The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals responsible for managing Azure cloud services. This certification validates your ability to implement, manage, and monitor an organization’s Azure environment, making it a key milestone for cloud administrators.
Why Get Certified as an Azure Administrator?
With businesses increasingly adopting cloud solutions, Azure administrators are in high demand. Earning the AZ-104 certification enhances your credibility, validates your skills, and opens up lucrative career opportunities. It is also a crucial step in the Azure Certification Path for advanced roles such as Azure Solutions Architect and Azure Security Engineer Associate.
Who Should Take the AZ-104 Exam?
If you're an IT professional with experience in cloud computing, virtualization, networking, or system administration, the AZ-104 certification can help you advance your career. It’s ideal for:
- System administrators transitioning to cloud roles
- IT professionals managing Azure resources
- Individuals seeking Azure Fundamentals Certification (AZ-900) and looking to progress
Understanding the AZ-104 Exam Structure
Exam Format and Question Types
The AZ-104 exam consists of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and hands-on lab simulations. The exam duration is 120 minutes, and a passing score is 700 out of 1000.
Key Domains and Weightage
Microsoft has outlined five key areas covered in the AZ-104 Azure certification exam:
- Managing Azure Identities and Governance (15-20%)
- Implementing and Managing Storage (15-20%)
- Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources (20-25%)
- Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking (20-25%)
- Monitoring and Maintaining Azure Resources (10-15%)
Passing Score and Exam Policies
- The exam fee is $165 USD (varies by region).
- Retake policy: If you fail the first attempt, you must wait 24 hours before reattempting. If you fail twice, you must wait 14 days.
- Certification validity: One year, after which renewal via free online assessment is required.
Core Skills Measured in AZ-104
Managing Azure Identities and Governance
- Configuring Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
- Implementing role-based access control (RBAC)
- Managing subscriptions and governance policies
Implementing and Managing Storage
- Configuring Azure Blob Storage and File Shares
- Managing storage security and data redundancy
- Implementing Azure Backup and Site Recovery
Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources
- Deploying and managing Virtual Machines (VMs)
- Implementing Azure App Services
- Managing containerized applications with Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)
Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking
- Implementing Azure Virtual Networks (VNet)
- Configuring Network Security Groups (NSG)
- Implementing VPNs and ExpressRoute
Monitoring and Maintaining Azure Resources
- Configuring Azure Monitor and Log Analytics
- Implementing backup strategies
- Managing resource optimization
Key Study Resources for AZ-104
Microsoft Official Learning Paths
Microsoft provides free online learning paths via Microsoft Learn, offering structured modules for each exam domain.
Best Online Courses and Tutorials
- Microsoft Learn – AZ-104 Learning Path (Free)
- Udemy – AZ-104 Certification Course
- Pluralsight – Azure Administrator Training
- LinkedIn Learning – Azure Administrator Learning Path
Books and Study Guides for AZ-104
- Exam Ref AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator by Michael Washam
- Azure Administrator Associate Guide by Jack Hyman
Practice Tests for Azure Certification
Mock tests help in exam readiness. Use platforms like:
- Microsoft Official Practice Tests
- Whizlabs AZ-104 Practice Tests
- OriginalDumps – Verified AZ-104 Dumps
AZ-104 Exam Preparation Tips
Effective Study Plan for AZ-104
- Dedicate 6-8 weeks for preparation.
- Follow Microsoft’s learning paths.
- Complete at least 300-500 practice questions.
Hands-on Labs and Real-World Scenarios
- Use Azure Free Tier for practical learning.
- Deploy and manage virtual machines, storage accounts, and networking services.
- Explore Azure Sandbox Environments.
Common Exam Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring hands-on experience
- Not reviewing case study-based questions
- Rushing through exam simulations
Time Management Strategies for the Exam
- Prioritize easier questions first.
- Flag difficult questions for review.
- Manage time wisely, leaving 5-10 minutes for review.
Free and Paid Learning Resources
Azure Certification Free Learning Resources
- Microsoft Learn (Official)
- YouTube AZ-104 Tutorials
- Azure Free Account for Hands-on Labs
Best Paid Courses for AZ-104 Exam Prep
- Udemy AZ-104 Bootcamp
- Pluralsight Azure Administrator Course
- Whizlabs AZ-104 Practice Labs
Career Benefits of AZ-104 Certification
Why Learn Azure?
- Azure is the second-largest cloud provider.
- Over 95% of Fortune 500 companies use Azure.
- Azure skills are in high demand worldwide.
Job Roles and Opportunities for Azure Administrators
After AZ-104, you qualify for roles like:
- Azure Administrator ($80,000 - $120,000 per year)
- Cloud Engineer ($90,000 - $140,000 per year)
- Systems Administrator – Azure ($75,000 - $110,000 per year)
Salary and Market Demand for Certified Professionals
Azure administrators can earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers, making this IT Certification a valuable investment in your career.
Azure Certification Benefits for Career Growth
- Higher salary potential
- More job opportunities
- Pathway to advanced Azure certifications
Next Steps After AZ-104
What Comes After AZ-104? Azure Certification Roadmap
- Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
- Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
- Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400)
Continuous Learning in Azure
Stay updated with Microsoft Learn, Azure blogs, and industry forums to maintain your edge in the Azure ecosystem.
Customer Experiences: Real Achievements for AZ-104 Azure Administrator Associate
- Streamlined Exam Prep – Our AZ-104 study resources help you master essential Azure concepts swiftly and retain them with ease.
- Always Current – Access the most recent Microsoft Azure certification materials, including Azure administration guides and cloud management resources for precise test readiness.
- Effortless Understanding – Comprehensive explanations simplify even the most intricate Azure administration topics.
- Seamless Learning Journey – An intuitive interface and round-the-clock support ensure a stress-free study experience.
- Industry-Driven Insights – Gain knowledge from Azure experts who craft our AZ-104 exam materials with real-world expertise.
- Proven Track Record – Join a dynamic and growing network of Azure-certified professionals who achieved success with our trusted resources.
Conclusion
The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate certification is a vital step toward a successful cloud computing career. With structured learning, hands-on practice, and the right resources, you can pass the exam and unlock new professional opportunities. Start your Azure Certification Path today and take your career to the next level!
