If you’re looking to become a certified Azure professional, the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is your gateway. As the foundational step before pursuing the Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305), the AZ-104 exam is essential for validating your ability to manage Azure environments.
This guide walks you through everything you need to study for the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam, along with resources and tips to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Why Earning the AZ-104 Certification Matters
Microsoft Azure is one of the most widely used cloud platforms across businesses and enterprises worldwide. Organizations rely on Azure to host applications, store data, manage identity, and provide scalable compute resources. With more companies transitioning to hybrid or fully cloud-based environments, there’s a growing demand for IT professionals who can manage Azure infrastructures efficiently.
By earning the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification, you demonstrate to employers that you have the technical knowledge and practical skills to handle real-world administrative tasks in Azure. It validates your proficiency in deploying, managing, and monitoring Azure environments, making you a valuable asset to any IT team.
Moreover, passing the AZ-104 is a requirement for advancing toward higher-level certifications like the AZ-305. If you want to climb the Azure certification ladder, this exam is a crucial milestone.
In-Depth Breakdown of AZ-104 Topics
Let’s go deeper into the five core domains of the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam:
1. Managing Azure Identities and Governance
You’ll need to understand how to manage users, groups, and roles in Azure Active Directory. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), managing subscription policies, and setting up resource locks and tags. These tools ensure your Azure environment is secure and organized.
2. Implementing and Managing Storage
The exam covers configuring blob containers, managing access keys and shared access signatures (SAS), and implementing Azure Files and storage accounts. It’s also essential to know how to integrate storage with virtual machines and ensure data redundancy using locally and geographically redundant storage (LRS and GRS).
3. Deploying and Managing Compute Resources
You’ll explore virtual machine (VM) deployment, configuration, and monitoring, as well as working with Azure App Services and container-based solutions. Additionally, you should be familiar with virtual machine scale sets, availability sets, and load balancing techniques.
4. Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking
Expect to dive into IP addressing, subnetting, peering, DNS, route tables, and VPN gateway configurations. Networking is critical for secure and efficient communication between services and users in Azure.
5. Monitoring and Maintaining Azure Resources
This section includes using Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and Application Insights to track performance and diagnose issues. You’ll also learn how to create alerts and implement diagnostic logging to ensure services are operating as expected.
Best Practices for Preparing for the AZ-104 Exam
Here’s how to maximize your study time and boost your chances of passing the first time:
1. Use a Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Test
Taking timed, scenario-based Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Tests helps reinforce your knowledge and familiarizes you with the format of the exam. You can identify your strengths and areas where you need more review. Look for practice tests that mimic real-life questions, not just multiple-choice trivia.
2. Leverage Hands-On Labs
Microsoft Azure provides a free account with $200 in credit — a great way to explore services and perform hands-on tasks. Working directly in the portal builds your confidence and practical experience.
3. Follow a Structured Learning Path
Online platforms such as Exam-Labs, Microsoft Learn, Udemy, and Pluralsight offer structured AZ-104 courses. These platforms include video lessons, quizzes, and sometimes labs that cover the full exam syllabus.
4. Study with Official Microsoft Docs
Microsoft’s own documentation is an invaluable resource. Bookmark services like Azure AD, VM deployment, and Network Watcher to stay current on best practices and updates that may impact your exam.
Understanding Microsoft AZ-104 Dumps
If you’re on the path to becoming a certified Azure administrator, chances are you’ve come across the term Microsoft AZ-104 dumps during your research. These so-called “dumps” typically refer to collections of real or simulated exam questions and answers that are shared or sold online — sometimes illegally — with the promise of helping candidates pass the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam with minimal effort. While this may sound tempting, there are several reasons to be cautious about using these resources.
1. Many AZ-104 Dumps Are Outdated or Incorrect
Microsoft updates its exams regularly to reflect new technologies, services, and best practices in the Azure ecosystem. This means any Microsoft AZ-104 dumps you find online may contain outdated or irrelevant information. If you rely on these dumps, you might end up memorizing answers to questions that no longer exist on the actual exam — leading to confusion, poor exam performance, and wasted effort.
Furthermore, many of these dumps are created by individuals with no official affiliation to Microsoft. That means the quality and accuracy of the content is questionable at best. Incorrect answers or poorly explained concepts can mislead you and create misunderstandings about how Azure actually works.
2. You Risk Violating Microsoft’s Exam Policies
Microsoft takes exam integrity seriously. Using unauthorized dumps to prepare for any of their certification exams, including the AZ-104, can violate their Exam Terms and Conditions and Candidate Code of Conduct. If you are caught using such materials — even unknowingly — Microsoft reserves the right to revoke your certification, ban you from future exams, and even report the infraction to your employer or institution.
