8 Best-Selling Microsoft Certifications Books Millions Love

Discover Microsoft Certifications books written by leading experts and authorities, trusted by countless readers for effective certification preparation.

Updated on June 28, 2025
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When millions of readers and top experts agree on a set of books, you know you're in the right place for proven knowledge. Microsoft Certifications remain a cornerstone for IT professionals aiming to validate their skills and advance their careers in a competitive landscape that values practical expertise and formal credentials.

These 8 best-selling books, authored by recognized authorities like Syngress, Dejan Sarka, and the Microsoft Official Academic Course team, offer detailed instruction that bridges theory and practice. From Windows Server infrastructure to SQL querying and Excel proficiency, these texts have shaped learning paths for thousands seeking certification success.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks and deep insights, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Microsoft Certifications needs might consider creating a personalized Microsoft Certifications book that combines these validated approaches in a way that fits individual goals and backgrounds.

Syngress’s MCSE Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure guide offers a uniquely integrated learning experience combining extensive text, DVD-based instructor guidance, and online exam practice. This approach reflects the shift in Microsoft Certifications toward deeper understanding and hands-on expertise, moving beyond simple rote memorization. Designed for IT professionals tackling the challenging Exam 70-293, the book’s structure allows targeted study on core exam objectives while providing resources to build practical network infrastructure skills essential for certification and career advancement.
2003·800 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Windows Server 2003, Networking, Exam Preparation, Network Infrastructure

What started as Syngress's challenge to create a truly integrated learning system became a detailed guide that goes beyond surface-level exam prep. This book pairs 800 pages of meticulously organized content with a full hour of instructor-led DVD training and web-based simulations, ensuring you grasp not only theoretical concepts but practical skills needed for Microsoft Exam 70-293. You’ll explore topics from Windows Server 2003 infrastructure planning to hands-on network maintenance, with sections designed for targeted study. If you’re aiming to master Microsoft’s more demanding certification standards, this guide offers the thorough foundation and practice needed to build confidence and competence.

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Best for SQL Server certification prep
This Training Kit stands out in Microsoft Certifications by combining thorough lessons with practical exercises and customizable practice tests on CD, all crafted to help you master querying in Microsoft SQL Server 2012. It equips you with the skills to create database objects, modify data, and optimize queries, making it a go-to guide for exam preparation and skill building. The authors’ extensive experience is evident in its clear structure and focus on exam-relevant content, benefiting anyone aiming to advance their SQL Server expertise.
Training Kit (Exam 70-461) Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012 (MCSA) (Microsoft Press Training Kit) book cover

by Dejan Sarka, Itzik Ben-Gan, Ron Talmage·You?

2012·752 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Server, Database Objects, Query Optimization

Dejan Sarka, Itzik Ben-Gan, and Ron Talmage bring years of deep expertise in database technologies to this Training Kit, designed specifically for Microsoft Certification Exam 70-461. You’ll work through targeted lessons that cover creating database objects, manipulating data, and troubleshooting queries, all structured to build your proficiency step by step. The book pairs detailed instruction with practical exercises and customizable practice tests on CD, allowing you to gauge your readiness effectively. This resource is ideal if you’re preparing for SQL Server certification or seeking to solidify your querying skills in a hands-on way.

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Best for personal certification plans
This AI-created book on Microsoft Certifications success is crafted based on your unique background, current skill level, and certification goals. By focusing on the specific areas you want to improve and understand better, it delivers content that matches your experience and objectives. This approach helps you concentrate on exactly what matters most to your certification journey, making learning more relevant and effective. Instead of generic advice, you get a book tailored precisely for your path to Microsoft certification mastery.
2025·50-300 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Exam Preparation, Skill Assessment, Time Management, Core Technologies

This personalized book on Microsoft Certifications mastery tailors its content specifically to your background, skill level, and certification goals. It explores proven techniques and expert knowledge that millions of successful candidates have found valuable, while focusing on the areas you want to develop most. The book covers key certification topics such as exam preparation tactics, skill-building exercises, and understanding core technologies relevant to Microsoft's certification paths. By aligning content with your individual interests and objectives, this tailored guide helps you navigate the complex certification landscape efficiently. It reveals how to prioritize study areas, manage time effectively, and apply concepts practically, all matched to your unique learning journey.

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Certification Techniques
1,000+ Happy Readers
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The Microsoft Official Academic Course series offers a comprehensive program designed for instructors and institutions to effectively teach Microsoft software technologies. This program's proven track record and detailed resources provide both educators and students with the tools necessary to succeed in Windows Server 2008 Active Directory configuration and prepare for the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist 70-640 exam.
Exam 70-640 Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration book cover

by Microsoft Official Academic Course··You?

