Are you planning to take the Microsoft AZ-900 certification for a breakthrough into the tech industry? Then earning the AZ-900 credential can certainly enhance your resume and open the gates of opportunities. However, it’s important to understand the scope and roadblocks after earning the AZ-900 certification. In today’s competitive IT job market, standing out is more important than ever. One of the most effective ways to enhance your resume and showcase your skills is by obtaining relevant certifications. The Microsoft AZ-900 exam, also known as the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification, is one of the most reliable entry points for those looking to break into the cloud computing industry. Passing this exam not only validates your foundational knowledge of Azure services but also opens up gates for better job opportunities. In this blog, we will explore how passing the AZ-900 exam can significantly boost your career prospects and help you secure a better job in the IT field. Let us then get a better understanding of whether passing the AZ-900 exam alone can land you a job in tech and what employers typically expect.
Understanding the Microsoft AZ-900 Certification
The AZ-900 exam has been developed to test fundamental knowledge of cloud computing concepts with a focus on Microsoft Azure services. It covers essential topics like data services, privacy policies, and network features. The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ-900 exam is a foundational certification that equips candidates with the basic understanding needed to manage cloud systems in various industries.
Importance of the AZ-900 Certification
Earning an AZ-900 certification is a noteworthy step towards a career in cloud computing. It provides the foundational skills necessary for working with cloud services and systems. Successfully passing the AZ-900 exam indicates a candidate’s capability to handle cloud infrastructure, which can open doors to entry-level positions such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Support Analyst, or Cloud Sales Support Specialist. Moreover, it reflects a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth in the tech field.
Benefits of Passing the AZ-900 Exam
- Validation of Knowledge: Earning the AZ-900 certification signifies that you have a good understanding of cloud services and the Azure platform. This validation is crucial for employers looking for individuals with proven knowledge and skills.
- Competitive Edge: In a competitive job market, having the AZ-900 certification on your resume can make you stand out among other candidates. It has been seen often that companies prefer candidates who have certifications as it shows commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technology trends.
- Career Advancement: The AZ-900 certification can open doors to entry-level positions in cloud computing and related fields. Moreover, it serves as a foundational step towards more advanced Azure certifications, such as the Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Solutions Architect Expert, which can lead to higher-paying and more specialized roles.
Can I get a job with Azure 900 Exam?
While the AZ-900 certification alone may not be sufficient to land a job, it significantly enhances your job prospects, especially if you’re new to the IT or cloud computing fields. Holders of the AZ-900 certification enjoy promising job opportunities across multiple industries. This certification showcases a basic understanding of cloud services and Microsoft Azure, making candidates suitable for entry-level roles in cloud support, sales, network analysis, or Azure administration. The reason why pursuing AZ-900 can be a great starting point for the job are –
- Foundation in Cloud Computing: The AZ-900 certification demonstrates that you have a fundamental understanding of cloud concepts and Microsoft Azure services. This foundational knowledge is critical for many entry-level positions in IT and cloud computing.
- Entry-Level Roles: For those looking to start their careers in IT or cloud computing, the AZ-900 certification can qualify you for various entry-level roles such as Cloud Support Associate, IT Support Specialist, or Junior Cloud Engineer. These roles often require a basic understanding of cloud services, which the AZ-900 certification provides.
- Complementary Skills: While the AZ-900 certification is a great starting point, employers typically look for additional skills and experience. Complementing your certification with practical experience, such as internships, hands-on projects, or additional certifications, can make you a more attractive candidate.
- Career Advancement: For professionals already working in IT, the AZ-900 certification can help validate your cloud knowledge, making you eligible for promotions or lateral moves within your organization. It can also serve as a stepping stone for more advanced Azure certifications that can further enhance your career prospects.
- Competitive Advantage: In a competitive job market, having the AZ-900 certification can help you stand out from other candidates. Employers recognize the value of Microsoft certifications and often view them as a sign of commitment to professional development and expertise in the field.
- Networking Opportunities: Earning the AZ-900 certification can also open up networking opportunities with other certified professionals, industry experts, and potential employers. Joining professional groups and attending industry events can further boost your job search efforts.
