Important Microsoft Exam Retirements in 2017 and 2018

For professionals aiming to earn or maintain a Microsoft certification in 2017 and beyond, keeping track of the most recent changes to exam retirements is essential. Over the past year, Microsoft has been undergoing a significant revision of its certification pathways. As part of this process, the company has retired 55 exams and 17 certifications. These retirements are not arbitrary—they reflect Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline its certification process and ensure that it is aligned with the latest technology trends. Key technology platforms, such as Windows Server 2016, SharePoint 2016, and Exchange 2016, have driven this overhaul.

This adjustment is vital for maintaining the relevancy of Microsoft certifications in an ever-evolving technological landscape. However, with the retirement of older exams, professionals pursuing certifications must be proactive. If you’re studying for a Microsoft exam, you must verify that your exam is not on the verge of retirement, which could leave you with outdated credentials. As Microsoft moves toward newer, more modern platforms, it’s essential to stay current with certification requirements to remain competitive in the industry.

A Shift in Microsoft Certification Strategy

Microsoft’s certification process has evolved over the years, and the company continues to update its offerings to meet the needs of both professionals and businesses. The move to retire outdated exams and certifications aligns with Microsoft’s goal of reflecting the most current technology trends. This modernization is critical as companies continue to adopt cutting-edge solutions and move towards cloud-based infrastructures, which require professionals who are knowledgeable in the latest platforms.

Furthermore, Microsoft’s decision to retire specific exams ensures that those holding certifications are highly proficient in the current versions of technology products. The retirement of exams related to older versions of products such as Windows Server 2008 and SharePoint 2013 marks the shift toward Windows Server 2016 and SharePoint 2016. These newer versions of the software require professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest features, capabilities, and management techniques.

Exam Retirements for Windows Client and Server

Among the major changes are the retirement of various Windows Client exams. These exams were instrumental in assessing the skills required for managing and configuring Windows environments, particularly Windows 7 and Windows 10. As Microsoft focuses on more advanced versions of its operating systems, these older exams are being phased out. The 70-734 exam for OEM Preinstallation for Windows 10 is one of the first to retire on August 31, 2017. Professionals planning to pursue this certification must take action before this date to avoid missing out.

The Windows 7 exams, such as 70-680, 70-685, and 70-686, will also be retired by July 31, 2018. Although the MCSA: Windows 7 certification was officially retired in 2015, many professionals still relied on these exams to demonstrate their expertise. With their upcoming retirement, those who haven’t completed the exams should prepare to transition to newer certifications based on Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016.

Universal Windows Platform (UWP) and System Center Exam Retirements

The introduction of Windows 10 brought about significant changes, including the launch of the Universal Windows Platform (UWP). UWP allows developers to create apps that work seamlessly across a variety of devices, including desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. However, Microsoft has since shifted focus to the MCSD: App Builder certification, which consolidates the skills required for modern app development. The exams related to UWP, such as 70-354 and 70-355, will retire on September 30, 2017.

Another important set of exam retirements involves System Center 2012. As Microsoft evolves its cloud-based management solutions, System Center 2012 exams are being phased out in favor of newer versions of System Center. The 70-246 and 70-247 exams will retire on December 31, 2017, prompting professionals who specialize in private cloud management and deployment to take these exams before they become obsolete.

Microsoft Dynamics AX and CRM Retirements

Microsoft has also announced the retirement of several Microsoft Dynamics AX and CRM exams, scheduled for December 31, 2017. These exams are part of the company’s transition to newer versions of Dynamics. The retirement of exams such as MB2-709, MB6-705, and MB6-890 reflects Microsoft’s continued evolution of its business solutions platform. These changes mean that professionals seeking to validate their expertise in older Dynamics versions must act quickly to complete the required exams.

Transition to Microsoft Azure

In addition to retiring legacy exams, Microsoft is introducing new exams, particularly for Microsoft Azure. The 70-534: Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions exam is set to retire on December 31, 2017, and will be replaced by the new 70-535 exam. This shift highlights the growing importance of cloud services in modern IT environments. The 70-535 exam, available from November 30, 2017, will cover new technologies and services offered by Microsoft Azure.

