In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, cloud computing is the backbone of business transformation. It enables cost-effective scalability, enhances productivity, and ensures operational continuity through disaster recovery and data backup. Among the top cloud platforms leading this transformation is Microsoft Azure, trusted by startups and enterprise-level organizations alike.
If you’re an IT professional eager to step into the world of cloud administration, the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is your launchpad. This highly respected credential validates your ability to manage Azure-based infrastructure and services, making it a must-have for anyone looking to succeed in cloud operations.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam in 2025, including key updates, core skills covered, benefits, study tips, and career opportunities.
What is the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification?
The Microsoft AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for managing cloud services that span storage, security, networking, and compute capabilities within Microsoft Azure. It officially replaced the older AZ-103 exam and continues to evolve in line with the rapid growth and dynamic nature of Azure services.
This certification validates your ability to perform key administrative tasks in an Azure environment. These include managing Azure subscriptions and resources, configuring virtual networks, implementing storage solutions, managing identities, and monitoring infrastructure performance. The AZ-104 exam tests your practical knowledge of how Azure works in real-world scenarios, making it an essential credential for those pursuing a hands-on role in cloud administration.
The AZ-104 is ideal for a variety of roles such as system administrators, cloud engineers, network administrators, DevOps professionals, and IT personnel looking to transition into cloud computing roles. It is especially valuable for those who are already working in hybrid or on-premises environments and are now shifting their focus to the cloud. The exam and its associated training materials are structured to help you develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring you can manage Azure resources confidently in a live business environment.
One of the biggest advantages of obtaining the AZ-104 certification is that it serves as a solid foundational step toward more advanced Azure certifications. If your career goal includes becoming a Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) or a DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400), earning AZ-104 is the logical and recommended place to start. The knowledge gained from AZ-104 helps you understand the core components of Azure infrastructure, which are critical when designing complex cloud architectures or automating processes through DevOps pipelines.
The certification process itself includes a comprehensive exam that measures your abilities across several domains:
- 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 backing up Azure resources (10-15%)
To prepare, candidates can use Microsoft Learn’s free modules, official instructor-led training, hands-on labs, and various practice tests to ensure readiness. The exam is structured with multiple-choice questions, case studies, and performance-based tasks, all of which simulate real administrative duties in an Azure environment.
Another benefit of the AZ-104 certification is its recognition across industries. From healthcare to finance to tech startups and large enterprises, companies increasingly depend on Azure to run their applications and services. Employers view the AZ-104 as a benchmark of competency in Azure administration. Holding the certification signals that you’re ready to contribute from day one, with minimal ramp-up time.
Moreover, Microsoft certifications are backed by one of the largest tech companies in the world. They are globally respected, consistently updated to match industry trends, and often included as preferred or required qualifications in cloud-related job postings.
In summary, the Microsoft AZ-104 certification offers a career-defining opportunity for professionals looking to deepen their cloud expertise and gain a foothold in the Azure ecosystem. Whether you’re seeking to boost your resume, change careers, or climb the professional ladder, AZ-104 provides the credibility, knowledge, and skills needed to succeed in today’s cloud-driven world.
What’s New in the AZ-104 Exam for 2025?
As of 2025, Microsoft has updated the AZ-104 exam objectives to reflect the latest Azure features and services. While the core skills remain consistent, key updates include:
- Deeper integration with AI and machine learning services
- Expanded coverage of Azure Policy, Blueprints, and Defender for Cloud
- Updated networking concepts including Azure Firewall, Private Endpoints, and Application Gateway
- Focus on automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) using Bicep and ARM templates
- Improved emphasis on cost management and resource governance
Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency across a broad set of responsibilities, including:
- Managing Azure identities and governance
- Implementing and managing storage
- Deploying and managing Azure compute resources
- Configuring and managing virtual networks
- Monitoring and backing up Azure resources
Why Should You Get AZ-104 Certified?
1. Industry Recognition:
Earning the Microsoft AZ-104 certification validates your skills and enhances your credibility in the job market. It signals to employers that you’re equipped to handle real-world cloud administration challenges.
This certification is widely recognized across industries that rely on Microsoft Azure for their cloud infrastructure. As more businesses shift their operations to the cloud, the demand for qualified professionals with proven Azure expertise has skyrocketed. The AZ-104 certification specifically targets the role of Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate, making it a valuable credential for IT professionals who manage cloud services including storage, networking, security, and compute resources.