Career Path for AZ-900 Certified Professionals
With an AZ-900 certification, professionals can explore various career paths in cloud computing. Potential roles include cloud support, network administration, data analysis, and cloud system analysis. Although it serves as an entry-level credential, the AZ-900 provides a solid foundation in cloud technology, paving the way for future growth and higher salary prospects.
The AZ-900 certification is the starting point for anyone looking to build a career in cloud computing, specifically within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. This certification validates your foundational knowledge of cloud services and Azure, making it a valuable asset for a variety of career paths in IT and beyond. In this section, we will explore the potential career paths for AZ-900 certified professionals and how you can advance in the field of cloud computing.
Entry-Level Positions
The AZ-900 certification prepares you for several entry-level roles. Here are some common positions, their functions, and average salaries:
- Cloud Support Associate:
- Functions: Provides technical support for cloud services, helps users troubleshoot and resolve issues related to Azure, and assists with cloud service management.
- Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year.
- IT Support Specialist:
- Functions: Offers technical assistance to users, maintains IT systems, supports the implementation of cloud services, and performs system troubleshooting.
- Average Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year.
- Junior Cloud Engineer:
- Functions: Assists in the development, deployment, and maintenance of cloud infrastructure and services, supports senior engineers, and performs basic cloud management tasks.
- Average Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year.
- Technical Sales Associate:
- Functions: Uses foundational cloud knowledge to help customers understand and purchase Azure services, provides product demonstrations, and assists with sales strategies.
- Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year.
How do you build experience and skills?
While starting in an entry-level role, it is crucial to build hands-on experience and expand your skill set. Here are some ways to do that:
- Hands-On Projects: Engage in real-world projects using Azure to apply your knowledge and develop practical skills.
- Additional Training and Certifications:
- Pursue more advanced Azure certifications to deepen your expertise and qualify for higher-level positions. Recommended certifications include:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- Pursue more advanced Azure certifications to deepen your expertise and qualify for higher-level positions. Recommended certifications include:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest developments in cloud technology by taking online courses, attending webinars, and reading industry blogs.
Advanced Roles and Specializations
With experience and additional certifications, you can advance to more specialized and higher-paying roles in cloud computing. Some of these roles include:
Azure Administrator:
- Functions: Manages Azure environments, ensures performance, scalability, and security, and handles resource management and monitoring.
- Average Salary: $80,000 – $100,000 per year.
Azure Developer:
- Functions: Designs, builds, and maintains cloud-based applications using Azure services, collaborates with development teams, and ensures application performance.
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Cloud Solutions Architect:
- Functions: Designs and implements complex cloud solutions, focuses on architecture and integration, works closely with stakeholders to meet business requirements.
- Average Salary: $120,000 – $150,000 per year.
DevOps Engineer:
- Functions: Implements and manages CI/CD pipelines, automates the deployment and management of applications in the cloud, ensures efficient development and operational processes.
- Average Salary: $100,000 – $130,000 per year.
Cloud Security Engineer:
- Functions: Ensures the security of cloud infrastructure and services, implements best practices and compliance measures, and monitors for security threats.
- Average Salary: $100,000 – $140,000 per year.
Leadership and Strategic Roles
As you gain more experience and demonstrate expertise in cloud computing, you can move into leadership and strategic roles within an organization:
Cloud Consultant:
- Functions: Advises organizations on cloud strategy, helps design and implement effective cloud solutions, and provides expert insights on cloud adoption.
- Average Salary: $110,000 – $150,000 per year.
Cloud Project Manager:
- Functions: Manages cloud projects, ensures they are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget, and coordinates between technical and non-technical teams.
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $130,000 per year.
IT Manager/Director:
- Functions: Oversees the IT department, including cloud infrastructure and services, ensures alignment with business goals, and manages IT staff.
- Average Salary: $120,000 – $160,000 per year.
Chief Technology Officer (CTO):
- Functions: Sets the technological vision and strategy for the organization, drives innovation and technology adoption, including cloud computing.
- Average Salary: $150,000 – $250,000 per year.
