The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) exam is an entry-level certification that validates your foundational knowledge of cloud services and how they are provided with Microsoft Azure. It is the ideal certification for anyone new to cloud computing, especially those looking to start a career in IT or move into cloud-specific roles.
Unlike many technical certifications, AZ-900 doesn’t require deep technical experience or a prior cloud background. It’s designed to be approachable for beginners, including those in non-technical job functions like marketing, sales, finance, and project management.
This exam emphasizes general cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and Azure pricing and support.
Why AZ-900 Is a Smart First Step in Your IT Career
There are numerous reasons why AZ-900 is considered one of the best starting points in the cloud certification journey:
1. Beginner-Friendly and Accessible
AZ-900 is designed with beginners in mind. The exam doesn’t require hands-on expertise in scripting, development, or system administration. Instead, it focuses on giving you a high-level understanding of how cloud technology works and how Microsoft Azure supports cloud-based infrastructure and services.
2. Universal Cloud Concepts
Even if you eventually move into AWS, Google Cloud, or hybrid systems, the concepts you learn in AZ-900—like IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, regions, resource groups, and deployment models—apply across all platforms.
3. Foundational for Advanced Azure Certifications
AZ-900 acts as a springboard to more advanced certifications like:
- AZ-104: Azure Administrator
- AZ-204: Azure Developer
- AZ-305: Azure Solutions Architect
- AZ-500: Azure Security Engineer
By earning the AZ-900 first, you demonstrate your commitment to growth and readiness for more technical learning.
The Growing Demand for Azure Skills
Microsoft Azure is one of the top three cloud platforms globally, along with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Azure powers thousands of enterprises, government organizations, startups, and educational institutions. With Microsoft’s global infrastructure and presence in nearly every industry, learning Azure is becoming a career must-have.
Jobs that value Azure knowledge include:
- Cloud Support Engineer
- IT Support Technician
- Systems Administrator
- Business Analyst
- Pre-sales Engineer
- Technical Account Manager
- DevOps Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
Whether you’re technical or not, cloud awareness is quickly becoming a baseline skill across many roles.
Who Should Take the AZ-900?
The AZ-900 exam is perfect for a wide variety of learners and professionals. Here are a few personas that fit the target candidate profile:
1. IT Newcomers
If you’re just starting in tech, AZ-900 gives you a low-barrier way to begin your certification journey. You’ll learn the core pillars of cloud computing—such as high availability, scalability, disaster recovery, and pay-as-you-go pricing models.
2. Non-Technical Professionals in Tech-Oriented Companies
Business development managers, account executives, finance professionals, or project managers who regularly interact with technical teams will benefit immensely from the AZ-900. It helps create a common language between departments and improves your understanding of how cloud costs and services affect business operations.
3. Career Switchers
Coming from hospitality, retail, or another non-IT industry? The AZ-900 is a great entry point to begin transitioning into IT or cloud computing. It shows hiring managers that you’re motivated to learn and build relevant skills.
4. Students and Recent Graduates
If you’re in school or recently graduated with a general IT or computer science degree, the AZ-900 gives you a marketable credential that separates you from other entry-level applicants.
Prerequisites and Requirements
One of the reasons AZ-900 is so popular is that it has no formal prerequisites. However, here’s what can help make your study and exam experience smoother:
Helpful Background Knowledge:
- Basic understanding of IT services and their uses (e.g., servers, storage, networking)
- Familiarity with web technologies
- General understanding of how businesses use cloud computing
- Interest in digital transformation and infrastructure modernization
If you’ve worked with any IT-related systems, tools, or services—even in school or through personal projects—you’ll already have a leg up.
Overview of the AZ-900 Exam Structure
Here’s what you can expect when sitting for the AZ-900 exam:
| Exam Feature | Details |
| Question Types | Multiple Choice, Drag & Drop, Hot Area, True/False |
| Number of Questions | 40–60 questions |
| Duration | 85 minutes |
| Passing Score | 700 out of 1000 |
| Exam Fee | Around USD 99 (may vary by region) |
| Languages Offered | English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Korean, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian |
It’s conducted online or in-person via Microsoft’s testing partners, including Pearson VUE.