Holding the AZ-104 demonstrates that you possess a deep understanding of core Azure services, governance, and compliance. It shows that you can implement, manage, and monitor an organization’s Azure environment. This makes you a more appealing candidate for positions such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Support Specialist, Infrastructure Engineer, and Systems Administrator.
Moreover, having the AZ-104 on your resume distinguishes you from your peers, giving you a competitive advantage in a crowded job market. It’s often a required or highly preferred qualification for roles in companies that use Microsoft cloud services. Recruiters and hiring managers know that certified professionals have undergone rigorous training and assessments, meaning they can trust you to perform efficiently with minimal onboarding.
Additionally, the AZ-104 serves as a foundational step in Microsoft’s certification path. It opens doors to more advanced credentials, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert or Azure Security Engineer Associate, enabling long-term career growth.
In short, earning the AZ-104 is not just about gaining technical skills—it’s a strategic move to increase your professional value, boost your visibility, and align yourself with industry trends in cloud technology.
2. Career Advancement:
AZ-104 opens the door to high-demand roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, Infrastructure Analyst, and IT Systems Engineer. These roles often come with competitive salaries and significant career growth potential, especially as more companies migrate their infrastructure to the cloud.
As cloud computing continues to dominate the IT landscape, employers are actively seeking professionals who have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in managing cloud environments. The AZ-104 certification proves that you can perform day-to-day management of Azure subscriptions, configure virtual networks, manage identities, implement storage solutions, and monitor cloud resources. These are essential responsibilities for any enterprise using Microsoft Azure.
Because of this demand, individuals holding the AZ-104 certification are often positioned at the front of the hiring line. According to recent industry reports, certified Azure professionals can command salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $120,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and specific job role. In tech hubs or enterprise environments, compensation can go even higher due to the strategic value of Azure in mission-critical operations.
3. Foundational Knowledge:
If you’re aiming for higher-level certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, AZ-104 provides the hands-on knowledge and groundwork needed for success. It acts as a foundational stepping stone, equipping you with the practical experience required to understand more advanced Azure concepts and architectures.
The AZ-104 focuses on real-world Azure administration tasks such as configuring virtual machines, setting up virtual networks, managing Azure Active Directory, and monitoring resource performance. These tasks form the backbone of cloud operations and are essential for anyone planning to design complex, enterprise-grade solutions on Azure. Without a strong understanding of these core functions, it becomes increasingly difficult to grasp the broader architectural principles covered in higher-level certifications.
Additionally, AZ-104 helps build your confidence in using the Azure portal, PowerShell, Azure CLI, and ARM templates, tools that are heavily relied upon in more advanced roles. These skills are directly transferable to certifications like Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure DevOps Engineer Expert, or Azure Security Engineer Associate, where strategic planning and integration of services become even more critical.
Preparing for the AZ-104 also cultivates a problem-solving mindset. You learn how to troubleshoot common cloud issues, optimize performance, manage costs, and ensure security, all of which are vital considerations when architecting scalable and resilient cloud solutions.
Moreover, Microsoft’s certification path is designed to be progressive. Starting with the AZ-104 ensures you’re not just memorizing concepts, but actually developing real-world cloud skills that will serve you well as you advance. The hands-on labs, role-based learning paths, and scenario-based questions in AZ-104 mirror what you’ll encounter in more specialized certifications.
In short, if your goal is to achieve expert-level Azure credentials and establish yourself as a seasoned cloud architect, AZ-104 is the essential first milestone. It lays a solid technical foundation and helps bridge the gap between administration and architecture, making your journey smoother, more strategic, and ultimately more successful.
4. Increased Earning Potential:
According to industry surveys, Azure-certified professionals can earn up to 20% more than their non-certified peers. Salaries for Azure Administrators often range from $90,000 to $125,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and job responsibilities.
This salary boost isn’t just a reflection of demand, it’s also a testament to the value that Microsoft Azure certifications bring to both individuals and organizations. With cloud computing becoming central to digital transformation, companies are investing heavily in professionals who can manage their Azure environments efficiently and securely. Certification acts as a validation of your skill set, giving employers confidence that you’re capable of handling mission-critical systems.
