10 Tips to Pass the Microsoft MCSA 70-412 Exam

If you’re aiming to achieve the MCSA Windows Server 2012 certification, you’ll need to complete three exams: 70-410, 70-411, and 70-412. While all the exams are critical in testing your skills in Windows Server administration, the 70-412 exam is particularly essential as it focuses on advanced configuration tasks. This exam tests your ability to manage and configure a variety of features that are crucial for maintaining a robust and secure server environment.

In this post, we will specifically focus on exam 70-412, “Configuring Advanced Windows 2012 Services,” and provide you with practical tips on how to prepare and successfully pass this challenging test.

The 70-412 exam is designed to assess your proficiency in configuring network services, managing file and storage solutions, implementing business continuity and disaster recovery, and ensuring high availability. It also tests your ability to manage Active Directory, configure network load balancing, and deal with issues related to security and virtualization.

Passing this exam not only demonstrates your advanced skills with Windows Server 2012 but also brings you closer to achieving the MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification, a highly recognized credential in the IT industry. The good news is that with the right resources, preparation, and study strategies, you can tackle this exam confidently. Below are 10 essential tips to help you prepare for and pass the MCSA 70-412 exam with flying colors.

1. Leverage Microsoft Virtual Academy for Comprehensive Learning

Microsoft Virtual Academy (MVA) is one of the most valuable resources for anyone preparing for Microsoft certifications, including the MCSA 70-412 exam. The MVA offers an extensive library of video tutorials and learning materials produced by Microsoft experts. These resources provide detailed explanations of key concepts covered in the exam, including networking services, disaster recovery, and high availability configurations.

For MCSA 70-412, check out the video content specifically targeted at the exam. These videos will guide you through the critical exam topics, explain each concept in depth, and offer useful insights into how to approach the exam itself. The MVA also offers online courses tailored to each Microsoft exam, which you can use to enhance your understanding and exam readiness.

2. Study the Official MCSA 70-412 Exam Guide

To effectively prepare for the exam, it is essential to use official study materials. Microsoft offers a comprehensive exam guide that covers all the objectives of the 70-412 exam. The guide is aligned with the exam syllabus, ensuring you study the right content and gain the knowledge required to pass the test. The “Exam Ref 70-412 Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 R2 Services” is one such resource. It is an in-depth, step-by-step guide to the topics covered in the exam, including configurations of services, file storage, business continuity, and high availability. This guide also provides real-world scenarios that allow you to apply the theoretical knowledge you gain.

3. Participate in Hands-On Practice with Lab Exercises

Hands-on experience is essential to succeed in the 70-412 exam. Theoretical knowledge alone won’t prepare you for real-world situations where you need to apply your skills in configuring and managing Windows Server 2012. Set up a test environment using Windows Server 2012 in a virtual machine or on a dedicated machine to practice the skills required for the exam.

Focus on tasks such as configuring network services, setting up Active Directory, managing storage solutions, configuring high availability, and implementing disaster recovery. Using tools like Hyper-V or VMware to simulate real-world scenarios will give you invaluable hands-on experience and boost your confidence when it comes time to take the exam.

4. Take Full Advantage of Exam Snap for Practice Exams

Exam Snap is a great platform to help you prepare for the 70-412 exam with practice exams and quizzes. These practice tests simulate the actual exam environment, providing you with multiple-choice questions similar to what you will encounter during the real exam. By taking these practice tests, you’ll get a better understanding of the types of questions you’ll face, helping you familiarize yourself with the format and boosting your ability to answer questions efficiently.

You can use Exam Snap to identify areas of weakness in your knowledge, allowing you to focus your studies where they are needed most. Practice exams can also help reduce test anxiety, as you will be more familiar with the types of questions you’ll face on exam day.

5. Review the Exam Objectives Thoroughly

The 70-412 exam covers a wide range of topics, and it’s important to understand the specific objectives outlined by Microsoft. These objectives serve as the foundation for the exam content, and they help you prioritize what to study. The exam measures your ability to configure and manage several key areas, including:

• Network Services: Configuring DNS, DHCP, and NTP services. 
• File and Storage Solutions: Configuring and managing storage spaces, iSCSI, and distributed file systems (DFS). 
• Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery: Implementing backup strategies, configuring Windows Server Backup, and setting up Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). 
• High Availability: Configuring failover clustering, load balancing, and network load balancing (NLB). 