Topics Covered in the AZ-900 Exam
The AZ-900 certification exam breaks down into three core sections or “domains.” These form the blueprint of your exam:
1. Describe Cloud Concepts (25–30%)
You’ll need to understand:
- The differences between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS
- Public, private, and hybrid cloud models
- Benefits like elasticity, fault tolerance, scalability, and disaster recovery
- Capital vs. operational expenditure in the cloud
2. Describe Azure Architecture and Services (35–40%)
This is the biggest portion of the exam and focuses on:
- Core Azure services (compute, storage, networking, databases)
- Azure regions, availability zones, and resource groups
- Azure virtual machines, containers, and App Services
- Azure SQL Database, Azure Cosmos DB
- Azure Marketplace and Azure Resource Manager (ARM)
3. Describe Azure Management and Governance (30–35%)
This domain tests your understanding of:
- Azure subscriptions and billing
- Cost management tools and the pricing calculator
- Azure Advisor and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
- Azure Policy, Blueprints, and role-based access control (RBAC)
- Monitoring with Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and Security Center
The Value of the AZ-900 Certification
Earning the AZ-900 credential demonstrates to employers that you understand how Azure fits into business operations, which can give you a competitive edge.
Benefits of Certification:
- Enhances your resume or LinkedIn profile
- Increases your job prospects in IT and cloud-related roles
- Prepares you for deeper Azure certifications
- Helps you stand out in crowded entry-level markets
- Builds confidence in your ability to grow in cloud computing
How ExamLabs Can Help You Pass
If you’re looking for structured guidance, ExamLabs offers high-quality training specifically tailored to AZ-900 candidates. Here’s what you get:
- 64 expert-led video lessons breaking down all exam topics
- Practice exams that mirror the real test experience
- Quizzes to reinforce knowledge after each lesson
- Hands-on labs where you can work in real Azure environments
- Coaching and mentoring to help you stay on track
Whether you’re studying during your lunch break or on weekends, ExamLabs lets you learn at your own pace with access to professional-quality materials.
Pricing Options:
- Monthly Plan: $59.00/month
- Annual Plan: $49.91/month (billed annually)
These subscriptions also give you access to other Microsoft certification prep resources beyond just AZ-900.
How to Prepare and Pass the AZ-900 Exam – A Complete Guide
Passing the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) exam is a significant first step into the world of cloud computing. With the cloud becoming an integral part of IT infrastructure worldwide, earning this certification not only validates your foundational understanding but also boosts your career prospects. In this section, we’ll walk through a step-by-step guide to prepare for and pass the AZ-900 exam, providing actionable strategies, recommended resources, and study techniques to help you succeed.
Understand the AZ-900 Exam Blueprint
Before diving into preparation, it’s crucial to understand what you’re preparing for. Microsoft offers a detailed exam skills outline that breaks down all the topics covered in the exam. Familiarize yourself with this blueprint because it will guide your entire study strategy.
Main Exam Domains:
- Describe cloud concepts (25–30%)
- Describe Azure architecture and services (35–40%)
- Describe Azure management and governance (30–35%)
The weightage tells you how much emphasis to place on each area when studying.
Step-by-Step Study Plan (4–6 Weeks)
Let’s break the preparation into a realistic four to six-week plan, especially useful for full-time workers or students who may only have a few hours per day to study.
Week 1: Foundation – Understand Cloud Concepts
- Learn about cloud computing fundamentals: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, private, public, and hybrid cloud models.
- Understand the benefits of the cloud: high availability, scalability, agility, and disaster recovery.
- Explore the difference between capital expenditures (CapEx) and operational expenditures (OpEx).
Resources:
- Microsoft Learn AZ-900 module on cloud concepts
- ExamLabs video lessons on core cloud definitions and business value
- Create flashcards for terms like elasticity, high availability, and scalability.
