Microsoft offers various certification exams to validate individuals’ skills and knowledge in different areas of technology. Among these exams are the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams, which focus on cloud computing and Microsoft 365, respectively. These entry-level exams are designed to test the candidates’ foundational understanding of the respective technologies.
This blog aims to provide an in-depth comparison of the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams. The blog will cover the exam format and content, who should take each exam, and tips on how to prepare for them. Additionally, the blog will compare and contrast the two exams, highlighting their overlapping content and differences, and offer recommendations on which exam to choose based on one’s career goals and interests.
Overview of AZ-900 and MS-900 Exam
AZ-900 and MS-900 are two entry-level certification exams offered by Microsoft. The AZ-900 exam validates the candidate’s foundational knowledge of cloud computing and Microsoft Azure services. On the other hand, the MS-900 exam focuses on the foundational understanding of Microsoft 365 services, including Office 365, Microsoft Teams, and security and compliance concepts.
Both exams are non-technical and aim to test the candidate’s understanding of the fundamental concepts and benefits of the respective technologies. Passing either exam can be an excellent starting point for individuals interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing or Microsoft 365.
Importance of AZ-900 and MS-900 certifications
AZ-900 and MS-900 certifications are both important for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in cloud computing and Microsoft 365 technologies. Here are some of the key reasons why:
- Demonstrates expertise: Obtaining either certification demonstrates a fundamental understanding of the Azure cloud computing platform or Microsoft 365 suite of tools and services, respectively. This can be valuable for professionals seeking to showcase their expertise in these technologies to potential employers or clients.
- Career advancement: Having AZ-900 or MS-900 certification on your resume can help you stand out in a competitive job market and open up new career opportunities. Many organizations prioritize hiring candidates with relevant certifications, and having either certification can give you an advantage over other applicants.
- Improves productivity: By gaining a deeper understanding of Azure or Microsoft 365, certified professionals can work more efficiently and effectively in their roles. This can lead to increased productivity and better outcomes for their organizations.
- Confidence: Obtaining a certification can boost your confidence in your skills and knowledge. This can help you take on new challenges and responsibilities in your job with greater ease and confidence.
- Industry recognition: Both AZ-900 and MS-900 certifications are recognized globally, and are highly regarded in the IT industry. Earning either certification demonstrates a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the field.
What is AZ-900 Exam?
The AZ-900 exam is a foundational level certification exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge of cloud computing and Azure services. The exam is designed for individuals who are new to Azure and cloud computing and want to validate their understanding of the basics of cloud computing concepts and Azure services.
A chance to demonstrate an understanding of cloud principles, Azure services, Azure workloads, security and privacy in Azure, as well as Azure pricing and support, is provided via the Azure Fundamentals exam. You should be knowledgeable about basic technological principles, such as networking, storage, computing, application development, and application maintenance.
Although it is not a requirement for any of them, Azure Fundamentals can be utilized to be ready for other Azure role-based or specialist certifications.
The exam format and structure are as follows:
- Exam format: Multiple choice questions
- Number of questions: 40-60 questions (varies)
- Passing score: 700 (on a scale of 0-1000)
- Exam cost: $99 USD (may vary depending on the country and region)
The exam questions are designed to test the candidate’s understanding of the fundamental concepts of cloud computing and Azure services.
Areas Covered:
The exam covers four main areas of knowledge, which include:
- Cloud Concepts: Understanding the principles of cloud computing, including the different types of cloud services, cloud deployment models, and cloud computing advantages.
- Core Azure Services: Understanding Azure services, including Azure compute, storage, networking, and databases.
- Azure Pricing and Support: Understanding the different Azure pricing models, Azure subscriptions, and support options.
- Security, Privacy, Compliance, and Trust: Understanding Azure security features, Azure privacy and compliance standards, and trust centers.
Get complete course outline detail here!
What is MS-900 Exam?
The MS-900 exam is a foundational level certification exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge of Microsoft 365 services and concepts. The exam is designed for individuals who are new to Microsoft 365 and want to validate their understanding of the basics of Microsoft 365 services and concepts. This exam demonstrates the foundational-level knowledge of cloud-based solutions for facilitating productivity and collaboration on-site, at home, or a combination of both.