Ethical preparation is not just about integrity, it’s about building real-world skills that can help you succeed in a cloud-centric career. Microsoft certifications are meant to reflect your ability to solve problems, manage Azure infrastructure, and work in professional environments — not your ability to memorize answer sheets.
3. Dumps Don’t Teach You Real-World Azure Skills
One of the biggest drawbacks of relying on Microsoft AZ-104 dumps is that they don’t help you learn the practical skills required for success in the workplace. Passing the exam is just the beginning — your real value as an Azure Administrator comes from your ability to apply your knowledge in live environments.
That’s why Microsoft designed the AZ-104 to be scenario-based. The exam tests not just your theoretical understanding, but your ability to configure resources, troubleshoot issues, and optimize Azure environments. Memorizing answers from dumps will not help you when you’re asked to create a virtual machine, configure a load balancer, or monitor an Azure Web App using built-in tools.
Better Alternatives to AZ-104 Dumps
Instead of taking shortcuts with questionable resources, there are better — and ethical — ways to prepare for the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification:
✅ Use Verified Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Tests
Reputable platforms like MeasureUp, Whizlabs, and CBT Nuggets offer high-quality Microsoft AZ-104 practice tests that align with the actual exam objectives. These tests are designed by certified professionals and updated regularly to reflect new changes in Azure services and Microsoft’s exam structure.
Taking timed practice exams helps build your confidence, identifies knowledge gaps, and familiarizes you with the style of questions you’ll face on test day. Many practice test providers even include detailed explanations for each answer — giving you a chance to understand the concepts instead of just memorizing them.
✅ Explore Microsoft Learn and Official Documentation
Microsoft provides free learning paths for the AZ-104 through its Microsoft Learn platform. These modules offer a mix of text-based lessons, interactive labs, and quizzes that walk you through every aspect of Azure administration — from resource management to identity protection and beyond.
Pair this with the official Microsoft Docs, which are constantly updated to reflect changes in Azure services, pricing, and best practices. These resources are reliable, comprehensive, and free.
✅ Get Hands-On Experience with Azure
Arguably the best way to learn Azure is by doing. Microsoft offers a free Azure account with $200 in credit for the first 30 days. With this, you can deploy real services in a sandbox environment, experiment with virtual networks, create VMs, explore resource groups, configure identity settings, and more.
By working directly in the Azure portal, you’ll not only deepen your understanding of how things work — you’ll also build practical skills that are vital for the real world. These are the kinds of skills employers are looking for when they see “AZ-104 Certified” on your resume.
How to Schedule the AZ-104 Exam
Once you’re confident in your preparation, it’s time to take the next big step — scheduling the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam. This process is straightforward, but it’s important to follow all instructions carefully to avoid delays or complications. The exam is available globally and can be scheduled through Microsoft’s official certification portal or via Pearson VUE, the authorized exam delivery partner.
The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification exam costs approximately $165 USD, although this amount may vary depending on your location, currency, and any available discounts. It’s recommended to double-check the price during registration to avoid surprises.
Step-by-Step Guide to Scheduling Your AZ-104 Exam
- Create a Microsoft Certification Profile
- Visit the Microsoft Certifications Dashboard
- Sign in with your Microsoft account or create one if you don’t already have one.
- Fill out the certification profile with your full name (as it appears on your legal ID), email address, and country/region.
- Search for the AZ-104 Exam
- Once your profile is complete, search for “AZ-104” or “Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate” on the Microsoft Certification page.
- Click on the exam listing to view detailed information about the exam objectives, duration, language availability, and prerequisites.
- Choose a Testing Option You can choose to take the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam in two formats:
- Online Proctored Exam (Home/Office): This allows you to take the exam remotely. It’s convenient, but your workspace must meet specific requirements (quiet environment, clear desk, functioning webcam and microphone).
- In-Person Exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center: Ideal for those who prefer a distraction-free environment. Select a test center near you and pick a date and time that fits your schedule.
- Select Date and Time
- Whether online or in person, you’ll be prompted to select your preferred exam date and time based on availability in your region or time zone.
- Confirm and Pay
- Proceed to payment. Enter any applicable discount or voucher codes (like student discounts or company-sponsored certifications).
- Upon payment confirmation, you will receive a confirmation email with detailed exam instructions.
ID Requirements for the AZ-104 Exam
To maintain the integrity of the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification process, you will be required to show valid identification:
- Online Exam: You’ll be asked to present a government-issued ID during the check-in process. Your photo, name, and signature must be clearly visible.
- In-Person Exam: Bring two forms of ID (one must be a government-issued photo ID). Your exam proctor will verify your identity before starting the test.
