Your Complete Guide to the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification: Becoming an Azure Administrator in 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cloud computing has become an essential driver of business transformation. Companies of all sizes and industries are increasingly relying on cloud technologies to scale operations, boost productivity, and ensure business continuity. Among the leading cloud platforms driving this shift is Microsoft Azure, a platform trusted by startups and large enterprises alike.

For IT professionals interested in cloud administration, the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification is a crucial stepping stone. This highly respected credential validates your proficiency in managing and optimizing Azure-based services and infrastructure, equipping you with the skills necessary to navigate real-world cloud environments.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification, its significance, core skills it covers, benefits, study resources, and potential career opportunities. Whether you’re considering the certification for career growth or transitioning to a cloud-focused role, this guide will help you plan your preparation for success in 2025.

What is the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification?

The Microsoft AZ-104 certification, known as the Microsoft Azure Administrator certification, is designed for IT professionals tasked with managing cloud services and infrastructure on the Microsoft Azure platform. Azure is a highly versatile cloud environment, supporting a range of services, including storage, networking, security, and compute capabilities. The AZ-104 certification focuses on validating your ability to handle these services effectively, ensuring the proper management and deployment of resources within an Azure ecosystem.

This certification replaces the older AZ-103 exam, keeping pace with the continuous development of Azure services and expanding its capabilities. As the cloud landscape evolves, the AZ-104 exam adapts to reflect the latest advancements and the increasing complexity of cloud management tasks. The exam tests both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in handling Azure environments, making it highly valuable for IT professionals who want to deepen their cloud administration skills.

Core Skills Covered by AZ-104

The AZ-104 certification exam covers a broad range of administrative tasks that an Azure administrator would need to manage effectively. These core skills include:

1. Managing Azure Identities and Governance: This involves setting up and managing Azure Active Directory, implementing role-based access control (RBAC), and ensuring security policies are adhered to within the organization’s Azure environment.
2. Implementing and Managing Storage: Azure administrators are expected to manage various types of storage solutions, including blob storage, file shares, and disks. Understanding how to provision and manage storage accounts is essential for any Azure administrator.
3. Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources: This includes deploying virtual machines (VMs), containers, and other compute services. It also involves understanding how to automate deployments using Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates and CLI commands.
4. Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking: A critical aspect of any Azure deployment is ensuring that the networking infrastructure is properly set up. This includes configuring virtual networks, subnets, network security groups, and ensuring the communication between different resources within the cloud.
5. Monitoring and Backing Up Azure Resources: Azure administrators need to be able to monitor the performance of various services, identify issues, and optimize cloud operations. Backing up data and creating disaster recovery plans are also essential responsibilities for the role.

Why Should You Get AZ-104 Certified?

Industry Recognition:

The Microsoft AZ-104 certification holds significant industry value, especially in organizations relying heavily on Azure for their cloud infrastructure. As more businesses embrace cloud solutions, the demand for qualified Azure administrators has surged. The certification serves as a recognized benchmark of competence, demonstrating that you can manage Azure services effectively and contribute from day one in a cloud administration role.

Career Advancement:

Securing the AZ-104 certification can provide a strong foundation for career advancement. Certified professionals can pursue roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Support Engineer, or IT Systems Engineer, all of which are high-demand positions with competitive salaries. Certification also positions you well for senior or specialized roles in Azure, such as Azure Solutions Architect or Azure Security Engineer.

Foundational Knowledge:

The AZ-104 certification not only provides practical experience but also prepares you for more advanced certifications within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. For instance, earning the AZ-104 certification can pave the way for certifications like the Azure Solutions Architect Expert or Azure DevOps Engineer Expert. This foundational knowledge ensures that you are prepared for more complex and specialized roles in the cloud.

Increased Earning Potential:

According to industry reports, professionals with Azure certifications tend to earn significantly more than their non-certified peers. The demand for cloud administrators is expected to continue growing, leading to higher salaries and better job opportunities. As cloud technology plays a central role in organizational success, employers are willing to offer competitive compensation to skilled Azure professionals.

The AZ-104 Exam: Structure and Content

The AZ-104 exam evaluates your knowledge and ability to perform key administrative tasks within an Azure environment. It consists of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and performance-based tasks designed to simulate real-world administrative duties. The exam is structured to test a range of technical skills that are required for successful cloud administration.