You must be able to suggest solutions for desktop virtualization, automated operating system deployment, endpoint and application management, reporting, and analytics. You should be knowledgeable about Microsoft 365 license, deployment and migration support, and support choices for businesses trying to get the most out of their cloud investment.
The exam format and structure are as follows:
- Exam format: Multiple choice questions
- Number of questions: 40-60 questions (varies)
- Passing score: 700 (on a scale of 0-1000)
- Exam cost: $99 USD (may vary depending on the country and region)
Areas Covered:
The exam covers four main areas of knowledge, which include:
- Describe cloud concepts (5–10%)
- Describe Microsoft 365 apps and services (45–50%)
- Describe security, compliance, privacy, and trust in Microsoft 365 (25–30%)
- Describe Microsoft 365 pricing, licensing, and support (10–15%)
AZ-900 and MS-900 Exam Content Similarities
There is some overlapping content between the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams, as both exams cover cloud computing concepts, including cloud services, deployment models, and security and compliance standards. However, the content covered in each exam is specific to the technology it focuses on.
Here are some of the areas of overlapping content between AZ-900 and MS-900:
- Cloud Concepts: Both exams cover the basic principles of cloud computing, including the different types of cloud services, cloud deployment models, and cloud computing advantages.
- Compliance and Cloud Security: Both exams cover the security features of cloud services, including identity and access management, threat protection, and compliance standards.
- Cloud Pricing and Support: Both exams cover the different pricing models, subscriptions, and support options available for cloud services.
- Microsoft Azure vs Microsoft 365: Both exams touch on the differences between Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365, and their respective services and benefits.
While there is some overlapping content between the two exams, each exam has a specific focus and covers a unique set of topics. It’s important to choose the exam that aligns with your career goals and interests. If you are interested in cloud computing and Azure services, the AZ-900 exam is the best fit for you. If you are interested in Microsoft 365 services and concepts, then the MS-900 exam is the best fit for you.
AZ-900 and MS-900 Differences in Content
While there is some overlapping content between the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams, there are also some differences in the content covered in each exam. Here are some areas where the content differs between AZ-900 and MS-900:
- Azure Services vs Microsoft 365 Services: The main difference between the two exams is the focus on the technology they cover. AZ-900 focuses on Azure services, including Azure compute, storage, networking, and databases. MS-900, on the other hand, focuses on Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams.
- Azure Machine Learning and AI: AZ-900 covers the basics of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in Azure services, including Azure Machine Learning and cognitive services. MS-900 does not cover these topics.
- Azure IoT: AZ-900 covers Azure Internet of Things (IoT) services, including IoT Hub, IoT Central, and Azure Sphere. MS-900 does not cover these topics.
- Identity and Access Management: Both exams cover identity and access management, but AZ-900 covers it in the context of Azure services, while MS-900 covers it in the context of Microsoft 365 services.
- Compliance Standards: Both exams cover compliance standards, but AZ-900 covers it in the context of Azure services, while MS-900 covers it in the context of Microsoft 365 services.
Technical vs. Non-Technical: AZ-900 and MS-900
Both the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams are designed for a wide audience, including both technical and non-technical individuals. However, the technical level required for each exam differs.
The AZ-900 exam is more technical compared to the MS-900 exam, as it covers the basic technical concepts of Azure services, including compute, storage, networking, and databases. It also covers the basics of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in Azure services, which requires a basic understanding of programming and data analysis.
On the other hand, the MS-900 exam is less technical compared to the AZ-900 exam. It covers the basic concepts of Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams, and their key features and benefits. It also covers identity and access management, threat protection, and compliance standards in the context of Microsoft 365 services. While technical knowledge is helpful for the exam, it is not required.
Overall, both exams are designed to test the candidate’s understanding of the basic concepts of cloud computing and cloud services. The level of technical knowledge required for each exam differs, with AZ-900 requiring a more technical background compared to MS-900.
The difficulty level of AZ-900 and MS-900 exams
In terms of difficulty level, both the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams are considered to be entry-level exams, designed to test the candidate’s understanding of the basic concepts of cloud computing and cloud services.
However, the level of technical knowledge required for each exam differs, with AZ-900 requiring a more technical background compared to MS-900. The AZ-900 exam covers the basic technical concepts of Azure services, including compute, storage, networking, and databases, as well as the basics of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in Azure services. This may make the AZ-900 exam more challenging for candidates who do not have a technical background.
