Start your cloud journey with the AZ-900 exam. Learn Azure basics, exam structure, prep tips, and career benefits in this complete guide.
What is AZ-900?
The AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification validates your knowledge of key cloud concepts. Specifically, it covers:
- Basic cloud concepts
- Core Azure services
- Azure security, compliance, and governance
- Pricing and support
It is designed for beginners with little or no technical background. You don’t need IT experience to attempt it.
This makes AZ-900 ideal for:
- Students and fresh graduates exploring cloud careers
- Business professionals who want to understand Azure
- IT professionals moving into cloud roles
- Managers or decision-makers evaluating cloud adoption
AZ-900 Exam Details
Here’s a quick snapshot of the exam:
- Questions: 40–60 (multiple-choice and scenario-based)
- Duration: 85 minutes
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $99 (₹4,800 approx. in India)
- Languages: English, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, German, Spanish, French, and more
- Mode: Online proctored or test center
AZ-900 Syllabus (Skills Measured)
Microsoft divides the AZ-900 exam into four key areas:
1. Describe Cloud Concepts (25–30%)
- Benefits of cloud computing: scalability, reliability, high availability
- Cloud models: Public, Private, Hybrid
- Service types: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
2. Describe Core Azure Services (15–20%)
- Azure regions, availability zones, and resource groups
- Compute: Virtual Machines, App Services, Functions
- Networking: VNet, VPN Gateway, ExpressRoute
- Storage: Blob, Disk, File, Archive
- Databases: Azure SQL, Cosmos DB
- Azure Marketplace
3. Describe Azure Security, Privacy, Compliance, and Trust (30–35%)
- Azure Security Center and Key Vault
- Firewalls, NSGs, and DDoS protection
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- Compliance and governance: Azure Policy, Blueprints
4. Describe Azure Pricing, SLA, and Lifecycle (20–25%)
- Azure subscriptions and resource management
- Factors affecting cost
- Pricing calculator and Cost Management
- SLAs for Azure services
- Free services and lifecycle
How to Prepare for AZ-900
1. Microsoft Learn (Free)
Microsoft provides a free learning path with interactive modules and hands-on labs.
2. Instructor-Led Training
The official course code AZ-900T00 is delivered by Microsoft Learning Partners.
3. Practice with Azure Free Account
Sign up for a free Azure account and get $200 credits to try out services.
4. Mock Exams
Take practice tests from MeasureUp, Whizlabs, or Tutorials Dojo to get exam-ready.
Who Should Take AZ-900?
This certification is ideal for:
- Students – Build career-ready cloud knowledge.
- IT Professionals – Strengthen basics before advanced certifications.
- Business Managers – Make informed cloud adoption decisions.
- Sales & Marketing Teams – Understand Azure’s value for customers.
Benefits of AZ-900
- Builds a strong foundation in cloud concepts.
- Globally recognized certification by Microsoft.
- Career opportunities in roles like Cloud Support Associate, IT Analyst, and Cloud Sales Specialist.
- Stepping stone for advanced certifications (AZ-104, AZ-204, AZ-305, DP-900, AI-900).
- Affordable entry-level exam at $99.
Career Path After AZ-900
Once you earn AZ-900, you can move to:
- AZ-104 – Azure Administrator
- AZ-204 – Azure Developer
- AZ-305 – Solutions Architect
- DP-900 – Data Fundamentals
- AI-900 – AI Fundamentals
Final Thoughts
The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is the best way to start your cloud journey. It’s beginner-friendly, cost-effective, and highly valued by employers.
With free resources on Microsoft Learn, hands-on Azure practice, and mock exams, anyone can pass this exam with confidence.
Whether you’re a student, IT professional, or business manager, AZ-900 equips you with the skills to understand cloud concepts and Azure services. More importantly, it sets the stage for advanced certifications and future-ready career opportunities.