What's the alternative to MCSA in 2025? A comprehensive guide to modern Microsoft pathways in Saudi Arabia

Introduction: Why are searches for "MCSA certification" still popular in 2025?

Despite the passage of About four and a half years on official retirement for the MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) in January 31, 2021is still highly sought after in 2025 within Saudi Arabia. The reason is that for years Gold standard to demonstrate systems administrators' competence in Windows Server administration and infrastructure. Many have studied its curriculum or built their expertise around Active Directory, DNS, and Group PolicyThey ask today: Is it still valid? What is the official alternative? In parallel, initiatives are accelerating Migration to the cloud in Saudi Arabia, prompting professionals to request an updated credential that proves their skills in Azure andMicrosoft 365. This guide aims to Dismantling the confusion: Why MCSA was discontinued, what are the realistic alternatives, and how to choose The most suitable path for your job, with Practical study plan 6-8 weeks and tips to capitalize on your previous experience without wasting time or effort, so that you can confidently move on to certifications Role-based andApplied Skills The most demanded in the Saudi market today.

What is the MCSA certification historically and when and why was it officially discontinued?

was MCSA a pivotal part of the MCPcovering tracks such as Windows Server 2012/2016, SQL Server, and Office 365. Represented by Intermediate degree Before applying to MCSESo it appears in thousands of job descriptions as a criterion for technical aptitude. In February 28, 2020 Microsoft announced the shift to role-based certificates, and then on March 26, 2020 The schedule has been updated to retire final exams on January 31, 2021. The new idea doesn't ask: Do you know a particular product? Do you play a specific role (e.g. Administrator or Developer) professionally in a hybrid environment that combines On-prem andAzureThe MCSA exams have come to an end, but knowledge of their curriculum is still useful as a starting point for transitioning to modern paths. Holders are allowed to mention it as a historical record, explaining that it is Legacy and focus on pursuing certificates of Role-based ongoing to ensure they keep up with the market.

What is the equivalent of MCSA certification today? A comprehensive map of Role-based and Applied Skills certifications

After the discontinuation, the practical successor to the MCSA became the Role-based Certifications Powered byApplied Skills. The levels are divided into: Fundamentals (introductory). Associate (roughly equivalent to MCSA), andExpert/Specialty (Advanced). Applied Skills Short skill modules that demonstrate mastery of a practical task (such as VNet setup or Intune policies) via guided experiments. In this format, Microsoft ties certification toActual job duties Instead of focusing on a single product, it allows for constant updating of content as technology and the market change. As of 06/30/2021, Associate/Expert/Specialty certificates are valid for one year with free renewal via an online assessment during the six-month window prior to expiration, while Fundamentals does not expire.

[compare] Old "MCSA Certification" x Windows Server Hybrid/Azure Administrator/Microsoft 365 Endpoint

Which path after MCSA certification is right for you? Self-test with instant recommendation

Self-testing: Which degree are you heading for? Mark yes/no answers:
1) Working daily with Windows Server or Active Directory?
2) Have you previously managed DNS/DHCP/GPO?
3) Interested in Azure resource management?
4) Focused on device management and security policies via Intune?
5) Interested in switching to development/data?
6) Want a short-term credential that demonstrates a specific skill?

Recommendation:

• Yes in (1-2) ⇒ Windows Server Hybrid (AZ-800/801)
• Yes in (3) ⇒ Azure Administrator (AZ-104)
• Yes in (4) ⇒ Microsoft 365 Endpoint (MD-102)
• Yes in (5) ⇒ DP-300 (data) or AZ-204 (Development)
• Yes in (6) ⇒ Start withApplied Skills or Fundamentals

An alternative to MCSA certification for server administrators: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator (AZ-800/801)

Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate is the natural extension of traditional MCSA skills in organizations that rely on Hybrid environment. Proves you can integrate data center resources with modern Azure services while maintaining unified governance and security.

Overview of the role and skills required

intrinsic skills: Management Active DirectoryConfiguring DNS/DHCP/GPOConnecting identity with Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), using Azure Arc/File Sync to integrate local servers, and perform backup and restore according to requirements. The title indicates that you are Hybrid Administrator Able to run enterprise services across sites.

Certification requirements, exams and renewal

It consists of two exams: AZ-800 (Core) andAZ-801 (Advanced). One year of work experience is desirable. Validity of accreditation One year It is renewed via Free renewal assessment via Microsoft Learn during the six-month window prior to termination.