Professionals who are planning to pursue this certification must take the 70-534 exam before its retirement, or prepare to transition to the updated exam. The new exam aims to better reflect the current needs of businesses implementing cloud solutions and managing complex cloud architectures.

Stay Ahead with ExamSnap’s Microsoft Training

With Microsoft’s certification landscape constantly changing, staying ahead of these retirements and updates is crucial. Whether you’re pursuing a new certification or maintaining your existing ones, it’s essential to keep up-to-date with exam schedules. ExamSnap offers comprehensive training resources, including expert-led lessons, practice exams, and real-world case studies, ensuring that professionals are prepared for any Microsoft certification.

By enrolling in ExamSnap’s training programs, you can keep your skills sharp and stay ahead of exam retirements. ExamSnap’s courses are designed to help you prepare efficiently and effectively for your exams, whether you’re preparing for the latest Microsoft Azure exam or transitioning to new Windows Server versions.

By staying informed about the upcoming Microsoft exam retirements and taking the right training steps, you can secure your place as a highly qualified IT professional in today’s competitive market. Make sure to review the latest exam retirements, and get the necessary training through ExamSnap to ensure you remain a valuable asset in your career.

Windows Client Exam Retirements: What You Need to Know

As part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline its certification offerings, several Windows Client exams are set to retire, particularly those that contribute to the MCP certification and test skills related to Windows 10. These exams were designed to assess the proficiency of IT professionals in managing and configuring Windows client environments. However, as Microsoft shifts focus to newer technologies and platforms, some of these legacy exams are being phased out, making it essential for those planning to pursue these certifications to act quickly.

One of the most significant retirements is 70-734: OEM Preinstallation for Windows 10, which will officially retire on August 31, 2017. This exam, which was critical for professionals involved in preinstalling Windows 10 on new PCs, is now being retired to make room for more advanced certifications focused on the latest versions of Windows and other Microsoft technologies. If you are currently preparing for the 70-734 exam, you should prioritize completing your preparation before the retirement deadline or explore alternative exam options that better align with the latest Microsoft technology certifications.

The Need for Updated Certifications

Microsoft’s decision to retire certain exams is part of its broader strategy to keep its certification programs relevant in an ever-changing technology landscape. As new technology platforms are introduced, such as Windows Server 2016, SharePoint 2016, and the Windows 10 operating system, Microsoft wants to ensure that IT professionals are up to date with the most recent tools, features, and management techniques. By phasing out older exams, Microsoft is encouraging professionals to stay current with the latest products, which better serve the needs of modern businesses and IT environments.

In addition, as organizations increasingly adopt cloud-based technologies, Microsoft’s certification programs are evolving to focus on new platforms like Microsoft Azure and Office 365, as well as other services within the Microsoft ecosystem. This shift helps ensure that certified professionals have the necessary skills to meet the demands of a digital-first world, where cloud computing, security, and hybrid environments are taking center stage.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are preparing for the 70-734 exam or any of the other retiring Windows Client exams, now is the time to accelerate your study efforts. Delaying your preparation could result in missed certification opportunities. After the retirement date, you won’t be able to register for the exam, and existing certification paths tied to these exams will be outdated. For many professionals, staying ahead of these deadlines ensures that their credentials remain relevant and competitive.

It is important to remember that exam retirements do not necessarily mean the end of your certification journey. Microsoft regularly updates its certification paths, and new exams will be introduced to replace the retired ones. For example, as the 70-734: OEM Preinstallation for Windows 10 exam retires, newer certifications focused on Windows 10 deployment and management, including certifications for Windows 10 for enterprise environments, may be more relevant for those looking to stay competitive in the job market.

Preparing for the Transition

To help you stay on track with your certification goals, ExamSnap offers comprehensive training programs and resources that will guide you through the necessary steps for obtaining the latest Microsoft certifications. Whether you’re working on the MCSA: Windows Server 2016, Microsoft Azure, or Office 365 certifications, ExamSnap provides high-quality training materials and expert-led courses that will ensure you’re prepared to pass the exam and advance your career.

