Microsoft Azure Certification Path: A Complete Guide

While unveiling various new features for Azure Services, Microsoft also replaced many role-based Azure Certifications by launching new ones. Microsoft made such changes based on feedback it got from the examiners. However, even to this day, AZ-900, "Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification", is still the entry point for many other Azure Certifications.   

This Certification is considered one of the most desired IT-based certifications in the industry.  Go through this blog to know which Microsoft Azure Certification Path is the best  for your career. Read on to know more! 

Table of Contents

1) What is Microsoft Azure Certification? 

2) Why get certified in Microsoft Azure? 

3) Choosing the correct Certification Path 

  a) Beginner-level certification 

  b) Associate-level certification 

  c) Specialty certification 

  d) Advanced-level certification 

4) How to prepare for Microsoft Azure Certifications? 

5) Conclusion

What is Microsoft Azure Certification? 

In the recent bloom of cloud computing and cloud-based systems thanks to Azure cloud services, the demand for Azure-based Specialists has increased more than ever. Based upon endless roles that came alongside Azure, such as Azure based Machine Learning, many openings for various specialisations in Azure Services were created. 

Microsoft Azure proved to be a determining method of the skillset for Azure specialists and got popular relatively fast. This raises the question, “What is Microsoft Azure Certification?”. Let's start with Microsoft Azure Services; Azure Services like Azure Virtual Machine are widely recognised around the globe as the most prominent cloud-based service provider of the era.

Microsoft Azure was single-handedly responsible for designing specific standards for qualifying various certifications in cloud-based tasks and operations. These certifications were designed to specialise in various tasks and usage of Microsoft Azure-based cloud services. They are one of the extremely valuable certifications available in the IT segment.    

Microsoft Azure Certifications are a series of certifications and exams made with the intent of helping cloud computing professionals on starting their career in this domain. Depending on your experience level, there are many Certification Paths available in Azure, ranging from beginner-level fundamentals to expert levels. Microsoft Azure’s popularity and adoption rate within the industry has increased over the past years.
 

 

Importance of Microsoft Azure Certification

With Azure certification, you have the necessary knowledge and skills to get ahead in your chosen IT path. While fulfilling industry demands, it also helps you upskill and prepares you for more high-paying roles.

As one of the top cloud computing platforms globally, Azure positions you as a competitive candidate in high-demand careers. It ensures you are familiar with all Azure services. Certification badges you with proven proficiency, which is exactly what employers are looking for. By meeting this standard, the certification demonstrates to employers and recruiters that you can bring real value to a team, significantly improving your career prospects and professional growth.

Choosing the Correct Certification Path 

This is the best time to develop your cloud skills in Microsoft Azure and upgrade your career due to its high demand. If you are wondering what’s the best path and order for you to approach Microsoft Azure Certification, it is perfectly normal to feel confused.   

There are over dozens of Azure Certifications and countless orders in which you can approach them depending on your future goals and aspirations. However, on a general level, everyone starts with Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, and the steps taken after that vary from person to person.   

While this blog may not be able to predetermine a learning path on your behalf, if you wish to build a career in cloud services, this blog can offer you an overview to help you with building your learning path. Take your time learning about the various certifications Azure offers, and you will discover precisely what you’re looking for.   

Before we progress further, understand that Azure cloud certifications hold great value. Azure’s certifications derive a high demand and value due to one core reason, “job specific skills”. Most certifications are specifically designed while keeping a particular job role in mind. Azure Certifications show employers you have specific skills and knowledge suited for the necessary role.    

Thanks to such a simplistic naming system, the certification names make it pretty straightforward and self-explanatory as to what you’re getting yourself into. (This is a relief compared to Azure's often confusingly named exams.)

Beginner-level Certification 

The fundamental level exam requires a person to pass a single exam once to be certified in Azure and is generally considered a beginner-level exam and certification. Azure Certification for beginners generally uses the term “Fundamentals” in the naming process for all beginner-level certifications.  

1) Microsoft certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) 

Azure Fundamentals certifies foundational understanding of cloud services, including common solutions and best practices for information security. This certification helps validate your understanding of cloud concepts, Azure services, security, workloads, and pricing. It's a perfect starting point for beginners, whether from technical or non-technical backgrounds, beginning their Azure journey. This certification is an excellent option for those moving into cloud computing without any prior knowledge.

a) Exam: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals - Exam AZ-900

b) Certification: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals

c) Exam Code: AZ-900

d) Prerequisites: None, but familiarity with cloud services and the Azure platform is recommended

e) Languages Available: English, French, Indonesian, Arabic, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian

Domains Covered:

a) Describe cloud concepts (25–30%)

b) Describe Azure architecture and services (35–40%)

c) Describe Azure management and governance (30–35%)

Wish to start your Azure Certification journey? Join our course in Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ900 Certification!

2) Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900)

Azure Data Fundamentals focuses on core data concepts and working with Microsoft data services within Azure. The certification provides training on basic understanding of data concepts like cloud data services, security, workloads, and pricing. It is suitable for both technical and non-technical individuals interested in Azure data-related roles. This certification path is a great starting point if you are new to cloud computing and exploring Azure certifications.

a) Exam: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals Exam DP-900

b) Certification Name: Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals

c) Exam Code: DP-900

d) Prerequisites: None

e) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Indonesian, Arabic, Traditional Chinese, Italian

Domains Covered:

a) Describe core data concepts (25-30%)

b) Identify considerations for relational data on Azure (20-25%)

c) Describe considerations for working with non-relational data on Azure (15-20%)

d) Describe an analytics workload on Azure (25-30%)

Interested in Big Data and analytics? Join our course in Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals DP900! 

3) Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals AI-900

This certification covers key information about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in Azure. It is suitable for both technical professionals and non-technical individuals, as having basic knowledge of any programming language is helpful but not required. The certification starts with the AI-900 exam, which is designed for beginners who want to learn how to incorporate AI into their applications within Azure.

a) Exam Name: Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals

b) Exam Code: AI-900

c) Certification: Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals

d) Prerequisites: None, but a basic understanding of AI and ML concepts related to Azure is an advantage

e) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Indonesian, Arabic, Traditional Chinese, Italian

Domains Covered:

a) Describe Artificial Intelligence workloads and considerations (20-25%)

b) Describe the fundamental principles of machine learning on Azure (25-30%)

c) List the characteristics of computer vision workloads on Azure (15-20%)

d) Understand the features of Natural Language Processing (NLP) workloads on Azure (25-30%)

Prepare for AI certification in Azure with our course in Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals AI900 and design your own AI! 

Associate-level Certification 

Associate-level certifications are considered intermediate-tier certifications. These are intended for people who clearly understand Azure concepts or have already cleared one fundamental Certification. 

1) Data Engineer on Microsoft Azure DP-203 Certification

Data Engineering involves integrating, transforming, and consolidating data from various systems to build robust analytics solutions. A data engineer builds and maintains scalable ETL pipelines that clean and aggregate large volumes of unstructured or semi-structured data to prepare it for processing. They also assist stakeholders in exploring data and understanding it, ensuring secure and compliant processing using various tools and techniques.

a) Exam: Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure, Exam DP-203

b) Certification Name: Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure

c) Exam Code: DP-203

d) Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites but passing DP-900 (optional) is recommended. Candidates should have solid experience with data processing languages such as SQL, Python, and Scala.

e) Exam Languages: English, Simplified Chinese, French, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Japanese, Korean, German, Arabic (Saudi Arabia), Russian, Traditional Chinese, Italian, Indonesian

Domains Covered in the DP-203 Exam:

a) Design and implement data storage (15-20%)

b) Develop data processing (40-45%)

c) Secure, monitor, and optimize data storage and data processing (30-35%)

2) Administering Microsoft Azure SQL Solutions DP-300 Certification

As an Azure Database Administrator, your tasks include implementing and managing platform solutions using Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Azure Data Services. This role involves daily responsibilities, including various techniques and tools such as T-SQL management to maintain the operation of database environments.

a) Certification Name: Administering Relational Databases on Microsoft Azure

b) Exam Code: DP-300

c) Prerequisites: None required, but completing DP-900 (optional) beforehand is recommended.

d) Exam Languages: English, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Portuguese (Brazil), Italian, Traditional Chinese, Spanish

Domains Covered in the DP-300 Exam:

a) Plan and implement data platform resources (20-25%)

b) Implement a secure environment (15-20%)

c) Monitor, configure, and optimize database resources (20-25%)

d) Configure and manage automation of tasks (15-20%)

e) Plan and configure a high availability and disaster recovery (HA/DR) environment (20-25%)   

3) DP-100 Azure Data Scientist Associate Certification

Azure for Data Scientists (A4DS), also known as Pragmatic AI, teaches data scientists how to work with large datasets and use virtual machines provided by Azure. An Azure Data Scientist applies their knowledge of data science and experience with Microsoft software to develop solutions by securely integrating context from various sources. They are responsible for the management, optimization, and deployment of machine learning models in a production environment.