The MS-900 exam, on the other hand, covers the basic concepts of Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams, and their key features and benefits. While technical knowledge is helpful for the exam, it is not required, making it a slightly easier exam for candidates who do not have a technical background.
AZ-900 vs MS-900: Target Audience
The AZ-900 and MS-900 exams are designed for different audiences, and individuals who want to pursue different career paths in the cloud computing industry. Here’s a breakdown of who should take each exam:
AZ-900:
This exam is designed for individuals who want to start a career in cloud computing and who are interested in learning about Microsoft Azure services. It is suitable for:
- Business decision-makers who want to understand the basics of cloud computing and how it can benefit their organization
- Technical professionals who want to learn about the fundamental concepts of cloud computing and how to use Azure services
- Students who want to learn about cloud computing and prepare for a career in the industry
MS-900:
This exam is designed for individuals who want to start a career in cloud computing and who are interested in learning about Microsoft 365 services. It is suitable for:
- Business decision-makers who want to understand the basics of Microsoft 365 services and how they can benefit their organization
- Technical professionals who want to learn about the fundamental concepts of Microsoft 365 services and how to use them
- Students who want to learn about cloud computing and prepare for a career in the industry with a focus on Microsoft 365 services
In summary, the AZ-900 exam is suitable for individuals interested in Azure services, while the MS-900 exam is suitable for individuals interested in Microsoft 365 services. Both exams are great starting points for those interested in pursuing a career in the cloud computing industry.
AZ-900 and MS-900: Preparation Tips
Here are some preparation tips for the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams:
- Understand the exam format and structure: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and structure, including the number of questions, time limit, and types of questions asked. This will help you manage your time effectively during the exam.
- Study the exam objectives: Review the exam objectives and ensure that you understand the concepts and topics covered in the exam. You can find the exam objectives on the Microsoft certification website.
- Use official study materials: Microsoft offers official study materials for both exams, including online courses, practice tests, and study guides. These materials are designed to help you prepare for the exam and cover all the exam objectives.
- Take practice tests: Practice tests are a great way to assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need to improve. Microsoft offers official practice tests for both exams, which mimic the actual exam and provide detailed feedback on your performance.
- Hands-on experience: If possible, get hands-on experience with Azure services and Microsoft 365 services. This will help you understand the concepts covered in the exam and provide practical knowledge that can be applied in real-world scenarios.
- Join study groups or forums: Joining study groups or forums can provide additional support and resources for exam preparation. You can connect with other individuals preparing for the exam, ask questions, and share knowledge and resources.
- Manage your time effectively: Create a study schedule that allows you to allocate sufficient time for each topic and ensures that you cover all the exam objectives. Remember to take breaks and rest when needed to avoid burnout.
Which Exam to Choose?
When deciding which exam to choose between AZ-900 and MS-900, it is important to consider several factors, including career goals, interests, and job requirements. Here are some tips for each factor:
When choosing between the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams based on career goals, it’s important to consider what area of cloud computing you are interested in pursuing a career in. Here are some tips for choosing the right exam based on your career goals:
- Azure Services: If you are interested in pursuing a career in Azure services, the AZ-900 exam may be the right choice. This exam covers the fundamentals of Azure services, including key concepts, Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing.
- Microsoft 365 Services: If you are interested in pursuing a career in Microsoft 365 services, the MS-900 exam may be the right choice. This exam covers the fundamentals of Microsoft 365 services, including key concepts, Microsoft 365 services, security, compliance, and privacy.
- General Cloud Computing: If you are interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing in general, either exam may be a good fit. Both exams cover the fundamentals of cloud computing, including key concepts, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing.
Conclusion
Both the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams are great starting points for individuals who are interested in learning about cloud computing and want to gain foundational knowledge of Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 services, respectively. If you’re interested in learning about Azure services specifically, the AZ-900 exam covers key concepts, Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing. On the other hand, if you’re interested in learning about Microsoft 365 services specifically, the MS-900 exam covers key concepts, Microsoft 365 services, security, compliance, and privacy.
When choosing between the two exams, consider your specific goals, interests, and job requirements. It’s also important to prepare adequately for the exam by reviewing the exam objectives, attending training courses, and gaining hands-on experience with Azure or Microsoft 365 services.
