Introduction to CCA certification

In the traditional networking scenario, applications are installed and run on the local workstation utilizing that PC’s resources (hard disk, RAM, and CPU). Applications can then grab data off of a server, such as accessing a Word document stored on a remote server. Client/Server takes a modular approach, separating large pieces of a program into multiple parts, each piece running on different machines but still communicating with each other. Microsoft Exchange Server and the Outlook client would be an example. The Network Computing (NC) model uses hardware that contains its own CPU, RAM, video, a method of connection (NIC or modem), and possibly a hard disk. Applications are downloaded from a server and executed locally, such as Java apps, still using the local workstations resources.

Thin-client/server computing is where applications are installed and executed completely on the server, the only data sent over the wire are screen-shots of the applications GUI. In order to work thin-client/server computing requires three items; a multi-user operating system such as Windows NT Terminal Server, a “remote presentation services protocol” which separates the application from its GUI, and client software that uses the remote presentation services protocol. Microsoft’s RDP “Remote Desktop Protocol” or Citrix’s ICA “Independent Computing Architecture are examples of a RPSP.

Metaframe is Citrix’s thin-client/server software for Microsft Windows NT Terminal Server. Metaframe supports access to Windows-based applications from any client device, any network connection, and any network protocol. Citirix Metaframe includes support for all Windows clients: Windows for Workgroups, Windows9x, Windows CE, & Windows NT. Many non-Windows clients are supported as well: DOS, UNIX, OS/2 Warp, Macintosh, Java, and ActiveX. Metaframe allows users to connect through dial-up connections, WAN links (T1, T3, 56kb, X.25), broadband (ISDN, xDSL, ATM), wireless and CDPD, as well as the Internet or corporate intranets. It also supports LAN and WAN protocols, including TCP/IP, IPX, SPX, NetBIOS, as well as direct asyncronous.

Certification Requirements

There are two certification levels Certified Citrix Administrator (CCA) and Certified Citrix Enterprise Administrator (CCEA). The latter builds upon the former, much in the way that MCSE is built upon the MCP. The following are the requirements for each:

Certified Citrix Administrator (CCA)

Exam 218 - Metaframe 1.8 (Windows)

-OR-

Exam 310 - Metaframe 1.0 (UNIX)

-OR-

Exam 118 - Winframe 1.8

Certified Citrix Enterprise Administrator (CCEA)

Exam 910 - Citrix Resource Management Services

Exam 920 - Citrix Installation Management Services

Exam 930 - SecureICA and Security

Exam 940 - Load Balancing Services/Program Neighborhood

Where to take the Exams

Exams are administered at any Sylvan Prometric Testing Center. For the location nearest you, call (800) 481-EXAM, or register online at the Sylvan Prometric website at http://www.2test.com 

Each exam costs $100

What the Exam Covers

Exam 218 - Metaframe 1.8 (Windows)

Introduction to Metaframe

Windows Terminal Server Overview

Implementing and Installing Metaframe

Installing and Configuring ICA clients

Creating a seamless User Experience

Administering Metaframe

Implementing Load Balancing

Configuring Web Connectivity

Using Performance Monitor and Troubleshooting

This exam has 40 questions, and you have a full hour to take the test.

Contact Information

Citrix Systems

Visit the Citrix Training website at http://www.citrix.com/training.  You’ll find information and fact sheets (in PDF format) for each of the certification levels.

For questions on training and Citrix Authorized Learning Centers send email to training@citrix.com   or call (800) 437-7503

By Marcel R. Wingate

Marcel R. Wingate is a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Certified Citrix Administrator (CCA), and Compaq Accredited Systems Engineer (ASE). Marcel works for a systems integrator in Olympia, WA.

Below are study guides and books we recommend to prepare for CCA exam.