As of 2025, the exam focuses on several domains, including:

Managing Azure Identities and Governance (20–25%): Candidates will be expected to manage Azure identities, configure access policies, and monitor governance policies.

Implementing and Managing Storage (15–20%): Understanding how to manage storage accounts, configure access, and ensure data integrity is crucial in this section.

Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources (20–25%): This section assesses the candidate’s ability to deploy and manage Azure compute services such as VMs, containers, and other compute resources.

Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking (15–20%): Configuring virtual networks and securing the communication between various services is a key area tested in this section.

Monitoring and Backing Up Azure Resources (10–15%): Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to monitor system performance, set up alerts, and manage backup and disaster recovery strategies.

Candidates can prepare using a variety of resources, including official Microsoft training materials, hands-on labs, and practice exams, which will help reinforce key concepts and build confidence before taking the exam.

Key Benefits of Earning the AZ-104 Certification

Career Opportunities: The demand for cloud administrators is expected to increase, and the AZ-104 certification helps you stand out in the competitive job market. It prepares you for roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, and IT Infrastructure Specialist.

Industry-Recognized Credentials: The Microsoft Azure platform is one of the most widely used cloud services globally. As a result, the AZ-104 certification is recognized by companies worldwide, making it a valuable credential for IT professionals looking to advance in their careers.

Enhanced Skills: The certification validates your expertise in managing and optimizing Azure resources. It equips you with the hands-on experience needed to navigate complex cloud environments and ensures that you are proficient in real-world administrative tasks.

Path to Advanced Certifications: For those aiming for more specialized roles in cloud computing, the AZ-104 certification serves as a stepping stone. It provides the foundational knowledge required for advanced certifications such as Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Security Engineer Associate, and Azure DevOps Engineer Expert.

Key Updates in the AZ-104 Exam for 2025 and Preparation Strategies

As Microsoft Azure continues to evolve, so do its certification exams. The AZ-104 exam for 2025 comes with updates that reflect the growing complexity of cloud environments and the need for professionals to keep up with the latest technologies. These changes ensure that the certification remains relevant and aligned with the skills required to manage modern cloud infrastructures effectively.

In this section, we’ll cover the most important updates to the AZ-104 exam in 2025, along with detailed advice on study strategies and preparation resources to help you succeed.

What’s New in the AZ-104 Exam for 2025?

Microsoft has made key adjustments to the AZ-104 exam in 2025 to keep pace with Azure’s evolving services. Some notable updates include:

1. Deeper Integration with AI and Machine Learning Services:
   The AZ-104 exam now includes more emphasis on integrating AI and machine learning services within the Azure platform. As cloud environments become increasingly intelligent, Azure administrators are expected to manage AI services, including setting up and deploying AI models and integrating them with other cloud resources.
2. Expanded Coverage of Azure Policy, Blueprints, and Defender for Cloud:
   Azure Policy and Blueprints have become critical for ensuring that organizations’ cloud environments are compliant with governance standards. In addition, Defender for Cloud (formerly known as Azure Security Center) plays a more prominent role in protecting Azure resources. The AZ-104 exam now tests candidates on configuring and managing these security and governance tools to ensure that Azure environments are both compliant and secure.
3. Updated Networking Concepts Including Azure Firewall and Application Gateway:
   The 2025 exam includes updates to networking concepts, focusing more on advanced features like Azure Firewall, Private Endpoints, and Application Gateway. As Azure networking evolves, administrators need to be familiar with these tools for securing and managing traffic between cloud resources, both within the Azure environment and across hybrid infrastructures.
4. Focus on Automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC):
   Automation continues to be a priority in cloud computing, and the AZ-104 exam now places more emphasis on Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices. Administrators will be expected to have a deeper understanding of tools like Bicep and ARM templates, which automate the provisioning and management of resources. This aligns with the growing trend towards DevOps practices and continuous delivery pipelines in the cloud.
5. Improved Emphasis on Cost Management and Resource Governance:
   Azure administrators must manage cloud costs efficiently while optimizing resource usage. The updated AZ-104 exam includes a stronger focus on cost management tools, such as Azure Cost Management and billing. Administrators are expected to understand how to monitor and manage resource usage to avoid overspending and ensure efficient allocation of cloud resources.