2008·360 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Windows Server 2008, Active Directory, Network Administration, Group Policy

The Microsoft Official Academic Course challenges the conventional wisdom that certification preparation must be fragmented and inconsistent by offering a unified curriculum specifically designed for the Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration exam. You gain a structured approach to mastering network administration essentials, including configuring Active Directory, managing domains, and implementing Group Policies, all aligned with the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist 70-640 exam objectives. This book is a solid fit if you're an instructor seeking well-organized teaching materials or a student aiming to build core skills for Microsoft network environments. Its focus on instructor readiness and student assessment highlights practical classroom and career preparation without unnecessary distractions.

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Best for Windows 7 deployment learners
This guide to Microsoft Windows 7 stands out in the certification field for its practical approach to deploying and managing the OS, appealing to both IT professionals and students. It breaks down complex topics like advanced security and migration from earlier Windows versions into understandable segments. With its focus on preparing readers for the MCTS Exam #70-680, the book offers a combination of hands-on activities, case projects, and review questions that help solidify your understanding. If you’re seeking a resource that doubles as a learning tool and an on-the-job manual, this text addresses those needs directly.
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7 (Exam # 70-680) book cover

by Byron Wright, Leon Plesniarski·You?

2010·656 pages·Windows, Microsoft Certifications, Windows 7, System Deployment, Security Features

Byron Wright and Leon Plesniarski draw from extensive IT and instructional experience to present a thorough guide tailored for both seasoned professionals and networking students new to Windows 7. You’ll find clear explanations of Windows 7’s advanced security features, migration strategies from Vista and XP, and practical troubleshooting techniques. The book’s mix of hands-on activities and case projects helps you build real skills, while review questions reinforce key concepts, preparing you effectively for the MCTS Exam #70-680. If you’re aiming to master Windows 7 deployment and management with a resource that balances depth and accessibility, this book fits the bill.

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Best for foundational Windows Server admins
This book offers a focused introduction to Windows Server administration within the Microsoft Certifications framework. It’s designed to provide a firm foundation for students beginning IT technology studies, covering essential topics like virtualization, storage, and network services. Its methodical approach guides you through managing Windows Servers and troubleshooting, helping you build the confidence necessary for more advanced certifications and career steps. The book’s curriculum aligns closely with the MTA certification path, making it a reliable resource for starting your journey in technology careers.
2011·240 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Server Administration, Windows Server, Virtualization, Storage Management

While working as a foundational course for aspiring IT professionals, the Microsoft Official Academic Course crafted this book to build essential skills in Windows Server administration before advancing to more complex certifications. You will learn how to manage Windows Servers, including virtualization and storage, alongside monitoring and troubleshooting. The book also covers core services like naming, directory, and print services, plus popular Windows network applications, providing a solid technical base. If you’re just starting in IT or preparing for the MTA certification, this book offers a clear path to develop confidence and competence in server fundamentals.

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Best for personal certification plans
This personalized AI book about SQL Server certification is created based on your current knowledge, skill level, and specific goals. By sharing what aspects of SQL Server you want to focus on and your background, the book is crafted to cover exactly the topics you need to learn. This focused approach means you get a learning experience tailored to help you accelerate your certification preparation efficiently and effectively.
2025·50-300 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Microsoft SQL Server, Database Fundamentals, SQL Querying, Performance Tuning

This tailored book explores a focused path to mastering Microsoft SQL Server skills essential for certification success. It combines foundational SQL Server concepts with advanced topics, offering a tailored learning journey that matches your background and addresses your specific goals. By concentrating on the key areas relevant to certification, it reveals how to rapidly build competence through clear, structured explanations and practical examples. The personalized content ensures you engage deeply with topics that matter most to your certification objectives, making efficient use of your study time. This book covers everything from database design principles to performance tuning, enabling you to develop both theoretical understanding and hands-on skills in a way that fits your unique learning needs.

Tailored Guide
Certification Focused
1,000+ Happy Readers
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Best for building core security knowledge
What makes this Microsoft Certifications book unique is its clear focus on foundational security principles tailored for those starting their technology journey. Recognized for its role in supporting the Microsoft Technology Associate pathway, it offers a structured curriculum that grounds you in essential security topics like authentication, authorization, and network protection. This book’s straightforward approach is especially helpful if you’re looking to build confidence and competence before tackling more advanced certifications or real-world IT challenges. It’s designed to meet the needs of students and professionals eager to establish solid security knowledge early on.
Exam 98-367 Security Fundamentals book cover

by Microsoft Official Academic Course·You?

