Microsoft’s MCSA updates for Windows 8.1: 70-687 & 70-688

We knew that Microsoft Windows 8.1 would bring updates to brand training materials and certifications as soon as it was released. The changes began to slowly but surely make their way into our lives, often without us even being aware. Microsoft Learning updated the certification exams in Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), track for Windows 8. The updated MCSA exams were published in January 2014, just a few months following the launch of Windows 8.1.
We decided to pay attention to these exams in light of recent discussions about Microsoft and its future steps. Let’s take a look at the latest updates to the following exams.
70-687: Configuring Windows 8
70-688: Supporting Windows8.1
Exam 70-687 Updates
The 70-687 exam covers installing and configuring Windows 8 as well as networking, hardware, and applications. Recent revisions include material that is specific to Windows 8.1. These include information about upgrading Windows 7 and installing Windows 8 and migrating to Windows 8.1 from older versions of Windows (XP and Vista).
The new exam content includes Hyper-V, Miracast, Pervasive Device Encryption and Secure Boot. The 70-687 exam covers updating and installing applications from the Windows Store.
The 70-687 exam covers Windows 8.1’s tighter integration with OneDrive (Microsoft’s cloud storage solution). It now includes questions about how to set up OneDrive, retrieve files, and make them offline.
Microsoft’s new browser Internet Explorer 11 is also covered in the exam. Configuring the desktop or both Modern versions of Internet Explorer can be related topics.
Exam 70-688 Updates
It is important to remember that the 70-688 exam has been renamed “Supporting Windows 8”, from its original title “Managing and Maintaining Windows 8”. This minor change was confusing for many candidates while browsing the Microsoft Learning website.
The 70-688 exam focuses on the plumbing of Windows8.1 clients and their use in enterprise networks. This exam has a majority of the changes made to it. They are mainly revisions to existing knowledge domains and not entirely new Windows 8 content.
Installation and Application Strategy
Access to Resources
Windows Clients and Devices Maintenance
Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack and Cloud Services: Managing Windows 8.1
The 70-688 exam contains some updated content that is related to Windows Intune. This cloud management product can be used to manage mobile devices and PCs, including non-Microsoft devices such as iPhones, iPads, Android devices, and other non-Microsoft ones. Windows Intune is able to deploy desktop and Windows Store apps as well as “sideload” line of business applications onto Windows8.1 devices.
Are you planning to take these exams. Our friendly IT community has shared their exam files. You can find them here: 70-687 or 70-688.