Key Areas of Focus for the AZ-104 Exam in 2025

While the core topics covered by the AZ-104 exam remain largely consistent, the focus on specific tools and practices has evolved. Here’s an overview of the major areas you will need to master for the 2025 version of the exam:

Managing Azure Identities and Governance (20–25%):
This domain includes understanding Azure Active Directory (AAD) and configuring role-based access control (RBAC). You’ll be expected to manage users, groups, and policies within Azure Active Directory and ensure governance over cloud resources. In 2025, this also includes enhanced skills around compliance tools and ensuring that cloud infrastructure adheres to regulatory requirements.

Implementing and Managing Storage (15–20%):
Azure administrators are responsible for configuring storage accounts, managing blob storage, and implementing secure and efficient data storage solutions. This domain also covers concepts such as data redundancy, performance tuning, and cost optimization for storage.

Deploying and Managing Azure Compute Resources (20–25%):
This section tests your ability to deploy and manage virtual machines (VMs), containers, and Azure App Services. You’ll need to demonstrate competence in automating deployment processes, including the use of ARM templates and other automation tools. Additionally, the use of containers and Kubernetes is now a critical aspect of cloud deployments, and candidates are expected to have practical experience in this area.

Configuring and Managing Virtual Networking (15–20%):
Virtual networking is a core component of any cloud infrastructure. You will need to configure and manage virtual networks, subnets, peering, VPNs, and network security groups. Updates in this section reflect the growing importance of advanced networking features like Azure Firewall, Application Gateway, and Private Endpoints, which require deeper knowledge and hands-on experience.

Monitoring and Backing Up Azure Resources (10–15%):
As an Azure administrator, monitoring and ensuring the availability of cloud resources is one of your key responsibilities. You’ll need to understand how to use Azure Monitor to track performance, create dashboards, set alerts, and ensure disaster recovery plans are in place. The emphasis on backup and restore strategies has increased, especially with the growing importance of business continuity.

Study Strategies for Passing the AZ-104 Exam

Successfully passing the AZ-104 exam requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with Azure services. Below are proven study strategies that will help you prepare effectively:

Leverage Official Microsoft Learning Platforms:
Microsoft Learn is the official learning platform for Azure certifications, and it offers free, structured courses aligned with the AZ-104 exam objectives. The modules are hands-on and cover the exam’s core areas, allowing you to gain practical experience in configuring and managing Azure services. Microsoft Learn also tracks your progress and provides tailored recommendations to guide your study plan.

Get Hands-On Experience with Azure:
Nothing beats hands-on experience when it comes to cloud administration. The best way to prepare for the AZ-104 exam is by working directly with Azure services. Microsoft offers a free tier, which provides you with limited access to core services for hands-on practice. Alternatively, you can sign up for a pay-as-you-go Azure account and use the $200 credit provided to practice setting up and managing resources in real-time.

Use Practice Tests to Assess Your Readiness:
Practice exams are a valuable tool for familiarizing yourself with the question format and testing your knowledge before the actual exam. Make sure to take multiple practice tests to identify areas where you need further improvement. Practice exams simulate the pressure of the actual test and help you build confidence in answering multiple-choice questions, case studies, and performance-based tasks.

Join Community Discussions and Study Groups:
Joining study groups or community forums can provide additional support and insights as you prepare for the AZ-104 exam. Engaging with peers and experienced professionals can help clarify concepts, share study tips, and provide real-world examples that are useful when preparing for practical tasks in the exam.

Focus on Real-World Scenarios:
The AZ-104 exam evaluates your ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios. Focus on understanding how to solve practical problems related to Azure administration. Practice configuring resources, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing cloud environments as you would in an actual job role. Real-world applications will also help you approach the case study portions of the exam with confidence.

Set a Study Schedule:
Building a study schedule is essential for managing your preparation time effectively. Break down the topics into manageable chunks and allocate time for both study and hands-on practice. Make sure to review each domain thoroughly, and don’t forget to allocate time for revising difficult concepts and taking practice exams.

