Cloud computing has become one of the most in-demand skills today. Due to the rapid progress and introduction of new technologies, cloud service providers are also renewing their certifications. Microsoft Azure is one of the best and leading cloud service providers that offers a role-based certification model to accommodate different job responsibilities in the cloud computing space. Microsoft Azure, the latest version of the AZ-103 exam, recently released the AZ-104 Certificate of Administration. Accreditation aims to validate the candidate skills required to be ideal for the Azure Administrator role.
If you are interested in becoming a Microsoft Azure Administrator, the content in this article will help you start preparing for the exam and pass it in one go.
About AZ-104 Certification
The Microsoft AZ-104 Certification Exam is a new approach for candidates aiming for the career as a Microsoft Azure Certified Administrator. It evaluates the skills of a candidate in implementing, measuring and monitoring cloud environment identities.
Microsoft has introduced the new AZ-104 certification exam to replace the AZ-103 to meet the needs of today’s industry. It places more emphasis on identity, management, governance, and use of computing resources.
Who can take the exam?
First, candidates need to know whether they are required to take the AZ-104 exam or not. The AZ-104 exam is intended for candidates who want to work in an organization as an Azure administrator, or who already have experience as an Azure administrator and want to improve their existing skills.
Azure admins are responsible for managing and deploying identity, governance, and storage in the cloud. In addition, his responsibilities also include monitoring, providing, and adjusting resources as needed.
Exam requirements:
The requirements for the Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-104 certification exam are as follows:
- At least 6 months of experience managing Azure
- Comprehensive understanding of Azure services, security, workloads and management
- Hands-on experience using CLI templates, Azure portal, PowerShell, and ARM
Exam details
| Exam Name | Azure Administrator |
| Number of Questions | 40 to 60 |
| Exam Duration | 180 minutes |
| Passing score | 700 (on a scale from 1-1000) |
Microsoft Azure AZ-104 Certification Exam Preparation Guide for Administrators
Once you have studied the details of the AZ-104 certification, it is important to formulate a proper preparation strategy to pass the exam. Some of the main tips for preparing for the exam are as follows:
Study the Exam domains
The first step in preparation is to work on the study modules or subtopics covered by the exam. Then you can prioritize topics according to their percentage of difficulty in the exam and get good results.
The AZ-104 exam covers the following areas:
Domain 1: Manage Azure identities and governance
This domain is given a weight of 15-20% in the test. It includes the following subtopics:
- Manage Azure AD objects
- Manage role-based access control
- Manage the subscription and governance
Domain 2: Implement and manage storage
This area accounts for 10-15% of the exam questions. It includes the following subtopics:
- Storage account management
- Manage data in Azure Storage
- Configure Azure files and Azure blob storage
Domain 3: Deploy and manage Azure compute resources
This is one of the critical areas for exam perspective and has a weighting of 25-35%. It includes the following subtopics:
- Configure virtual machines for high availability and scalability
- Automate VM deployment and configuration
- Create and configure virtual machines
- Create and configure containers
- Build and configure web applications
Domain 4: Configure and manage virtual networking
This range covers the maximum number of questions (30-35%) in the exam. It includes the following subtopics:
- Virtual network implementation and management
- Configure name resolution
- Secure access to virtual networks
- Configure load balancing
- Monitor and troubleshoot virtual network
- Integrate LAN with Azure Virtual Network
Domain 5: Monitor and backup Azure resources
This is the final exam part of the AZ-104 certification and covers 10-15% of the exam questions. It includes the following subtopics:
- Monitor resources with Azure Monitor
- Perform backup and restore
- Take online training courses offered by training partners
There are many study materials available for candidates who choose the self-study mode. One of the best ways to prepare yourself is to enroll in an online training course. Choose a reliable AZ-104 training provider based on your needs and at an affordable price. Online training is inexpensive and gives you skills and hands-on experience in the industry. You can communicate with coaches and clear your doubts during live sessions.
Read Microsoft documentation
You can view the official Microsoft documentation to prepare for the AZ-104 exam. The Microsoft documentation includes a theoretical section to understand each exam objective in detail. Find specific topics from the exam schedule and study document here.
Join online community or groups of studies available virtually:
To connect with like-minded professionals, it is significantly crucial to join study groups or online forums This group discussion can help gain new perspectives on the subject matter and maintain consistency during the preparation phase. It is important to ensure the reliability of groups and forums before joining them.
Books to prepare
If you are interested in reading books for exam preparation, you can purchase books offered by Microsoft. Written by experts in the field, these books will help you study and successfully pass the AZ-104 exam.
Take practice tests to assess your progress
Exam preparation is incomplete without completing live tests or exam mockups. They are good for self-assessment and help you find issues that need your attention. Practical tests also increase your confidence and allow you to manage your time effectively during the exam.
Take Microsoft’s official practice test to assess your progress here
During the exam
Exam days can be stressful days for some candidates. The following guidelines can help you maximize your exam performance:
- Rest assured during the investigation
- If you arrive at the exam center early, you will have enough time for other formalities and you can concentrate on your exam
- Make sure you have enough rest before taking the exam
Conclusion
Microsoft introduced the Microsoft Azure AZ-104 certification exam with industry needs in mind. The AZ-104 exam serves as a step for aspiring Azure administrators. It also makes sense for employers to recruit suitable job candidates. Pure dedication and consistent practice will help you pass the test on the first try.
Why Vinsys?
Vinsys is one of the leading providers of advanced IT security training. We are a Microsoft training partner trusted by security professionals around the world. Enlist the help of our highly qualified and certified instructors to earn this renowned certificate.
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