Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Certification: Complete Guide 2025
Exam Code: AZ-305
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification validates advanced skills in designing and implementing solutions that run on Azure, including compute, network, storage, monitoring, and security aspects.
Exam Details
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Resources
Everything you need to prepare for and pass your exam
Practice Exam
Full-length Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert practice test
Exam Simulator
Realistic exam simulation experience
Mock Exam
Full-length timed mock exam
Study Guide
Comprehensive study materials
Exam Objectives
Official exam domains and topics
Free Practice Test
Free sample questions to try
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 4 domains to pass your exam
Design Identity, Governance, and Monitoring Solutions
of exam
Design Data Storage Solutions
of exam
Design Business Continuity Solutions
of exam
Design Infrastructure Solutions
of exam
Who Should Take This Exam?
This certification is ideal for the following professionals
- Experienced Azure administrators seeking advanced architect credentials
- IT professionals with expertise in Azure infrastructure and operations
- Solutions architects transitioning to cloud-focused roles
- Senior engineers responsible for designing enterprise Azure solutions
Recommended Study Timeline
Plan your preparation effectively
10-14 weeks
Recommended study duration
Weeks 1-2: Foundation
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Weeks 3-6: Deep Dive
Study each domain with hands-on practice
Weeks 7-8: Practice & Review
Take practice exams & focus on weak areas
Practice by Difficulty
Choose your challenge level
Practice Question Banks
Extensive question collections for thorough preparation
2025 Exam Resources
Latest materials updated for the current exam version
Career Opportunities
Related Job Titles
$145,000
Average Annual Salary
Prerequisites
Azure Administrator Associate certification (AZ-104) or equivalent experience recommended Strong understanding of Azure services including compute, networking, storage, and security Experience with identity, governance, and monitoring solutions Knowledge of PowerShell, Azure CLI, ARM templates, and Azure Portal
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert FAQs
Common questions about the AZ-305 certification exam
The Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is an advanced-level credential that validates your expertise in designing comprehensive cloud and hybrid solutions on Microsoft Azure. It demonstrates your ability to architect solutions that address compute, network, storage, security, and monitoring requirements for enterprise environments.
The AZ-305 exam is considered advanced level and requires substantial hands-on experience with Azure. It tests not just theoretical knowledge but practical design skills across multiple Azure services. Most candidates find it challenging and recommend 6-12 months of real-world Azure architecture experience before attempting the exam.
Azure Solutions Architects with this certification typically earn between $130,000 and $165,000 annually in the United States, with an average around $145,000. Salaries vary based on location, years of experience, company size, and additional skills. Senior architects in major tech hubs can earn significantly more.
While not strictly required, Microsoft strongly recommends having the Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) certification or equivalent hands-on experience before pursuing the Solutions Architect Expert certification. The architect exam assumes you already have intermediate-level Azure administration skills.
The Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification must be renewed annually through Microsoft Learn by completing a free online renewal assessment. This ensures your knowledge stays current with evolving Azure services and features. You'll receive renewal notifications 6 months before your certification expires.
About the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Certification
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) is a expert-level certification offered by Microsoft Azure. This certification validates your expertise in cloud computing and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals.
Why Get Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $145,000 per year
- Industry Recognition: Microsoft Azure certifications are respected worldwide
- Skill Validation: Demonstrate your expertise to employers and clients
How to Prepare for AZ-305
Hydranode offers comprehensive preparation materials including practice exams, study guides, and free practice tests to help you pass on your first attempt.