ExamSnap’s training resources include real-world simulations, practice exams, and study guides designed to reflect the actual certification exams. These resources ensure you gain the knowledge and practical experience required to pass your exams with confidence. Additionally, the hands-on labs and interactive study sessions provide invaluable experience with the tools and techniques used in today’s IT environments.

The Impact of Retiring Exams on Career Growth

The retirement of Windows Client exams such as 70-734 may seem like a loss to some, but it also presents an opportunity to refocus on more current, relevant certifications. As Microsoft moves to streamline its offerings, professionals can benefit from focusing on newer technologies, which will give them a more competitive edge in the job market. For instance, those who pursue certifications like Windows 10 Deployment, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, or Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate can gain knowledge that is directly aligned with modern business requirements.

These certifications are especially valuable in organizations that are shifting to cloud-first strategies and those adopting newer versions of Windows, such as Windows 10 Enterprise. As the industry continues to move away from legacy systems and towards more scalable, flexible solutions, having certifications in the most current technologies can significantly boost your career prospects.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead with ExamSnap’s Training

To ensure your career stays on track and your certifications remain up to date, it’s crucial to act now if you are preparing for a retiring exam. The 70-734: OEM Preinstallation for Windows 10 exam, alongside other Windows Client exams, is set to retire soon, so it’s important to complete your preparation before the deadline.

For those looking to stay ahead of the curve and pursue new certifications that reflect the latest Microsoft technologies, ExamSnap offers the ideal training platform. With expert-led courses, up-to-date study materials, and real-world practice exams, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed. Whether you’re transitioning from legacy exams or diving into new certifications, ExamSnap’s training solutions provide the support you need to excel in your Microsoft certification journey.

By staying proactive and taking the necessary steps to complete your certification before the retirements, you can position yourself as a highly skilled IT professional ready for the next wave of technological advancements.

Windows 7 Exam Retirements: What You Need to Know

In recent years, Microsoft has made significant changes to its certification pathways as part of an effort to keep pace with the latest technological advancements. One of the most notable changes is the retirement of Windows 7-related certifications and exams. While the MCSA: Windows 7 certification was officially retired in 2015, several exams associated with this certification continued to be available for candidates who wished to validate their skills in configuring and troubleshooting Windows 7 environments. However, these exams are now approaching their official retirement dates, signaling the end of an era for Windows 7-focused certifications.

For professionals who have yet to complete these exams, it’s important to understand the deadlines and take action before they are no longer available. As Microsoft shifts its focus toward newer technologies like Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and Microsoft Azure, it’s crucial for IT professionals to stay current with certifications that align with the latest technology stacks. Here’s a breakdown of the Windows 7 exams that are retiring and what this means for your certification plans.

The Windows 7 Exams That Are Retiring

Microsoft has set the official retirement date for the Windows 7 exams as July 31, 2018. After this date, these exams will no longer be available, and individuals who have not completed them will be unable to register for them again. Below are the specific exams that will be retired:

• 70-680: Windows 7, Configuring
• 70-685: Windows 7, Enterprise Desktop Support Technician
• 70-686: Windows 7, Enterprise Desktop Administrator

These exams were designed to assess a professional’s knowledge and skills in managing, configuring, and troubleshooting Windows 7 environments. They were a key part of the MCSA: Windows 7 certification, which provided IT professionals with the necessary credentials to demonstrate their expertise in supporting, deploying, and configuring Windows 7 systems in enterprise settings.

Why Are These Exams Being Retired?

Microsoft’s decision to retire the Windows 7 exams is aligned with its broader strategy to ensure that its certification offerings reflect the current state of the IT industry. As companies around the world transition to newer operating systems, particularly Windows 10, Microsoft has streamlined its certification paths to focus on more modern technologies. With the end of support for Windows 7 coming in January 2020, it makes sense for Microsoft to phase out certifications tied to an older operating system that is no longer in widespread use.

