In recent years, cloud computing has emerged as a game-changer for businesses, enabling them to leverage technology to drive innovation, agility, and cost-effectiveness. Among the leading players in this domain is Microsoft Azure, a cloud computing service that provides a range of services and tools for building, deploying, and managing applications and services in the cloud.
With the increasing demand for cloud computing solutions, the need for professionals with expertise in Microsoft Azure has also grown significantly. Microsoft Azure certifications offer an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in the cloud computing domain, as they provide a comprehensive understanding of the platform and its services, along with the skills needed to design, implement, and manage Azure-based solutions.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing and want to specialize in Microsoft Azure, earning Azure certifications is an excellent way to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field. In this blog, we’ll explore how to build a career with Microsoft Azure certifications in 2023 and the steps you can take to achieve your goals.
How to build a career with Microsoft Azure Certifications?
Microsoft Azure is one of the leading cloud platforms in the industry, and having Azure certifications can help you build a successful career in cloud computing. Here are some steps you can take to build a career with Microsoft Azure certifications in 2023:
- Identify your career path: Azure offers a range of certifications in different areas such as development, administration, data and AI, security, and more. You should identify which area you want to specialize in and choose a certification accordingly.
- Get certified: Once you’ve identified the certification you want to pursue, prepare for the exam by studying the relevant content and taking practice tests. Once you pass the exam, you’ll earn your certification, which will help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in Azure.
- Gain practical experience: While certifications are important, having practical experience is also crucial to building a successful career in Azure. Look for opportunities to work on real-world projects, whether through internships, volunteer work, or personal projects.
- Network and collaborate: Building a strong network of professionals in the Azure community can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends, learn from others’ experiences, and find job opportunities. Attend conferences, join online communities, and collaborate with others to build your network.
- Keep learning: The technology industry is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and updates in Azure. Continuously learning new skills and staying on top of industry developments will help you stay competitive in the job market and advance your career.
Overall, building a career with Microsoft Azure certifications requires a combination of education, experience, networking, and ongoing learning. By following these steps, you can position yourself for success in the dynamic field of cloud computing.
What is Microsoft Azure Certification?
Microsoft Azure certification testing validates acquired abilities. It includes goals including creating, putting into practice, and managing Microsoft Azure solutions. To choose the right test from among the many Azure certification alternatives, you must carefully consider your requirements, areas of interest, and career path.
The Azure platform offers almost 200 cloud products and services that were developed to bring original solutions to life in order to solve today’s problems and build the future. Create, manage, and oversee apps across several clouds using your preferred techniques and frameworks.
Why get Azure Certified?
There are many top reasons to select the Azure Certifications, some of them are:
- An Azure certification encourages a candidate to explore several job options. As a solution architect, a cloud architect, or a cloud developer, you may advance. Additionally, having an Azure certification enables you to work in a variety of capacities and places. It provides career flexibility as a result.
- This certification allows a candidate to explore several job options. As a solution architect, a cloud architect, or a cloud developer, you may advance. Additionally, having an Azure certification enables you to work in a variety of capacities and places. It provides career flexibility as a result.
- Microsoft Azure certification provides the crucial information needed to protect data by educating users on how to operate safely. Additionally, granting credentials to appropriate security organizations like the Security Development Lifecycle (SDL) ensures that Azure apps are fully preserved and secure.
- The demand for Azure services is growing every day. Numerous qualifications provide a firm foundation for career advancement. These certificates provide developers and problem solvers protection against a variety of issues. Today, Azure services are used by more than six million administrative organizations.
- It might be confusing to learn about cloud ideas. You will get knowledge of a wide range of issues that will help the company and will lead to other advantages by studying for Microsoft Azure certifications.
To better understand the career-building part, Microsoft Azure has divided its certifications into roles. So, it will be easy for you to select which role you want to go for. Let’s check it out!
Microsoft Azure Certifications: Roles & Related Exams
You must focus on your objectives and limit the available certifications if you’re seeking an Azure-based profession. There are exams available for role-based, fundamental expert, and specialized knowledge that you can pass to achieve that role.