a) Certification: Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate DP-100

b) Certification Name: Microsoft Certified – Azure Data Scientist Associate

c) Exam Code: DP-100

d) Prerequisite: None, but it's recommended to complete other certifications like Azure Fundamentals (optional) or AI Fundamentals (optional). Candidates should have several years of experience in data science, working with Azure Machine Learning and/or Azure Databricks.

e) Exam Cost: USD 165 (varies by location)

f) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean

Domains Covered in the DP-100 Exam:

a) Design and spec out a machine learning solution (20-25%)

b) Work with data and train the models (35-40%)

c) Prepare a model for deployment (20-25%)

d) Deploy and retrain a model (10-15%)    

4) Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure AZ-204

Azure Developers build, test, and maintain cloud applications on the Microsoft Azure platform. In this role, Microsoft requires proficiency in programming languages associated with Azure, along with skills in Azure PowerShell, Azure SDKs, Azure CLI, data storage solutions, data connections, APIs, and app authentication and authorization. The development process typically involves configuration of cloud development needs, definition, and design. 

a) Exam: Microsoft Azure Developer Associate AZ-204

b) Certification Name: Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

c) Exam Code: AZ-204

d) Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites, but completing AZ-900 (optional) is recommended. Candidates should have 1-2 years of work experience, some exposure to Microsoft Azure, and proficiency in at least one high-level programming language supported by Azure.

e) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean

Domains Covered in the AZ-204 Exam:

a) Develop Azure compute solutions (25-30%)

b) Develop for Azure storage (15-20%)

c) Implement Azure security (20-25%)

d) Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize Azure solutions (15-20%)

e) Connect to and consume Azure and third-party services (15-20%)

5) Designing And Implementing Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions AZ-700

The Azure Networking Solutions certification is a leading credential for designing and implementing secure, reliable, and scalable network solutions on Microsoft Azure. As an Azure Network Engineer, you will be responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining Azure networking solutions, including hybrid connectivity, routing, private access to Azure services, and network security. To effectively manage Azure network resources, you will need strong networking skills, knowledge of security, and proficiency in automation.

a) Certification Name: Designing and Implementing Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions

b) Exam Code: AZ-700

c) Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites, but having a basic understanding of Azure networking concepts and experience with network and security solutions is beneficial.

d) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean

Domains Covered in the AZ-700 Exam:

a) Design, implement, and manage hybrid networking (10-15%)

b) Design and implement core networking infrastructure (20-25%)

c) Plan and implement routing (25-30%)

d) Design and implement network infrastructure (15-20%)

e) Design and implement private access to Azure services (10-15%)

6) Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution AI-102

This certification is designed for professionals who develop and implement AI solutions on Microsoft Azure, using both basic and advanced machine learning techniques. You'll leverage historical data to develop, train, and deploy machine learning models using Azure Machine Learning services, while also utilizing Microsoft AI infrastructure, including cognitive services, to build intelligent solutions. Success in this role requires a strong understanding of AI technologies and software development skills to create predictive analytics solutions that meet client needs.

a) Certification Name: Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution

b) Exam Code: AI-102

c) Prerequisites: None formally required, but candidates should have experience with Azure AI services and knowledge of machine learning concepts, as well as familiarity with related Microsoft Azure services.

d) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean

Domains Covered in the AI-102 Exam:

a) Plan and manage an AI solution on Azure (15-20%)

b) Deploy and integrate computer vision solutions (20-25%)

c) Develop natural language processing (NLP) solutions (20-25%)

d) Design and implement knowledge mining solutions (15-20%)

e) Develop conversational AI solutions (15-20%)

Specialty Certification 

Designed while keeping specific roles in mind. The certification is suitable for those who aim to go for one particular job, specifically after getting certified per Microsoft standards.

1) Microsoft Azure Architect for SAP Workloads AZ-120

This certification is designed for engineers and architects who have a clear understanding and working experience with the SAP ecosystem. It also demands that you know industrial norms related to SAP Azure Solutions. It is ideal for you if you already have deep knowledge of the sap landscape and wish to gain more knowledge in Azure-integrated SAP.

There are no real prerequisites for this certification, but it is strongly suggested that you have an Azure Architect or Azure Administrator Salary. Getting certified in Linux OS and SAP HANA is an additional plus point for you.  

2) Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB DP-420

This certification is often considered popular in a series of Azure Certifications. As the name implies, the certification is designed around mastering the Cosmo Database. What separates the Cosmo database from a standard database is features like having no SQL at all and letting Microsoft take care of the messy work.

