Exam AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification

Planning to start your career in Azure Cloud? Wondering where to start? If so, then you’re in the right place! This blog post is your guide. We’ll delve into Azure fundamentals, break down the AZ-900 certification process, and equip you with practical insights to help you succeed. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your skills, this is your starting point to unlock the potential of cloud computing.

The AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification is a great starting point for your cloud journey. Prepare effectively with Microsoft Learn, practice tests, and hands-on labs. The step-by-step activity guides of the AZ-900 training program will prepare you thoroughly for the certification.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essential aspects of the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification (AZ-900). We’ll cover key cloud concepts, core Azure services, and best practices for exam preparation.

1. What Is Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Exam?
2. Who Can Do This Certification?
3. Why You Should Learn About Azure?
4. Basic AZ-900 Exam Information
5. Pre-requisites for AZ-900 Exam
6. Learning Path For Azure Fundamental 
7. What Has Changed?
8. What Topics Should You Learn?
9. Complete AZ-900 Guide Hands-on Lab
10. How Candidates Can Explore the Exam Environment Before Taking the Test
11. How to Register for AZ-900 Exam
12. Exam Retake Policy
13. Join Our Free Al Community

What Is Az 900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification Exam

The AZ 900 exam is designed for candidates looking to demonstrate foundational-level knowledge of cloud services and how those services are provided with Microsoft Azure. This exam can be taken as an optional first step in learning about cloud services and how those concepts are exemplified by Microsoft Azure. It can be taken as a precursor to Microsoft Azure or Microsoft cloud services exams.

Here’s a step-by-step blog to help you create a completely FREE Trial Cloud Account on Microsoft Azure.

Is Microsoft Azure Certification Worth it?

A Microsoft Azure certification is a valuable investment for your career. It validates your cloud skills, making you highly sought-after in the growing cloud industry. With over 80% of enterprise workloads predicted to move to the cloud by 2025, now is the perfect time to gain this certification. It can open doors to new opportunities and increase your earning potential. Consider the specific certification that aligns with your career goals and start your journey towards becoming a certified Azure professional.

What are the Azure Course Objective?

With this Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals course aims to provide a solid foundation in cloud computing and how they are implemented in Microsoft Azure. You will also learn how to manage subscriptions, billing, and access control for Azure users and groups; Implement use cases and configuration options for Azure App Service and App Service environments; Azure CLI, PowerShell etc. Create Azure using Vehicle Application Service web applications; Manage security and privacy for Azure solutions.

Who Can Do This Certification?

Why You Should Learn About Azure?

• Cost-Effective: Azure often provides more cost-effective solutions, especially for Windows Server and SQL Server workloads, compared to other cloud providers.
• In-Demand Skillset: Organizations are actively seeking professionals with Azure expertise, leading to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.
• Flexible Pricing: Azure offers a variety of pricing models to suit different needs, ensuring optimal cost management.
• Comprehensive Cloud Platform: Azure provides a comprehensive suite of services, including compute, storage, networking, databases, and AI, enabling you to build and deploy scalable applications.
• Strong Hybrid Cloud Capabilities: Azure offers seamless integration with on-premises environments, making it easier to migrate and manage hybrid workloads.
• Global Reach and Compliance: Azure’s extensive global infrastructure and strong compliance certifications ensure data security and regulatory adherence.
• Innovation and Developer Productivity: Azure empowers developers with cutting-edge tools and services, accelerating development and fostering innovation.

By learning Azure, you can unlock new opportunities, enhance your career prospects, and contribute to the success of your organization.

Also read: To understand Azure Cloud Management Tools in a better way

Basic AZ-900 Exam Information

Pre-requisites for AZ-900 Exam

There are no pre-requisites for taking this course. It is targeted at anyone that wants to learn more about Microsoft Azure.

Azure Fundamentals Learning Path

Here is the new learning path for AZ-900, and you can refer to Microsoft’s updated section guide here.

What Has Changed in AZ-900?