Furthermore, certified professionals often qualify for promotions and leadership roles more quickly. Employers recognize the AZ-104 certification as evidence of dedication to learning and a commitment to staying current with industry trends. Many organizations also provide training reimbursement or bonuses for employees who earn in-demand certifications, making it both a professional and financial investment worth considering.
The earning potential is especially notable in tech-forward cities like San Francisco, New York, Austin, Seattle, and Chicago, where Azure Administrators with certifications often fall on the higher end of the pay scale. Remote work opportunities also expand salary ranges, as companies are now willing to pay premium rates to certified professionals regardless of geographic boundaries.
Additionally, the AZ-104 certification can open doors to freelance and contract-based roles, where hourly rates can be considerably higher. Experienced Azure professionals working on short-term projects or as consultants can earn $60 to $100 per hour or more, depending on their specialization and project scope.
In summary, obtaining the AZ-104 not only equips you with the technical capabilities to thrive in cloud administration, it also significantly enhances your market value, job prospects, and earning potential in today’s competitive IT job market.
Study Resources for AZ-104 Success in 2025
To pass the Microsoft AZ-104: Azure Administrator Associate exam in 2025, using the right study resources is crucial. From official Microsoft material to third-party labs, practice exams, and active community discussions, your preparation should include a variety of tools that cater to different learning styles. Below is a comprehensive list of the best study resources to help you prepare effectively for the AZ-104 exam.
1. Microsoft Learn – Official Learning Platform
Microsoft Learn remains the foundation of any AZ-104 study plan. It’s Microsoft’s official and free learning platform.
Why Use It?
- Aligns directly with the AZ-104 skills outline.
- Includes interactive modules and sandbox environments.
- Tracks your learning progress through a gamified dashboard.
- Covers real-world tasks like configuring VMs, managing RBAC, and setting up Azure Storage.
Ideal for: Beginners and intermediate learners who want guided, self-paced content.
2. Azure Free Tier and Microsoft Learn Sandbox
Theoretical knowledge is essential, but hands-on practice is non-negotiable for AZ-104. Use the following free options to gain real experience with Azure services.
- Azure Free Account: azure.microsoft.com/free
- Offers $200 in credits for 30 days.
- Access to core services like VMs, Blob storage, VNets, and Azure Monitor for 12 months.
- Microsoft Learn Sandbox:
- Integrated into Microsoft Learn modules.
- No need for a personal Azure subscription.
- Perfect for practicing configurations in a temporary, safe environment.
3. Exam-Labs – Realistic Exam Question Bank
Exam-Labs AZ-104 provides up-to-date exam simulations and a vast collection of practice questions sourced from real user experiences.
Features:
- Offers multiple full-length practice exams.
- Questions are often aligned with the current AZ-104 syllabus.
- Includes explanations and answer breakdowns.
- Community contributions keep the content refreshed.
4. MeasureUp – Official Microsoft Practice Tests
MeasureUp is Microsoft’s authorized practice test provider, ensuring the most accurate and reliable preparation.
Highlights:
- Timed and untimed modes simulate the real exam experience.
- Provides detailed explanations for each question.
- Questions mapped to AZ-104 exam objectives.
- Offers custom test configurations to focus on specific topics.
Recommended for: Those ready to test their exam-day readiness.
5. Whizlabs – Practice Exams and Labs
Whizlabs AZ-104 offers a well-rounded preparation suite that includes both practice questions and hands-on labs.
What You Get:
- 5+ full-length practice exams.
- 300+ scenario-based questions with answers.
- Hands-on labs for deploying resources, managing VNets, and implementing storage solutions.
- Video courses and certification prep plans.
Whizlabs is ideal for learners who want bundled content: videos, practice exams, and hands-on labs in one place.
6. ACloudGuru / Linux Academy
ACloudGuru (formerly Linux Academy) is widely trusted in the cloud learning space. Their AZ-104 course includes:
- In-depth videos for each domain in the exam.
- Real-world projects and hands-on labs.
- Exam simulations and quizzes.
- Downloadable notes and cheat sheets.
Perfect for: Learners who prefer visual, instructor-led learning combined with labs.
7. Cloud Academy
Cloud Academy is a great alternative to ACloudGuru, offering a rich learning experience for Azure candidates.
