2/23/2010 -- Between March 31 and April 20, Microsoft is expected to release five beta exams centered on the .NET framework. Those exams currently slated for this round are:

• 70-511: Windows Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4
• 70-513: Windows Communication Foundation Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4
• 70-515: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4
• 70-516: Accessing Data with Microsoft .NET Framework 4
• 70-519: Designing and Developing Web Applications using Microsoft .NET Framework 4

Updated information on the release of these exams is available at Microsoft's Beta Exam Announcements blog.

Prometric: Cheating Not as Frequent as Most Think
According to a recently released survey by Prometric, there's a gap between how frequently the general public believes that cheating happens on tests, and the actual number of cheating incidences. In fact, people believe cheating is more prevalent than it actually is.

There were few other surprises in the study. For starters, there's a correlation between security measures in tests and the level of confidence placed in that testing program. Respondents also think that adding security measures helps maintain the value of the program. Finally, most of the respondents thought their testing program was more secure than the overall industry.

Novell CLA Now Accepting LPIC-1
Novell, the company behind SUSE Linux, announced this month that it will now accept the Linux Professional Institute's (LPI) entry-level certification LPIC-1 as full requirement for its Certified Linux Administrator (CLA) certification.

This move is pretty significant: The firm behind one of the most widely used Linux distributions is agreeing to accept a vendor-neutral certification as a replacement for OS-specific testing. As part of the agreement, Novell is incorporating LPIC-1 objectives into its CLA course material.

Those currently holding LPIC-1 certification can apply to Novell and receive the CLA certification at no cost. To apply, you must provide your basic demographic information (name, address, etc.) as well as your LPI ID number and verification code.

Wanted: Network+ SMEs
CompTIA is currently seeking subject matter experts (SMEs) to help with Network+ item development (the writing of test questions).

The workshop will run April 26 to 30. Candidates should have at least two years of experience and (ideally) be certified. The workshop will be held in Oakbrook Terrace, Il., and those who participate will be given a stipend of $300 per day.

Book of the Week: 'CCNP Route 642-902 Official Certification Guide'
Over the years, there've been a few certification authors that I have developed a great deal of respect for. Wendell Odom is at the top of that list. He doesn't wander all over the publishing spectrum, but instead spends his time and efforts focusing on Cisco certifications -- and his dedication shows. His latest entry, CCNP Route 642-902 Official Certification Guide, is perfectly suited for self-study or use in a training camp.

There are 20 chapters spread throughout the eight parts and they walk you through exactly what you need to know to pass this exam. With the exception of the first ("Perspectives on Network Planning") and last ("Final Preparation") parts, the chapters beneath each start with a "Do I Know This Already?" quiz and conclude with a review of the key topics and a few exercises to see how much you retained.

By the way, none of those closing exercises involve multiple-choice questions (you get those at the beginning of the chapter and in the accompanying CD, as well). Answering questions that ask you to write what you remember and fill in tables uses your brain in a different way and makes it easier for you to be sure you're ready for the actual exam.

If the CCNP is in your future, then this is one book that should be added to your collection as soon as possible.