Week 2: Azure Architecture and Core Services
- Dive into Azure regions, availability zones, resource groups, and subscriptions
- Understand core services: compute (VMs, Containers), networking (VNets, Load Balancers), storage (Blob, Disk, File), and databases (Azure SQL, Cosmos DB)
- Learn about deployment tools like ARM templates and the Azure portal.
Hands-On Tip:
- Sign up for a free Azure account and explore the portal.
- Create a resource group, a virtual machine, and a storage account.
Resources:
- Microsoft Learn modules on Azure core services
- ExamLabs walkthrough labs for virtual machines and app services
- Azure Documentation for architecture components
Week 3: Azure Management and Governance
- Learn about subscription management, billing, and the pricing tool.s
- Use the Pricing Calculator and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) tool.
- Understand governance and compliance tools: RBAC, Azure Policy, Blueprints.
- Dive into monitoring tools: Azure Monitor, Service Health, and Adviso.r
Hands-On Tip:
- Practice cost estimation using Azure Pricing Calculator
- Set up alerts in Azure Monitor.
Resources:
- ExamLabs practice labs on Azure governance
- Microsoft Learn: Management and governance module
- Watch Azure YouTube tutorials on setting up budgets and cost alerts.
Week 4: Revision and Practice Exams
- Review all modules and go back to the weak area.s
- Use ExamLabs practice tests to simulate the real exam.m
- Track your scores and identify knowledge gaps.
- Create a checklist of key concepts.
Mock Exams Strategy:
- Take at least 3 full-length mock exams under timed conditions
- Review every answer, even the ones you got right.t
- Take note of common patterns in questions.
Effective Study Techniques
1. Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Use flashcards (physical or apps like Anki/Quizlet) to review terms and definitions. Focus on active recall to force your brain to retrieve information.
2. Mind Mapping
Create mind maps for each core area. For example, draw a diagram of Azure services categorized by compute, networking, storage, and databases.
3. Hands-On Practice
Concepts stick better when you use them. Set up an Azure resource using the free tier and follow through Microsoft Learn’s interactive labs.
4. Group Learning and Forums
Join study groups on Reddit (e.g., r/AzureCertification), Discord servers, or LinkedIn learning groups. Ask questions, share insights, and discuss tricky topics.
5. Teach What You Learn
If you can explain a concept to someone else, you truly understand it. Try teaching a friend or writing short blogs about Azure concepts.
Recommended Resources
Microsoft Learn
Official learning platform by Microsoft. It’s free and interactive, offering guided paths for each AZ-900 topic.
ExamLabs AZ-900 Training Suite
- 64 instructor-led videos
- Quizzes for each section
- Lab simulations
- Full-length practice exams
- Coaching and study guides
Books
- “Exam Ref AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals” by Jim Cheshire
- “Microsoft Azure for Beginners” by Adney Ainsley
YouTube Channels
- Azure Friday (from Microsoft)
- John Savill’s Technical Training
- ExamLabs’ official YouTube channel
Tips for Exam Day Success
1. Sleep Well the Night Before
A well-rested mind performs significantly better than a tired one. Don’t cram the night before.
2. Arrive Early or Prepare the Test Environment
If taking it at a center, arrive 30 minutes early. If online, ensure your space is quiet, webcam-enabled, and all apps are closed.
3. Read Questions Carefully
Many questions are worded with nuances. Don’t rush. Watch for words like “best,” “most cost-effective,” or “recommended.”
4. Flag Questions
Use the option to flag tricky questions and return to them later if unsure.
5. Trust Your Prep
Don’t panic. You’ve studied, practiced, and reviewed. Stay calm and confident.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the exam outline – Stick to Microsoft’s blueprint; it’s your best friend.
- Overcomplicating the exam – Remember, it’s a fundamentals test. No need to go too deep.
- Skipping practice tests – These help you get comfortable with the format and question types.
- Not using the Azure Portal – The exam assumes you’ve seen it, even if only briefly.
Career Paths After AZ-900 Certification – Where to Go Next
Passing the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) exam is a major achievement and a great way to step into the world of cloud computing. But once you’ve passed, a crucial question arises: What’s next?