#1. Administrator Role
If you are someone who has skills to apply, evaluate, and maintain Microsoft solutions then these roles are you.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
- Exam: AZ-800, AZ-801
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert
- Exam: MS-100, MS-101
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Stack Hub Operator Associate
- Exam: AZ-600
- Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate
- Exam: SC-300
- Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert
- Exam: SC-100
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
- Exam: AZ-900
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Exam: AZ-104
- Microsoft Certified: Azure for SAP Workloads Specialty
- Exam: AZ-120
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Security Administrator Associate
- Exam: MS-500
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty
- Exam: AZ-140
#2. AI Engineer
Microsoft’s AI solutions are designed and implemented by AI engineers using Cognitive Services, Machine Learning, and Knowledge Mining.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
- Exam: AI-102
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals
- Exam: AI-900
#3. Business User
Make use of Microsoft programs to improve your company. Learn how company expansion and team support can be achieved with platforms like Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and AI.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
- Exam: SC-900
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
- Exam: AZ-900
#4. Data Analyst
Data analysts create understandable business value by creating and constructing data models that make data simple to grasp.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate
- Exam: DP-500
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals
- Exam: DP-900
- Microsoft Certified: Customer Data Platform Specialty
- Exam: MB-260
#5. Data Engineer
Data engineers use the whole stack of data services to plan and implement data management, monitoring, security, and privacy.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Cosmos DB Developer Specialty
- Exam: DP-420
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate
- Exam: DP-203
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals
- Exam: DP-900
- Microsoft Certified: Customer Data Platform Specialty
- Exam: MB-260
#6. Data Scientist
Machine learning techniques are used by data scientists to train, test, and deploy models that address business issues.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals
- Exam: AI-900
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
- Exam: DP-100
- Microsoft Certified: Customer Data Platform Specialty
- Exam: MB-260
#7. Developer
Cloud-based solutions are designed, built, tested, and maintained by developers.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals
- Exam: AI-900
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Cosmos DB Developer Specialty
- Exam: DP-420
- Microsoft Certified: Azure IoT Developer Specialty
- Exam: AZ-220
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
- Exam: AZ-204
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
- Exam: AZ-900
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals
- Exam: DP-900
- Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Solution Architect Expert
- Exam: PL-600
Read: Microsoft Azure Certification Updates: November 2022
#8. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers combine people, process, and technology to deliver valuable products and services continuously that satisfy end-user needs and business goals.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
- Exam: AZ-400
#9. Functional Consultant
To anticipate and prepare for client needs, functional consultants use Microsoft Dynamics 365 and the Microsoft Power Platform.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Solution Architect Expert
- Exam: PL-600
- Microsoft Certified: Customer Data Platform Specialty
- Exam: MB-260
#10. Security Engineer
Security engineers manage identity and access, put security policies in place, protect against threats, and safeguard networks, applications, and data.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate
- Exam: SC-200
- Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
- Exam: AZ-800, AZ-801
- Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate
- Exam: SC-300
- Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert
- Exam: SC-100
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- Exam: AZ-500
#11. Solution Architect
Computing, networking, storage, and security are areas of competence for solution architects.
Related Certification:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- Exam: AZ-305
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Cosmos DB Developer Specialty
- Exam: DP-420
- Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert
- Exam: SC-100
- Microsoft Certified: Azure for SAP Workloads Specialty
- Exam: AZ-120
- Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Solution Architect Expert
- Exam: PL-600
How to get started with Azure?
Advance your career by becoming proficient in the skills that are most in demand. Develop your skills and begin preparing for Microsoft Certifications in areas such as cloud development, AI, DevOps, Microsoft 365, low code, IoT, and more. Utilize the Azure challenges, study the learning materials, and engage in peer discussions on a global community forum.
#1. Select the appropriate Azure certification and test.
Microsoft Azure offers a number of examinations and certificates that are appropriate for the professional routes you wish to take as described above . If a person is interested in a job in this industry, they may choose from a wide range of accreditations that Microsoft offers for its products, such as Azure cloud services.
Microsoft offers certificates based on work positions that are pertinent to the market and the industry. Choose the appropriate test based on the prerequisite of your interest and experience depending on your career plan.
#2. Begin small and thoroughly review the exam material.
It’s generally best to start off slowly rather than diving immediately into a new journey. To learn the fundamentals of cloud computing and the numerous services, start with the AZ-900 Azure Fundamental test.
