Azure AZ-104: Mastering Microsoft’s Cloud Administration Certification
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) certification is a key credential for IT professionals seeking expertise in managing cloud environments on Microsoft Azure. This certification validates an individual’s ability to implement, manage, and monitor an organization’s Azure infrastructure, making it an essential qualification for those looking to establish a career in cloud administration.
Why is AZ-104 Important?
As organizations rapidly adopt cloud computing, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently manage cloud environments. Azure AZ-104 certification ensures that candidates have hands-on knowledge in handling real-world scenarios involving Azure services, networking, security, and storage. It is a stepping stone for IT professionals aiming to progress into advanced cloud roles, such as Azure Solutions Architect or DevOps Engineer.
Exam Overview
The AZ-104 exam assesses candidates on various aspects of Azure administration, including:- Managing Azure identities and governance – Handling users, groups, and role-basedaccess control (RBAC).
- Implementing and managing storage – Working with Azure Blob Storage, File Storage, and backup solutions.
- Deploying and managing Azure compute resources – Configuring virtual machines (VMs), containers, and app services.
- Configuring and managing virtual networking – Setting up VNETs, VPNs, and network security groups (NSGs).
- Monitoring and backing up Azure resources – Implementing Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and Azure Backup.
Who Should Take This Certification?
The AZ-104 certification is ideal for:
- System Administrators transitioning to cloud-based infrastructure.
- Cloud Engineers managing Azure environments.
- Network Administrators handling cloud-based networking solutions.
- IT Professionals looking to validate their cloud administration skills.
How to Prepare?
To successfully pass the AZ-104 exam, candidates should:
- Gain hands-on experience with Azure services by using the Azure free tier.
- Study official Microsoft Learn resources and training modules.
- Practice with Azure CLI, PowerShell, and the Azure portal.
- Take practice exams to get familiar with the question format.
- Review Microsoft’s official exam guide and whitepapers.
Career Benefits
Earning the Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) certification boosts career prospects significantly. Certified professionals can expect to land roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, and IT Systems Administrator, with salaries ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 per year. Additionally, the certification provides a strong foundation for higher-level Azure certifications, such as Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) and Azure DevOps Engineer (AZ-400).