Technical Requirements for Online Testing
If you choose the online proctored option for the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam, be sure your system meets these minimum requirements:
- A reliable high-speed internet connection
- A functioning webcam and microphone
- Windows or Mac OS (Chromebooks are not supported)
- A quiet, well-lit space with no interruptions
- Download and install the OnVUE exam software (instructions provided by Pearson VUE)
Before the exam, you’ll complete a system check and room scan. Your proctor will monitor you during the exam via webcam.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Here are a few exam-day tips to help you succeed:
- Arrive Early: For in-person tests, arrive at least 30 minutes early. For online tests, log in 15-30 minutes before your scheduled time to complete the check-in process.
- No Study Materials Allowed: You cannot bring books, notes, or other resources. The exam is closed-book.
- Scratchpad Access: During the online exam, you’ll have access to a digital scratchpad, but physical paper is not allowed.
- Technical Support: If you face technical issues before or during your online exam, Pearson VUE provides real-time chat support to help you resolve the problem.
Rescheduling and Cancellation Policy
Life happens, and Microsoft understands that. If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam:
- You can reschedule or cancel your Microsoft AZ-104 Exam up to 24 hours before your scheduled time without penalty.
- Changes made within 24 hours of your appointment may result in forfeiture of the exam fee.
Be sure to log in to your Microsoft Certification Dashboard and manage your appointment from there.
Before exam day, double-check:
- Your ID matches the name on your certification profile
- You’ve received your exam confirmation email
- Your testing environment and computer meet all requirements (for online testing)
- You’ve taken a few Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Tests to reinforce your confidence
By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be in a strong position to not only pass the exam but truly earn your Microsoft AZ-104 Certification the right way. Good luck — your journey to becoming an Azure-certified administrator is just one exam away!
Why Learn Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure has emerged as one of the most dominant cloud platforms in the industry, competing directly with giants like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). With Microsoft investing heavily in its cloud infrastructure, Azure now powers thousands of enterprise-level applications, government platforms, and small business solutions across the globe. Its rapid growth, combined with a deep integration with Microsoft products like Windows Server, Active Directory, and Office 365, makes Azure an indispensable part of the modern IT landscape.
Azure supports a wide array of services — from virtual machines and storage to artificial intelligence, DevOps tools, and Kubernetes orchestration. As organizations transition from on-premises solutions to cloud or hybrid environments, the demand for professionals who can design, deploy, and manage Azure-based solutions continues to skyrocket.
Whether you’re just getting started with cloud computing or already have experience with platforms like AWS or Google Cloud, learning Azure can significantly enhance your technical skill set and career opportunities. It’s especially valuable for professionals in roles such as system administrators, cloud engineers, network engineers, and DevOps specialists.
If you’re aiming to build a strong foundation in Azure administration, pursuing the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is the logical starting point. It validates your ability to manage cloud infrastructure, configure virtual networks, implement storage solutions, and monitor cloud resources — all of which are essential skills in today’s cloud-first IT world.
To help you get started, online platforms like CBT Nuggets, Pluralsight, and Microsoft Learn offer comprehensive Azure training that aligns perfectly with the AZ-104 exam objectives. These courses dive deep into the core topics you’ll encounter on the exam, while providing hands-on labs, video lessons, quizzes, and even simulated environments. Even better, CBT Nuggets offers a 7-day free trial, so you can experience the learning platform and decide if it suits your learning style before committing.
In short, if you’re looking to future-proof your IT career, learning Microsoft Azure — and pursuing the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification — is one of the smartest decisions you can make.
How Much Does the Microsoft AZ-104 Exam Cost?
The cost of the AZ-104 Exam is typically around $165 USD. However, prices may vary depending on your region and currency. While the fee is a reasonable investment, preparation is key, especially if you want to avoid paying for a retake. That’s why it’s smart to go through multiple Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Tests before scheduling your exam.
Time Commitment and Study Strategy
Most learners can complete a full AZ-104 training course in about 40 to 50 hours. This includes video lectures, hands-on labs, quizzes, and practice tests. Ideally, plan for 2-3 weeks of structured study, focusing on one domain at a time. Reinforce each topic with:
- Practice labs in the Azure Portal
- Review questions
- Real-world scenarios
- One or two AZ-104 Practice Exams at the end of your prep
Final Thoughts: Prepare with Confidence
The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is a valuable stepping stone for any IT professional working with Azure. Whether you’re aiming to become a cloud engineer, administrator, or architect, mastering the AZ-104 skills ensures you can confidently deploy, manage, and monitor Azure resources.
Remember to use a combination of official learning paths, practice labs, and reputable Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Tests. Stay cautious of suspicious Microsoft AZ-104 Dumps, and instead focus on gaining practical, applicable knowledge.
When you’re ready, schedule your exam and take your first big step toward becoming a certified Azure pro. Good luck on your journey to cloud mastery!
