Mapping Your Azure Journey: Does the AZ-900 or AZ-104 Exam Come First?

Navigating the world of Microsoft Azure certifications can feel like a complex decision. Many aspiring cloud professionals in the UK face a common question: what is the best starting point? Should you begin with the foundational AZ-900 exam, or is it better to dive straight into the more technical AZ-104?

This article provides a clear roadmap, moving beyond a simple comparison to help you structure your learning journey. We will explore how these two certifications fit together to build a successful career in cloud computing.

Charting Your Course: Foundational Knowledge with AZ-900

For anyone serious about working with Azure, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is the logical first step. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of cloud principles and how they are implemented within the Azure ecosystem. Think of it as learning the language of the cloud.

Passing the AZ-900 demonstrates your grasp of core concepts such as Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). It establishes the essential groundwork needed before you can specialise, making it invaluable for roles ranging from data scientists and developers to security engineers within any UK-based organisation.

While this exam isn’t a mandatory prerequisite for others, omitting it is like trying to build a house without laying the foundations first. It provides the context needed to truly understand the more advanced, role-based certifications.

From Theory to Practice: The AZ-104 Administrator Role

Once you have a firm grip on the fundamentals, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) certification is the next destination on your journey. This is where theory turns into practical, hands-on skill. This exam is tailored for individuals who will be responsible for implementing, managing, and monitoring an organisation’s Azure environment.

The AZ-104 curriculum dives deep into the technical skills required for day-to-day administration. This includes managing Azure identities and governance, configuring virtual networking, implementing storage solutions, and backing up data. These are the core competencies that employers are actively seeking for roles like Azure Administrator, where you are trusted with the operational health of business-critical cloud services.

Is Skipping the Foundational Step a Good Strategy?

A common question is whether experienced IT professionals can bypass the AZ-900 and head straight for the AZ-104. While technically possible, it comes with significant risks. The AZ-104 exam assumes a baseline knowledge of cloud concepts and Azure services, which the AZ-900 is specifically designed to validate.

Attempting the AZ-104 without this foundational knowledge often leads to struggling with complex scenarios and a higher likelihood of failing the exam. Even if you have prior experience, the AZ-900 helps formalise your understanding of the "Azure way" of doing things, ensuring there are no gaps in your knowledge before you take on a more demanding technical challenge.

A Practical Study Plan for UK Professionals

Master the Fundamentals (AZ-900)

Begin your certification journey by focusing on the AZ-900. Utilise a combination of self-study through official Microsoft Learn paths and structured, instructor-led training. This initial phase is about building a broad understanding of the cloud, not just memorising services. Hands-on labs are crucial for cementing these core cloud concepts.

Gain Hands-On Experience

Before moving on to the AZ-104, it is vital to apply your knowledge in a practical setting. Make use of an Azure free account to experiment with deploying virtual machines, configuring storage accounts, and setting up basic networks. This practical experience is what separates successful exam candidates from the rest.

Tackle the Administrator Exam (AZ-104)

With a solid foundation and practical experience, you are now ready to prepare for the AZ-104 exam. This requires a dedicated study programme focused on the specific skills of an Azure administrator. Practice exams, labs, and in-depth training that covers storage, networking, and security are essential for success.

Building Your Career with Azure Certifications

Following the path from AZ-900 to AZ-104 provides a powerful boost to your career prospects. It demonstrates a structured and comprehensive approach to learning that is highly valued by employers. This progression not only opens doors to roles like Azure Administrator but also serves as the perfect launchpad for more advanced specialisations.

With the AZ-104 under your belt, pursuing certifications like the Azure Security Engineer or Azure Solutions Architect Expert becomes a much more achievable goal. This structured path can lead to significant salary increases and places you in high demand within the competitive UK tech industry.

Your Next Step on the Azure Path

Deciding on your Microsoft Azure certification path is not about choosing between AZ-900 and AZ-104; it’s about understanding their logical sequence. The AZ-900 provides the essential map of the cloud landscape, while the AZ-104 equips you to navigate and manage it effectively.

For beginners and even seasoned professionals new to Azure, starting with the fundamentals is the surest way to build confidence and ensure long-term career success. Choose the exam that aligns with your current knowledge and use it as a stepping stone toward your ultimate career goals.

Readynez offers a focused 1-day Azure Fundamentals Course and Certification Programme, giving you all the instruction and support needed to prepare for and pass the exam. This course, along with over 60 others, is part of our unique Unlimited Microsoft Training offer. For just €199 per month, you gain flexible and affordable access to the training you need to achieve your Microsoft Certifications.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or wish to discuss how the Azure Fundamentals certification can kick-start your career journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference in focus between AZ-900 and AZ-104?

The AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) focuses on the "what" and "why" of cloud services, covering foundational concepts, core Azure services, and pricing. The AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) is about the "how," focusing on the practical implementation, management, and monitoring of Azure solutions.

Is AZ-900 a formal prerequisite for the AZ-104 exam?

No, Microsoft does not require you to pass the AZ-900 before you can sit the AZ-104 exam. However, it is highly recommended as it provides the essential knowledge that the AZ-104 curriculum is built upon, increasing your chances of success.

How much practical experience is needed for AZ-104?

While there is no strict requirement, it is recommended that candidates have at least six months of hands-on experience administering Azure environments. This includes practical knowledge of PowerShell, the command-line interface, Azure Portal, and ARM templates.

Can I study for both the AZ-900 and AZ-104 exams at the same time?

This is not advisable. The exams test different levels of knowledge and skill. It is far more effective to focus on mastering the foundational concepts of the AZ-900 first, pass the exam, and then dedicate your efforts to the more technical, hands-on preparation required for the AZ-104.

What career path does the AZ-104 certification open up?

Achieving the AZ-104 certification makes you a prime candidate for roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Administrator, Systems Administrator, and IT support roles working with Azure. It is also a key stepping stone towards senior roles and further certifications like the Azure Solutions Architect Expert.