Because Microsoft content is often changed, it’s important to stay current with exam changes and, if required, repeat an earlier Microsoft Azure exam. Additionally, you’ll discover that it’s simpler to study for Microsoft Azure exams if you start out small and cover one or two topics at a time before moving on to another one. By doing this, you’ll be able to strengthen your understanding of the fundamentals of Microsoft Azure and thereby increase your likelihood of passing the Microsoft Azure Exam.
After learning everything there is to know about Azure Certifications, it’s critical to comprehend the test process. It will make sure that passing the exam is simple by analyzing the kind of questions that will be on it. There are several ways to obtain knowledge from reputable sources online so that your learning process runs well.
#3. Utilize practical training in Microsoft Learn
Anyone interested in getting a Microsoft Certified Professional credential can use Microsoft Learn, the company’s online learning platform. Free expert-level training on Microsoft programs is offered on the website. It offers learning paths that give you the chance to gain useful skills through engaging instruction. It is both strongly advised and necessary to comprehend the technology.
#4. Investigate the study resources and use Microsoft Docs.
Microsoft offers a selection of planning tools. There are numerous questions that you will see on your test in Microsoft Docs, Microsoft Learning Library, and Microsoft Practice Exams. Analyze the abilities being tested and improve them to perform well in the exam.
#5. Take a Practice Test
You can take a variety of practice examinations that are focused on Microsoft Azure. Spend some time completing one or more of them, then check to see how closely your score matches Microsoft’s scaled scoring system. Making sure you are prepared for any unexpected technical topics will be made easier by reviewing prior questions.
Preparation is essential for success on an IT certification test. You should have a basic understanding of every subject so that you may take the test without feeling completely overwhelmed.
#6. Use Azure Cloud skill Challenges
When you enter the world of Azure, you can explore various areas and roles as per your skills. Each has its own importance. So, let’s check out the various skills challenges that you can use to enhance your skills.
Azure Cosmos DB Developer
With a fully managed, NoSQL database, you can begin creating cutting-edge apps in the cloud. This is intended for users who have prior expertise in developing, deploying, and maintaining data management and archiving cloud-native apps.
Azure Virtual Desktop Fundamentals
Learn how to monitor and maintain an Azure Virtual Desktop environment, as well as how to manage programs, user environments, and access and security. Learn how to create the architecture for deployment of Azure Virtual Desktops.
Azure AI Fundamentals
Learn the fundamentals of machine learning and AI, including conversational AI, natural language processing, and computer vision. Both individuals with technical expertise and those without them can benefit from this learning trip.
Designing Azure Infrastructure Solutions
Create cloud and hybrid systems with computation, network, storage, monitoring, and security that operate on Microsoft Azure.
Java on Azure Developer
Utilize managed computing, databases, and DevOps services to begin building contemporary Java apps on the cloud. Participants in this learning journey should be experienced with creating and managing Java apps as well as having some basic knowledge of cloud infrastructure.
Azure Developer
Create end-to-end solutions by taking part in every stage of cloud development. Utilizing computing, storage, management, and security capabilities provided by Azure, create, develop, test, and maintain cloud applications.
DevOps Engineer
Create and put into effect DevOps procedures. Create a monitoring, telemetry, and logging-based instrumentation approach. To promote collaboration and automate build and deployment procedures, manage source control with GitHub.
Azure Synapse Analytics
With Azure Synapse Analytics, advance your data analytics abilities. Learn how to combine, organize, and consolidate data from different structured and unstructured data systems into forms that may be used to create analytics solutions.
Azure Data Scientist
Create and put into use an Azure data science solution. Find out how to create ML solutions, no-code predictive models, and ML models, as well as how to run data science workloads in the cloud.
Final Words
There are several examinations available from Microsoft Azure that cover a variety of subjects. Taking practice exams and carefully reviewing the information is the greatest approach to getting ready for an exam. Look at the duration on the schedule page to make sure you are aware of how much time each exam requires. To avoid exhausting yourself before the exam date, try to limit your study time to no more than 10 hours each week. Lastly, be conscious of the areas that could demand specialized expertise. It is crucial that you properly prepare yourself with these suggestions before your test so that you can demonstrate your grasp of the subject matter on the day of the exam.
