Shaun Donaghy
Head of Innovation at Portland Training
In today’s tech-driven world, cloud computing has become a core component of most businesses. For those looking to start a career in cloud computing, Microsoft Azure is one of the leading platforms, and earning the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification (AZ-900) is a great first step. This certification gives you the foundational knowledge needed to understand the core concepts of Microsoft Azure, and it can help you stand out to employers as you enter or advance in the IT industry.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, including the benefits, how to prepare, the exam structure, and where to get started with Portland Training’s course offerings.
Contents
1. What is Microsoft Azure Fundamentals?
2. What Does the Azure Fundamentals Certification Cover?
3. How Difficult is the Azure Fundamentals Exam?
4. How Long Does it Take to Prepare for Azure Fundamentals?
5. How to Prepare for the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Exam
6. How Much Does the Azure Fundamentals Exam Cost?
7. How Long Does It Take to Complete Azure Fundamentals?
8. Can You Get a Job with the Azure Fundamentals Certification?
9. What’s Next After the Azure Fundamentals Certification?
10. Why Choose Portland Training for Azure Fundamentals?
What is Microsoft Azure Fundamentals?
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals is an entry-level certification that is ideal for individuals who are new to Azure and cloud computing in general. The certification exam, AZ-900, tests your understanding of Azure’s core concepts, services, and products.
The AZ-900 exam covers topics like:
· Cloud concepts
· Core Azure services
· Azure pricing, SLA, and lifecycle
· Cloud security and compliance
This certification helps you build a solid understanding of how cloud services work, particularly on the Microsoft Azure platform.
What Does the Azure Fundamentals Certification Cover?
The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam covers several important topics to give you a well-rounded understanding of the platform. Some of the key areas include:
1. Cloud Concepts
· Understanding the basics of cloud computing
· Different types of cloud models, such as public, private, and hybrid clouds
· Benefits and challenges of using cloud services
2. Core Azure Services
· Overview of Azure services such as computing, networking, storage, databases, and AI
· The role of each service in Azure’s ecosystem
3. Azure Pricing and SLA
· Understanding Azure pricing models
· Learning about Azure Service Level Agreements (SLA) and lifecycle
· How to estimate costs for Azure services
4. Cloud Security and Compliance
· Basic principles of cloud security
· Compliance offerings in Azure
· Key tools for managing security in the cloud
The exam ensures you have a good grasp of these core principles and can apply them in real-world scenarios.
How Difficult is the Azure Fundamentals Exam?
The Azure Fundamentals exam (AZ-900) is not particularly difficult, as it is designed for beginners. However, like any certification exam, it does require preparation. If you’re already familiar with cloud computing concepts, you might find the exam easier. For those new to cloud technologies, it’s important to dedicate enough time to study and review the material.
The exam features a range of question types, including multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop, and case studies. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the core services and concepts in Azure to answer these questions confidently.
How Long Does it Take to Prepare for Azure Fundamentals?
The time required to prepare for the Azure Fundamentals exam varies depending on your experience level. On average, most candidates need between 10 to 20 hours of study to feel ready for the exam.
If you’re new to cloud computing or Microsoft Azure, it might take a bit longer to grasp the fundamental concepts. However, if you have prior IT or cloud experience, you might be able to study in less time.
How to Prepare for the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Exam
When preparing for the AZ-900 exam, it’s crucial to follow a structured study plan. There are plenty of resources available, including:
1. Microsoft Learn
· Microsoft offers free, self-paced learning modules through Microsoft Learn that cover all the exam objectives.
2. Training Courses
· Consider enrolling in a structured training course like those offered by Portland Training. These courses are led by industry-experienced instructors who can guide you through the topics, offer practical insights, and help you prepare for the exam with hands-on learning.
3. Practice Exams
· Taking practice exams is an excellent way to familiarise yourself with the format of the exam and identify areas that require more attention.
4. Books and Study Guides
· You can also purchase study guides that are specifically designed for the AZ-900 exam.
How Much Does the Azure Fundamentals Exam Cost?
For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of Azure, Portland Training offers a bundle package that includes training, practice exams, and exam vouchers for a comprehensive learning experience. These training courses can be a cost-effective
option, especially when you factor in the extra support and guidance from experienced instructors.
Portland Training also offers flexible payment options for businesses looking to upskill their teams. Their courses are designed to be accessible, ensuring you and your team can gain the essential cloud skills needed without breaking the budget.
Can You Get a Job with the Azure Fundamentals Certification?
The Azure Fundamentals certification is a great way to start your career in cloud computing, particularly if you are interested in working with Microsoft Azure. While it may not be enough on its own to secure a highly technical cloud role, it will certainly give you an edge and open the door to entry-level positions.
Jobs you can pursue with Azure Fundamentals certification:
· Cloud Support Specialist
· Cloud Solutions Architect (Junior)
· Azure Administrator (Junior)
· IT Help Desk
· Cloud Sales Support
Having this certification on your CV will make you a more competitive candidate for cloud-related roles, especially for companies using Microsoft Azure as their primary cloud platform.
What’s Next After the Azure Fundamentals Certification?
After obtaining the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification, you may decide to build on your knowledge and skills by pursuing more advanced certifications such as:
· Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
· Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
· Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
These certifications will help you gain more in-depth knowledge and technical skills that can lead to more advanced and higher-paying roles.
Why Choose Portland Training for Azure Fundamentals?
Portland Training offers comprehensive Microsoft Azure Fundamentals courses, both online and face-to-face, that are tailored to individuals and businesses looking to upskill. The courses are designed to help you build a strong foundation in cloud computing, with a focus on practical, hands-on learning.
With a range of training options, flexible schedules, and industry-experienced instructors, Portland Training ensures that you’re well-prepared for the AZ-900 exam. They also provide exam vouchers as part of their course packages, making it easy to book and take the exam.
Whether you’re pursuing certification for career advancement or looking to upskill your team, Portland Training is a trusted provider for all your cloud certification needs.