Additionally, the Certification demands a deep understanding of Cosmo DB and the process of developing apps in it. The prerequisite for this Certification demands a strong foundation in Azure Cosmo DB and decent experience in Azure-based app development.   

Familiarise yourself with the concepts of Microsoft Azure Cosmos with our Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB DP-420 Course now!

3) AZ-140 Configuring and Operating Azure Virtual Desktop

Azure Virtual Desktop Certification is an excellent choice for you if you have hands-on experience with virtual desktops. Your job will involve managing, planning, or delivering them and using remote applications on Microsoft Azure. If you can use virtual desktop infrastructure tech, that is even better. It is highly sought after to have CLI and PowerShell skills in this role. It is suggested that any candidate that approaches this exam has expert Azure administration skills, hence an excellent grasp of the topic as a prerequisite.

4) Troubleshooting Microsoft Azure Connectivity AZ-720

If you believe you excel in planning, maintaining and implementing networking solutions, such as hybrid solutions, this is the Certification for you. This Certification also requires you to discern if something is wrong based on your knowledge and judgment and fix them. The prerequisite for this exam is essentially an AZ-700 exam (Designing and implementing Microsoft solutions) for the most part, but with the bonus of being able to break and fix the system. 

Advanced-level Certification 

The highest certification in Azure Certification levels is approached after you have successfully finished your intermediate and associate certification. After clearing a prerequisite associate exam, you can successfully take expert certifications.  

1) Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions AZ305

AZ-305 Certification provides the skills needed to design infrastructure solutions using Microsoft Azure. This certification involves creating secure, scalable, and resilient Azure infrastructures tailored to meet specific business needs. As an Azure Solutions Architect, your responsibilities will include working across various aspects of cloud architecture, such as networking, storage, compute, security, and governance, to build comprehensive solutions that align with business objectives.

a) Certification Name: Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions

b) Exam Code: AZ-305

c) Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites, but it's recommended to have experience with Azure administration, Azure development, and DevOps processes. Completing AZ-104 (Microsoft Azure Administrator) is highly beneficial.

d) Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean

Domains Covered in the AZ-305 Exam:

a) Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions (25-30%)

b) Implement data storage solutions (20-25%)

c) Design business continuity solutions (15-20%)

d) Design infrastructure solutions (25-30%)

How to prepare for Microsoft Azure Certifications? 

Microsoft Azure-based certifications can be confusing. They can seem like an endless series of exams without previous knowledge. But by keeping certain factors in mind, it can be serialised, and you can form your own Microsoft Azure Certification roadmap. There are various online classes and training courses to prepare you for these certification exams. Your first step should be to understand the exams you invest your time in.  

Read about the exam and research for certifications that match your skill level and future aspirations. Check the scope and prerequisite of every exam that you wish to pursue. Take time to understand the syllabus distribution and weightage and look up a few exam guides. After you have finished a course, always take practice tests, available online, to understand your chances of passing the exam.   

Take external reviews and guides into consideration as well. Check out exam guides and certifications white paper and read some instruction books that show good certification roadmaps. It helps you realise if you should get certified in a beginner or an intermediate level exam and what next step you should take. It will take some time, but your Azure Certification Path will seem clearer to you as you keep learning further. 

Job Roles and Salaries

Once you’ve gained certification, you can explore various cloud computing roles. Some of these positions and their average salaries, taken from Glassdoor, in the UK are:

1) Cloud Developer: Responsible for building, testing, and managing cloud systems. The average annual salary for this role is approximately £72,000, with potential for additional compensation.

2) Cloud Systems Engineer: Part of a team managing a company’s cloud network and systems. The average annual salary for this role is around £80,000, with opportunities for additional earnings.

3) Cloud Consultant: Evaluates cloud infrastructures and provides recommendations for improvement. The average annual salary for this position is about £74,000, with potential for extra pay.

4) Cloud Architect: Designs cloud infrastructure tailored to a business’s specific needs. The average annual salary for this role is approximately £110,000, with the opportunity for additional remuneration.

Conclusion 

Organisations worldwide have a high demand for Azure Certified specialists and professionals, as the certifications are proof of your knowledge and skill set. Certification can open gateways for you to build up the needed work experience. However, a good job and role come with knowledge. Having a well-decided Microsoft Azure Certification Path enables you to pursue that knowledge.  

Understand the security features and compliance standards within Azure with our Microsoft Azure Certification – join today!