This section will help you explore various career paths, certifications, and job roles you can pursue after earning your AZ-900. Whether you’re an IT beginner, a business professional, or someone looking to pivot into the tech industry, this guide will help you map out your next move.
Why AZ-900 Is a Launchpad, Not a Destination
AZ-900 is an entry-level certification that validates your understanding of core cloud services and the Microsoft Azure platform. But it’s just the beginning. To truly advance in the cloud domain, you’ll need to choose a specialization aligned with your career goals.
Let’s explore those paths.
1. Microsoft Azure Role-Based Certifications
Microsoft has structured its certification programs around specific roles. Each path builds upon the foundational knowledge gained through AZ-900.
Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
Who it’s for:
- IT professionals
- System administrators
- Helpdesk staff transitioning to cloud roles
Skills Covered:
- Managing Azure identities and governance
- Implementing and managing storage
- Deploying and managing Azure compute resources.
- Configuring virtual networks
- Monitoring and maintaining Azure resources
Career Impact: This role is one of the most in-demand positions in cloud IT. It’s perfect for individuals looking to manage infrastructure and services in a cloud environment.
Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204)
Who it’s for:
- Developers and software engineers
Skills Covered:
- Developing for Azure storage
- Implementing Azure security
- Connecting to and consuming Azure services and third-party services
- Troubleshooting and optimizing solutions
Career Impact: This certification opens the door to building scalable cloud-based applications. It’s ideal for those looking to shift from traditional development into the cloud domain.
Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
Who it’s for:
- Senior IT professionals
- Enterprise architects
- Infrastructure managers
Skills Covered:
- Designing identity and governance
- Designing data storage solutions
- Creating business continuity strategies
- Designing infrastructure solutions
Career Impact: Solutions Architects are among the highest-paid cloud professionals. This role combines technical depth with strategic thinking.
Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Who it’s for:
- Cybersecurity professionals
- Network engineers
- IT admins interested in security
Skills Covered:
- Managing identity and access
- Implementing platform protection
- Managing security operations
- Securing data and applications
Career Impact: Security is one of the top priorities for organizations. This certification provides expertise in protecting cloud assets, leading to roles like Security Engineer and Security Analyst.
2. Cross-Specialization Opportunities
AZ-900 doesn’t limit you to one direction. Here are some non-traditional paths that can help you explore:
AI and Machine Learning
- Start with AI-900: Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals
- Progress to Azure AI Engineer (AI-102)
Data-Focused Careers
- Begin with DP-900: Azure Data Fundamentals
- Move to DP-203: Azure Data Engineer Associate or DA-100: Data Analyst Associate
DevOps
- Learn about CI/CD pipelines and Infrastructure as Code.
- Pursue AZ-400: Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
Microsoft Power Platform
- Learn Power BI, Power Apps, and Power Automate
- Begin with PL-900: Power Platform Fundamentals
3. Job Roles That Open Up After AZ-900
Even with just AZ-900, you can begin applying for entry-level roles or pivot to existing ones. Examples include:
- Cloud Support Technician
- Junior Azure Administrator
- IT Support Specialist (with cloud focus)
- Technical Sales/Pre-Sales Engineer
- Business Analyst (Cloud Services)
Each of these roles allows you to gain practical experience while continuing to specialize through additional certifications.
4. Build a Professional Portfolio
While certifications prove your knowledge, a portfolio demonstrates your real-world skills. Here’s how to build one:
Practical Projects to Include
- Deploy a static website using Azure Blob Storage
- Create and manage VMs using the Azure Portal.
- Set up monitoring and alerting with Azure Monitor.
- Perform cost analysis with the Azure Pricing Calculator.
Platforms to Showcase Your Work
- GitHub: For code, scripts, and documentation
- Personal blog or website: For tutorials, write-ups, and demos
- LinkedIn: Share what you’re learning and connect with professionals
5. Network with the Azure Community
Why It Matters
- Discover job leads
- Get real-world insights
- Stay updated with industry trends.
Where to Start
- Microsoft Learn Community
- LinkedIn Azure Certification groups
- Reddit (r/Azure, r/AzureCertification)
- Tech meetups and virtual events
Pro Tip: Follow thought leaders like Scott Hanselman, Donovan Brown, and Azure Evangelists.