Review the exam objectives and ensure you are well-prepared to answer questions on each of these topics.

6. Take Advantage of Study Groups and Forums

Studying with others can be an incredibly effective way to reinforce your learning. Online study groups, forums, and communities are great places to exchange ideas, ask questions, and discuss complex topics. Participate in forums like TechNet, Reddit’s r/WindowsServer, or Microsoft’s own learning platforms. These forums are filled with individuals who are also preparing for the exam or have already passed it, providing valuable insights into how to approach difficult topics.

Additionally, discussing difficult concepts with others can help you understand them from different perspectives, making it easier to remember and apply the knowledge when it’s needed most.

7. Stay Updated with the Latest Server Features and Updates

The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and Microsoft frequently releases updates to Windows Server 2012. To stay ahead of the game, make sure you’re familiar with the latest updates and new features added to Windows Server. Keeping up with these changes will not only help you answer exam questions related to new features but also give you a deeper understanding of how Windows Server 2012 continues to evolve in the workplace.

8. Use Additional Learning Resources, Like Video Tutorials

In addition to reading study guides and taking practice exams, consider watching video tutorials. Websites like YouTube, Pluralsight, and LinkedIn Learning offer video tutorials that break down complex topics in an easy-to-understand format. Video tutorials can be a great way to reinforce what you’ve learned and see practical examples of how to implement the configurations and services tested in the 70-412 exam.

9. Review the Official Microsoft Practice Questions

Microsoft provides practice questions for all of its certifications, and reviewing these questions is crucial to your preparation. These official practice questions closely resemble what you will encounter on the exam, giving you a chance to practice answering in the same format. By reviewing these practice questions, you can get a sense of the kinds of scenarios and knowledge areas that the exam will cover.

10. Focus on Time Management During Your Exam

On the day of the exam, managing your time wisely is essential. The 70-412 exam has a limited time frame, and you’ll need to pace yourself in order to answer all questions. During your study sessions, practice time management techniques to ensure that you’re able to complete your mock exams within the allotted time. On exam day, if you come across a particularly difficult question, don’t dwell on it. Move on to the next one, and come back to it if you have time at the end.

Investing in the Right Study Guide for the MCSA 70-412 Exam

When preparing for any major certification exam, such as the MCSA 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services, having a reliable study guide is one of the most crucial steps in your exam preparation. A study guide is an essential resource that outlines all the key topics and concepts covered in the exam, making it easier to understand complex ideas and improve your chances of passing. The right study guide provides clear explanations, real-world examples, and in-depth insights that help you grasp the intricacies of Windows Server 2012’s advanced configuration services.

In this article, we will explain why study guides are essential, recommend some of the best study materials, and offer tips on how to use them effectively for your exam preparation.

Why a Study Guide is Crucial for the MCSA 70-412 Exam

The MCSA 70-412 exam is one of the three required exams to earn the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification for Windows Server 2012. As this exam tests your ability to configure and manage advanced server features such as network services, file storage, business continuity, and high availability, it requires a solid understanding of the concepts and hands-on skills.

Here’s why investing in a study guide is crucial:

• Covers All Key Topics: The study guide ensures you don’t miss any essential topics. It provides a structured outline of what you need to know, including how to configure storage solutions, manage network services, ensure business continuity, and implement high availability. It also offers details about managing Active Directory, configuring network load balancing, and handling disaster recovery processes.
• Provides Real-World Context: Many study guides include real-world examples and scenarios that show you how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. This is especially helpful for understanding complex topics, like disaster recovery, file storage solutions, and configuring high availability.
• Guides Your Study Progress: Study guides are often structured to guide you through the entire curriculum at a steady pace. They break down the material into manageable sections, making it easier for you to study and comprehend the content. You can track your progress as you complete each chapter or module, allowing you to monitor which areas need more focus.
• Offers Practice Questions: A good study guide includes practice questions, which help you test your knowledge and improve your exam-taking skills. These questions simulate the actual exam format and give you a feel for what to expect on test day. Some study guides offer practice exams that closely resemble the real exam’s structure, which is key to feeling prepared and confident.

