AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator Certification – Your Gateway to Azure Expertise
The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator certification is one of the most sought-after credentials for IT professionals aiming to validate their skills in managing and monitoring Azure environments. Designed for individuals who manage cloud services spanning storage, networking, security, and compute capabilities within the Microsoft Azure platform, this certification sets a strong foundation for a successful career in cloud computing.
Who Should Pursue the AZ-104 Certification?
The AZ-104 certification is ideal for IT professionals who:
- Have prior experience working with Azure and seek to formalize their expertise.
- Are responsible for implementing, managing, and monitoring Azure resources in an organization.
- Aspire to advance their careers in roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, or Systems Administrator.
While prior knowledge of Azure is beneficial, candidates should also be familiar with basic networking, security, and system management concepts before attempting the certification.
Skills Measured in the AZ-104 Exam
The AZ-104 exam evaluates a wide range of skills critical for Azure administrators. These include:
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Managing Azure Identities and Governance
- Configuring Azure Active Directory (Azure AD).
- Managing role-based access control (RBAC) and user accounts.
- Implementing identity protection and governance strategies.
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Implementing and Managing Storage
- Configuring Azure storage accounts and managing data access.
- Implementing shared access signatures (SAS) for secure data sharing.
- Monitoring and troubleshooting storage issues.
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Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources
- Managing virtual machines, containers, and app services.
- Configuring virtual machine scalability and backups.
- Automating resource deployment using templates.
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Configuring and Managing Virtual Networks
- Setting up virtual networks and securing them using Network Security Groups (NSGs).
- Managing DNS settings, VPN connections, and load balancers.
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Monitoring and Maintaining Azure Resources
- Utilizing Azure Monitor for resource performance and health checks.
- Setting up alerts and analyzing logs using Azure Log Analytics.
- Optimizing resources for cost and performance efficiency.
How to Prepare for the AZ-104 Exam
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Microsoft Learning Resources
Microsoft offers free learning paths and modules on its website, designed specifically for AZ-104 preparation. These modules provide hands-on labs and real-world scenarios to deepen your understanding. -
Third-Party Courses and Practice Tests
Platforms like Udemy, Pluralsight, and Whizlabs offer comprehensive training courses, practice tests, and study guides tailored for AZ-104 aspirants. -
Hands-On Experience
Practical experience with Azure is crucial. Use the Azure free tier to create, manage, and monitor various resources to familiarize yourself with the platform.
Exam Details and Certification Benefits
- Exam Code: AZ-104
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and scenario-based questions.
- Cost: $165 (subject to location-based pricing).
- Passing Score: 700/1000
Achieving the AZ-104 certification demonstrates your ability to manage Azure resources effectively, making you a valuable asset to any organization leveraging Microsoft Azure.
Conclusion
The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator certification is a stepping stone for IT professionals aiming to master Azure administration. With its practical emphasis and comprehensive skill coverage, this certification not only boosts your credibility but also opens doors to advanced certifications like the AZ-305 (Azure Solutions Architect). By preparing diligently and gaining hands-on experience, you can confidently pass the AZ-104 exam and propel your career in the ever-evolving field of cloud computing.
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