6. Keep the Momentum Going
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is stopping after AZ-900. Keep your learning engine running with these ideas:
Stay Updated
- Follow the Azure Blog and Microsoft Learn updates
- Subscribe to newsletters like The Azure Weekly.
Join Hackathons or Challenges
- Participate in Microsoft’s Cloud Skills Challenges
- Join open-source Azure projects.
Continue Your Certification Journey
- Pick your specialization and plan for your next exam in the next 3–6 months.s
- Use platforms like ExamLabs for video courses, practice labs, and coaching.ng
Your Career Blueprint Post-AZ-900
Passing AZ-900 is just the beginning. Here’s your high-level roadmap:
- Choose a Role – Administrator, Developer, Architect, Security, etc.
- Get Hands-On – Practice real-world Azure scenarios in the portal.
- Certify Further – Pick your next certification (AZ-104, AZ-204, AZ-500, etc.)
- Build Your Brand – Create a portfolio and share your learning journey.
- Engage the Community – Network, collaborate, and stay current.
- Keep Learning – Evolve with the cloud industry and never stop growing.g
The cloud isn’t the future—it’s the present. By investing in Azure and continually upskilling, you’re investing in a future-proof career. The next chapter of your cloud journey starts now.
Leveraging Your AZ-900 Certification – From Certification to Career
Passing the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is a great accomplishment. But what truly sets successful cloud professionals apart is what they do after they pass. Whether your goal is to land your first cloud job, get promoted, or transition into a more technical role, this part will show you how to turn your AZ-900 into long-term value.
Understand What AZ-900 Proves — and What It Doesn’t
AZ-900 validates foundational knowledge in:
- Core cloud computing principles
- Microsoft Azure services and solutions
- Cloud pricing, support, and governance models
However, it doesn’t:
- Demonstrate hands-on expertise in deploying cloud solutions
- Make you immediately qualified for senior or advanced cloud roles.
Think of AZ-900 as your entry ticket to the game. It’s not the final level—it’s your starter pack.
1. Tailor Your Resume for Cloud-Focused Roles
With AZ-900 under your belt, your resume needs to reflect your cloud knowledge, even if you don’t yet have on-the-job experience in Azure.
How to Include AZ-900 on Your Resume
Certifications
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
- Date passed, credential ID (if available)
Technical Skills
- Cloud Fundamentals
- Microsoft Azure Services (Virtual Machines, Storage, Networking, etc.)
- Azure Portal Navigation
- Cost Management and SLAs
- Identity and Access Basics (Azure AD)
Projects or Labs, even self-paced labs, count. Add them under a “Projects” or “Hands-on Labs” section:
- Created and configured Azure virtual networks
- Deployed a static website using Azure Blob Storage
- Simulated cost estimation using Azure Pricing Calculator
2. Find Real Entry-Level Cloud Jobs
You don’t need to wait until you have an advanced certification to start applying. There are roles where AZ-900 can make a difference, especially in companies already using Azure.
Job Titles to Target
- IT Support Specialist (Cloud Focused)
- Cloud Operations Assistant
- Azure Intern / Trainee
- Technical Sales / Cloud Sales Associate
- Business Analyst (Cloud Projects)
- Cloud Support Technician
- Junior Cloud Administrator
Use Job Boards Smartly
Search terms:
- “Azure fundamentals”
- “Entry-level cloud”
- “Cloud support no experience”
- “IT with Azure knowledge”
Try:
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Indeed
- Microsoft Career Portal
- AngelList (for startups)
- RemoteOK (for remote-first companies)
Pro Tip: Apply Widely
Even if a job post says “AZ-104 preferred,” don’t be discouraged. If you meet most other requirements and have AZ-900, go for it. Especially in rapidly hiring industries (finance, healthcare, government, etc.), employers value initiative.