Recommended Study Guides for the MCSA 70-412 Exam

While there are many resources available to prepare for the MCSA 70-412 exam, the best results often come from using the official study materials and comprehensive study guides. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Exam Ref 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 R2 Services

The “Exam Ref 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 R2 Services” study guide, published by Microsoft, is one of the best resources for preparing for the MCSA 70-412 exam. Written by experts, this guide is designed to directly match the exam objectives and includes everything you need to pass the test.

What makes this guide essential:

• Official Microsoft Resource: Since it’s published by Microsoft, you can be sure it’s accurate and aligned with the official exam objectives.
• Comprehensive Coverage: This guide covers key topics like network services, file and storage solutions, business continuity, and high availability. It’s ideal for those who want a deep dive into each of these areas.
• Real-World Scenarios: The guide uses real-world scenarios that help you apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. This is particularly helpful for understanding advanced server configuration concepts.
• Structured Learning: The guide is well-organized, with clear explanations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions, making it easy to follow and understand.

This study guide is perfect for anyone who prefers a structured approach and needs an official Microsoft resource to guide them through their preparation.

2. MCSA Windows Server 2012 R2 Complete Study Guide: Exams 70-410, 70-411, 70-412 by William Panek

Another excellent resource for exam preparation is “MCSA Windows Server 2012 R2 Complete Study Guide” by William Panek. This study guide covers all three MCSA exams (70-410, 70-411, and 70-412) and offers a comprehensive review of all the necessary topics.

Why this guide stands out:

• Comprehensive Approach: It covers all the essential material for all three exams, so if you’re preparing for multiple exams in the MCSA series, this book is a one-stop-shop.
• Practical Exercises: The study guide includes hands-on exercises that allow you to practice configurations and gain real-world experience. These exercises help reinforce the concepts you learn and ensure that you are prepared for the hands-on portions of the exam.
• Exam Practice Questions: In addition to theoretical content, this guide provides a variety of practice questions that mimic the actual exam format. This allows you to test your knowledge and get comfortable with the exam’s style.
• Additional Resources: The book also includes over two hours of video content, which is a great way to reinforce the material. The accompanying e-book and online resources ensure that you have a variety of learning formats at your disposal.

This guide is ideal for anyone who wants a detailed, comprehensive resource that covers all aspects of the MCSA exams.

How to Use a Study Guide Effectively

While having a study guide is crucial, how you use it will determine your success. Here are some strategies for getting the most out of your study guide:

1. Set a Study Schedule: Creating a study schedule is essential for staying on track. Allocate specific times each day or week for studying and make sure you cover all the major topics. Consistency is key to understanding complex concepts and retaining information.
2. Focus on Weak Areas: As you go through the study guide, identify areas where you’re struggling or need more practice. Take extra time to review these sections before moving on to the next topic.
3. Practice Hands-On: For technical exams like the 70-412, hands-on practice is crucial. Set up a test environment using virtual machines or physical servers to practice what you’re learning in the guide. Hands-on experience will help you grasp concepts like Active Directory configuration, storage solutions, and high availability.
4. Take Practice Tests: Use the practice tests included in the guide to test your knowledge. Time yourself and try to simulate the actual exam conditions. Analyze your results, review any incorrect answers, and go over the areas where you need improvement.
5. Join Study Groups: Engage with others who are also preparing for the exam. Study groups, online forums, and discussion boards allow you to ask questions, share resources, and gain new insights into topics you might have missed.
6. Review Exam Objectives: Make sure that you’re covering every objective outlined in the official exam syllabus. A study guide is helpful for structuring your preparation, but you need to make sure you’re addressing all of the key exam topics.

To prepare effectively for the Microsoft MCSA 70-412 exam, joining an online forum can be a game-changing strategy. Forums provide a unique space where you can connect with others who are in the same boat, whether you’re preparing for the 70-412 exam or seeking advice from professionals who have already passed it. This form of peer-to-peer learning is invaluable for deepening your understanding of the exam’s material, as well as for discovering new ways to approach challenging concepts.