Take Advantage of Instructor-Led Training:
If you prefer a more structured learning environment, instructor-led training can be a valuable resource. Many training providers offer live or on-demand classes that cover the AZ-104 exam objectives in-depth. These sessions often include interactive exercises, Q&A sessions, and additional resources, which can help clarify difficult concepts and deepen your understanding.

Additional Tips for Success

Stay Updated on Azure Developments:
Since Azure is a rapidly evolving platform, staying up-to-date with new features and services is crucial. Follow Azure-related blogs, newsletters, and official documentation to keep track of updates that may impact the AZ-104 exam.

Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions:
The AZ-104 exam includes scenario-based questions that require you to apply your knowledge to solve real-world problems. These questions are designed to test your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Focus on developing a systematic approach to tackling such questions.

Review the Official Exam Guide:
Before taking the exam, review the official exam guide provided by Microsoft. This guide outlines all the skills measured in the exam and ensures that you are aware of the specific topics covered.

Study Resources and Preparation Tools for AZ-104 Certification Success

Now that we’ve covered the updates to the AZ-104 exam for 2025 and some general preparation strategies, it’s time to focus on the most effective study resources available to ensure success. A well-rounded preparation plan includes a mix of self-paced learning, hands-on experience, and practice exams. The following resources will help you gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to pass the AZ-104 certification exam.

Official Microsoft Resources

Microsoft Learn – Official Learning Platform

Microsoft Learn is the official platform designed by Microsoft to help you prepare for the AZ-104 exam. It is an excellent starting point because it offers free, structured learning modules that are directly aligned with the exam’s objectives. The platform is interactive, allowing you to learn at your own pace and practice tasks in sandbox environments.

Why Use It?

• It’s free and up-to-date with the latest Azure features.
• Interactive labs and step-by-step guides to help reinforce concepts.
• Tracks your progress, making it easy to see where you need to improve.

Ideal for: Beginners and intermediate learners who prefer self-paced learning with hands-on labs.

Azure Free Tier and Microsoft Learn Sandbox

While theoretical knowledge is crucial, hands-on practice is a key element of passing the AZ-104 exam. Microsoft provides an Azure free tier, offering $200 in credits for 30 days, allowing you to gain practical experience with Azure services. Additionally, Microsoft Learn offers a sandbox environment where you can practice without the need for your own Azure subscription.

Benefits:

• The Azure Free Account gives access to a wide range of services for practice.
• The Microsoft Learn sandbox allows you to try configurations in a safe environment without affecting any live systems.
• You can explore services like virtual machines, storage, networking, and monitoring features essential for the exam.

Ideal for: Those looking to gain hands-on experience with Azure tools in a cost-effective manner.

Third-Party Learning Platforms

ACloudGuru (formerly Linux Academy)

ACloudGuru is a well-regarded learning platform offering an in-depth AZ-104 course. It includes video lectures, hands-on labs, practice exams, and other resources designed to prepare you for the exam. The platform is known for its real-world approach, combining theory with practical, scenario-based exercises.

Key Features:

• Detailed video lessons for each domain covered in the exam.
• Hands-on labs for deploying and managing Azure resources.
• Practice exams to test your readiness.

Ideal for: Learners who prefer structured video content along with hands-on practice.

Whizlabs – Practice Exams and Labs

Whizlabs provides an all-in-one preparation suite, including full-length practice exams, scenario-based questions, and hands-on labs. This platform offers a wide range of practice tests designed to mimic the real exam environment, helping you become familiar with the question format.

Key Features:

• 5+ full-length practice exams that simulate the actual test.
• Scenario-based questions that help prepare you for real-world situations.
• Detailed explanations for each answer to reinforce learning.

Ideal for: Those looking for a comprehensive set of practice tests and real-world lab scenarios.

Cloud Academy

Cloud Academy is another excellent platform offering a structured learning path for the AZ-104 certification. It combines guided learning paths, hands-on labs, and quizzes to assess your progress. Additionally, the platform offers a mobile-friendly interface for learning on the go.

Key Features:

• Guided learning paths aligned with the AZ-104 exam objectives.
• Hands-on labs and skill assessments to track your progress.
• Real-time lab challenges with performance tracking.

