This proficiency award in Microsoft operating systems is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively configure, manage, and troubleshoot networks utilizing Microsoft desktop and server operating systems.

Students will gain hands-on experience with Windows 11 and Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), focusing on both on-premises and cloud-based administration. Completers of this proficiency award will be well-equipped to pursue careers in IT support and computer network administration.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Implement a password policy with group policy using the Windows Desktop Operating System that requires complex passwords, minimum password length, maximum password age, and enforces password history.
• Network the Windows Desktop Operating System using appropriate IPv4/IPv6 addresses for the Local Area Network (LAN).
• Demonstrate the skill and ability to configure Active Directory Roles and Services using Windows Server.
• Demonstrate the knowledge and skill necessary to create and maintain Active Directory objects using Windows Server.
• Protect resources using user authentication, access control, and encryption.
• Configure and manage a Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) environment to provide secure access to cloud-based resources, including the management of user identities, group memberships, and basic security policies.