Why Should You Join a Forum?

Forums are rich with diverse perspectives and experiences, making them an ideal place for anyone preparing for Microsoft certification exams. In particular, joining forums dedicated to Microsoft exams offers several benefits:

1. Access to Real-World Experiences
   One of the main advantages of participating in a forum is the ability to tap into the experience of others. Whether you’re preparing for your first MCSA 70-412 exam or a seasoned professional fine-tuning your knowledge, the wealth of experience shared by fellow exam takers can be extremely valuable. Many people share their stories of what worked for them and what didn’t, so you can learn from their mistakes and successes. 
2. Ask Questions and Get Direct Answers
   Forums are interactive platforms that allow you to ask questions in real-time. This means that if you encounter a stumbling block or need clarification on a specific topic, you can get the help you need right away. Other users, including those who have already taken the MCSA exams, can provide valuable insights or point you toward resources that can help you better understand complex concepts. This makes forums an excellent way to troubleshoot problems or challenges during your exam prep. 
3. Study Groups and Peer Learning
   Most forums have active communities where users organize virtual study groups or peer learning sessions. Engaging with a study group can be beneficial as it gives you a sense of accountability and an opportunity to learn from others. Whether you’re tackling the complex Windows Server concepts, network configurations, or advanced security settings covered in the 70-412 exam, being part of a group helps you stay motivated and on track. 
4. Stay Updated on Exam Changes
   Technology is constantly evolving, and so are certification exams. Microsoft occasionally updates its exams to reflect the latest tools and best practices. By joining an online forum, you can stay informed about changes to the MCSA 70-412 exam. Other forum members often share updates, exam tips, and important announcements that can help you prepare for new sections or adjust your study focus accordingly. 
5. Learn from Exam Mistakes and Test Strategies
   Many forum users share their personal experiences with the exam, including the types of questions they found challenging, the strategies they used during the test, and how they managed their time. By learning from these firsthand experiences, you can develop your own test-taking strategies and avoid the same mistakes that others made. In some cases, forum participants even provide sample questions or practice exams, which can help you familiarize yourself with the format and structure of the actual 70-412 exam.
6. Find Additional Resources
   Forums often feature valuable links to free or paid resources. These might include study guides, video tutorials, practice exams, and blogs dedicated to MCSA exam preparation. Some forum members may share their personal notes or recommend other learning materials that helped them succeed. This can save you valuable time searching for reliable resources and help you focus your efforts on high-quality study materials.
7. Networking and Career Opportunities
   Beyond exam preparation, forums offer networking opportunities with other IT professionals. Some members might be hiring or know of job openings that could be beneficial to you once you pass the MCSA 70-412 exam. This means that your participation in a forum could open doors to future job prospects, career advice, and industry connections.
8. Free Practice Exams and Flashcards
   Many online forums have members who create and share free resources, such as practice exams and flashcards tailored specifically to the MCSA 70-412 exam. These resources can serve as a great supplement to your study sessions and offer a hands-on way to assess your knowledge. Practicing with mock exams helps you build confidence and reinforces the material you’ve studied.

How to Get the Most Out of a Forum

To maximize your time on an online forum and ensure that you benefit from the shared knowledge, consider these tips:

• Be Active and Engage: Don’t just lurk—actively participate in the conversations. Respond to other members’ questions, share your own insights, and contribute resources or study tips that you’ve found useful.
• Ask Specific Questions: When you need help, be clear and specific with your questions. The more detailed you are, the more likely you are to receive precise and helpful answers.
• Follow the Forum Guidelines: Each forum has its own rules and guidelines. Make sure you read and follow them to avoid getting banned or removed from the community. Additionally, respecting the privacy and opinions of other users fosters a more positive and productive environment.
• Take Notes: While reading through threads or posts, jot down key points, study tips, or valuable resources shared by others. This will help you review the material later and keep track of the most useful advice.
• Share Your Success: Once you pass the MCSA 70-412 exam, share your experience on the forum. Not only will you be giving back to the community, but your story could inspire and motivate others who are preparing for the exam.

