If you are preparing for the MD-102: Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification, staying updated with the latest syllabus changes is important. Also, you should have subject matter expertise and focus more on managing the devices and client applications in a Microsoft 365 tenant by using Microsoft Intune. We will explore and analyze the changes in audience profile, new skillset naming updates, exam weightage, removed topics, new topics, the effective date of updates, and how it affects your preparation!
MD-102 Certification Exam: Recent updates
Retirement of Previous Exams: The MD-100 and MD-101 exams, which were part of the previous certification track, have been retired as of September 30, 2023.
Launch Announcement: Updates
The Microsoft 365 Certified Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification was introduced on September 6, 2023, replacing the previous Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate certification [MD-100 + MD-101].
Exam Content Update: This exam will have an effect from September 17, 2024, with significant changes. This update includes changes to measured skills and 15 covered topics.
- Change 1: Audience Profile Changes
- Change 2A: Removing old skill sets
- Change 2B: Adding new skill sets
- Change 3: Weightage Modifications
Audience Profile:
As a candidate for this exam, you should have subject matter expertise managing devices and client applications in a Microsoft 365 tenant by using Microsoft Intune.
New Skillset Naming Updates
The Domain Weightage Changes
Old and New Topics List
Essential Tasks for MD-102 Certification Preparation
In the new version of the MD-102 exam from September 17, 2024, You will be responsible for the following tasks:
- To implement solutions for efficient deployment and management of endpoints on various operating systems, platforms, and device types.
- To implement and manage endpoints at scale by using Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Intune Suite, Windows Autopilot, Microsoft Copilot for Security, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Entra ID, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365.
- To implement identity, security, access, policies, updates, and apps for endpoints.
Breakdown of Best Practices and Focus of Potential Questions:
Preparing infrastructure for the Devices
- Add devices to Microsoft Entra ID
- Enroll devices in Microsoft Intune
- Implement identity and compliance
Managing and Maintaining the Devices
- Deploy and upgrade Windows clients by using cloud-based tools
- Plan and implement device configuration profiles
- Implement Intune Suite add-on capabilities
- Perform remote actions on devices
Managing the Applications
- Deploy and update apps
- Plan and implement app protection and app configuration policies
Protecting the devices
- Configure endpoint security
- Manage device updates by using Intune
With the new updates, the exam will require you to focus on the newly added parts, take adequate updated practice tests, and build your foundation in Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Intune Suite, Windows Autopilot, Microsoft Copilot for Security, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Entra ID, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365 Solutions.
Whizlabs Practice tests build and validate your theoretical knowledge, and the Guided Hands-on labs and Sandboxes immensely assist with vital practical experience to crack the exam on your first attempt. Choose a suitable plan and build your study strategy accordingly. Check the New MD-102 exam guide for more detailed updates on the topics.
Key Focus Areas of the MD-102 Certification Exam
- Preparing Infrastructure for Devices: This includes planning and implementing an endpoint deployment strategy using Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Intune Enrolments, and Roles.
- Managing identity and compliance: You need to manage identity, security, access, policies, updates, and apps for endpoints.
- Managing and maintaining devices: You need to deploy and upgrade Windows clients by using cloud-based tools, then plan and implement device configuration profiles and Intune Suite add-on capabilities. Also, need to perform remote actions on devices.
- Protecting devices: This includes implementing solutions for effective deployment and management of endpoint security and the need to manage device updates by using Microsoft Intune.
- Managing Applications: You are responsible for deploying and maintaining applications this includes app protection and app configuration policies
- Other Endpoint Security Concepts: Key security concepts such as authentication, identities, access, and compliance policies.
Benefits and Impact of MD-102 Certification
The MD-102: Microsoft 365 Certified Endpoint Administrator Associate Certification can have a significant impact on both your career and your organization. Here are some key benefits:
For Your Career:
- Enhanced Skills: You’ll gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in deploying, managing, and securing devices and applications.
- Career Advancement: This certification can open doors to new job opportunities and promotions, as it demonstrates your expertise in managing Microsoft 365 environments.
- Industry Recognition: Being certified by Microsoft is a strong endorsement of your abilities, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.
- Networking Opportunities: Joining a community of certified professionals can provide valuable networking opportunities and resources.
For Your Organization:
- Improved Efficiency: Certified professionals can streamline device management and deployment processes, leading to increased productivity.
- Enhanced Security: With a focus on protecting devices and managing compliance, your organization can better safeguard its data and resources.
- Cost Savings: Efficient management of devices and applications can reduce operational costs and minimize downtime.
- Compliance: Ensuring devices comply with organizational policies and regulatory requirements helps avoid potential legal issues and fines.
Personal Growth:
- Confidence: Achieving certification can boost your confidence in your technical abilities and decision-making skills.
- Continuous Learning: The certification process encourages continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and best practices.
Conclusion
The Sep 17, 2024 update to Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate is a reflection of the fast-moving advancements in Microsoft Endpoint Security, Identity, and compliance solutions like Microsoft Intune Windows Autopilot, Microsoft Copilot for Security, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Entra ID, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365.
The MD-102 certification is a valuable resource for IT professionals looking to improve their skills in managing and securing Microsoft 365 environments. By focusing on key areas such as deploying Windows clients, managing devices and applications, and protecting endpoints, this certification provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in modern IT roles.
Keep track of the recent changes in your MD-102 certificate preparation journey and prepare accordingly. Talk to our experts in case you have queries regarding these latest syllabus updates.
- MD-102:Endpoint Administrator – Syllabus Update Sept 17, 2024 - September 24, 2024
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