Features:
- Guided learning paths aligned with AZ-104 objectives.
- Hands-on labs and skill assessments.
- Real-time lab challenges with performance tracking.
- Mobile-friendly interface for learning on the go.
Especially useful for those wanting to assess skills readiness along the way.
8. Udemy Courses and Practice Tests
Udemy has multiple top-rated AZ-104 video courses and practice tests from expert instructors like Scott Duffy, Alan Rodrigues, and Nick Colyer.
What’s Inside:
- 15+ hours of video content per course.
- Downloadable resources and cheat sheets.
- Lifetime access and mobile compatibility.
- Practice test bundles with hundreds of questions.
Budget-friendly and perfect for structured learning + self-assessment.
9. ExamTopics – Community-Contributed Questions
ExamTopics AZ-104 is a free community-based repository of AZ-104 questions.
Benefits:
- Access hundreds of real-user shared questions.
- Includes community-voted correct answers.
- Updated frequently with newly seen exam content.
- Offers filtering by domain and keyword search.
10. CBT Nuggets
CBT Nuggets offers high-energy, instructor-led video content tailored to AZ-104. Known for:
- Short, digestible video lessons.
- Hands-on virtual labs.
- Quizzes and progress trackers.
- Study plans and mobile app access.
Great for learners who thrive in fast-paced video environments.
11. Pluralsight
Pluralsight has an extensive Azure library, including a dedicated AZ-104 learning path.
Features:
- Courses taught by certified Microsoft MVPs.
- Role IQ assessments to benchmark skill levels.
- Hands-on practice environments with skill challenges.
- Offline viewing capabilities.
Recommended for IT professionals already familiar with Azure who want to sharpen and certify their skills.
12. Books and Study Guides
While digital platforms dominate, printed or eBook resources still offer structured learning paths and detailed reference material.
Top AZ-104 Books:
- Exam Ref AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator by Harshul Patel
- Azure Administrator Exam Guide (AZ-104) by Sjoukje Zaal
- Packt Publishing’s AZ-104 Practice Exams and Labs by Reza Salehi
Use these for: Deep-dive understanding, revision, and offline study.
13. Tech Study Communities
Community platforms are valuable for support, up-to-date tips, and resource sharing.
Best Communities:
- Reddit – r/Azure: Success stories, resource links, and exam reviews.
- Microsoft Tech Community: Official forums and articles by Microsoft MVPs.
- LinkedIn Study Groups: Engage with professionals also preparing for AZ-104.
- Discord Servers like ExamPro and CloudCerts: Real-time Q&A and peer-to-peer learning.
Career Opportunities with AZ-104 Certification
With the AZ-104 under your belt, you can pursue job roles such as:
- Azure Administrator
- Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
- Systems Administrator
- DevOps Specialist (entry-level)
- Support Engineer – Cloud Services
Organizations across industries, including healthcare, finance, government, and tech, are prioritizing cloud expertise. With Azure being the second-largest cloud provider globally, your AZ-104 certification positions you well for long-term success in the IT industry.
Why Earn the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification?
Earning the Microsoft AZ-104: Azure Administrator Associate Certification brings a wealth of advantages to IT professionals:
✅ Master In-Demand Azure Skills
Gain real-world experience managing Azure infrastructure, including compute, networking, storage, and identity, through practical tasks and role-based learning. The AZ-104 exam equips you with hands-on knowledge required for cloud administration.
✅ Accelerate Your Career Growth
Cloud-related job roles are expanding rapidly. Azure-certified professionals often enjoy higher salaries, increased job security, and more senior opportunities in the IT industry.
✅ Enhance Your Credibility
This globally recognized certification highlights your commitment to mastering Microsoft Azure, making you stand out to employers hiring for cloud-based roles.
✅ Unlock Global Job Opportunities
The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is recognized across industries worldwide, from finance and retail to government and healthcare, giving you a competitive edge in global job markets.
What’s New in the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam for 2025?
As Azure evolves, so does its certification. The AZ-104 exam in 2025 has been updated to better reflect the skills needed for modern cloud environments. Here’s a breakdown of the major skill areas tested:
1. Manage Azure Identities and Governance (20–25%)
Covers user roles, RBAC, Azure AD, and governance policies. Candidates must be able to implement role-based access control, manage Azure policies, and monitor identity security.