Ideal for: Individuals who prefer to learn in a structured, hands-on environment with progress tracking.

Pluralsight

Pluralsight offers a wide range of Azure-focused courses, including a dedicated learning path for the AZ-104 exam. The platform is known for its high-quality video courses taught by certified experts and Microsoft MVPs. Pluralsight also offers role IQ assessments to gauge your skill level.

Key Features:

• Courses taught by certified Microsoft professionals.
• Role IQ assessments to track your skills.
• Hands-on practice labs and challenges to reinforce learning.

Ideal for: IT professionals who already have some familiarity with Azure and want to deepen their expertise.

Practice Tests and Exam Simulators

MeasureUp – Official Microsoft Practice Tests

MeasureUp is an official partner of Microsoft, providing high-quality practice tests designed to mimic the real exam. These practice exams are structured to closely match the difficulty and format of the AZ-104 exam, giving you an accurate representation of what to expect on exam day.

Key Features:

• Timed and untimed modes to simulate the real exam experience.
• Detailed explanations for each question help you understand your mistakes.
• Customizable test settings to focus on specific areas of the exam.

Ideal for: Those who want to test their readiness and familiarize themselves with the exam format.

Udemy Courses and Practice Tests

Udemy offers a variety of courses from well-known instructors in the cloud space. These courses typically include video lessons, practice exams, and downloadable resources. Udemy also provides lifetime access to courses, so you can revisit material as needed.

Key Features:

• 15+ hours of video content for each course.
• Practice exams with hundreds of questions to test your knowledge.
• Lifetime access to materials, including updates.

Ideal for: Budget-conscious learners looking for comprehensive courses and practice exams.

QuickStart AZ-104 Course

QuickStart offers both self-paced and instructor-led training for the AZ-104 exam. Their courses cover all exam domains and provide hands-on labs to ensure you gain practical experience. QuickStart’s approach is structured, allowing you to follow a well-organized learning path.

Key Features:

• Self-paced and instructor-led options for a flexible learning experience.
• Hands-on labs for practical experience.
• Coverage of the AZ-104 exam blueprint in detail.

Ideal for: Learners who prefer both structured content and the flexibility of self-paced learning.

Community Resources

Microsoft Tech Community

The Microsoft Tech Community is a great place to engage with other learners and professionals. It’s an active space where you can ask questions, participate in discussions, and find useful study resources. Many Microsoft MVPs contribute regularly, sharing tips, exam experiences, and study strategies.

Benefits:

• Direct access to experts and community support.
• Regular updates and insights from Microsoft MVPs.
• A place to share study resources and learn from others’ experiences.

Ideal for: Those who enjoy collaborative learning and seeking expert advice from the community.

Reddit – r/Azure

The r/Azure subreddit is a valuable resource for anyone preparing for Azure certifications. It features a mix of success stories, questions, exam reviews, and study tips. Users share their experiences with the AZ-104 exam, providing useful insights into the preparation process.

Benefits:

• A community of learners sharing exam tips and personal experiences.
• Regularly updated threads on exam content and study resources.
• A space to ask questions and get answers from the community.

Ideal for: Those looking for peer support and up-to-date exam tips.

LinkedIn Study Groups

LinkedIn offers a variety of study groups dedicated to Azure certifications. These groups are helpful for networking with other professionals, sharing resources, and participating in group study sessions.

Benefits:

• Direct networking opportunities with Azure professionals.
• Access to study resources shared by peers.
• A platform for discussing difficult concepts and exam strategies.

Ideal for: Professionals who prefer a more formal study group setting and want to network with peers.

Books and Study Guides

While digital platforms dominate the preparation space, physical books and study guides remain a valuable resource for some learners. Books offer structured, detailed explanations of exam concepts and can serve as great reference material during your study.

Recommended Books for AZ-104:

• Exam Ref AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator by Harshul Patel
• Azure Administrator Exam Guide (AZ-104) by Sjoukje Zaal
• AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Practice Exams and Labs by Reza Salehi

Ideal for: Learners who prefer detailed, in-depth explanations and prefer offline study.

Final Tips for Success

Create a Study Plan: Organize your study schedule to ensure you cover all topics thoroughly. Allocate specific time slots for each subject, focusing on areas you find more challenging.

