Navigating the Microsoft AZ 104 Study Guide

  • AZ-104 study guide
  • Published by: André Hammer on May 17, 2024
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We have prepared this guide to make navigating the Microsoft AZ-104 Study Guide easy. It has all the info you need to confidently prepare for your certification exam. 

You'll get step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for success. Let's start your journey to becoming a Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator smoothly.

Overview of AZ-104 study guide

The AZ-104 study guide covers several important topics, including:

  • Azure Active Directory

  • Azure Resource Manager

  • Azure resources

  • Governance

  • Virtual machines

  • Azure Monitor

  • Virtual networking

  • Azure Container Apps

  • Azure compute resources

  • Azure CLI

  • Azure environment

  • Resource groups

  • Managing Azure identities

  • Managing storage

  • Configuring Azure storage

  • Azure Container Instances

  • Configuring virtual networks

  • Configuring network security

  • Configuring service endpoints

  • Azure Site Recovery

  • Secondary region

  • Network Watcher

  • Connection Monitor

  • Managing costs

  • Azure Advisor

  • Shared access signature

  • Identity-based access

  • File share

  • Blob storage

Key Topics Covered in AZ-104 Study Guide

The AZ-104 study guide covers many topics about Azure Resource Manager. You will learn about managing Azure resources, virtual machines, Azure Active Directory, Azure Monitor, and virtual networking.

The guide gives practical examples of how to configure Azure storage, manage identities, and work with compute resources. It also highlights the importance of configuring network security, service endpoints, and Azure Container Apps.

You will also learn about managing costs, implementing backup policies, and using Azure Advisor to optimize resource usage.

Azure Resources Management

Understanding Azure Resources

You can manage Azure resources like virtual machines, virtual networking, and Azure Container Apps through the Azure portal or Azure CLI.

Understanding these resources is crucial for the AZ-104 exam. You also need to know about Azure Resource Manager, governance, and Azure Monitor.

Managing Storage on Azure

Follow the steps below to effectively manage storage on Azure:

  • Configure Azure Storage Accounts properly through the Azure portal.
  • Set up Azure Blob Storage, Azure File Storage, and Azure Queue Storage to meet different storage needs.

  • Implement best practices such as configuring Azure storage, managing Azure identities, and setting up role assignments to ensure data availability and security.

And to optimise storage performance and reduce costs, follow these steps:

  • Utilize Azure Monitor to monitor Azure resources.

  • Configure virtual networks and network security.

  • Set up service endpoints for better performance.

Other things you can do to manage storage on Azure include the following:

  • Leverage Azure Site Recovery to create backup policies.

  • Manage costs effectively using Azure Advisor.

Working with Azure Virtual Networks

Organizations use Azure Virtual Networks to connect their resources securely. This is done by configuring network security, setting up service endpoints, and using Azure Active Directory for access control.

Azure administrators define subnets, configure network security groups, and establish virtual network gateways to ensure secure communication among Azure resources.

Best practices for managing Azure virtual networks include using Azure Monitor and Network Watcher for monitoring and troubleshooting. Connection monitors can also be implemented to check connectivity between resources and manage costs through Azure Advisor recommendations.

Azure Virtual Networks can establish secure connections between on-premises networks and cloud resources. This is achieved by configuring virtual network gateways, setting up VPN connections, or using Azure ExpressRoute.

These connections enable efficient communication between on-premises environments and Azure resources while upholding security and governance.

Managing Azure Identities and Access

Configuring Azure Access Controls

To control who can access Azure, you can use Azure Active Directory and Azure Resource Manager. Assign roles for permissions and track who accesses resources with Azure Monitor. Use tools like Azure Advisor and Azure CLI to watch and manage who can do what. 

Also set up virtual networks, security for networks, and service points for better control. You can use Azure Site Recovery, Network Watcher, and Connection Monitor for backups and to keep your networks healthy.

Managing Azure Subscriptions and Resources Access

You need experience managing Azure services to succeed in the exam. You should be familiar with the Azure CLI and environment. Study materials from the Azure study guide by Paul Reynolds or other relevant sources will also help you prepare.

Working with Virtual Machines

Deployment and Management of Virtual Machines

Studying the AZ-104 exam curriculum and resources like Paul Reynolds' study guide will help you prepare for certification. These resources are great at teaching you how to deploy and manage virtual machines in Azure.

Optimizing Virtual Networking for Virtual Machines

Follow these steps to optimise virtual networking for virtual machines in Azure:

  • Use the Azure portal to configure network settings efficiently.
  • Create resource groups with Azure Resource Manager to manage Azure resources effectively.

  • Implement governance practices like role assignments and identity-based access to enhance security in Azure Active Directory.

  • Configure network security by setting up service endpoints.

  • Utilize Azure Monitor and Network Watcher to protect virtual machines from external threats.

  • Manage costs by using Azure Advisor to optimize resource usage.

  • Set up backup policies to ensure data recovery.

Monitoring Azure Resources

You can easily monitor the performance and health of your Azure resources using Azure Monitor in the Azure portal. This service helps you track how your resources are used and find any potential issues. Azure Advisor gives you recommendations to make your resource use better and improve overall performance.

