Whereas the MCSE is supposed to certify a person's ability to "plan, design, and implement Microsoft Windows server solutions and architectures in medium- to large-sized companies", the MCSA certifies a holder's ability to "implement, manage, and maintain the typically complex computing environment of medium- to large-sized companies".
Like the MCSE, the MCSA is available as "MCSA on Windows 2000" and "MCSA on Windows 2003" as of 2005. There exist two specializations for both tracks: Messaging and Security.
As an alternative to the electives on the MCSA electives table, certifications or certification combinations may substitute for an MCSA elective. For example, CompTIA A+ and Network+ together or CompTIA A+ and Server+ together can be credited and substituted for an elective through a Microsoft and CompTIA partnership agreement. One may also substitute Security+ alone which counts for the elective and one of two exams for the "Security Specialization." Security+ counts for MCSA 2003 and MCSE 2003. This is just one cost effective way to earning an MCSA if candidates are already certified in other areas.