Earning the AZ 900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification opens doors by validating your cloud and Azure knowledge. Having a working knowledge of Azure services, workloads, security, pricing, and support is demonstrated by passing the exam.
In this guidebook, you will find all the knowledge you need to prepare for the AZ 900 exam. We’ll discuss key concepts such cloud computing fundamentals, Azure services, security, privacy, cost, and support. Our objective is to provide you with the knowledge necessary for a first-time, confident AZ Nine hundred pass.
Understanding the AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Exam
Let’s start by looking at what the AZ-900 exam covers:
The exam is 85-100 minutes with 40-60 questions. You need 700 points out of 1000 total to pass. The exam covers cloud concepts, Azure services, workloads, security, pricing, and support. AZ 900 has no prerequisites and is the entry-level Azure certification. It’s a great starting point before attempting associate-level certs like AZ-104. With proper preparation, the exam is achievable for those new to cloud and Azure.
Reviewing the Key Topics Covered in the AZ-900
Microsoft outlines the following areas covered in the exam that you should study:
Cloud Computing Concepts
Understand public, private, and hybrid cloud models. Know PaaS, IaaS, SaaS services. Learn benefits like scalability, reliability, and cost savings of cloud.
Azure Core Services
Know use cases for popular Azure compute, database, storage, networking and other foundational services. Understand regions, availability zones, and service level agreements.
Azure Workloads and Solutions
Understand modern workloads like web/mobile apps, big data, IoT etc. on Azure. Know DevOps practices like continuous integration/delivery. Learn about IaaS and PaaS solutions.
Azure Security, Compliance, and Privacy
Understand securing network connections, data, apps, infrastructure in Azure. Know compliance standards like PCI DSS, HIPAA. Understand privacy and data protections.
Azure Pricing and Support
Here is a 197 word overview of Azure Pricing and Support:
Microsoft Azure provides a wide array of cloud services and products to build solutions, with flexible pricing and support options.
Azure pricing is based on the specific services and products used, with many different purchase options. Costs vary depending on the types of Azure resources provisioned, usage levels, locations, ingress/egress traffic, redundancy needs, and more. Microsoft provides online pricing calculators to estimate costs based on your projected usage.
Azure offers several technical support plans at different price points. Options include Basic, Developer, Standard, and Professional Direct support plans with various response times, access methods, and scopes of support. Customers can choose the plan that best fits their needs and budget.
Azure also provides Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with performance guarantees that vary for each service. SLAs define the performance standards and uptime customers can expect.
Overall, Azure is designed to provide optimized cloud solutions with clear pricing and multiple support choices. Reviewing Azure pricing calculators and SLAs helps estimate expenses and understand Microsoft’s commitments. Choosing the right support plan provides access to Azure technical experts when needed.
Helpful AZ-900 Study Materials and Resources
Here are some of the top study resources:
- Microsoft Learn online modules aligned to exam topics
- Official Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification book
- Hands-on practice with mock exams from Microsoft and third parties
- Free online Azure training seminars from Microsoft
- Reviewing Azure documentation to understand services
- Paid online courses like Cloud-Skills with video lessons and labs
Blending Microsoft materials with third-party resources enables well-rounded preparation.
Tips for Passing the AZ-900 Exam
Here are some key tips to succeed when taking the AZ900:
- Read each question and answers thoroughly – don’t skim
- Memorize important Azure terminology
- Know differences between major services
- Understand core security concepts
- Review support plan details
- Study pricing models for Azure products and services
These tips will help you avoid pitfalls and focus prep on key exam topics.
What’s Next After Passing the AZ-900 Exam?
Earning the AZ Nine Hundred validates foundational Azure knowledge. It’s a great first certification before attempting more advanced certs.
Many recommend pursuing the AZ-104 Azure Administrator Associate certification next. The AZ-104 demonstrates skills in managing and administering Azure resources.
Microsoft also offers specialty Azure certifications in security, development, architecture, and other areas.
No matter your goal, the AZ_900 provides core skills to take the next step. Use this guide to prepare, then demonstrate your cloud expertise by passing the AZ900!
Frequently Asked AZ 900 Questions
What is the cost for the AZ-900 exam?
The AZ 900 exam cost is $99 USD in most countries. Discounted vouchers are sometimes available.
Where can I take the AZ-900 exam?
You can take the AZ900 at authorized Pearson VUE centers worldwide or through Pearson VUE online proctored testing.
Can I retake the exam if I fail initially?
Yes, you get one free retake if you fail. After that, retries cost $99 each. Review missed topics before reattempting.
How long is the AZ 900 certification valid for?
AZ-900 certifications expire one year after passing the exam. You’ll need to recertify annually.
Does the AZ 900 certification auto-renew each year?
No, the AZ-900 does not auto-renew. You must recertify before expiration by passing the exam again or earning a higher certification.
With proper preparation using the tips in this guide, you can pass your AZ/900 exam!