Industry Impact and Entrepreneurship
With a strong background in cloud computing, you can also make a significant impact in the industry or start your own venture:
- Industry Expert/Speaker: Share your knowledge by speaking at industry conferences, writing books or blogs, and participating in webinars.
- Cloud Entrepreneur: Start your own cloud-based business, offering innovative solutions and services to clients.
Tips for Maximizing Job Prospects with the AZ-900 Exam
While the AZ-900 certification alone may not guarantee a job, it is a valuable asset that can significantly enhance your employability. It provides a solid foundation in cloud computing, which is essential for many entry-level IT roles. By complementing the certification with practical experience, additional skills, and active networking, you can maximize your chances of securing a job in the competitive cloud computing field. Start your journey today by preparing for and earning the AZ-900 certification, and take the first step towards a rewarding career in cloud computing. Here are some of the tips that will help you boost your chances of landing a job after passing the AZ-900 exam.
- Build a Strong Resume: Highlight your AZ-900 certification prominently on your resume. Include any relevant projects, internships, or work experience that demonstrate your practical skills and knowledge in cloud computing.
- Gain Practical Experience: Engage in hands-on projects using Azure. Many free resources and labs are available online to help you practice and build real-world skills.
- Pursue Additional Certifications: Consider pursuing more advanced Azure certifications, such as the Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate. These certifications can deepen your expertise and open up more specialized job roles.
- Network Actively: Join online forums, LinkedIn groups, and local meetups focused on cloud computing and Azure. Networking can lead to job opportunities and valuable connections in the industry.
- Tailor Your Job Search: Look for job postings that specifically mention Azure or cloud computing skills. Tailor your application materials to highlight your certification and relevant experience.
Preparing for the AZ-900 Exam: Practice Tests and Study Tips
Preparing the AZ-900 Study Plan
Before diving into your AZ-900 exam preparation, it’s crucial to establish a personalized study plan. Here’s how to kickstart your journey:
- Assess Your Current Knowledge: Begin by evaluating your familiarity with cloud computing and Microsoft Azure. Identify specific areas that require focused study.
- Set Achievable Goals: Determine your exam timeline and allocate study time daily or weekly. Establish realistic objectives that align with your schedule and commitments.
- Break It Down: Divide the exam objectives into smaller, manageable segments. This approach facilitates effective study and enables you to track your progress systematically.
- Develop a Study Schedule: Create a structured study timetable incorporating time for reviewing study materials, practicing with sample questions, and taking mock exams.
Refer all Related Study Resources
To effectively prepare for the AZ-900 exam, leverage a variety of recommended resources:
- Microsoft Learn platform: Access interactive training modules on Microsoft Learn, offering comprehensive coverage of exam topics. Engage in hands-on labs and exercises to reinforce your understanding.
- Official AZ-900 Exam page: Visit the Microsoft website’s AZ-900 exam section for detailed exam information, including skills assessed, policies, and registration guidelines.
- Instructor-Led Training: Enroll in Microsoft’s instructor-led training sessions conducted by certified experts. These flexible, on-demand classes accommodate varying schedules, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
- Practice tests and exam preps: Use practice tests responsibly to assess your knowledge and pinpoint areas needing improvement. While beneficial, avoid relying solely on exam dumps, which may contain outdated or inaccurate content.
- Recommended books and online courses: Explore up-to-date books and courses aligned with AZ-900 exam objectives. Look for comprehensive resources that provide thorough coverage and clarity. By leveraging these strategies and resources, you can effectively prepare for the AZ-900 exam and enhance your proficiency in Microsoft Azure.
- Microsoft Azure For Beginners by Adney Ainsley
- Microsoft Azure Ultimate Beginners Guide by Kennan Bismar
- Microsoft Azure Tutorial for Beginners by Dennis Hutten
- Beginner’s Guide to Microsoft Azure
Expert Corner
Passing the AZ-900 exam offers numerous benefits, from validating your knowledge and giving you a competitive edge to opening up new career opportunities and paving the way for further certifications. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to switch to a cloud-focused role, the AZ-900 certification can be a valuable asset. Take the first step towards a brighter future in cloud computing by starting your AZ-900 preparation today!
