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Mastering Azure Administration: Your Guide to the AZ-104 Certification

Published by Mike McNelis on September 1, 2023

In the fast-evolving world of cloud computing, Microsoft Azure stands tall as one of the leading cloud platforms. Businesses worldwide rely on Azure for its robust set of services and infrastructure solutions. With the increasing adoption of Azure, the demand for skilled Azure administrators has never been higher. If you’re looking to prove your expertise in managing Azure resources and services, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification, also known as AZ-104, is your golden ticket. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through AZ-104, helping you understand what it is, why it’s valuable, and how to prepare for the exam.

Why Choose AZ-104?

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for managing Azure environments. Whether you’re an experienced cloud administrator or just starting your career in cloud computing, AZ-104 offers a range of benefits:

1. Validate Your Skills

AZ-104 is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates your expertise in Azure administration. It’s a way to prove your capabilities to potential employers and clients.

2. Career Advancement

Azure is a dominant force in the cloud industry, and organizations are constantly seeking skilled Azure administrators. Earning the AZ-104 certification can open doors to exciting career opportunities and promotions.

3. Hands-On Learning

Preparing for the AZ-104 exam requires hands-on experience with Azure services. This practical knowledge not only helps you pass the exam but also equips you with real-world skills.

What Does AZ-104 Cover?

AZ-104 covers a wide range of topics, ensuring that certified administrators have a comprehensive understanding of Azure administration. Some key areas include:

1. Azure Identity and Governance

Learn how to manage Azure Active Directory, configure Azure RBAC, and implement Azure Policy for governance and compliance.

2. Azure Virtual Machines

Master the deployment and management of Azure virtual machines, including scaling, monitoring, and configuring VM security.

3. Azure Networking

Become proficient in creating and managing Azure Virtual Networks (VNets), network security groups (NSGs), and Azure Load Balancers.

4. Azure Storage Solutions

Explore the world of Azure storage, including Blob storage, Azure Files, and Azure Disk Storage.

5. Azure Monitoring and Backup

Learn how to use Azure Monitor, Security Center, and Azure Backup to keep Azure resources secure and highly available.

Preparing for AZ-104

Passing the AZ-104 exam requires a combination of study resources and hands-on practice. Here’s a roadmap to help you prepare:

1. Official Microsoft Learning Resources

Start with the official AZ-104 exam page on the Microsoft Learning website. Here, you’ll find exam details, objectives, and official documentation links.

2. Online Courses

Take advantage of online courses and tutorials available on Microsoft Learn. These courses cover all the exam objectives and often include hands-on labs.

3. Practice Exams

Practice exams are invaluable for gauging your readiness. Microsoft provides official practice tests, and you can find additional practice exams from various providers.

4. Hands-On Labs

Set up a free Azure subscription or use a sandbox environment to practice your skills. The more hands-on experience you gain, the better prepared you’ll be.

5. Study Guides and Books

Invest in study guides and books specifically designed for AZ-104 preparation. These resources often provide in-depth explanations and practical examples.

6. Join Online Communities

Engage with the Azure community on platforms like Reddit, Stack Overflow, and the Azure forums. Discussion with peers can provide valuable insights and solutions to common challenges.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification (AZ-104) is your gateway to a rewarding career in Azure administration. By mastering the essential skills needed to manage Azure resources and services, you’ll become a sought-after professional in the cloud computing industry. As you embark on your AZ-104 journey, remember that success comes through a combination of study, practice, and a passion for continuous learning. Good luck on your path to Azure excellence!

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