What is a Microsoft Certified Partner (or MCP)? An MCP is a private firm that offers customers Microsoft related products and services. These companies work worldwide to offer a range of Microsoft services under the Microsoft umbrella, yet remain independent. These services and products could include anything from education to technical support to original equipment manufacturer software to specialist software.

Why would anyone want to become a Microsoft Certified Partner? Well, there are benefits. First of all, MCPs receive information about Microsoft products earlier than other users. They also receive a higher level of technical support and less expensive access to Microsoft software licenses. How does Microsoft benefit from this program? Microsoft has a group of very dedicated providers who are smart, and run modern businesses and are always ready to serve Microsoft’s clients’ needs.

Who can get a Microsoft Certified Partner certification? It’s a program meant for businesses that are successful in the use of Microsoft technologies and platforms. Microsoft offers two different types of MCPs: Microsoft Certified Partner and Microsoft Certified Gold Partner. The Microsoft Certified Gold Partner must past a much more difficult test than the MCP but, once the test is passed, the partner is offered a wider array of resources.

Every potential Microsoft Certified Partner must have been in the business for five years and there are several tests that they have had to have passed. They will also need to have proven skills in the field of work in which they specialize. These partners are awarded access to discounts that are necessary for them to work in their specialty field.

Staff that work for Microsoft Gold Certified Partners need to be able to design, plan, implement and manage specialized computer solutions and environments that are based on Microsoft technology. Services that are offered by those holding the Gold Certification include business intelligence, collaborative solutions, hosting, application services, learning solutions and security solutions.

Microsoft Certified Partners must pay a membership fee each year. In recompense, they receive access to software licenses, early access to Microsoft beta software and many types of technical and development information that they can use in their businesses. They also receive up to ten copies of Office XP Developer Edition, twenty copies of Windows XP Professional Operating System and between ten and twenty Client Access License Seats for server access.

When Microsoft releases new platforms or software, MCPs must upgrade their certifications, which ensures that these partners are kept up on Microsoft releases and that their certification is up-to-date. Microsoft Certified Partners also have the advantage of having access to 24/7 Microsoft support. This gives them the knowledge and technical skills to give improved service and support to all of their customers.

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