With Azure Monitor, you can set up alerts and notifications to manage resources proactively. You can set criteria to trigger notifications based on specific conditions. Azure Resource Manager helps you organize your resources into groups called resource groups, making them easier to manage and govern.

Using features like Azure CLI, you can interact with your Azure environment through the command line to manage Azure identities, storage, and virtual networks efficiently. Tools like Azure Site Recovery help you set up backup plans. 

Azure Compute Resources Configuration

If you're an Azure administrator configuring Azure Compute Resources, here are some key things to think about:

  • Firstly, plan and allocate resources carefully using Azure Resource Manager. Use resource groups to group resources logically for better governance.
  • Secondly, pay attention to setting up virtual machines and virtual networking in Azure to ensure operations are secure and efficient.
  • Effectively manage Azure identities using Azure Active Directory to control access to Azure resources.
  • Use Azure Advisor and Azure Monitor to get insights into improving performance and managing costs effectively.
  • Follow best practices like configuring network security, and service endpoints, and implementing backup policies for successful Azure Compute Resources setup. You can gain experience with Azure services and prepare well for the AZ-104 certification exam by following the exam curriculum and study materials.

Storage Solutions on Azure

Azure offers various storage solutions through the Azure portal, such as Azure Blob storage, Azure Files, and Azure Storage Accounts. These are designed for specific needs in storing and retrieving data.

It's best to use Azure Active Directory for identity-based access and shared access signatures to keep your data safe on Azure. These methods help limit who can access Azure resources.

You can create a smooth and efficient data management system by integrating Azure's storage solutions with other Azure services like Azure Container Apps or Azure Site Recovery.

As an Azure administrator, you can manage costs and monitor Azure resources effectively by setting up virtual networks, network security, and service endpoints. Tools like Azure Monitor or Azure Advisor can help with this.

Configuring backup policies, managing subscriptions, and assigning roles are crucial parts of Azure storage management, especially for the AZ-104 exam.

Azure App Service and Secure Access

When you manage Azure App Service, it's crucial to use best practices to secure access and keep your Azure resources safe.

The Azure Active Directory and role-based access control in the Azure portal are also great for managing user access effectively. You can set up identity-based access and create file shares with shared access signatures to control permissions for Azure resources like Azure Compute or Azure Container Apps.

You can also secure Azure App Service by configuring network security settings such as virtual networking and service endpoints to prevent unauthorized access. The platform can offer you insights into security vulnerabilities and recommendations for better security measures from Azure Monitor and Azure Advisor.

So, enhance your overall security by setting up Azure Site Recovery with a secondary region and using Network Watcher with Connection Monitor. Manage costs with cost management tools and backup policies to maintain the security of Azure App Service.

Name Resolution and Networking in Azure

In Azure, name resolution means matching domain names to IP addresses. You can do this using services such as Azure DNS or Azure Active Directory Domain Services.

The best practices to apply include:

  • Setting up accurate DNS records in the Azure portal.
  • Ensuring proper configuration of Azure Monitor for tracking network performance.

  • Implementing identity-based access control for enhanced security.

In Azure, virtual networking lets you create separate networks for better communication between resources. You can connect Azure resources like virtual machines, Azure container apps, and Azure compute resources through these networks. Ensure security with Azure Network Watcher and connection monitor.

Final thoughts

To get ready for the Microsoft AZ-104 certification exam, here's what you should do with the study guide:

  • The guide covers topics such as managing Azure identities and governance, setting up and managing storage, deploying virtual machines, and configuring virtual networks.
  • By studying the guide thoroughly, you'll be well-prepared to pass the exam and demonstrate your knowledge of Microsoft Azure.

Readynez offers a 4-day AZ-104 Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Course and Certification Program, providing you with all the learning and support you need to successfully prepare for the exam and certification. The AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate course, and all our other Microsoft courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Microsoft Training offer, where you can attend the Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate and 60+ other Microsoft courses for just €199 per month, the most flexible and affordable way to get your Microsoft Certifications.

Please reach out to us with any questions or if you would like a chat about your opportunity with the Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate certification and how you best achieve it.

FAQ

What topics are covered in the Microsoft AZ 104 Study Guide?

The Microsoft AZ-104 Study Guide includes topics like managing Azure identities and governance, setting up and managing storage, configuring virtual networks, and monitoring and backing up resources.

How should I navigate the content in the study guide to effectively prepare for the exam?

Start by checking the table of contents to find important topics to prepare effectively for the exam using the study guide. Then, make a study plan and concentrate on one topic at a time. Use practice questions and summaries to study efficiently.

Are there practice questions and exercises included in the study guide to test my knowledge?

Yes, the study guide provides various practice questions and exercises to help you test and apply your knowledge. It includes multiple-choice questions, case studies, and sample essay questions. These help assess how well you understand the material.

Is there a recommended study schedule or plan outlined in the study guide?

Yes, the study guide provides a recommended study schedule with suggested topics and activities for each day. For instance, it recommends that you allocate time for reading, taking notes, and practice with exam questions. This will help you stay organized and focused on preparing effectively.

Are there any tips or strategies provided in the study guide for passing the AZ 104 exam?

Yes, the study guide provided information on how to do things like making a study plan, doing practice exams, reviewing the exam goals, and joining study groups if you need extra help.

 

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