The changes introduced in the exam are more to bring the exam up to date rather than a complete overhaul; apart from that, the focus of the exam has also been shifted to be more towards understanding the benefits and usage of Azure cloud than just understanding the underlying theory.

• There is a change in the Percentage weightage of sections in AZ900.
• The number of Sections has been increased from four to six.
• The weightage of the Describe cloud concepts has increased to (25–30%)
• The weightage of the Describe Azure architecture and services (35–40%)
• The weightage of the Describe Azure management and governance (30–35%)

What Topics Should You Learn in AZ900?

If you are planning to take this exam, you have to be well prepared with the topics:

1. Describe Cloud Concepts
2. Core Solutions & Management Tools on Azure
3. Identity, Governance, Privacy & Compliance Features
4. Core Azure Services
5. General Security and Network Security Features
6. Azure Cost Management & Service Level Agreements

Read: Microsoft Azure Certification Path

Here are Module-wise topics that you have to learn before appearing into AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification: 

1. Describe Cloud Concepts 

Gain a foundational understanding of cloud computing, including defining cloud computing and exploring the shared responsibility model. Learn about different cloud models—public, private, and hybrid—and identify their appropriate use cases. Understand the consumption-based model, compare various cloud pricing models, and delve into serverless computing.

• Describe Cloud Computing:

  • Delivery of computing services—servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics—over the internet (“the cloud”).
  • Enables faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale.
  • Users pay only for the services they use, reducing operational costs.
  • Supports efficient scaling of infrastructure.

• Benefits of Cloud Services:

  • High availability and scalability
  • Reliability and predictability
  • Security and governance
  • Manageability

• Cloud Service Types:

  • Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
  • Platform as a service (PaaS)
  • Software as a service (SaaS)
  • Identifying suitable use cases for each service type

Also read: Top 3 Cloud Computing Service Model

Also read: To understand Describe Cloud Concept in a better way

For self-learning about Cloud Concepts – Principles of cloud computing, Click here

2. Describe Azure Architectures and services

Explore the core architectural components, such as regions, availability zones, and datacenters. Understand Azure resources, resource groups, and the hierarchy involving subscriptions and management groups.

• Describe the Core Architectural Components:

  • Regions, availability zones, and datacentres.
  • Resource groups and Azure resources.
  • Subscriptions and management groups hierarchy.
  • Fault tolerance and disaster recovery strategies.

• Describe Azure Compute and Networking Services:

  • Compare compute types: containers, virtual machines, functions.
  • Virtual machine scaling and availability sets.
  • Virtual networking: subnets, endpoints, and peering.
  • Load balancing and traffic management options.

• Describe Azure Storage Services:

  • Types of storage: blob, file, queue, and table storage.
  • Storage tiers: hot, cool, and archive.
  • Data redundancy: LRS, ZRS, GRS, and RA-GRS.
  • Migration tools: Azure Migrate and Data Box.

• Describe Azure Identity, Access, and Security:

  • Azure Active Directory and directory services.
  • Role-based access control (RBAC).
  • Managed identities for secure resource access.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.

Also read: Microsoft Azure Storage Account: A Comprehensive Guide

For self-learning about Core Cloud Services – Azure architecture and service guarantees to Click here 

3. Describe Azure management and governance

Gain a foundational understanding of Azure management and governance, focusing on core tools like Azure Portal, PowerShell, and ARM templates. Learn cost optimization through Azure Cost Management and Reserved Instances. Explore governance with Azure Policy and Blueprints, and ensure security and compliance using Azure Monitor and Security Centre.

• Core Management Tools:

  • Azure Portal for web-based management.
  • Azure PowerShell and Azure CLI for scripting and automation.
  • Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates for infrastructure as code.
  • Azure Monitor for performance tracking and diagnostics.

•  Cost Management and Optimization:

  • Azure Cost Management for monitoring and budgeting.
  • Resource tagging for cost allocation.
  • Reserved instances for cost savings.
  • Recommendations via Azure Advisor.