In addition, organizations are increasingly embracing cloud computing, mobile-first strategies, and modern IT infrastructures, making it essential for IT professionals to have up-to-date skills in these areas. As a result, Microsoft is pushing professionals to shift their focus from legacy systems to the latest versions of Windows and other technologies that are relevant to today’s digital environments.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are planning to pursue or complete the MCSA: Windows 7 certification or have already started preparing for the related exams, time is running out. The 70-680, 70-685, and 70-686 exams will officially retire on July 31, 2018, and after this date, you will no longer be able to register for them. If you haven’t yet sat for these exams, you should make it a priority to complete them before the retirement deadline.

It’s important to note that while the Windows 7 exams will be retired, this doesn’t mean that your certification journey has to come to an end. In fact, this retirement presents an excellent opportunity for you to transition to newer, more relevant certifications that reflect current industry standards.

Transition to Newer Certifications

For professionals who are looking to stay competitive in the job market, it’s essential to transition from Windows 7 certifications to newer certifications that focus on Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and other current Microsoft technologies. Microsoft’s newer certifications, such as the MCSA: Windows 10 and Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate, provide credentials that are highly relevant in today’s IT landscape.

The MCSA: Windows 10 certification, for example, demonstrates expertise in deploying, configuring, and managing Windows 10 systems—a crucial skill set as businesses increasingly adopt this operating system for their desktop environments. By pursuing more up-to-date certifications, you ensure that your credentials remain competitive and in line with the needs of today’s organizations.

Moreover, for IT professionals looking to expand their skill sets even further, exploring certifications in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or Microsoft Azure could be an excellent way to future-proof your career. These certifications are in high demand as organizations continue to shift to cloud-first strategies and prioritize IT infrastructure modernization.

How ExamSnap Can Help You Stay On Track

If you’re aiming to complete your Windows 7 exams before their retirement, or if you’re transitioning to newer certifications like Windows 10 or Microsoft Azure, ExamSnap offers comprehensive training and study materials to ensure your success. ExamSnap’s training courses are designed by industry experts and provide real-world simulations, practice exams, and in-depth explanations to help you prepare for your certification exams.

With ExamSnap’s expert-led courses, you can quickly gain the knowledge needed to excel in your exams and stay ahead of the competition. Whether you’re pursuing a Windows 10 certification or any other Microsoft certification, ExamSnap’s study resources will guide you through every step of the process, helping you confidently prepare for success.

Universal Windows Platform Exam Retirements: What You Need to Know

Windows 10 introduced the Universal Windows Platform (UWP), a unified app development platform designed to work seamlessly across a wide range of devices, from desktops and tablets to smartphones and even Xbox consoles. UWP is a crucial innovation, allowing developers to create apps that can run on virtually any Windows 10 device without modification. As part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to streamline its certification offerings, the company has decided to retire the MCSD: Universal Windows Platform certification as part of a shift toward the MCSD: App Builder certification.

This change reflects the growing need for developers to be well-versed in modern app development frameworks and tools that align with current trends in the tech industry. The retirement of UWP-specific exams marks a shift toward a more consolidated approach to app development certification, allowing professionals to gain a broader understanding of building modern applications that integrate well across the Windows ecosystem. Here’s an overview of the important changes related to UWP exam retirements and the path forward for professionals looking to stay up-to-date with Microsoft certifications.

Why Are UWP Exams Being Retired?

The primary reason for the retirement of the MCSD: Universal Windows Platform certification and its associated exams is the continued evolution of app development technologies. With Windows 10 being at the core of Microsoft’s development strategy, UWP is part of a broader effort to enable developers to create apps that work consistently across multiple device types. However, the MCSD: App Builder certification is designed to consolidate various app-building skills into one comprehensive certification, making it more applicable for today’s diverse development environments.