Stay Consistent: Consistency is key. Aim to study regularly rather than cramming all at once. Short, focused study sessions are more effective than long, irregular sessions.

Take Breaks and Rest: Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks. A rested mind will retain information better and perform better during practice tests and on exam day.

Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations After Earning the AZ-104 Certification

After successfully obtaining the Microsoft AZ-104 certification, a world of career opportunities opens up for you. The growing adoption of cloud technologies, particularly Microsoft Azure, means that organizations across industries are actively seeking skilled Azure administrators to manage their cloud infrastructures. In this final part of the guide, we’ll discuss the career paths that can be pursued with the AZ-104 certification, salary expectations, and the long-term value of this credential in the competitive IT job market.

Career Opportunities with AZ-104 Certification

The Microsoft AZ-104 certification is specifically designed for individuals who want to pursue roles focused on managing and administering Azure cloud environments. While this certification is ideal for those looking to enter the cloud administration field, it can also serve as a stepping stone to higher-level cloud computing roles. Here are some of the primary career opportunities for individuals holding the AZ-104 certification:

Azure Administrator

The primary role for those who achieve the AZ-104 certification is that of an Azure Administrator. Azure administrators are responsible for managing cloud services such as virtual machines, storage, networking, and security within the Azure environment. This role involves ensuring the smooth operation of cloud services, managing users, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring resources are optimally configured.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing and deploying virtual machines and other compute resources.
• Configuring and managing Azure storage, networking, and virtual networks.
• Monitoring and troubleshooting performance issues and implementing disaster recovery plans.
• Managing identities and access using Azure Active Directory.

Career Growth: As an Azure Administrator, you may advance to senior administrative roles, such as Senior Azure Administrator or Azure Infrastructure Specialist. With experience, you may also transition into more specialized roles, such as Azure Security Engineer or Cloud Architect.

Cloud Engineer

Cloud Engineers focus on building and maintaining cloud infrastructure, ensuring that cloud-based systems are deployed, optimized, and secure. In the Azure context, a Cloud Engineer works with Azure’s broad range of services to design and implement scalable, resilient cloud environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Automating cloud infrastructure using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools.
• Managing cloud deployments using tools such as ARM templates and Azure CLI.
• Implementing security measures to safeguard data and applications.
• Troubleshooting cloud infrastructure issues and managing backups.

Career Growth: Cloud Engineers can transition into senior cloud engineering roles or specialize in areas such as DevOps, Azure Solutions Architecture, or cloud security.

Systems Administrator

While similar to Azure Administrator roles, Systems Administrators typically have broader responsibilities that extend to both on-premises and cloud environments. Systems Administrators who hold the AZ-104 certification are capable of managing hybrid environments that involve both on-premises systems and Azure-based services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintaining and managing on-premises and cloud systems.
• Installing and configuring hardware and software.
• Ensuring system availability, reliability, and security.
• Integrating on-premises and Azure resources.

Career Growth: Systems Administrators can advance to senior system administration roles or shift into specialized areas such as cloud management, network administration, or security engineering.

DevOps Engineer (Entry-Level)

DevOps Engineers are responsible for automating and streamlining software development and deployment processes. The AZ-104 certification equips individuals with the skills necessary to manage infrastructure and implement automation within Azure. While the role of a DevOps Engineer may require additional knowledge of software development processes, those with the AZ-104 certification can enter the field at the entry-level stage.

Key Responsibilities:

• Automating infrastructure deployment using ARM templates and other tools.
• Managing cloud-based resources and ensuring integration between development and production environments.
• Monitoring and optimizing the performance of applications in the cloud.

Career Growth: DevOps Engineers can advance to senior DevOps roles or transition into specialized areas such as cloud architecture, cloud security, or software development.

Cloud Support Engineer

Cloud Support Engineers provide technical support for cloud platforms and applications. For Azure environments, this role involves troubleshooting cloud-related issues, assisting users with cloud deployments, and resolving performance or configuration challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing technical support for Azure users.
• Troubleshooting cloud resource issues and guiding customers in resolving problems.
• Collaborating with development and infrastructure teams to ensure cloud environments are functioning optimally.

