Further details of Microsoft’s forthcoming Private Cloud certification are likely to emerge over the next two weeks following news that a limited number of beta exams will be available during the Microsoft Management Summit event, which takes place between the 16^th to the 20^th of April in Las Vegas.

What is known so far is that the Private Cloud certification is built on Windows Server 2008 R2 and System Center 2012. It validates your ability to configure, deploy, monitor, and operate a Microsoft private cloud solution.

Microsoft have confirmed that their System Center 2012 exams are not released yet, but have advised interested parties that they can get a head start on their Private Cloud certification by passing the following Windows Server 2008 exams:

• Exam 70 – 640: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
• Exam 70 – 642: Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, Configuring
• Exam 70 – 646: Windows Server 2008, Server Administrator

Another means of getting a head start to the new certification is through its linkage to Microsoft’s existing MCITP program. Candidates can take the 70 – 659 exam entitled ‘Windows Server 2008 R2, Server Virtualization’, which is available now. This will count toward the Private Cloud certification until the 31^st of January 2013. After that date, candidates will be required to pass the ‘Private Cloud Configuration and Deployment with System Center 2012’ exam.

Microsoft has also confirmed that the Private Cloud certification will require candidates to show continued ability to perform in this technology area by completing a recertification exam every three years.

Given the widespread interest in all aspects of cloud this new certification will obviously be a particularly popular one, so we’ll ensure that we keep you updated on developments as and when more details emerge. You can also visit our website for all the latest news including System Center 2012 and Private Cloud course outlines. Follow the link for a full list of our Microsoft courses.