By transitioning from the MCSD: Universal Windows Platform certification to the MCSD: App Builder certification, Microsoft is aligning its certification paths with the modern realities of cross-platform development. This new certification better reflects the full spectrum of app development, including mobile, desktop, and cloud-based applications. The transition also ensures that developers are prepared for the full range of challenges in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

UWP Exams Retiring on September 30, 2017

The following UWP exams are scheduled for retirement on September 30, 2017:

• 70-354: Universal Windows Platform – App Architecture and UX/UI
• 70-355: Universal Windows Platform – App Data, Services, and Coding Patterns

These exams were specifically designed to test a developer’s ability to create and manage UWP applications with a focus on user experience (UX) design, app architecture, and the integration of various services and data management techniques. The exams provided certification for developers who specialized in building apps that could run across all Windows 10 devices.

Once these exams are retired, they will no longer be available for candidates seeking to complete their UWP-focused certifications. If you’ve been preparing for one of these exams, it’s crucial to take the exam before the deadline, as you will not be able to register for them once the retirement date has passed.

Transitioning to the New MCSD: App Builder Certification

With the retirement of the MCSD: Universal Windows Platform certification, Microsoft is encouraging professionals to transition to the new MCSD: App Builder certification. This new certification consolidates the skills required for building modern apps across a variety of platforms, including Windows 10, iOS, Android, and web apps. The MCSD: App Builder is designed to provide a broader understanding of modern app development techniques, tools, and technologies, making it more relevant to the current needs of businesses and developers.

The MCSD: App Builder certification covers a range of skills, from app architecture and user interface design to managing app data, services, and cloud integration. By obtaining this certification, you’ll gain a more holistic understanding of the app development process, which is crucial for tackling the challenges of developing apps in today’s multi-platform world.

For professionals already familiar with UWP, transitioning to the MCSD: App Builder certification can be a relatively smooth process. Many of the skills learned during the MCSD: Universal Windows Platform certification—such as UI design, app architecture, and integrating data and services—are highly relevant to the new certification. However, candidates pursuing the new certification will also need to expand their knowledge in areas such as cloud integration and mobile app development, which are increasingly important in today’s app ecosystem.

Preparing for the Transition with ExamSnap

If you’re planning to transition to the MCSD: App Builder certification or need to complete your UWP exams before their retirement, ExamSnap offers the perfect solution to help you prepare. ExamSnap provides comprehensive training programs, study materials, and practice exams that are specifically designed to ensure your success in Microsoft’s certification exams.

With ExamSnap’s expert-led lessons, real-world case simulations, and up-to-date study guides, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in app development and successfully complete the MCSD: App Builder certification. ExamSnap’s resources cover everything from user interface design to cloud services integration, helping you bridge the gap between legacy certifications and new technologies.

ExamSnap also offers hands-on labs and interactive training tools, so you can apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. Whether you’re transitioning from UWP to the new MCSD: App Builder certification or preparing for other Microsoft certifications, ExamSnap’s training solutions will ensure you’re ready to face the challenges of modern app development head-on.

System Center 2012 Exam Retirements: What You Need to Know

Microsoft’s System Center 2012 certification exams have long been a core part of IT professionals’ paths to becoming proficient in managing private cloud environments and enterprise IT infrastructures. However, as Microsoft evolves its offerings and focuses on newer versions of System Center, the System Center 2012 exams are set to retire on December 31, 2017. This marks a significant shift toward more current and relevant versions of the System Center suite, including System Center 2016 and System Center 2019, which incorporate the latest technology advancements to meet the needs of modern IT environments.

If you’re currently pursuing System Center 2012 certifications, it’s crucial to understand the retirement schedule and ensure you complete your exams before the deadline. The retirement of these exams may create challenges for those who are halfway through their certification journey, as they won’t be able to register for these exams after December 31, 2017. Here’s an overview of the System Center 2012 exams set for retirement and what this shift means for your career advancement.

Which Exams Are Retiring?

The following System Center 2012 exams are scheduled for retirement on December 31, 2017:

• 70-246: Monitoring and Operating a Private Cloud with System Center 2012
• 70-247: Configuring and Deploying a Private Cloud

These exams were designed to validate an individual’s ability to manage and monitor private cloud environments, as well as configure and deploy private cloud solutions using System Center 2012. These certifications were essential for IT professionals responsible for building, managing, and maintaining private clouds using System Center 2012’s suite of management tools.