2011·192 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Security, Network Security, Authentication, Authorization

Drawing from Microsoft's authoritative academic curriculum, this book lays out the foundational security concepts critical for anyone starting in technology. It breaks down essentials like security layers, authentication, authorization, and accounting, guiding you through core policies and network protections that safeguard servers and clients alike. If you're preparing for the Microsoft Technology Associate certification or simply want to build a solid security baseline before advancing, this text offers clear, focused instruction without unnecessary complexity. The structured approach ensures that you not only grasp theory but also understand practical applications relevant to both classroom and career settings.

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Best for practical Windows 10 configuration
Byron Wright is a consultant and instructor recognized with the Microsoft MVP award for Exchange Server, bringing deep expertise in Microsoft operating systems, Active Directory, and networking. His background in teaching management information systems and extensive industry experience uniquely position him to guide you through Windows 10 configuration challenges. Wright’s focus on combining hands-on activities with real-world case studies gives this guide practical value for those pursuing Microsoft Certifications, particularly the Exam 70-697.
Microsoft Specialist Guide to Microsoft Windows 10 (Exam 70-697, Configuring Windows Devices) book cover

by Byron Wright, Leon Plesniarski··You?

2016·736 pages·Windows 10, Microsoft Certifications, Network Administration, Troubleshooting, Device Configuration

The Microsoft Specialist Guide to Microsoft Windows 10 offers a detailed dive into the practicalities of installing, configuring, and maintaining Windows 10 within network environments. Byron Wright and Leon Plesniarski, drawing from extensive experience with Microsoft technologies, crafted this guide to help you build hands-on skills through real-world examples and troubleshooting strategies. You’ll find activities that simulate key processes and case projects that prepare you for challenges commonly faced in live settings, particularly useful if you aim to pass the Exam 70-697 certification. This book suits network administrators and IT professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in Windows 10 device management rather than casual users or beginners.

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Best for advanced Excel certification
This guide stands out in the Microsoft Certifications collection by zeroing in on the advanced Excel 2016 skills needed for the MOS Excel Expert credential. It offers detailed procedures aligned with exam objectives, supported by practical exercises and ready-made files to practice. Whether you’re aiming to pass the certification or simply sharpen your Excel capabilities, this book delivers a structured approach that addresses the specific requirements and challenges of Microsoft’s exam framework, making it a practical tool for both learners and professionals.
2016·192 pages·Microsoft Certifications, Microsoft Excel, Advanced Formulas, Data Analysis, PivotTables

When Paul McFedries set out to write this guide, his goal was straightforward: to provide a focused, practical resource that helps you master the tougher aspects of Excel 2016 required for certification. You’ll find clear, detailed instructions on creating and managing workbooks, applying advanced formulas, and building complex charts and PivotTables, all designed to prepare you thoroughly for the MOS Excel Expert exam. The book is packed with ready-made practice files and hands-on tasks to reinforce your skills, making it ideal if you want to validate your Excel expertise formally. While it’s laser-focused on Microsoft’s exam objectives, those seeking to deepen their Excel abilities will benefit greatly from its measured approach.

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Conclusion

This collection highlights the power of proven frameworks and widespread validation in Microsoft Certifications preparation. Whether you prefer a thorough study of Windows Server infrastructure, focused security fundamentals, or advanced Excel mastery, these books deliver reliable approaches tested by many.

For readers aiming at solid foundational knowledge, starting with 'Exam 98-365 MTA Windows Server Administration Fundamentals' and 'Exam 98-367 Security Fundamentals' offers essential groundwork. Those focused on specialized skills will find 'Training Kit Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012' and 'Microsoft Specialist Guide to Microsoft Windows 10' invaluable.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Microsoft Certifications book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed and can be tailored precisely to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with 'Exam 98-365 MTA Windows Server Administration Fundamentals' to build foundational skills, then progress to more specialized books like the SQL Server or Windows 10 guides for focused expertise.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Microsoft Certifications?

No, several books like the MTA Windows Server fundamentals and Security Fundamentals are designed for beginners, offering clear, structured introductions to core concepts and skills.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with fundamentals, such as Windows Server Administration and Security, then move to intermediate topics like Active Directory and Windows 7 before tackling advanced subjects like SQL Server and Excel certification.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your certification goals; for example, choose the SQL Server book if focusing on databases. Each book targets specific certifications and skills.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Microsoft Certifications changes?

Some cover earlier Microsoft technologies like Windows Server 2003 and 2008 but still provide valuable foundational knowledge. For the latest content, focus on Windows 10 and SQL Server 2012 guides.

How can personalized books complement these expert guides?

Personalized books combine proven expert methods with your specific skills and goals, offering a focused, efficient study path that aligns perfectly with your certification journey. Explore custom Microsoft Certifications books for tailored learning.

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