Lesson 1

This course discusses Windows, Active Directory, and Windows Server Administration installation and networking.
The modern equivalent of Windows 2000 would be Windows 11, as it is the latest version of the Windows operating system. However, if you are looking for an equivalent in terms of functionality and user interface, Windows 10 might be a closer match. Here's a rough equivalent list:

• Windows 2000 ≈ Windows 10 (similar user interface and functionality)
• Windows 11 (Windows 11 has more advanced features, security, and a modern design).

Keep in mind that Windows 11 has more stringent system requirements and security features, so it might not be compatible with older hardware or software. In this course, you will learn and practice Windows 10 skills using current technologies to enhance your understanding of distributed computing.

What are the current MS Windows desktop certifications which can be taken?
As of May 2023, Microsoft offers several certification paths for IT professionals looking to validate their skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Windows desktop environments. These certifications are designed for different roles, such as administrators, support technicians, and consultants. The following are the most relevant certifications for Windows desktop professionals:

1. Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate: This certification demonstrates your ability to deploy and maintain Windows desktops and devices in an enterprise environment. It is designed for IT professionals responsible for managing, monitoring, and securing Windows desktop devices and applications. To earn this certification, you must pass two exams:
   
   1. MD-100: Windows 10
   2. MD-101: Managing Modern Desktops
2. Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Administration Fundamentals: Although not specifically focused on desktop administration, this certification is a valuable foundation for those working with Windows desktop environments. It covers the basics of Windows Server and its core components, including Active Directory, storage, and networking. To earn this certification, you must pass the following exam:
   MS-900: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals
3. Microsoft Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert: This expert-level certification is designed for IT professionals who manage and oversee Windows desktop and server environments in large organizations. It validates your ability to design, implement, and manage advanced Windows infrastructure solutions. To earn this certification, you must complete the following exams:
   1. MS-100: Microsoft 365 Identity and Services
   2. MS-101: Microsoft 365 Mobility and Security

Please note that Microsoft frequently updates and revises its certification programs to reflect the latest technologies and industry trends. It is advisable to visit the Microsoft Learning website (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/learn/certifications/) for the most up-to-date information on available certifications, exam objectives, and study materials.

Installing, Configuring and Connecting Windows 2000 represents part 1 of a 5 course series.

1. Managing User Accounts, Resources and Data,
2. part 2; Accessing Network Resources Optimizing Performance and Implementing Security,
3. part 3; Configuring Printing, Mobile Computing, and Disks,
4. part 4 andImplementing Disaster Protection, Terminal Services, and Clients and Servers,
5. part 5 will complete your preparation for your Exam.

Windows 2000 was an operating system for use on both client and server computers. It was produced by Microsoft and released to manufacturing on December 15, 1999 and launched to retail on February 17, 2000. It was the successor to Windows NT 4.0, and was the last version of Microsoft Windows to display the "Windows NT" designation. Windows 2000 was succeeded by Windows XP (released in October 2001) and Windows Server 2003 (released in April 2003). During the development of this operating system, Windows 2000 was known as Windows NT 5.0. Four editions of Windows 2000 were released: Professional, Server, Advanced Server, and Datacenter Server; the latter was both released to manufacturing and launched months after the other editions. While each edition of Windows 2000 was targeted at a different market, they shared a core set of features, including many system utilities such as the Microsoft Management Console and standard system administration applications. In the next lesson, the prerequisites for this course will be discussed.

Installation options for Server 2012 carry over from Server 2008 R2. As with Server 2008 R2, Server 2012 installs in two primary ways:

1. Server Core or
2. Server with a GUI (graphical user interface).

Server Core installation is the default option and reduces the amount of system resources needed to run a GUI install, optimizing server performance. A Server Core install reduces the amount of disk space needed as well as the servicing requirements and the server's potential attack surface. Server with a GUI installation is the same as the Full Installation option in Server 2008 R2. The full graphical interface of Server 2012 is loaded, including the new Windows 8, modern UI-style interface and all the graphical tools needed to manage the server.