If you’re currently preparing for one of these exams, it’s essential to accelerate your preparation to meet the December 31, 2017 deadline. After this date, you will no longer be able to register for these exams, and any progress made toward the System Center 2012 certification path will become obsolete.

Why Are These Exams Being Retired?

Microsoft’s decision to retire System Center 2012 exams is part of the company’s broader strategy to shift focus toward newer and more robust versions of System Center that offer greater scalability, enhanced security features, and improved management capabilities. System Center 2016 and System Center 2019 include a range of new features and improvements that align with the needs of modern organizations transitioning to cloud-first strategies and hybrid IT environments.

As cloud computing continues to become more prevalent, businesses are moving away from traditional on-premise data centers and towards cloud-based solutions. System Center 2016 and System Center 2019 offer native support for managing hybrid and cloud-based environments, making them more relevant in the current IT landscape. Microsoft’s shift to these newer versions reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the demands of the evolving enterprise IT world.

By retiring older exams like 70-246 and 70-247, Microsoft is encouraging IT professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest technology stacks, ensuring their certifications reflect the current tools, practices, and methodologies used by organizations today. For those who have yet to complete System Center 2012 certifications, transitioning to newer versions of System Center and gaining certifications on the latest products will be essential to maintaining a competitive edge in the job market.

What Does This Mean for You?

For IT professionals currently preparing for System Center 2012 exams, the retirement schedule presents a clear deadline. It’s important to prioritize completing the exams before December 31, 2017. If you’re unable to complete these exams in time, you will need to shift your focus to the newer versions of System Center.

As Microsoft continues to innovate with newer versions of System Center, transitioning to System Center 2016 or System Center 2019 certifications will be a valuable move for career advancement. These certifications are more aligned with current industry standards and provide IT professionals with the skills necessary to manage modern hybrid environments, cloud computing, and enterprise-scale infrastructure.

Additionally, System Center 2016 and System Center 2019 offer new tools and functionalities that make managing complex environments more efficient and secure. Gaining certifications in these newer versions will not only improve your technical capabilities but will also signal to potential employers that you are equipped to handle the demands of modern IT environments.

Transitioning to Newer Certifications

If you’re planning to complete your System Center 2012 certifications before the retirement deadline, be sure to focus on exam preparation in the remaining time. ExamSnap provides expert-led training and study resources to help you achieve success in your System Center 2012 exams. With practice exams, real-world simulations, and in-depth learning materials, ExamSnap will guide you every step of the way as you work to complete your certifications.

If you miss the deadline or want to move on to newer certifications, ExamSnap offers comprehensive training for the latest System Center versions, including System Center 2016 and System Center 2019. These certifications will equip you with the skills necessary to manage cloud-based environments, integrate various IT solutions, and optimize your organization’s IT infrastructure. Transitioning to these certifications ensures that your expertise remains relevant, and that you are prepared for the future of IT management.

Microsoft Dynamics AX and CRM Exam Retirements

As Microsoft focuses on newer versions of Dynamics AX and Dynamics CRM, exams related to earlier versions are being retired.

The Microsoft Dynamics AX and CRM exams are scheduled to retire on December 31, 2017:

• MB2-709: Microsoft Dynamics Marketing
• MB6-705: Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3 CU8 Installation and Configuration
• MB6-890: Microsoft Dynamics AX Development Introduction
• MB6-892: Microsoft Dynamics AX Distribution and Trade
• MB6-893: Microsoft Dynamics AX Financials

If you’re working toward a Dynamics certification, it’s important to be aware of these retirements and consider updating your focus to the latest versions of Dynamics.

SharePoint Server 2013 Exam Retirements

As Microsoft continues to focus on SharePoint Server 2016, exams related to SharePoint Server 2013 will be retired. These exams will retire on July 31, 2018:

• 70-488: Developing SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions
• 70-489: Developing SharePoint Server 2013 Advanced Solutions

Those working on certifications for SharePoint 2013 should make sure to complete these exams before the retirement deadline or look into the updated SharePoint certifications.