3. Gain Real-World Experience — Without Waiting for a Job
While you’re applying for roles, start building your cloud experience through the following:
a) Azure Free Tier
Create a free Azure account and experiment. You get access to:
- 750 hours/month of B1S virtual machines
- Azure App Services
- Cosmos DB and Azure SQL
- Azure Blob Storage
- Function Apps (serverless computing)
b) Microsoft Learn Modules
Microsoft Learn provides interactive, guided labs. Many are tailored specifically to the AZ-900 level and let you:
- Spin up cloud resources in a sandbox
- Practice IAM, security basics, and storage configuration.
- Track your progress through the learning path.s
c) GitHub Projects
Contribute to small cloud-focused GitHub projects, like:
- Infrastructure as Code templates (ARM, Bicep)
- Azure Functions demos
- Logic App workflows
4. Continue Learning to Stay Competitive
Don’t stop with just the AZ-900. Build momentum by choosing your next certification track based on your goals:
For Admin/Support Roles:
- AZ-104: Azure Administrator Associate
For Developer Roles:
- AZ-204: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure
For Data Professionals:
- DP-900 → DP-203: Azure Data Engineer Associate
For Security Roles:
- AZ-500: Azure Security Engineer
For DevOps Roles:
- AZ-400: DevOps Engineer Expert
Even if you don’t pursue a new cert right away, staying informed through blogs, newsletters, and online communities keeps you ahead.
5. Use LinkedIn Effectively
LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms to show off your AZ-900 achievement and network with recruiters.
Optimize Your Profile
- Update your headline: “Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals | Cloud Enthusiast | Seeking Entry-Level Opportunities”
- Add the certification under “Licenses & Certifications.”
- Use keywords like “cloud,” “Azure,” “certified,” and “Microsoft” in your summary.
Engage With Content
- Share posts about your learning journey
- React and comment on posts from Azure MVPs and professionals.s
- Join groups like “Microsoft Azure Professionals” and “Cloud Jobs & Internships.”
6. Stay Certified — and Stay Current
Does AZ-900 Expire?
As of now, the AZ-900 certification does not expire. But cloud technology evolves quickly, so you need to stay informed.
What to Watch For:
- Major Azure UI/feature updates (affects how services are used)
- Changes to pricing models or SLAs
- Updates to identity and security practices
- New services added to the platform (e.g., Azure OpenAI)
Use these resources:
- Azure Updates Blog
- Microsoft Learn Announcements
- YouTube channels like Azure Academy or John Savill’s Technical Training
7. Consider Freelance and Gig Work
You don’t need a full-time job to start building a cloud career.
Freelancing Ideas Post-AZ-900
- Help small businesses set up Azure backups or websites.
- Offer Azure cost optimization assessments.
- Build Power BI dashboards using an Azure data source.s
- Configure basic Azure security settings for the client.s
Platforms to Explore:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- Freelancer
- PeoplePerHour
8. Join the Cloud Community — and Give Back
Why It Matters:
- You’ll meet mentors and peers
- Stay motivated
- Discover job leads and referrals.
How to Get Involved:
- Answer beginner questions in Reddit’s r/Azure or Stack Overflow
- Write blog posts summarizing what you’ve learned.
- Speak at local or virtual meetups (e.g., Azure User Groups)
- Host your own workshops or tutorials using your AZ-900 experience.e
When you teach, you reinforce what you know and position yourself as a serious professional, even at the beginner stage.
Final Thoughts: Your Cloud Journey Has Just Begun
AZ-900 is more than a line on your resume—it’s a commitment to growth, opportunity, and lifelong learning in the cloud space. Whether you’re changing careers, upskilling in your current role, or just exploring what’s possible, your next move should build on this solid foundation.
Your Action Plan:
- Update your resume and LinkedIn
- Apply for entry-level cloud or hybrid roles.
- Keep building hands-on projects.
- Choose your next certification.n
- Stay current with Azure news.s
- Engage with the Azure community.
- Explore freelance or contract work.
The cloud computing industry is booming, and companies around the world are hungry for talent that understands platforms like Microsoft Azure. Your AZ-900 is proof that you’ve taken the first step. Now it’s time to keep climbing.