2. Implement and Manage Storage (15–20%)
Focuses on provisioning storage accounts, configuring access, setting up blob storage, file shares, and optimizing performance and costs.
3. Deploy and Manage Azure Compute Resources (20–25%)
Tests your ability to deploy virtual machines, work with containers and App Services, and automate deployment using ARM templates or Azure CLI.
4. Configure and Manage Virtual Networking (15–20%)
Includes setting up virtual networks, subnets, peering, VPNs, firewalls, and network security groups.
5. Monitor and Maintain Azure Resources (10–15%)
Ensures candidates can monitor performance using Azure Monitor, set alerts, create dashboards, and manage backup and disaster recovery plans.
These topics make the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam one of the most well-rounded certifications for Azure administration in 2025.
Prerequisites and Eligibility
There are no mandatory prerequisites to take the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification exam, but candidates should ideally have:
- 6+ months of hands-on Azure experience
- Familiarity with key services like virtual machines, storage, networking, and identity
- Working knowledge of PowerShell, Azure CLI, and ARM templates
Practical experience using Azure tools will significantly enhance your chances of success, especially when combined with a Microsoft AZ-104 Practice test.
Microsoft AZ-104 Exam Format and Details
The AZ-104 exam is designed to simulate real-world cloud scenarios to test both your knowledge and your problem-solving skills.
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Question Types: Multiple choice, case studies, and performance-based questions
- Languages: Available in English, Japanese, and other major languages
- Cost: $165 USD (varies by region)
- Exam Delivery: Online proctored or in-person at authorized testing centers
Best Resources to Prepare for the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam
🔹 Microsoft Learn
The Microsoft Learn platform provides a free and structured path to learning AZ-104 topics. It includes interactive labs, tutorials, and hands-on challenges.
🔹 QuickStart AZ-104 Course
QuickStart offers a dedicated course for AZ-104, available in both self-paced and instructor-led formats. It covers the exam blueprint in depth and includes practical labs.
🔹 Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Test
Practice exams are critical to success. Platforms like MeasureUp and QuickStart provide full-length Microsoft AZ-104 Practice tests to help you get familiar with exam structure and question types.
🔹 Microsoft AZ-104 Dumps (Use with Caution)
While Microsoft AZ-104 Dumps can provide insight into the exam format, always ensure you’re using reputable and legal sources. Unauthorized dumps can lead to disqualification and may not reflect updated 2025 content.
Top Career Opportunities After AZ-104 Certification
Passing the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam qualifies you for a wide range of IT roles in cloud administration. Some of the top job titles include:
- Azure Administrator
- Cloud Support Engineer
- Junior Cloud Engineer
- IT Infrastructure Specialist
Certified professionals are also in high demand across major industries:
- Retail: Improve eCommerce platforms and manage inventory with Azure’s cloud capabilities.
- Finance: Secure financial data and streamline compliance.
- Healthcare: Enhance patient care with scalable cloud-based health solutions.
- IT Services: Lead cloud migration projects and maintain infrastructure.
Salary Expectations
According to Salary.com, Azure Administrators in the U.S. earn an average salary between $125,000 and $178,000 annually. Furthermore, Microsoft reports that certified professionals can earn up to 15% more than their uncertified peers.
That makes the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification not only a smart career move, but also a financially rewarding one.
Final Thoughts: Is the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification Worth It?
Absolutely. The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is one of the most valuable credentials in cloud computing today. It confirms your ability to manage Azure services, implement governance, ensure security, and optimize resources.
Whether you’re aiming for your first cloud job or looking to solidify your current position, earning this certification in 2025 is a smart, future-focused investment.
Ready to begin your Azure journey? Start with a Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Test, enroll in a structured course like QuickStart, and work your way toward becoming a certified Microsoft Azure Administrator.
Cloud computing is no longer a trend, it’s a business imperative. As Azure continues to grow, demand for skilled administrators will only increase. The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification serves as a critical stepping stone for IT professionals looking to stay competitive in today’s evolving digital landscape.
Whether you’re transitioning from on-prem infrastructure, seeking a new career path, or upskilling within your organization, AZ-104 offers a powerful combination of credibility, knowledge, and hands-on expertise. Start your journey today and take your place among the future leaders in cloud technology.