Project Server 2013 Exam Retirements

In line with SharePoint Server 2016, Microsoft is also moving forward with Project Server 2016. The Project Server 2013 exam will retire on December 31, 2017:

• 74-344: Managing Programs and Projects with Project Server 2013

If your certification goals involve Project Server, be sure to transition to newer versions or complete your exam before the retirement date.

Microsoft Azure Exam Retirements

The 70-534: Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions exam is scheduled to retire on December 31, 2017, and will be replaced by the new 70-535 exam. The new 70-535 exam will be available starting November 30, 2017. If you are currently preparing for 70-534, it is essential to complete the exam before this date to avoid any disruption in your certification progress. Note that certifications earned through 70-534 will remain valid, and you will not need to recertify.

• 70-534: Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions

Other Microsoft Exam Retirements

In addition to the exams mentioned above, several other Microsoft exams will retire on December 31, 2017:

• 74-678: Designing and Providing Microsoft Volume Licensing Solutions to Large Organizations

These retirements reflect Microsoft’s broader goal of aligning its certification offerings with the latest technological advancements and product versions.

Stay Ahead with ExamSnap’s Microsoft Training

Microsoft’s exam landscape is constantly evolving, so staying current with the latest certification requirements is essential. For those preparing for an upcoming Microsoft certification, ExamSnap offers world-class training that ensures you are ready for any challenges that may come your way. With ExamSnap’s comprehensive training courses, including real-world simulations and expert-led lessons, you’ll be well-equipped to pass your exams and keep your certifications up to date.

By staying informed about exam retirements and proactively updating your certifications, you position yourself to lead in the ever-changing technology sector. If you’re working toward a Microsoft certification, make sure to review the latest retirement schedules and get the training you need through ExamSnap.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead for Your Certification Success

As Microsoft phases out older certifications, it presents an ideal opportunity for IT professionals to expand their expertise with more modern certifications. The retirement of Windows 7 exams on July 31, 2018 signals a significant shift, marking the end of a legacy era while opening the door to new possibilities. If you’re working toward your Windows 7 certification, completing your exams before the deadline is crucial to securing your qualification. However, this change should be viewed as a positive shift, providing a chance to focus on more relevant certifications, such as Windows 10, Microsoft Azure, and other in-demand technologies.

Adapting to this shift is vital for staying competitive and ensuring your skills remain aligned with current IT needs. Transitioning your certification focus will help future-proof your career, positioning you as a skilled professional ready for the modern IT landscape. As a result, it’s time to move forward and explore the newer certification options that are now essential for career growth in the evolving tech industry.

ExamSnap offers high-quality training solutions to guide you through these transitions. Whether you’re wrapping up your Windows 7 exams or moving on to more advanced certifications, ExamSnap provides the resources you need to succeed. With its expert-led training and extensive exam preparation materials, ExamSnap will help you stay on track, ensuring your career remains aligned with industry trends while your credentials stay up to date.

Moreover, the retirement of the UWP exams signals the end of a specific focus on Windows 10 app development, but it also presents an exciting opportunity to expand your skill set. By transitioning to the new MCSD: App Builder certification, you can broaden your capabilities, working with multi-platform app development tools. This transition allows developers to be well-equipped for today’s fast-evolving app development needs and opens doors to working with various platforms beyond just Windows.

In the same vein, the retirement of System Center 2012 exams highlights a broader trend toward more modern solutions that support hybrid and cloud-first infrastructures. If you are currently pursuing System Center 2012 certifications, it’s essential to act quickly and complete the exams before the December 31, 2017 deadline. For those unable to complete the exams on time, transitioning to System Center 2016 or System Center 2019 will ensure you maintain a competitive edge.

By staying proactive and investing in certifications that align with the latest industry trends, ExamSnap provides the right tools to help you succeed in these new areas. With top-notch training resources, you’ll be prepared to handle modern IT environments and take on leadership roles in managing cloud-based infrastructures, ensuring your continued success in the rapidly evolving IT world.