Good question. I'd have to say yes, if you have previous work experience. I have passed and have certificates for the General A+, Networking+, Server+, and Security+. However, I could not obtain a job with just those alone due to lack of previous work experience. So yes, it's good, with previous work experience. Then again, I think it's like that with just about any job. *sigh* at my lack of work experience. No, let me rephrase that, lack of recorded-time that I can officially call work experience.

Also, I've never gotten the Microsoft Certifications, so I can't say anything 'bout that.