Take Practice Exams

Practice exams are one of the best ways to prepare for the real test. These exams mimic the actual exam format and cover the same topics, helping you familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter. Practice exams also reveal the areas where you need more attention in your studies.

For practice exams, we recommend MeasureUp, which offers the best official Microsoft practice exams for most Microsoft courses. The 70-412 practice exam package, which contains 156 questions, simulates the real exam with a time limit and includes a study feature that breaks down the material and highlights areas requiring more focus.

Enroll in a Course

Attending a course with like-minded peers is an excellent way to prepare for the 70-412 exam. During the course, you’ll learn from experienced instructors who will help you improve your knowledge and skills. Courses often break down the material step by step and allow you to practice using the tools and configurations in real-life scenarios.

ExamSnap offers an accelerated nine-day MCSA: Windows Server 2012 R2 course, which covers all three exams, including 70-412. This is one of the best ways to ensure complete focus and commitment while preparing for the exam.

Avoid Using Braindumps

Avoid the temptation of using braindumps! Braindumps are illegal and can lead to immediate disqualification from the exam. They are essentially shortcuts that teach you how to pass the exam by cheating, but they don’t help you truly learn or understand the material.

Even if you manage to pass the exam using braindumps, you will not have developed the necessary skills to apply the knowledge in real-world work situations. Stick to studying the materials and practice exams for the best results.

Download Software Trials

It’s crucial to apply what you’re learning practically. Download a trial version of Windows Server 2012 and start experimenting with its advanced configurations. This hands-on approach will deepen your understanding and help you retain the knowledge.

Using all the features of Windows Server 2012 will allow you to discover things that can’t be learned solely through theoretical study. Combining this practical experience with study guides and exam objectives will give you a deeper understanding of topics like network services configuration and disaster recovery functions.

Join a Study Group

Studying in a group can help prepare you for the 70-412 exam. Being in touch with peers gives you the opportunity to share study tips and experiences. The support and motivation of a group can keep you focused, and you’ll have the chance to clarify difficult topics.

One of the largest study groups for Microsoft certification can be found on the Born to Learn blog. You can join discussions, access forums, and connect with others who are preparing for the exam. Study groups foster collaboration and provide different perspectives, which can make a big difference in your learning process.

Complete Some Practice Labs

If you’re not confident with Windows Server 2012 yet, practice labs can help you build your skills in a protected environment. These labs allow you to tackle real-world challenges without risking any system errors.

Practice labs offer supported learning that lets you experiment with Windows Server 2012 without making irreversible mistakes. Completing these labs gives you practical, hands-on experience and enhances your ability to solve problems during the exam.

Download a Study App

Study apps have brought exam preparation to smartphones. Many apps now include specific tools for preparing for the 70-412 exam. Though they shouldn’t be your only study method, they are a convenient way to study while on the go. Three apps stand out as excellent tools for this exam preparation.

By following these 10 tips, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the Microsoft MCSA 70-412 exam with confidence. Whether you prefer self-study, attending a course, or practicing with tools like MeasureUp or ExamSnap, there are numerous ways to succeed. Keep your focus, utilize the best resources, and you’ll be well on your way to earning your MCSA certification and advancing in your career.

Conclusion: Preparing for Success with the MCSA 70-412 Exam

The Microsoft MCSA 70-412 exam is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and challenging certifications in the field of IT. This exam requires more than just theoretical knowledge; it demands hands-on experience, strategic planning, and an in-depth understanding of advanced Windows Server 2012 services. With the right resources and a structured study plan, you can successfully pass the 70-412 exam and earn your MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification, which will significantly enhance your career prospects in the competitive IT industry.

Strategic Exam Preparation

Preparation for the MCSA 70-412 exam starts with understanding the exam’s core topics. The exam tests your ability to configure advanced Windows Server 2012 services, including implementing high availability, disaster recovery, and network services. It also covers file and storage solutions, identity management, and server virtualization. To master these topics, it’s important to use reliable resources and study aids.

