* is excellent! If you want to learn fast and without interruption, then this is the place for you. Firebrand*s approach to accelerated learning is brilliant. Theory when youre awake, practical when youre not and daily reviews to group the days information together; oh and not to forget the homework that prepares you for the next day. You must be prepared to work long hours, I worked from about 8AM - 10PM almost every day I was there. Its not easy, but its worth it. My Instructor really knew her stuff, she was incredibly easy to follow and employed good teaching techniques to get information across. I liked it so much I bought the company! well not really, but I am going back for another course in October. "
Eric Jackson, CODA.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (30/7/2007 to 3/8/2007)

"Its a benefit to be isolated from everyday life, and in the company of people with a common goal. The long hours engender a team spirit, and an atmosphere of mutual support. All in all its hard graft, but well worth it."
Keith Woodcock, Ecclesiastical Insurance.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (2/10/2006 to 6/10/2006)

"I was impressed how professional it was with very focused and dedicated learning, but at the same time was relaxed. "
Susan Laing, Buildstore Ltd.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (4/9/2006 to 8/9/2006)

"Following a training at Firebrand* is the way of learning for me. A week dedicated learning creates a stable ground for knowledge and getting you a certificate."
Sander Hofman, RES.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (15/1/2007 to 19/1/2007)

"Hard work and WORTH IT!"
Mark Saunders, Amaze.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (26/2/2007 to 2/3/2007)

"The course was challenging but the end result is more than worth it. Be prepared to work hard, do not think for a moment its just a week away from the office. It is a fantastic experience anyone who calls them selves an IT professional should experience. FANTASTIC! "
William Relf, P&O Ferries.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007)

"The week was intense! I had hardly any down time, but I learnt loads and most important you are given the tools to help you futher your learning and delve deeper into the areas that interest you more after the course. Firebrand* certainly does what it says on the tin! "
SL, ChildLine & NSPCC.
Microsoft MCTS SQL Server 2005 (5 Days) (15/1/2007 to 19/1/2007)