Career Growth: Cloud Support Engineers often advance into more senior support roles or transition into cloud engineering, DevOps, or architecture positions.

IT Infrastructure Specialist

An IT Infrastructure Specialist manages the organization’s IT infrastructure, including cloud resources, on-premises systems, and hybrid environments. For those with the AZ-104 certification, this role involves overseeing cloud infrastructure in Azure, as well as ensuring that it integrates smoothly with other systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing the organization’s Azure cloud infrastructure.
• Ensuring that systems are highly available, secure, and optimized.
• Collaborating with other IT teams to ensure the infrastructure supports business needs.

Career Growth: IT Infrastructure Specialists can move into senior infrastructure management or network architecture roles, or transition into specialized roles such as Azure Solutions Architect or Cloud Security Engineer.

Salary Expectations for AZ-104 Certified Professionals

Earning the AZ-104 certification can significantly impact your earning potential, especially as demand for cloud professionals continues to rise. Salaries for certified Azure administrators vary depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and job responsibilities. However, Azure-certified professionals can generally expect competitive compensation in comparison to non-certified peers.

Here’s a breakdown of typical salary ranges for roles that require or prefer the AZ-104 certification:

1. Azure Administrator:
   • Average Salary: $75,000 – $110,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $110,000 – $150,000 per year.
2. Cloud Engineer:
   • Average Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $120,000 – $160,000 per year.
3. Systems Administrator:
   • Average Salary: $70,000 – $95,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $95,000 – $120,000 per year.
4. DevOps Engineer (Entry-Level):
   • Average Salary: $80,000 – $110,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $110,000 – $150,000 per year.
5. Cloud Support Engineer:
   • Average Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
6. IT Infrastructure Specialist:
   • Average Salary: $80,000 – $115,000 per year.
   • Senior Roles: $115,000 – $150,000 per year.

Salary Factors:

• Location: Salaries for Azure professionals vary depending on geographic location. Tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle tend to offer higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and the concentration of tech companies.
• Experience: As with most certifications, your salary increases with years of experience. Early-career professionals tend to earn at the lower end of the salary range, while those with several years of experience can command top-tier salaries.
• Job Role and Responsibilities: Senior or specialized roles, such as Azure Architect, Security Engineer, or DevOps Engineer, tend to come with higher salaries than entry-level positions like Cloud Support Engineer or Systems Administrator.

Long-Term Value of the AZ-104 Certification

While the AZ-104 certification is an excellent starting point, it also offers long-term value in your cloud career. Cloud computing is one of the fastest-growing fields in the IT industry, and Azure, as the second-largest cloud provider globally, is continuously expanding. By obtaining the AZ-104 certification, you lay the foundation for continuous professional growth.

Advancing Your Career:
The AZ-104 certification is a stepping stone to more advanced certifications within the Azure ecosystem. Once you’re comfortable with the core Azure services, you can pursue certifications such as:

• Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
• Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400)
• Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)

Each of these certifications will open doors to more specialized roles and higher salaries in the future.

Industry Recognition:
Microsoft’s certification programs are globally recognized, and Azure administrators are highly valued across industries, including healthcare, finance, government, and technology. Azure expertise is in demand as organizations increasingly rely on cloud services to meet their business needs. As cloud technology continues to mature, demand for professionals with deep expertise in cloud administration, particularly within Azure, will only increase.

Conclusion: Is the AZ-104 Certification Worth It?

Absolutely. The Microsoft AZ-104 certification is a highly valuable credential for IT professionals looking to make their mark in the rapidly expanding field of cloud computing. It provides foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in managing Azure environments, making you well-equipped to tackle real-world cloud administration challenges.

The career opportunities and salary potential associated with the AZ-104 certification make it an excellent investment in your future. Whether you’re entering the cloud computing space, advancing your current career, or looking to switch to a more specialized role, the AZ-104 certification is a powerful tool that can help you succeed in the evolving digital world.

By investing time and effort into preparing for and earning the AZ-104 certification, you’ll not only boost your professional credibility but also position yourself as a valuable asset to organizations seeking cloud expertise. The opportunities are vast, and the future of cloud computing is bright. Start your Azure journey today and take the next step toward a rewarding career in cloud administration.