I have been working on getting my certification for MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. So far the tests have been the standard multiple choice tests that we are used to seeing from Microsoft. That has all changed with 83-640 replacing 70-640 in the United States. The 83-640 is the first test that has been released by Microsoft to use virtual machines to simulate real world scenarios. This test was piloted as 70-113 and has received great reviews. So far it sounds like this approach does a better job at evaluating the real skills of the test takers. From all current reviews that I have been able to read the virtual machines are the real deal. That means if you need to run something from the command prompt you can type your “command” /? and receive the normal help. The one thing you cannot do is access the internet to look up the answer. It also sound like most of the AD pre configuration has already been completed. You will be expected to complete everyday task that an administrator would complete.
With the new test format there has been a couple companies that have created virtual testing environments for you to simulate what the test will feel like. It looks like with the purchase of the normal test material you get access to the virtual machines for sixty days to practice administrator tasks in the test. The other option you have is to download the evaluation copies of server 2008 and set up your own lab. I have personally taken advantage of virtual technology to set up my own lab. This has given me a playground to practice everything I need to do. If for some reason I do not pass on the first time I will probably look into formal training. I am currently schedueled to take the test in about week. I will report back on my experience.
83-640 “Study Guide” From Microsoft
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exams/83-640.aspx