Practical scenarios in Saudi Arabia (co-location and expansion to Azure)

In Saudi Arabia, the financial and government sectors are adopting On-prem + Azure for backup, recovery, and hosting critical services. Holding this certificate strengthens your file asSystem/Infrastructure Administratorand sets the stage for later roles of Architect.

An alternative to MCSA certification for cloud environments: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)

If your focus is on the cloud, thenAzure Administrator (AZ-104) is the most in-demand certification. It demonstrates your ability to manage Azure resources: VMs, VNet, Storage, Identity, Monitoring, and Costwith governance and policies in place.

What do you do on a daily basis and its impact on employment opportunities

You will build virtual networks and control NSGmanages VM/Storage/Backupand monitors performance and cost via Monitor/Cost Managementand performs access control via Entra ID. These tasks are at the core of the Cloud/DevOps in the Saudi market, making the certificate Practical Readiness Guide for higher paying roles.

Abbreviated formal learning plan (AZ-104T00 track and Learn modules)

Methodology AZ-104T00 Intensive (5 days) + Microsoft Learn hands-on tracks + simulation labs gives you a balanced coverage between Concepts and application through 6-8 weeks. Study method: Brief reading → Lab implementation → feedback → reapplication until you have mastered the pivotal scenarios.

If your focus is on devices and users: MCSA certification alternatives within Microsoft 365 (Endpoint/Administrator)

For work related to managing devices and users, it is Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator (MD-102) andMicrosoft 365 Administrator Expert (MS-102) The two clearest options. The first focuses on Intune to configure devices, applications, and policies, and the second covers Exchange/SharePoint/Teams/Security on an institutional scale, and is usually awarded after meeting relevant Associate requirements.

When to choose Endpoint and when to choose Administrator Expert?

Select Endpoint (MD-102) If your business is centered on 端末 management, distribution and policies. Select Administrator Expert (MS-102) When you take responsibility for Full Microsoft 365 platformand often after having a relevant Associate credential (e.g. MD-102 or equivalent).

6-8 week study plan for MCSA certification alternatives with hands-on labs

An effective plan relies on Practice first: Two to three hours a day is enough to reach a level of readiness in 6-8 weeks.

Weekly distribution: Networking/Security → Hybrid/Intune/Azure Core → Practice Tests

• Week 1-2: Networking/Security Fundamentals + Appropriate Fundamentals.
• Week 3-4: Selected track modules (AZ-800/801 or AZ-104 or MD-102).
• Week 5-6: Hands-on labs (DNS/GPO, VNet/NSG, or Intune Policies).
• Week 7-8: Mock tests and error review with a guided approach.

Real-life lab exercises for each path (Backup, GPO, VNet, NSG, Intune)

• Windows Server Hybrid: Setup DNS/DHCP/GPOPlan. Backup/Restore.
• Azure Administrator: Design VNet/NSGManagement VM/Storage.
• M365 Endpoint: Deploying Apps and Policies IntuneHardware compliance.

Authoritative sources and Microsoft Learn methodologies

• Windows Server Hybrid Administrator - Certification & Exams
• Azure Administrator Associate - Certification/Renewal
• Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator/Administrator Expert - Certification/Renewal
• Microsoft Certification Renewal Center / Renewal FAQ
  These tracks are updated periodically; search for the titles within Microsoft Learn to access the latest content.

Frequently Asked Questions After MCSA Certification is Discontinued

How do I mention "MCSA certification" on a resume without hurting my position?

Write it as follows: "Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (Legacy - Retired Jan 31, 2021)" with a phrase "Currently pursuing " to show continuous updating.

The difference between Certifications and Applied Skills and when to choose each

Certifications measures comprehensive knowledge with a formalized test, while Applied Skills Demonstrate a specific practical skill through a hands-on scenario. Choose the former for a long-term career path and the latter to quickly upgrade a targeted skill.

What are the prerequisites before AZ-800/801 and AZ-104 for beginners?

There are no mandatory requirements; the basics are recommended TCP/IP, PowerShell, and Windows. Start withAZ-900 or MS-900 to secure the base before jumping to the intermediate level.

Conclusion and practical recommendations: What do you do today after MCSA certification?

• MCSA is a LegacyDon't chase a terminated credential.
• Adopt a Role-based/Applied Skills And start with a level Associate corresponding to your role: AZ-800/801 or AZ-104 or MD-102.
• Follow 6-8 week plan with real-world labs and free annual renewal via Microsoft Learn.
• Add later Expert/Specialty to maximize functional impact.
  Thanks for getting here. Continuous learning It is your most important investment; start with a small step today, and persevere until you see its impact soon.