I started down the MS certification path with the Windows NT Advanced Server 3.5 exam. It had some value, since it forced me to learn about obscure features that were occasionally useful.
Unfortunately, when the MCSE* really started to become popular, brain dumps completely eroded the value of the certification. I remember a former computer salesman with practically no technical ability bragging about having simply bought the various MCSE exam questions and their answers online. He claimed that the testing centre had never seen anyone breeze through the tests as fast as he had. Of course he was quick completing the exam: he was cheating! That was the point at which I decided there was no point studying for any Microsoft certs.
* MCSE = Mine Sweeper Consultant and Solitare Expert
Biting the hand that feeds IT