• Governance and Compliance:

  • Azure Policy for enforcing standards.
  • Azure Blueprints for consistent environment creation.
  • Compliance certifications and regulatory support.
  • Resource locks to prevent accidental changes.

• Monitoring and Security:

  • Azure Security Centre for threat protection.
  • Activity logs and audit trails for tracking changes.
  • Application Insights for performance monitoring.
  • Alerts and notifications for proactive management.

Also read: A Comprehensive Guide to Data Governance and Compliance

For self-learning about Cloud Management and Governance – Describe Azure management and governance Click here 

Complete AZ-900 Guide Hands-on Labs

Everyone wants to learn cloud technologies these days, and the best way to learn is to perform. The AZ-900 Azure Fundamentals exam acts as a good starting point for those wanting to start their careers in the cloud.

Here is the list of our activity guides:

1. Register For Azure Free Trial Account
2. Create and Connect to Windows Virtual Machine.
3. Create a Web App
4. Deploy Azure Container Instances
5. Create Resource Group, Virtual Network, Subnet and Virtual Machine
6. Create Blob Storage
7. Create a SQL Database
8. Implement an Azure IoT Hub.
9. Implement Azure Functions
10. Create a VM with a Template.
11. Create a VM with PowerShell.
12. Create a VM using CLI.
13. Implement Azure Key Vault.
14. Secure Network Traffic.
15. Manage Access with RBAC.
16. Manage Resource Locks.
17. Implement Resource Tagging.
18. Create an Azure Policy.
19. Explore the trust Center.
20. Use Azure pricing calculator.
21. Use the Azure TCO calculator.
22. Access Azure preview features.

For a comprehensive guide to hands-on Azure Fundamentals exercises, please visit our blog post: [AZ-900] Microsoft Azure Fundamental Training: Step By Step Activity Guides/Hands-On Lab Exercise.

How Candidates Can Explore the Exam Environment Before Taking the Test

Familiarizing yourself with the exam platform is a crucial step toward feeling confident and prepared on test day. Here’s how you can effectively explore the exam environment before taking the actual test:

1. Access the Practice Environment:
   • Many testing services offer a sandbox or practice environment. This is a simulated version of the actual exam interface where you can navigate freely, practice different functions, and get comfortable with the layout.
2. Utilize Online Resources:
   • Look for video tutorials and walkthroughs on websites or platforms dedicated to exam preparation. These resources often provide step-by-step guidance on what to expect and how to efficiently use exam tools.
3. Join Forums and Study Groups:
   • Participate in online forums or study groups where candidates share insights and tips about the exam environment. Fellow test-takers can offer valuable advice based on their experiences.
4. Read Official Guides and Manuals:
   • Download any official guides provided by the examination body. These documents often include details about the test interface, question types, and time management tips.
5. Take Practice Tests:
   • Engage in practice tests under timed conditions. This not only tests your knowledge but also helps you become acquainted with the pacing and functionality of the exam system.

By taking advantage of these resources, you can lessen anxiety, improve your performance, and enter the exam room with confidence.

How to Register for AZ-900 Exam

Registering for an AZ-900 exam is very easy; it costs you $99 USD for the registration. The registration redirects you to the Pearson VUE website, where you can schedule a time and date to give the exam.

Also read: How to Register For [AZ-900] Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification Exam

Note: To register for the AZ-900 Exam, click here

Exam Retake Policy

• First Attempt: If you fail your first attempt, you must wait 24 hours before retaking the exam.
• Subsequent Attempts: If you fail your second or subsequent attempts, you must wait 14 days before retaking the exam.
• Maximum Retakes: You can take the exam a maximum of 5 times within a one-year period.
• Exam Fees: You will need to pay the exam fee for each retake attempt.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Related/References

• Learn how to create a Free Microsoft Azure Trial Account
• What are Resources and How to Create a Resource Group
• How to Register For [AZ-900] Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification Exam
• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals [AZ-900] Exam Questions

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