The Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) certification is being phased out with the required exams for it retiring on March 31. Created with the release of Windows XP, this certification requires candidates pass two exams:

• 70-271: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting a Windows XP Operating System
• 70-272: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting Desktop Applications on a Windows XP Operating System

According to the Microsoft Web site, those currently holding MCDST "can upgrade your certification to include a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certification by passing just one exam. These added certifications help validate your comprehension of the functions and features of the Windows Vista operating system, your ability to deploy and support Windows Vista and your skills related to troubleshooting network connectivity and applications issues within Windows Vista."

An upgrade path from this certification to one on Windows 7 does not currently exist.