Last Updated on September 20, 2024
What to know more about this path?
In this guide, let’s talk about the Microsoft Azure certification path, along with the popular certifications available.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents:
What is an Azure certification path?
Basically, an Azure certification path is a roadmap for gaining recognized expertise in Microsoft Azure.
It’s typically divided into different certification levels:
- Fundamentals: For beginners who want a basic understanding of Azure.
- Associate: Role-based certifications for those with some experience.
- Expert: Advanced certifications for more seasoned professionals.
- Specialty: For niche areas like AI or security.
Each certification focuses on specific Azure tools and solutions.
Anyway, newcomers to experts, can then develop and validate their cloud knowledge based on experience and goals.
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Popular Microsoft Azure Certifications
Several Microsoft certifications are widely recognized and sought after in the tech industry, some of which are the following:
1. Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
This one is designed for beginners who want to understand the basics of cloud computing.
It focuses on:
- Core Azure services
- Azure pricing
- Cloud concepts
- Azure support
Since it’s about “fundamentals”, it covers general cloud concepts and an overview of Azure.
It’s a good starting point for anyone interested in a career in cloud technologies, even without prior experience.
The cost for this certification is $99.
2. Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-305)
As for this one, it’s aimed at those who want to manage and maintain Azure environments.
Key areas include:
- Azure Identity management
- Storage solutions
- Networking
- Monitoring Azure resources
Note that if you take this, it will test your knowledge of day-to-day operations within Azure.
It’s perfect for those who want to serve as part of a larger team dedicated to implementing the cloud infrastructure.
The cost for this Microsoft certification is $165.
3. Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
This expert-level certification is for those who design cloud and hybrid solutions on Azure.
The core areas here will include:
- Designing Azure cloud solutions
- Microsoft Azure Data services and storage
- Security
- Cost optimization
Since we’re talking about “experts” here, this one focuses on advanced architecture skills and strategic planning.
It’s definitely an advanced certification and is ideal only for those who lead cloud strategy and architecture design.
The cost is still $165 and requires you to be a Microsoft-certified Azure administrator associate.
4. Azure AI Engineer Associate (AI-102)
This one is a little new and is more geared towards building and managing AI solutions with Azure’s AI services.
Key areas here are:
- Natural language processing (NLP)
- Computer vision
- AI tools
- Security and compliance
This is more geared towards those who are working with machine learning and AI technologies.
The certification is specific about how your responsibilities will also include participating in the whole AI solutions development.
The cost for this certification is $165.
Why get an Azure certification?
The short is that having an Azure certification can open many doors. 🙂
Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Career growth
- Better salary
- Industry recognition
- Hands-on experience
It validates your cloud skills and demonstrates your expertise in one of the most in-demand platforms.
These Azure certifications don’t only boost your resume but they also keep your skills relevant going forward.
Prepare for Azure Certification Exams
Start by getting the free, self-paced learning modules directly from Microsoft and then take practice exams.
There are also real-world Azure environments for practical experience available that you can combine with your learning.
Anyway, do you have any questions about Azure certification? Let me know in the comments.
For any business-related queries or concerns, contact me through the contact form. I always reply. 🙂
Nice Article!
Thanks for sharing with us 🙂