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how do i learn SharePoint?


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Hey, so I am trying to teach myself some basic stuff about SharePoint as familiarity with it is a requirement for a lot of jobs that I am looking into.

The question is, how do I learn it without having it. I need windows server 2008 and then need to buy SharePoint and go from there. right? Well that stuff costs a lot of money, so how does a student like me learn this stuff by doing rather than just reading?

Is it worth it to try and reach someone at Microsoft to get a student copy or something similar? Should I be looking for a class to teach me things properly?

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I would suggest getting a technet license... I think a new subscription is about $350, a fraction of the cost you would spend on getting licenses for Windows Server + SharePoint Server. Since it would be for testing/development you shouldn't be breaching the EULA for a technet subscription. Granted, you need the resources to run either in a virtual environment or on some spare machines.

You're a student so you could sign up for Microsoft Dreamspark (https://www.dreamspark.com/), which will give you Windows Server, Visual Studio, etc. but unfortunately not SharePoint.

There's classes you can take as well... I know of at least a couple training agencies delivering SP2010 training in Europe and the US, so I imagine it would be similar in your region (if you don't live in US/Europe). Just depends on how you learn.

You could also reach out to MS, but it might be difficult to find the right person. Although, if you do, I am pretty sure they would be happy to help you out, my experience with Microsoft has always been excellent.

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SharePoint does have a trial version http://sharepoint.microsoft.com/en-us/Pages/Try-It.aspx.

Learning SharePoint is a big step forward. Yes, it comes with a lot of stuff but the real magic isn't what it comes with. What you really need to learn is how ASP.NET works if you want to make the non-cookie cutter stuff. Learn about WebParts. This is a core part of SharePoint.

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apparently windows server 2008 includes sharepoint foundation which is more than enough for me right now. thanks for the dreamspark link. I didn't know about it but the university pays a good bit every year to buy a premium license. they were very happy that a student was actually using it.

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SharePoint Foundation is free and also installs on Windows 7 or Vista. :) But only for development or evaluation/learning/non-production use.

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