Utilizing Online Platforms for Exam Preparation

One of the most valuable resources available for exam preparation is the Microsoft Virtual Academy. This platform provides free, high-quality training materials, including videos and tutorials hosted by Microsoft-certified experts. The academy’s resources cover the core concepts of Windows Server 2012 and offer detailed instructions for configuring and managing advanced services. These video lessons are perfect for both new learners and those looking to refresh their knowledge before the exam.

Another essential resource is ExamSnap, an online platform that offers practice exams and study materials specifically designed to help you prepare for Microsoft certifications, including the MCSA 70-412 exam. ExamSnap provides a wide variety of practice questions that mirror the format of the actual exam, which allows you to get a feel for the types of questions you will encounter on test day. These practice exams are not only useful for assessing your knowledge but also for improving your time management skills under exam conditions.

Leverage Official Study Guides

When preparing for the MCSA 70-412 exam, official study guides are a must-have. Books like “Exam Ref 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 R2 Services” and “MCSA Windows Server 2012 R2 Complete Study Guide” by William Panek are indispensable tools. These books are written by experienced Microsoft professionals and focus on the key concepts that are tested in the MCSA 70-412 exam. They break down complex topics into manageable sections and offer practical, real-world scenarios to help solidify your understanding.

The Exam Ref 70-412 guide is particularly useful for focusing on the most important aspects of the exam, such as disaster recovery planning, high availability configuration, and storage management. The Complete Study Guide provides in-depth coverage of all three exams in the MCSA certification path and serves as a comprehensive reference for anyone pursuing the MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification.

Engage in Hands-On Practice

Studying theory alone is not enough to pass the MCSA 70-412 exam. It is crucial to have hands-on experience configuring and managing Windows Server 2012 services. By setting up your own lab environment, you can practice implementing the services covered in the exam, such as failover clustering, Hyper-V virtualization, and remote access services.

To get the most out of your practice sessions, set up various scenarios that mimic real-world situations. For example, simulate a disaster recovery scenario and practice restoring a server from a backup. This type of hands-on practice not only helps reinforce the theoretical knowledge you’ve gained but also builds your confidence in using the tools and technologies required for the exam.

Join Online Communities for Peer Support

Another helpful strategy for exam preparation is joining online forums and communities where other candidates share tips, resources, and study materials. Participating in forums like TechNet or ExamSnap’s own discussion boards allows you to interact with people who are either in the same stage of preparation or who have already passed the exam. These forums are a great place to ask questions, discuss challenging topics, and gain valuable insights from people who have firsthand experience with the exam.

Engaging with online communities also gives you access to shared study materials, such as practice tests and study guides, that can help you better prepare for the MCSA 70-412 exam. Additionally, reading through others’ experiences and exam strategies can give you new perspectives and help you find better ways to study.

Master Time Management

Time management is a critical factor in successfully passing the MCSA 70-412 exam. The exam itself is a timed, multiple-choice test with 50-60 questions, and you will need to manage your time effectively to complete all the questions within the given timeframe. To build your time management skills, incorporate timed practice exams into your study routine. By simulating the actual exam environment, you will get a sense of how to pace yourself and avoid rushing through questions.

Focus on Understanding, Not Memorization

While it’s tempting to memorize answers, true success in the MCSA 70-412 exam comes from understanding the concepts. Focus on learning how to apply your knowledge to solve practical problems, rather than just memorizing exam answers. For example, when studying high availability configurations, practice setting up and testing various configurations, rather than memorizing the steps.

Having a deep understanding of the material will not only help you during the exam but also enable you to apply your knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios, which is the ultimate goal of obtaining the MCSA certification.

Conclusion: Your Path to MCSA 70-412 Success

The MCSA 70-412 exam may be challenging, but with the right resources and study strategies, success is within reach. By utilizing platforms like ExamSnap, practicing with official study guides, engaging in hands-on labs, and participating in online communities, you can build the knowledge and confidence needed to pass the exam. Don’t forget the importance of time management and focusing on understanding the material, rather than simply memorizing answers.

With dedication and commitment to your preparation, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification. This prestigious certification will open up career opportunities and give you the expertise needed to excel in the IT industry. Take advantage of the resources available to you and begin your journey toward certification today.